1900 - 2000
THE HISTORY OF SACRAMENTO LODGE # 24
ANCIENT FREE and ACCEPTED MASONS
Alamogordo, New Mexico
Prepared by
R:.W:. Brother Carroll R. Sorenson, P.M.,
R:.W:. Brother Harvey A. Lewis, P.M.,
R:.W:. Brother Arnold G. Flaugher, P.M..
Historians
*Robert White 1900-1902
*H.H. Major 1903-1904-1907
*G.C. Bryan 1905
*Alonzo J. Buck 1906
*A.M. Rousseau 1908
*C.P. Downs 1909
*J.M. Bowman 1910
*J.L. Lawson 1911
*W.W. Mann 1912
*Jed S. Yale 1913
*Louis R. Hughes 1914
*Randolph R. Pratt 1915- 920
*Frank C. Rolland 1916
*Andrew Sorenson 1917-1932
*Edwin Mechem 1918
*Asa N. Porter 1919
*Geo. J. Wolfinger 1921
*Tom Charles 1922-1927
*Charles F. Wilheim 1923
*Chelsey H. Thomason 1924
*O. Fred Authur 1925
*Martin T. Michel 1926
*Simeon Strichland 1928
*Frank J McCullough 1929-1933
*Oscar Shenfield 1930
*Thomas M. Carr 1931
*Curtis W. Williams 1934
*John H. Scearcy 1935
*William Crosby 1936
*R.T. Spence 1937
*Richard Wilford 1938
*L. Andrew Hendrix 1939
*Allen D. Walker 1940
*Matthew E. Hangas 1941
*Alister H. Mactavish 1942
*Uel M. Lane 1943
Ellsworth C. Bartlett 1944
*Oscar E.L. Newman, PGM 1945
*James G. Wayne 1946
*James A Scruggs 1947
*Herbert H. Brunell 1948
*Neal F. Quimby 1949
*Carroll R. Sorenson 1950
*Charles W. Winchester 1951
John A Dalton 1952
*Lee B. Carter 1953
*Hollis C. Zabriskie 1954
*Ben K. Bolch 1955
*J.B. Walser 1956
*Theo. T. Toon 1957
Alvin E. Brown 1958
*Jesse W. Withers 1959
Robert P. Lee 1960
*Ammya B. Placker 1961
William B. Pieper 1962
*H. Wayne Belles 1963
Leaden Posey 1964
*Walter K. Rogers 1965- 1978
*Eugene Kenneally 1966
Darrell W. Sinclair 1967
*Lyman E. Patee 1968
*Jack W. Scott, Sr 1969
*Charles M. Miller 1970
*Marion G. Cutter 1971
Warren V. Vilott 1972
William J. Prill 1973
*Nick D. King 1974
Lloyd M. Horton 1975
Herman L. Price 1976
Robert E. Howard 1977
*James H. Barker 1979
*Jack H. McGee 1980
William W. Williams 1981
Charles Kern 1982
*Bill Black 1983
*Thomas E. LaMon, Sr. 1984
Arnold G. Flaugher 1985
Harvey A. Lewis 1986
Terry L. Divet 1987
*Rex B. Werner 1988
James E. Penney 1989
George R. Wood 1990
Leroy Kalbfliesh 1991
Bradley K. James 1992
Walter G. Belknap 1993
Robert A Lewis 1994
John R. Secrest, Jr. 1995
George R. Moree 1996
Michael R. Penrod 1997
George R. Bemis 1998
Larry L. Eakin 1999
Alan Baker 2000
* Deceased
The town of Alamogordo, New Mexico was founded in 1898 and with the advent of the railroad workers, health-seekers and those seeing an opportunity to grow with the new town, Alamogordo had a flourishing, if not booming beginning.
As time went by, the Masons in town gradually became aware that other men in town were also Masons, coming from many States of the Union, as well as Canada, and at least one Mason from Scotland. When the Brethren realized that there were a number of Masons in the area, interest in forming a Masonic Lodge soon developed. Robert White, a member of Doric Lodge # 233 in Ontario, Canada, seemed to be the driving force in the organization of the new Lodge.
On April 4, 1900, a group of Masons met in a adobe building on the West side of Frank Stewart's livery stable to discuss the organizing of a new Masonic Lodge. Mr. Stewart's livery stable was on the southwest corner of Ninth Street and Maryland Ave., where the Western Bank now stands. It may be of interest, that Mr. Stewart was initiated into Masonry Sept. 6, 1900 by E.E. Day, Grand Master of Masons in New Mexico. The second man initiated by Sacramento Lodge. Frank Rhomberg, an early day jeweler and postmaster, was the first initiate. The Degree was conferred on Sept 6, 1900 also and was conferred by Robert White, Sacramento Lodge's First Worshipful Master.
The following is a list of Masons who signified, in writing, that they would demit from their Lodges and join the new Lodge in Alamogordo.
Robert White W. Bryden Colonel Lewis S. F. Miller
John T Hogwood F. C. Rolland George Tibbetts W. E. Warren
W. W. Ratliff R. E. Welden W. A. Hawkins G. C. Scipie
J. S. Welch
A special meeting was held April 17, 1900 and after discussion, the stationed officers were elected, though they were not a Lodge as yet. The officers elected were:
Worshipful Master Robert White
Senior Warden Colonel Lewis
Junior Warden F. C. Rolland
These officers were constituted as a committee to secure the Knights of Pythias Hall as a meeting place, when needed.
It was voter that the fees for the degrees to be set at $50.00, broken down as follows:
Entered Apprentice $25.00
Fellow Craft 15.00
Master Mason 10.00
The first meeting in the Knights of Pythias Hall was held on May 24, 1900. This hall was upstairs over 905 New York Ave. where the Mity Nice Bakery and Omega Jewelers are now. In those days the ground floor had not been partitioned and contained only one business. At the
South side of the building there was a stairway leading from New York Ave. to the second story.
A petition for a dispensation was presented and signed by:
Worshipful Master Robert White
Senior Warden Colonel Lewis
George Tibbets J. T. Hogwwod S. F. Miller
C. E. Beasly G. C. Scipie O. R. Bilbre
W. E. Warren Isaac Jackson J. S. Welch
A considerable amount of work was done on this May 24th meeting. In addition to taking care of the petition for a dispensation, a name was chosen for the new Lodge. They decided to name the new Lodge "Sacramento Lodge" after the mountains just east of Alamogordo. The Lodge voted to give each new Entered Apprentice a lambskin apron as a gift from the Lodge. A committee was appointed to secure the paraphernalia and equipment required to carry on the work of the Lodge The committee on securing the hall reported that they had secured the use of the hall on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday of each week, for $ 25.00 per month. At this time the meetings were adjourned by motion and the Worshipful Master called the next meeting by mail.
The Grand Master had written the Alamogordo Brethren that he would issue a dispensation to them as soon as W. H. Seamon, The Grand Lecturer certified to him that they were proficient in the Masonic work. On June 29,1900, the Grand Lecturer wrote that he couldn't be in Alamogordo until between July 18th and July 25th. To speed things up, the Grand Master was requested to authorize J. T. Pyle, a local Mason, to instruct the Brethren and notify the Grand Lecturer when they were proficient. Brother Pyle began his instruction on July 13, 1900, by authority of the Grand Master. Brother Pyle obviously did an excellent job because the dispensation created Sacramento Lodge, U. D. was dated July 31, 1900 only eighteen days later.
Grand Master E. E. Day was present Sept. 6, 1900, opened the Lodge and read the dispensation creating Sacramento Lodge U. D. The Grand Master then read the names of the Lodge officers and installed them. Nine petitions for the degrees were read and investigating committees appointed and Sacramento Lodge initiated its first candidates. It appears from the minutes that, by special dispensation from the Grand Master, our first two candidates were initiated the same night that their petitions were read.
Sacramento Lodge met Sept. 7, 1900, the day after it received its dispensation, for the purpose of laying two cornerstones, with Grand Master E. E. Day presiding. These cornerstones were laid at the New Mexico Baptist College and at the Public School Building of District One.
In its history, Sacramento Lodge has laid four cornerstones in public, non-Masonic buildings. Besides the two above mentioned, on Dec. 9, 1906 a cornerstone was laid at the Sanitarium, a tuberculosis hospital. The Sanitarium was built southeast of town, near the mouth of Alamo Canyon. On May 27, 1961 a cornerstone was laid at Chaparral Junior High School at 1400 College Ave., with Grand Master Ray Lofton presiding.
Of the four buildings where the Lodge laid cornerstones only Chaparrel Junior High School still remains. The Sanitarium burned in 1912 and was never rebuilt. No one knows what happened to the cornerstone. In the 1920's the building at the old Baptist College blew down in a windstorm, the school had been closed for some years. The material from the building was salvaged and sold. Almost twenty years later, on May 15, 1941 it was reported to the Lodge that the cornerstone from the Baptist College had been found in one of the city parks. It was suggested that the stone be placed on a suitable foundation before something happened to it. A committee was appointed but it was never mentioned again, and now no one knows which park the stone was in or what happened to it. Public School Building # 1 which stood at the northwest corner of Tenth St. and Vermont Ave. , was razed in 1954 and the city created the parking lot which is across the street west of the present Masonic Lodge Hall. A metal box had been placed in this stone, and the contractor who razed the building presented the box and its contents to the Lodge. Some years later, Sacramento Lodge obtained the stone from the City, and it is now in the lobby of the Lodge building. This is the only cornerstone from the three destroyed buildings which has been preserved and is on display. ( Editors Note: In 1995 the parking lot across the street was sold to the Smith Grocery Chain and they built a store on it, which in turn was sold to VanWinkles IGA in 1999. )
A set of by-laws was adopted on Sept. 20, 1900 which set the fees for the degrees at $50.00 and the annual dues at $3.00. They were also to meet every Thursday night for the rest of the year.
The Lodge, needing control of its meeting place, on Oct. 25, 1900 voted to offer the Knights of Pythias $224.76 for the furniture. The furniture was to be paid for with a six month note for $100.00 and, as Sacramento Lodge would become the lessee of the Hall, the balance of the debt would be paid by renting the hall to the Knights of Pythias for $15.00 a month. The Knights of Pythias accepted this offer on Nov. 1, 1900. On the day the Lodge made its first rent payment to O. D. Warnock, owner of the building.
Nov. 29, 1900, a resolution was adopted which raised dues from the current $3.00 to $5.00 per year.
April 11, 1901 was a date set for the delivery of the Sacramento Lodge U. D. charter, and it was arranged to give a banquet that night for the price of $1.00 per plate for members and guests.
At the meeting of March 25, 1901 the secretary was instructed to write the Lodge at White Oaks, New Mexico for a waiver of jurisdiction over an Entered Apprentice who had moved here. The Secretary was also instructed to inquire of the Grand Lodge whether there was still a Masonic Lodge at White Oaks. Horse and buggy postal service was very efficient because three days later, on March 28, 1901 a waiver of jurisdiction was received from White Oaks in favor of Thomas S. Anderson, an early day banker.
Also on March 28, 1901 the Lodge received a letter from the Alamogordo Lumber Co. stating they were contemplating furnishing electricity all night and wanted to know if all night electrical service would benefit the Lodge. On motion, the Secretary was instructed to inform the Alamogordo Lumber Co. that all night electrical service would not benefit the Lodge, present service being satisfactory.
Meeting places seemed to be quite scarce in those days because on the same day March 28, 1901 the Territorial Medical Association of New Mexico inquired if they could hold their territory wide convention in the Masonic Hall. The Hall was placed at their disposal free of charge.
April 11, 1901 with W. H. Seamon, Grand Lecturer of New Mexico, acting as Worshipful Master, Sacramento Lodge was opened and a Third Degree was conferred. Sacramento Lodge closed and Brother Seamon opened the Grand Lodge of New Mexico and invited Brother E. E. Day, Past Grand Master, to preside. A Communication from A. A. Keen, Grand Secretary, was read by which E. S. Stover, Grand Master, authorized the Grand Lecturer to consecrate and dedicate Sacramento Lodge # 24. The Secretary then read the Charter for the new Lodge. Grand Lodge was then closed and Sacramento Lodge was opened. The Secretary was instructed to cast a unanimous ballot for the Lodge Officers. Sacramento Lodge then closed and Grand Lodge re-opened. The Grand Lecturer then gave instruction in the consecration and dedication ceremony and in the ceremony for the installation of officers. Grand Lodge then closed. At 8:45 P.M. it was re-opened and, with E. E. Day, Past Grand Master presiding, Sacramento Lodge # 24 was consecrated, dedicated and the Officers were installed.
It may be of interest that, though he was Grand Lecturer of New Mexico and a member of the Masonic Lodge in Socorro, New Mexico, Brother W. H. Seamon lived in El Paso, Texas.
Also indicative of the apparent lack of meeting places in the new town, April 25, 1901 Sacramento Lodge asked for a dispensation to allow the Knight of Pythias, The Red Men, and the Odd Fellows to meet in the Masonic Lodge.
Although the Lodge was busy it seemed to be struggling financially. On June 6, 1901 it voted to borrow money to pay off all of its indebtedness.
There is some indication that, at this period, there was no mortuary in the new town. There was no mortuary mentioned in the minutes, and part of the funeral ceremony was held in the home of the deceased. The minutes reflect the Brother R. R. Reynolds, a minister who had visited the Lodge, passed away. On June 7, 1901 Sacramento Lodge # 24 opened and proceeded in funeral procession to Brother Reynold's house, where Masonic services were held. The procession then went to Grace Methodist Church, where Church services were held. Upon completion of the Church services, the procession escorted the body to the railroad depot and the remains were shipped to Woodbury, Connecticut.
Though the Lodge obviously was not in good financial shape a resolution presented by the Finance Committee which would have raised the annual dues to $15.99 was defeated on Dec. 5, 1901. Then the Brethren voted to accept a loan of $200.00, for six months without interest, from Brother D. S. Hopper.
The Knights of Pythias still held a note against the Lodge furniture. The Lodge voted to pay the note, if they had enough money in the treasury. Apparently there was enough money because the minutes never mention the note again.
Dec. 26, 1901 a special communication was called at 6:30 P.M. to confer a Third Degree. The Lodge opened at 8:30 P.M. the same evening for a regular meeting. In addition to its regular business, the Lodge conferred another Third Degree and held the election of Officers. At the time Sacramento Lodge elected the Tyler.
Dec. 27, 1901 the Officers were installed by J. R. Gilbert, a pioneer Alamogordo doctor, who was a Past Master and affiliated with Sacramento Lodge from Ranger, Texas. Although an Eastern Star Chapter had not been formed in Alamogordo yet, the ladies were invited to attend the installation of Officers. After Lodge closed, the members and guests adjourned to the Alamogordo Hotel where a banquet was served. The Alamogordo Hotel was a frame building at 400 Tenth Street where the Alamogordo Saving and Loan is now.
To show how much the Hall was used, in 1902, The Lodge requested a Grand Lodge dispensation to rent the Hall to the Brotherhood of Railroad Firemen, the Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen, the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers, the Order of Fraternal Brotherhood, the Select Knight and Ladies, and the Order of International Machinist and Mechanics. Later copies of the minutes in 1902 show the receipt of rent from the Knights of Pythias, Woodmen of the World and the Odd Fellows. While we are commenting on the Grand Lodge issuing dispensations for the organizations to use the Masonic Hall, on Jan. 21, 1904 the Grand Lodge refused to grant a dispensation for Sacramento Lodge to rent its hall to the Catholic Church.
May 1, 1902 the Lodge voted to allow the Order of The Eastern Star to use the hall on the first and third Thursdays of each month. Then, on Nov. 13, 1902, Sacramento Lodge set its regular communication on the third Thursday of each month and instructed the Secretary to inform the Eastern Star of this decision.
The Lodge formed in funeral procession on Dec. 31, 1902 and marched to the home of a deceased Brother, who was a member of Kingston Lodge # 16, where they conducted funeral services. It seems a little unusual, but Sacramento Lodge paid the expenses of shipping the body to Las Cruces.
Our Brethren of an earlier era had pretty strong ideas of how a Mason should act out of the Lodge. As an illustration, on Nov. 19, 1903 charges were brought against two members for gambling and excessive drinking. One member was tried and his punishment was to be conducted to the Alter and receive a reprimand from the Master. Charges were dropped against the other member. On July 13, 1905 the same charges were brought against the same two members and both were expelled for un-Masonic conduct.
Sacramento Lodge held two Masonic Trials in 1905. On Oct. 12, 1905 a member requested a demit and there were objections to granting the demit. The Granting of the demit was delayed. On Nov 9, 1905 he was charged with taking money from his employer on two separate occasions and at another time he had stolen a piece of jewelry from his employer. On Dec. 8, 1905 he was found guilty of stealing the jewelry and part of the money and was suspended indefinitely.
Feb. 8, 1906 the Lodge ordered a projector and slides for the First and Third Degree Lecture, in the Minutes it is referred to as a lantern and views. With this projector the lecture became a two-man operation, the man who gave the lecture and the man, usually the Secretary, who changed the slides. The Lecturer carried the Senior Deacon's rod, and one tap on the floor with the rod was a signal to change to the next slide. This projector was used until May 20, 1948 when a projector and two filmstrips were ordered. The old projector and slides are stored in the Masonic paraphernalia room, and both are in excellent condition. It is gratifying that this souvenir of by-gone days, almost as old as the Lodge itself, was never given away or thrown out. ( This lantern and views were demonstrated, by R:.W:.B:. Carroll Sorenson, at Past Masters night in 1985).
In the latter part of 1907, the Lodge began to show signs of desiring to move to a new location and, at a special meeting on April 23, 1908 the building committee read an offer from G. W. Wolfinger. Mr. Wolfinger offered the Lodge a five year lease of the upper floor of the so-called Knights of Pythias building for $40.00 a month, and he would make an allowance of $110.00 for any needed repairs. The Lodge voted to accept Mr. Wolfingers offer. This building is at 900 New York Ave. and the Wolfinger Dry Goods Store was on the ground floor. Robert's Ladies Apparel now occupies the site of the old Wolfinger Dry Good Store.
April 29, 1908 a meeting was called to confer a Third Degree and to discuss business pertaining to the new hall. It was moved not to sub-let the new hall to other organizations and to ask for a Grand Lodge dispensation to move to the new hall. The move was probably made in May of 1908 because at the June meeting a bill from a drayman was approved, although Nov. 5, 1908 is the first time that rent to Wolfinger is specifically mentioned in the bills.
Sept. 10, 1908 a letter was received from Carrizozo stating that a Masonic Lodge was to be started there. The Secretary was instructed to inform them that it met with Sacramento Lodge's hearty approval.
At the meeting on Dec. 19, 1912 a committee was appointed to see if they could get a reduction in the rent and if no rent reduction could be obtained, to try to locate another hall. On Feb. 20, 1913 Brother C. E. Mitchell offered to rent the top floor of the First National Bank Building to the Lodge for $30.00 a month, with sub-letting privileges, and to change the room as The Lodge desired. The Lodge voted to offer Mr. Wolfinger $20.00 per month rent on their present Lodge room and if Mr. Wolfinger refused then the Lodge would accept Brother Mitchell's offer.
March 20, 1913, a letter from Mr. Wolfinger was read in which he agreed to lower the rent to $20.00 per month, but at the same meeting the Building Committee reported that they had already rented the upper floor of the Bank for $30.00 a month and had contracted with the Knights of Pythias and the Odd Fellows to rent the hall for $15,00 per month each. Though some members voted to stay in the same hall, the majority supported the Building Committee's action, and a Committee was appointed to take care of moving and the necessary construction work in the new hall. Moving and remodeling bills were allowed at the June 12th meeting so it seems safe to assume that the Lodge moved to the First National Bank Building in May or early June of 1913. This building is at the southeast corner of Tenth Street and New York Ave. and was later purchased by Sacramento Lodge. The upper story, where the Lodge held its meeting for about fifty years, was removed after the Lodge sold the property.
Some Tularosa Masons requested a waiver of jurisdiction on March 4, 1915 so that they might institute a Masonic Lodge in Tularosa.
The Grand Master, A. D. Goldenberg, visited Sacramento Lodge on Nov. 24, 1919 and presented some proposed changes to the Grand Lodge by-laws. Among the revisions approved by the Lodge were: that each member be charged $2.00 a year for a Masonic Home Fund, that Grand Lodge per capita tax be raised to $1.50 a year and that the Grand Secretary's Salary be set at $3,600.00 per year.
March 4, 1920 the Lodge entered into a one-year lease agreement with the Alamo State Bank for $50.00 per month. Prior to this time the Lodge's landlord had been the First National Bank. It is not stated how this change in ownership of the building took place. The $20.00 per month raise in rent seemed to impose a financial strain on the Lodge because in April a committee was appointed to investigate raising the dues and in Sept. all life members were notified that they would be expected to start paying their own Grand Lodge per capita tax.
Also, 1920 seemed to be the first year that the Tyler was not elected.
In 1921 our first membership roster was compiled, and it included the Chapter and Commandery.
At the Dec. 8, 1921 meeting a letter was read from the Grand Master concerning a donation to the Sojourner's Club at Ft. Bayard, New Mexico. It was voted that the Lodge forego a banquet at the installation of Officers and send $25.00 to the Sojourner's Club. At the same meeting it was voted to consult the Eastern Star's and Masonic bodies regarding a public installation and a "feed". It doesn't make much sense unless a banquet was served by professionals and what is now known as a covered-dish supper was called a feed.
The first time Sacramento Lodge gave a Past Masters jewel was Dec. 28, 1922 when the Lodge voted to give Tom Charles, the Junior Past Master, the jewel of his choice.
Feb. 1, 1923 a committee was appointed to locate our Past Masters pictures and hang them in the hall.
In 1924 the Lodge began the process of buying the building in which it was meeting. On May 3, 1924 the building committee reported that $2,100.00 had been subscribed, as loans, for the purpose of buying the building. A committee was appointed with full authority to act in the Lodge's behalf in this purchase. On May 15, 1924 a committee, consisting of three Brothers elected to staggered terms of three, two and one year each, was elected to serve as trustees for the building. On Feb. 5, 1925 the building Fund Trustees reported that the building had been bought by contract for $9,050.00. The Alamogordo Improvement Company's records show that the property was transferred from L. R. Hughes and wife to Sacramento Lodge # 24 in March 1928. As has been said before, this building is at the southeast corner of Tenth St. and New York Ave.
The Lodge held its Twenty Fifth Anniversary Celebration on Oct. 29, 1925. On the program, three charter members of the Lodge, F. C. Rolland, S. F. Miller, and C. E. Beasley spoke about the early days of the Lodge. Only Brother F. C. Rolland survived to speak at the Lodge's Fiftieth Anniversary program.
Feb. 28, 1928 R. L, Hood, a railroad man who worked in the Orogrande area, received his Third Degree. The meeting was attended by members of the Southern Pacific Square and Compasses Club of El Paso, as well as by Masons from Tularosa and Carrizozo. A meal was served to the out-of-town visitors at 6:00 P.M., and a light lunch was served to all after Lodge closed, with ninety-eight members attending.
Jan. 20, 1929 it was voted that the Secretary do what was necessary to change the Lodge by-laws so that the regular meeting would be held on the second Thursday of each month instead of on the Thursday on or before the full moon.
June 20, 1929 a donation was sent to Sierra Grande Lodge # 57 at Des Moines, New Mexico, who had lost their Lodge Hall in a fire on April 22, 1929.
March 9, 1930 Sacramento Lodge conducted a funeral for Brother E. F. Funk, the Worshipful Master of Silver City Lodge. Brother Funk had taught school in Alamogordo and had been a frequent visitor to the Lodge while he lived in Alamogordo. A funeral procession met the body at the railroad depot and accompanied it to the First Baptist Church where church services were held. The procession then accompanied the remains to the cemetery where Sacramento Lodge conducted Masonic funeral services.
Dec. 6, 1930 Union Lodge # 4 sent the Lodge ten dance tickets at $1.50 each to help refurbish their Lodge Hall which had been destroyed by a cyclone in May. Sacramento Lodge obligated by sending the $15.00.
Things were not expensive in 1933, On Feb. 11th, District Institute was held in Alamogordo, with Carrizozo and Tularosa attending, and a turkey dinner was served for $.50 a plate. Somewhere along the line District Institute became Masonic Workshops. Monitors sold for $.75. On April 20, 1933 three Brothers attended Grand Lodge in Roswell and submitted a bill to the Lodge amounting to $20.00 for sustenance, shelter and conveyance.
Thomas Hall, Grand Master, sent a letter on March 16, 1933 containing a tribute to Alpheus A. Keen for his fifty years as Grand Secretary.
There were no meetings in June or July of 1933 due to the lack of a quorum.
The minutes stated that there was no meeting June 21, 1934 due to a lack of a quorum. There are no further minutes until Oct. 18, 1934. The Lodge apparently didn't meet for five consecutive months. This is not explained.
Rainbow Assembly # 18 invited the Lodge to attend a covered dish supper and witness the presentation of their charter on June 16, 1936.
The Lodge received a letter on Nov. 18, 1937 from the Master of Tularosa Lodge inviting all members, families and escorts to the official visit of A. L. Hamilton, Grand Master, to Alamogordo, Tularosa and Carrizozo Lodges. It was to be an open meeting held at the Tularosa Women's Club building, with a dance following the program. Sacramento lodge voted to pay the admission of $.75 each for three Rainbow Girls and one Eastern Star member who were on the program.
A Brother petitioned the Lodge for affiliation orally, on March 16, 1939, because he had misplaced his written petition. The petition was excepted with instructions that his written petition was to be handed to the Secretary the next day.
May 18, 1939 it was voted that the Lodge allow $12.50 on the purchase of a Past Master's Jewel. Past Masters desiring a more expensive jewel would be required to pay the difference.
At each regular Lodge meeting in 1939, a Brother was appointed to attend the next two meetings of Rainbow Assembly # 18 thus assuring that a Mason would be present at every Rainbow meeting. Also, in 1939, a correspondent to the New Mexico Freemason was appointed.
Oscar E. L. Newman, the only member of Sacramento Lodge # 24 elected Grand Master of Masons in New Mexico, in its first Century, petitioned the Lodge for affiliation on Dec. 18, 1941. Oscar was elected Jan. 15, 1942 and passed his Third Degree proficiency Feb. 19, 1942.
A resolution raising the initiation fees to $102.00 was adopted on Oct. 21, 1954. M:.W:.B:. C. Roy Smith, Grand Master approved the resolution on Nov. 5, 1954
Oct. 20, 1955 the property at 1100 Vermont Ave. was bought for $11,000.00.
As the City of Alamogordo grew, they realized that they needed a real airport instead of the bare strip of ground, north of town, where planes were permitted to land. On March 20, 1958 the City of Alamogordo offered to trade land to Sacramento Lodge for the 320 acres owned by the Lodge south of the City, the City needed this land as part of the proposed airport. The City offered the Lodge their choice of three plots for the land owned by the Lodge. After discussion, the Lodge voted to trade its 320 acres for 10 acres on North Florida Ave., with the Lodge retaining the mineral rights on the 320 acres traded to the City.
Masonic funeral services were held Oct. 1, 1959 for Brother Francis C. Rolland, our last charter member.
At the Dec. 9th meeting it was announced that Ruidoso Lodge U. D. would be instituted Dec. 12, 1959.
A resolution to build a new Lodge building at 1100 Vermont Ave. was presented April 19, 1962 and on May 17, 1962 the resolution was adopted. The minutes do not reveal when the building was completed or when the Lodge moved in to the New Hall.
Oct. 20, 1966 the Lodge voted to sell the building at Tenth and New York for $30,000.00, with $5,000.00 down and the balance in 15 years at 6 % interest. At the meeting on Jan. 19, 1967, the Secretary reported that the sale had been completed.
There had been a little old piano in the Lodge dinning room for several years. As it was not a very good piano, when a Masonic widow expressed interest in it, the Lodge loaned it to her. It gradually dawned on the Brethren that a piano was necessary for almost all of the programs and receptions, which were held in the dinning room. And on July 20, 1967, it was voted to buy a piano from James Bradshaw for $185.00. On Nov. 21, 1968 the Lodge voted to give the old piano to the Masonic widow.
M:.W:.B:. Oscar E. L. Newman was introduced as Grand Master of Masons for the first time in Sacramento Lodge, on March 29, 1967.
Nov. 19, 1970 the annual dues were raised to $12.00.
The Lodge sold some theater-style seats to Ruidoso Lodge # 73, for $250.00, on July 15, 1971. At this meeting the Lodge was notified that Chandler Thomas had retired as Grand Secretary and that Ron Brinkman had been appointed to succeed him.
Sacramento Lodge voted to send $200.00 to the flood victims at Black Hills, South Dakota on Aug. 17, 1972.
A Lodge of sorrow was opened on Jan. 18, 1973 and declared open for the rest of the year. To declare a Lodge opened for a prolonged period of time is not in accordance with Grand Lodge by-laws. No one seems to know where the procedure came from, however, there is no record of Sacrament; Lodge ever doing so again.
Dec. 21, 1978 a Job's Daughter's Bethel was granted the use of the Masonic Hall.
The minutes of July 19, 1979 tell us that the Alter was draped in memory of M:.W:. B:. Oscar E. L, Newman, Past Grand Master (1967). It is rather sad that, as Brother Newman was Secretary of Sacramento Lodge at the time of his death, no minutes were taken at the Lodge of Sorrow which conducted his funeral.
W\B\ Robert E. Howard, Past Master of Sacramento Lodge acted as Secretary at the Aug. 13th meeting, and at the regular meeting Aug. 16, 1979, W\B\ Warren V. Vilott, also a Past Master, was elected Secretary.
July 17, 1980 the Lodge by show of hands, indicated their approval of sharing concurrent jurisdiction with Tularosa Lodge # 49.
The Order of Eastern Star was granted permission to hang pictures of the Past Matrons in the Lodge dining room on July 16, 1981.
In Oct. of 1981 the Older American Center was being remodeled, and Sacramento Lodge allowed them the use of its kitchen and dining room during the remodeling period. On Dec. 26, 1981 the Older American Center presented the Lodge with a coffee urn and a set of towels in token of its appreciation for the use of the facilities.
The Lodge, on April 15, 1982, leased its mineral rights on the land, now a part of the City airport, to Pogo Oil Company of Midland, Texas for a period of ten years. The fees granted the Lodge , for the lease, were $3,200.00 plus $320.00 a year rent and 1/8th royalty on oil produced. At this meeting it was voted to raise the fees for the Degrees to $81.00 for the Entered Apprentice Degree, $45.00 for the Fellow Craft, and $30.00 for the Master Mason Degree.
A resolution was adopted at the meeting of Aug. 16, 1984 raising the annual dues to $36.00 per year.
At the regular meeting on Nov. 15, 1984 Brother Warren V. Vilott, the Lodge Secretary, announced that he would prefer not to be re-elected Secretary for another term, as he needed the time for other activities. Brother Thomas E. LaMon Sr., who was Junior Past Master of the Lodge, was elected Secretary.
Dec. 20, 1984 Thomas E. LaMon Sr., Worshipful Master, read a letter requesting that concurrent jurisdiction now between Sacramento Lodge # 24 and Tularosa Lodge # 49 be rescinded. This letter was addressed to B. Ray Bonar, Grand Master of Masons of New Mexico, and was signed by the Master and Wardens of Sacramento Lodge # 24. The Master announced that if this letter met with Sacramento Lodge's approval it would be mailed to the Grand Master. It was moved, seconded, voted on and carried, that Sacramento Lodge adopt the letter and that the letter be mailed to the Grand Master. (The Grand master did not approve the request).
The Lodge Officers were duly installed Dec. 29, 1984 with W\B\ Robert E. Howard as Installing Officer; W\B\ Delmar A. Sanders, Installing Marshal; and R\W\B\ Carroll R. Sorenson, Installing Chaplain. Officers installed were: Arnold G. Flaugher, Master; Harvey A. Lewis, Senior Warden; Terry L. Divet, Junior Warden; W:.B:. Thomas M. Carr, Treasurer; and W:.B:. Thomas E. LaMon Sr., Secretary.
The Lodge projector, used to show slides illustrating the First and Third Degree lectures, had been used and maybe misused, anyway needing repairs was taken to El Paso for said repair on Feb. 18, 1985 at a cost of $82.43. (probably more than the projector cost when new).
Feb. 25, 1985, Brother Peter Derek Jones, a Past Master of Weyland Lodge Bicester, located at Bicester, Oxon, England, visited Sacramento Lodge and gave a short talk on English Masonry and some of the differences he observed between his Lodge and Sacramento Lodge. Both Lodges meet on the third Thursday of the month.
The March 23, 1985 issue of the Albuquerque Journal stated that on March 20, 1985 District Judge, Bruce Kaufman, had ruled that the education and charitable work of the New Mexico Masons justified granting them a tax-exempt status on their Lodge Halls.
At the June 20th meeting it was voted to accept a bid of $3,421.13 from Von Ellenburg to paint the exterior of the Lodge building. The bill was approved by the Lodge on July 18, 1985.
Sept. 19, 1985 the Lodge voted to buy five air-conditioners from Brother W. W. Reed's Co. for $2,095.00. These air-conditioners are to be installed on the Lodge building in the spring of 1986.
The projector slides, which illustrate the First and Third Degree Lectures, had been mounted in cardboard frames. These cardboard mountings had gradually became frayed and occasionally caused the projector to jam during the lecture. In late Oct. of 1985 WM, Flaugher fitted the slides into plastic mountings, thus eliminating the problem.
Three Past Masters passed away during 1985. They were W\B\ T. T. Toon (1957), W\B\ Eugene Kenneally (1966), and W\B\ Jack W. Scott Sr. (1969), though B\ Scott was no longer a member of Sacramento Lodge at the time of his death.
The Officers were installed Dec. 28, 1995. The Officers installed were: Harvey A. Lewis, Master: Terry L. Divet, Senior Warden; Rex Werner, Junior Warden; W:. B:. Thomas M. Carr, Treasurer; and W\B\ Thomas E. LaMon Sr., Secretary. The Installing Officer was W\B\ Arnold G. Flaugher, Installing Marshal, W\B\ Marion George Cutter, and Installing Chaplain W\B\ Delmar A. Sanders.
The Order of DeMolay continues to struggle in 1986. The adult advisors reported that the boys attend various entertainment given for them but very few attend the meetings.
At the regular Jan. meeting, the Master informed the Lodge that degree work will not be confined to Lodge Officers only, but that any member who learned any part of the work would be given the opportunity of performing that part when the appropriate degree is conferred.
Feb. 20, 1986 the Lodge voted on the Grand Master's recommendations, thus giving our delegates to the Grand Lodge instructions on how the Lodge wanted them to vote on said recommendations.
Five new air-conditioners were purchased and installed on April 17, 1986. The new air-conditioners were bought from the W. W. Reed Co. for $2,311.72. The Lodge voted to buy these units for $2,095.00 on Sept 19, 1985, but at a later date voted to buy units with larger motors at the higher price.
Before our May 15, 1985 meeting, a dinner was served honoring W\B\ Thomas M. Carr, Treasurer, for his 95th birthday. Grand Master, M\W\B\ John Hoise, presented brother Carr with his 65 year pin as a Master Mason. Brother Hoise was aided in the presentation by R\W\B\ Ron Brinkman, Grand Secretary. Twenty Masonic widows were present and given Masonic Widows pins and a blue carnation.
W\B\ Sanders moved that the Lodge send $230.00 to the Veteran's Hospital at Truth or Consequences, New Mexico for the purchase of a wheel chair. There was a tie vote on the motion and the Master voted a second time to break the tie and the motion carried.
In the middle of Sept. in 1986, the Order of Eastern Star replaced the drapes in the Lodge Hall lobby, replaced the drapes in the dining room with vertical blinds and painted the lobby, dining room and kitchen. The Lodge had granted Alamo Chapter # 11, O.E.S. permission to do the work April 17 of this year. Also at the Sept. 18th meeting, the Secretary was instructed to write and thank B:. Rodney Toon, Associate Grand Patron of the Grand Chapter of the Order of The Eastern Star in New Mexico for donating a microwave oven for the Lodge kitchen.
Past Masters Night was held Oct. 16, 1986. At the dinner before the meeting, R:.W:.B:. Bob Chamberlain, District Deputy Grand Master, Eleventh Masonic District, presented Hyrum Gailey with his fifty-year pin. Also 25 year pins were presented to B\ Lowell Stough and B\ Morton Lebowitz. Past Masters filling the offices for the evening were: WM, Herman L. Price; SW, Arnold G. Flaugher; JW, Carroll R. Sorenson; SD, Leaden Posey; JD, Nick King; SS, J. B. Walser; Chaplain, Walter Rogers; Treasurer, Thomas M. Carr; Tyler, M. George Cutter and Secretary, Thomas E. LaMon Sr.
Nov, 20, 1986 R\W\B\ Bob Chamberlain, DDGM, presented B:. Charles Price Sr. with his 25 year pin. Election of officers was held at this meeting.
The Lodge held it's installation of Officers, Dec.27, 1986. The following Officers were Installed: WM, Terry L. Divet; SW, Rex Werner; JW, James E. Penney; Treasurer, W\B\ Thomas M. Carr; Secretary, W\B\ Thomas E. LaMon Sr.; Chaplain, R\W\B\ Carroll R. Sorenson; SD, George R. Wood; JD, Leroy Kelbfliesh; Marshal, W\B\ Walter K. Rogers; SS, Bradley K. James; Tyler, W\B\ M. George Cutter; The Chaplain was installed by W\B\ Terry Divet, the newly installed Master. Installing Officers were: R\W\B\ Carroll R. Sorenson, Installing Officer: W\B\ Walter K. Rogers, Installing Marshal; W\B\ Arnold G. Flaugher, Installing Chaplain.
A special communication was held Jan. 19, 1987 to install B\ Charles Davis as Junior Steward.
An anonymous person offered to pay foe the installation of handrails at the front door of the Lodge building, if the Lodge approved. On Feb. 17, 1987 the Lodge voted to permit the handrails to be installed.
Life membership was granted to B\ Henry J. Sorenson and B\ Ralph Charles by Sacramento Lodge, as they had attained fifty years of membership in Sacramento Lodge.
B:. William Murphy was presented his 25 year pin on Nov. 19, 1987.
The Election of Officers was held at this meeting.
B:. John Gibbins of Royal Albert Lodge # 907 in London, England gave a short but interesting talk about Masonry in England and the differences he observed between his home Lodge and Sacramento Lodge.
The following Officers were installed Dec. 26, 1987.
WM, Rex Werner; SW, James E. Penney; JW, George R. Wood; Treas. W\B\ Thomas M. Carr; Secretary W\B\ Thomas E. LaMon Sr.; Marshal, W\B\ Walter K. Rogers; SD Leroy Kalbfliesh; JD, Bradley K. James; Chaplain, R\W\B\ Carroll R. Sorenson; SS, Donald Strawerman; JS, Robert A. Lewis; Tyler, W\B\ M. George Cutter.
Installing Officer, R\W\B\ Carroll R. Sorenson; Installing Marshal, W\B\ Herman L. Price; Installing Chaplain, W\B\ James Barker.
Jan. 21, 1988 R\W\B\ Carroll Sorenson was appointed Assistant Treasurer until Brother Thomas M. Carr, the regular Treasurer, is out of the hospital and can resume his duties as Treasurer again.
The Secretary informed the Lodge on Jan. 25th that Brother Carr had been transferred from the Hospital to Casa Arena Rest Home.
March 8, 1988 six members of Sacramento Lodge traveled to Mayhill cemetery to conduct Masonic services for B\ Gifford T. Williams, a member of Love Field Lodge # 1274 at Dallas, Texas. R\W\B\ Carroll Sorenson conducted the Masonic graveside services.
R\W\B\ Ernest R. Hazelwood, SGW, visited the Lodge March 13, 1988 and conferred the First Degree on Mr. Melvin Hamby.
It was voted that all display cases be removed from the lobby of the Lodge building and that no furniture be allowed in the lobby except the normal furniture belonging to the Lodge.
June 16, 1988 the Lodge voted to grant a $100.00 scholarship to Angela Weaver.
R\W\B\ Ernest R. Hazelwood, SGW, was again present on June 27, 1988 and conferred the Fellow Craft Degree on EA, B\ Melvin Hamby. B\ Hazelwood and B\ Hamby are good friends and hunting companions.
July 21, 1988 the Lodge voted to withdraw it's money from Alamogordo Federal Savings and Loan Association and deposit the withdrawn funds, in equal amounts, in United Bank of Alamogordo, First National Bank of Alamogordo and Western Bank of Alamogordo.
Past Masters Night was held Oct. 20, 1988. R\W\B\ Merle Kennedy, JGW, of Masons in New Mexico, was present and gave some of his ideas on Masonry and then threw the Lodge open for discussion by the Brethren. Past Masters filled all of the Lodges Offices with the exception of Tyler.
W\B\ Marion George Cutter was presented his Twenty Five year pin on Dec. 23, 1988.
The following Lodge Officers were installed Dec. 27, 1988
WM, James E. Penney; SW, George R. Wood; JW, Leroy Kalbfliesh; Treasurer, R\W\B\ Carroll R. Sorenson; Secretary, W\B\ Thomas E. LaMon Sr.; SD, Bradley K. James; JD, Donald Strawderman; Chaplain, R\W\B\ Harvey A. Lewis; SS, Robert A. Lewis; JS, Walter G. Belknap; Tyler W\B\ Marion G. Cutter. The Marshal to be installed later.
Installing Officer, R\W\B\ Carroll R. Sorenson; Installing Marshal, W\B\ Herman L. Price; Installing Chaplain, W\B\ Delmar A. Sanders. Newly installed WM, Penney installed the Treasurer.
At a special communication on Jan. 9, 1989, the Master Mason Degree was conferred on B:. Lynn M. Menefee.
At the Jan. 19, 1989 meeting R\W\B\ Arnold G. Flaugher was installed as Marshal with R\W\B\ Sorenson as Installing Officer and W\B\ Price as Installing Marshal.
B\ Alfred E. Pigg and B\ Norman Welborn was presented with Twenty Five-year pins and certificates.
The Lodge voted to allow Alamo Chapter # 11 O.E.S. to install ceiling fans in the Lodge Room.
Feb. 8, 1989, The Lodge accepted the proficiency examination of B\Lynn Menefee on the 3rd Degree.
At a special meeting on Feb. 13, 1989, B\ Mark V. Craig was examined on the First Degree proficiency by B\ Bradley James. The Lodge accepted the examination as proficient.
At a regular meeting on Feb. 16, 1989, B\ George R. Kershner, of Anthony Lodge #455 at Springfield, Ohio, told the Lodge that his Lodge was chartered the same date as Sacramento Lodge except the Anthony Lodge was chartered Oct. 16, 1800.
Mr. Dennis Belknap was elected to receive the degrees.
R\W\B\ Ernest R. Hazelwood, DGM, of Masons in New Mexico, wrote requesting the use of Sacramento Lodge's hall for one of the Grand Lodge quarterly meetings. It was voted to allow the Grand Lodge the use of the hall.
At a special meeting on Feb. 20, 1989, B\ Timothy DeHart was examined on the First Degree and found proficient by the Lodge. The Second Degree was then conferred on EA, B\ Timothy DeHart and EA, B\ Mark V, Graig.
Feb. 27, 1989, JS, B\Walter G. Belknap conferred the First Degree on his Son Mr. Dennis Belknap.
March 13, 1989, B\ Mark Craig was examined on the Second Degree by B\ Bradley James and his proficiency was accepted by the Lodge. On April 3, 1989, B\ Craig received his Master Mason Degree.
B\ Timothy DeHart received his Master Mason Degree on April 15, 1989.
Our Grand Master, M\W\B\ Ernest R. Hazelwood, visited Sacramento Lodge on April 20, 1989 accompanied by M\W\B\ Tom Case a Past Grand Master.
B\ Robert Hamilton offered $80,000.00 for the 9.1 acres of land, that the Lodge owns, on North Florida Ave.. The Lodge rejected the offer.
At a special meeting on April 24, 1989, the First Degree was conferred on Mr. Graig Lambright.
At our regular meeting on May 18, 1989 it was reported that the ceiling fans were installed and ready for use. At this meeting B\ George Bemis and B\ Peter Smith was accepted into the Lodge by affiliation.
Paul Kenneth Menefee was granted a scholarship in the amount of $100.00.
May 29, 1989 the Fellow Craft Degree was conferred on EA, B\ Dennis Belknap.
A funeral was conducted June 2, 1989 for B\ William Clay.
June 15, 1989, the Lodge voted to allow $75.00 for the purchase of material to build a partition across the East End of the dining room. The partition would conceal the extra folding chairs and tables that are already stored in that part of the dining room.
W\B\ James Barker reported that Mrs. William Clay wished to donate an electric organ to the Lodge. The Lodge voted to accept the organ and the Secretary was instructed to write a letter of appreciation to Mrs. Clay.
At this meeting it was voted to buy 24 new cloth aprons to be worn at funerals only.
July 10, 1989, FC, B\ Dennis Belknap's examination on the Second Degree was accepted as proficient and the Worshipful Master called a meeting on July 17th for the purpose of conferring the Master Mason Degree on FC, B\ Belknap.
July 20, 1989 the building committee reported that landscaping the lawn on the North and West sides of the Lodge hall would cost $1,452.68 and that the work would begin approximately Aug. 5th.
It was voted to go in with Tularosa Lodge in the purchase of Bibles for the presentation to newly initiated Entered Apprentices.
A special meeting was called Oct. 2, 1989 to hear the Master Mason proficiency of B\ Dennis Belknap. The Lodge voted to accept the proficiency. W\B\ Thomas E. LaMon, his coach conducted the examination.
R\W\B\ Danny Calloway, JGW of the GL of NM, was presented at our regular meeting on Oct. 19, 1989.
At this meeting the Lodge voted to send $200.00 to help South Carolina Masonic Lodges in their recovery from damages inflicted by hurricane "Hugo".
Nov. 27, 1989, EA, B\ Edward W. Hall was examined on the First Degree proficiency as a courtesy to Morningside Lodge # 615 located at Sioux City, Iowa.
At a regular meeting on Dec. 21, 1989, Sacramento Lodge installed its 1990 officers with a closed installation. Officers installed were: WM, George R. Wood; SW, LeRoy Kelbfliesh; JW, Bradley K. James; Treasurer, R\W\B\ Carroll R. Sorenson; Secretary, W\B\ Thomas E. LaMon Sr.; SD, Walter G. Belknap; JD, Robert A. Lewis; Chaplain, R\W\B\ Harvey A. Lewis; SS, Lynn Menefee; JS, John Secrest Jr.; Tyler, W\B\ Marion G. Cutter. Joe Ater is to be installed Marshal at a later date.
Installing Officer, W\B\ Delmar A. Sanders; Installing Marshal, W\B\ Herman L. Price and Installing Chaplain, W\B\ Shem Peachey.
Jan. 22, 1990 Sacramento Lodge conferred the Second Degree on B\ Edward Hall as a courtesy for Morningside Lodge # 615 located at Sioux City, Iowa.
At our Feb. 15th meeting the Lodge voted to send $100.00 to help aid the California Masonic Lodges affected by the California earthquake.
At this meeting Miss Tiffanie Owen was granted a $100.00 Scholarship by the Lodge.
The Lodge also voted to participate in the out-door Degree at the White Sands National Monument sponsored by the 11th District.
Mr. George W. Moree was elected to receive the Degrees on March 15, 1990 and the Master set the date for the First Degree as April 2nd.
SD, B\ Belknap gave a report on plans being made for the outdoor meeting, sponsored by the 11th Masonic District, to be held at the White Sands National Monument. The Lodge granted the use of certain of the paraphernalia at this meeting and also voted to give $20.00 to the Park Rangers for overtime pay.
The First Degree was conferred on Mr. George W. Moree on April 2, 1990. SD, B\Walter Belknap conferred the Degree.
April 19th the Secretary was instructed to notify all Lodge members that on May 17, 1990 the Lodge would vote on whether or not to sell the property located on North Florida Ave. to the Betty Dare Foundation.
May 16, 1990. The Lodge conducted funeral services for W\B\ Thomas M. Carr. Brother Carr was our oldest living Past Master. He would have been 99 years old had he lived until the 27th of this month. The funeral service was conducted by R\W\B\ Sorenson
May 17, 1990 the Lodge voted to sell 6.1 acres of the North Florida Ave. property to Betty Dare Foundation for $100,000.00, with Betty Dare Foundation paying all expenses attendant to the sale.
W\B\ James E. Penney gave a report on the presentation of a 70-year Masonic Membership pin to B\ "Sy" Storrs, in Tyrone Lodge # 52. A group of our members went to Tyrone to witness the ceremony. B\ Storrs has lived in Alamogordo for a number of years but still retained his membership in Tyrone.
A waiver of jurisdiction was granted to Nortrip Lodge # 998 of New York over E.A. B\ Raymond DiPietro.
May 21, 1990, EA, B\ George W. Moree stood examination on the First Degree proficiency by his coach, JW, B\ Bradley James. The Lodge accepted the proficiency and the Second Degree conferred on EA, B\ Moree.
June 21, 1990, WM, W\B\ Wood announced that the Lodge had received a check for $100,000.00, from Betty Dare Foundation, in payment of 6.1 acres of our North Florida Property. The Master announced that the check was invested, in CDs, equally in the following banks: Western Bank, First National Bank and United New Mexico Bank
June 25, 1990 FC, B\ George Moree stood examination on the Fellow Craft Degree and was found proficient by the Lodge. After which the Master Mason Degree was conferred on B\ Moree.
July 25, 1990 the Lodge conducted funeral services on FC, B\ Morton M. Lebowitz. The remains were then conveyed to Fort Bliss cemetery for interment. The services were conducted by W\B\ Sanders.
July 17, 1990 Sacramento Lodge conducted funeral services for B\ Edward L. Martin. The services were conducted by R\W\B\ Sorenson.
July 23, 1990 Sacramento Lodge conducted funeral services for B\ Clyde L. Snyder as a courtesy for Silver City Lodge # 8. The services were conducted by R\W\B\ Sorenson.
Aug. 16, 1990, R\W\B\ William MacVeigh, the DDGM, of the 11th District made his official visit to Sacramento Lodge. B\ MacVeigh spoke about the possibility of the Lodges in the 11th District furnishing a Masonic Room in the old Lincoln County Courthouse at Lincoln, New Mexico.
The Master appointed a committee to study the feasibility of building a new Lodge Hall at some future time.
Masonic graveside services were held Oct. 6, 1990 for B\ Ray M. Osborn. The service was conducted by R\W\B\ Sorenson.
Past Master's night was celebrated Oct. 18,1990. Previous to the meeting a meal was served by Alamo Chapter # 11 O.E.S.. Several Brothers commented on the history of Sacramento lodge and then W\B\ Shem Peachey, DDGL, gave a short talk on Masonry.
Prior to the election of the 1991 officers, a letter from W\B\ Thomas E. LaMon Sr. was read stating that for health reasons he could not accept the position of Secretary for another year. R\W\B\ Carroll R. Sorenson asked that he not be re-elected as Treasurer.
The following Officers were elected: WM, LeRoy Kalbfliesh; SW, Bradley K. James; JW, Walter G. Belknap; Treasurer, W\B\ James E. Penney; and Secretary, W\B\ Walter K. Rogers.
Nov. 26, 1990, a special meeting was called to hear the Master Mason proficiency of B\ George Moree. The members of the Lodge accepted the proficiency.
Dec. 17, 1990 the Lodge conducted Masonic graveside services for B\ Arthur D. Holt with R\W\B\ Sorenson presiding.
B\ Stephen Early was introduced at our Dec. 15th meeting. B\ Early was raised in Sacramento Lodge several years ago, but is now a member of LaMesa Lodge # 407 in San Diego, California.
Funeral services were conducted on Jan. 3, 1991 for B\ Edward Berkler. W\B\ Sanders officiated at the graveside.
Jan.5, 1991 the following officers were installed: WM, LeRoy Kalbfliesh; SW, Bradley K. James; JW, Walter G. Belknap; Treasurer, W\B\ James E. Penney; Secretary, W\B\ Walter K. Rogers; Chaplain, R\W\B\ Arnold G. Flaugher; SD, John Secrest Jr.; Marshal, Joe Ater; SS, George Moree; Tyler, W\B\ Marion G. Cutter.
The SD and J.S. were to be installed at a later date.
Installing Officer, R\W\B\ Carroll R. Sorenson; Installing Marshal, W\B\ Herman L. Price; Installing Chaplain, W\B\ Delmar A. Sanders.
After various introductions and presentations, Lodge closed without form at 8:30 P.M. and a reception was given in the dining room.
Jan. 17, 1991, The Charter was draped for B\ Edward Berkler and M\W\B\ Herman E. Roser, Past Grand Master of Masons in New Mexico.
First time visitor B\ Randle K. West of Tularosa Lodge # 49 was introduced.
Secretary, W\B\ Rogers was reported to be in the Hospital in Albuquerque and W\B\ George R. Wood was appointed to take his place until further notice.
Lodge voted to remit Dues for B\ Timothy W. Decker.
Jan. 21, 1992, R\W\B\ Sorenson installed R\W\B\ Harvey A. Lewis as SD and B\ James Brader as JS.
Feb. 21 1991, First time visitors: W\B\ Donald Colwell, P.M. of Delaware Lodge , Kansas City, KS; B\ Phillip Bentley, Social Harmony Lodge of Mass. Were introduced. Also B\ George and B\ Ed Hall of Souix City, Iowa who had visited in 1987 was introduced.
Motion to pay postage for the Newsletter the Master was putting out, Seconded & passed.
March 21, 1991, First time visitor W\B\ Arnold Ditmanson, PM of Phoenix Lodge # 129 of SD. was introduced and welcomed.
R\W\B\ Delmar A. Sanders, Grand Lecturer was properly introduced and seated in the East.
Motion was made to allow $150.00 to pay for Supper at the 11th Masonic District Work Shop to be held in Sacramento Lodge on March 23rd. Motion carried.
B\ Gene E. Burges was elected to affiliate with Sacramento Lodge.
A Dispensation from M\W\B\ John Allen, Grand Master of Masons in New Mexico, to elect a secretary was read and W\B\ George R. Wood was elected to and installed in the office of Secretary.
A Dispensation was received to allow participation in the Forth of July Parade.
April 18, 1991, Charter Drapes in Memory of B\ Given J, Severn, he was Raised a Master Mason in Sacramento Lodge on Aug. 14, 1951, Died April 8, 1991.
First time visitor B\ Ray D. Lavaida of Leonard Wood Lodge # 105, of the Grand Lodge of the Philippines, was introduced and welcomed.
R\W\B\ Sanders requested $100,00 to decorate the Forth of July Float, Allowed.
B\ John R. Secrest Sr. was elected to affiliate with Sacramento.
A donation of $100.00 was allowed for the Alamogordo Area Coalition for Talented Students toward their travel expenses to Knoxville, Tenn. for Competition.
May 6, 1991, Lodge of Sorrow for W\B\ S. M. "Sy" Storrs, a member and twice Master of Tyrone Lodge # 52 and a 69-year member of Tyrone Chapter # 41 of the Order of The Eastern Star. B\ Sy will be missed by the Masons and Stars of this area.
M\W\B\ Ronald A. Brinkman, Honorary P.G.M., P.G. Secretary, Conducted the service.
May 16, 1991, R\W\B\ Shem Peachey, DDGM of the 11th District and a member of Tularosa Lodge # 49, was conducted to the East, given Grand Honors and seated in the East.
B\ Fred Cox was conducted to the Altar and presented with his 25 yr. Pin by the WM.
June 1, 1991, Lodge of Sorrow for B\ Lawrence G, Norman. R\W\B\ Sorenson conducted the services.
June 20, 1991, B\ Monroe Curtice was presented with his 25yr pin by the WM.
A handicapped ramp, at an estimated cost of $960.00 was presented by the JW, B\ Belknap. The Lodge voted to proceed with the installation.
Mr. Larry P. Blevins received a favorable vote for the Degrees.
July 9, 1991, First time visitors, EA. B\ Ron Davis of Mt. Top Daylight Lodge # 81 and B\ Vernan L. Roberts of Matanuska Lodge # 7 of Palmar, Alaska were introduced & welcomed. Also introduced were B\ Gary and B\ A. L. Brown of N. Arlington Lodge # 271 of N. Arlington NJ.
The EA Degree was conferred on Mr. Larry L. Blevins by WM, W\B\ Kalbfliesh.
R\W\B\ Sanders gave the Degree Lecture , Gavel Lecture and Charge.
July 18, 1991, W\B\ James H. Barker was conducted to the East, presented with a special Plaque and Gavel, made and presented by W\B\ Herman L. Price. The WM then turned the meeting over to B\ Barker.
A motion to donate $100,00 to American Voice Help Foundation, The Grand Lodge reported it as being a worthwhile charitable project, motion passed.
R\W\B\ Sanders reported that the Forth of July Parade Float was successful and thanked the several Brethren who helped make it so.
Aug. 15, 1991, A motion to purchase additional Past Master Picture frames for $225.00 was approved.
A motion to purchase an answering machine for the Lodge for $140.00 was approved.
Petition to reinstate B\ Timothy W. Decker, who was investigated by Old West Lodge # 813 of the Grand Lodge of California, passed with a successful ballot.
Sept. 13, 1991, A Lodge of Sorrow, Graveside services for B\ Charles Ray Allen. R\W\B\ Sanders conducted the service.
Sept. 13, 1991, WM, W\B\ Kalbfliesh opened the Lodge and introduced B\ Don Garrison of Boulder City Lodge # 37 at Boulder City, NY.
The EA Degree was conferred on Mr. Stephen L Swisher, whose father, Rev. B\ Lowell H. Swisher of Jefferson Penn Lodge # 384, at Reidsville NC, was in attendance.
SW, James conferred, JW, B\ Belknap gave the Lecture, R\W\B\ Sanders gave the Gavel Lecture and Charge.
Sept. 17, 1991 B\ Fredrick Adolph Roessler's ashes were deposited in Monte Vista Cemetery.
Sept. 19, 1991, Grand Lodge Officers W\B\ Amos Hampton, DDGL; R\W\B\ Shem T. Peachey, DDGM, and R\W\B\ Delmar A. Sanders, G. L., were conducted to the Altar and given the usual greetings.
R\W\B\ Tom Payne, JGW, of the GL of NM was conducted to the East, given Grand Honors and seated in the East.
B\ Jerry Hilgeman was presented with his 25-year pin and certificate.
R\W\B\ Flaugher thanked Bro.'s. Penney, Sanders and James for their help with the fair parade float representing the Masonic Families.
R\W\B\ Payne gave a short address, and closed the Lodge in Full Form.
Oct. 14th., B\ Jimmie D. Arney was laid to rest in Monte Vista Cemetery.
Oct. 17, 1991, Past Masters Night and WM, W\B\ Kalbfliesh requested the following PM's to fill the chairs: WM, Herman L. Price; SW, Robert Howard; JW, Leaden Posey; Sect, George Wood; Tres., James Penney; SD, Robert A. Lewis; JD, Terry Divet; Mar. Joe Ater; Chap., Arnold Flaugher; SS, Nick King; Tyler, Marion G. Cutter.
W\B\ Amos Hampton D.D.G.L. and R\W\B\ Delmar A. Sanders, GL were introduced at the Altar.
R\W\B\ Shem T. Peachey, DDGM, was conducted to the East, given Grand Honors, and seated in the East. B\ Peachey along with B\ Sanders gave a report on possible changes in ritual. B\ Peachey then closed the Lodge in Full Form.
Nov. 21, 1991, Altar Draped for B\ Maurice P. Wilson, who passed away on Nov. 2nd.
Elections were held and the following elected: WM, Bradley K. James; SW, Walter G. Belknap; JW, Robert A. Lewis; Tres., W\B\ James E. Penney; Sect, R\W\B\ Delmar A. Sanders.
Dec. 19, 1991, The Charter was draped for R\W\B\ Harry E. Abernathy, SGW of the GL of NM and of Cimarron Lodge # 37, Cimarron, NM who died Nov. 24, 1991.
W\B\ Robert J. Onspaugh, PM of Moore Lodge # 539, Moore, OK and W\B\ George Davis of Moirta Lodge # 11, in Belleville, Ontario Canada, Past District Master of American Canadian Grand Lodge of Germany, were introduced and welcomed.
B\ Phillip Bentley was elected to affiliate with the Lodge.
A $300.00Scholarship was approved for Pamala James for Nurses training at UNM-A.
Dec. 28, 1991, Lodge opened at 5:30 PM for the purpose of installing the 1992 Officers.
At 7:30 the Installing Officers: R\W\B\ Harvey A. Lewis, Installing Officer; W\B\ LeRoy Kalbfliesh, Installing Marshal; and Rev. B\ Lowell Swisher, Installing Chaplain. Installed were: Bradley K. James, WM; Walter G. Belknap, SW; Robert A. Lewis, JW; W\B\ James E. Penney, Treasurer; R\W\B\ Delmar A. Sanders, Secretary; John R. Secrest Jr., SD; George W. Moree, JD; James C. Brader, SS; Michael J. Ladach, JS; R\W\B\ Arnold G. Flaugher, Chaplain; W\B\ Marion George Cutter, Tyler.
Jan. 16, 1992, First time visitor W\B\ G. J. Tucker from Sweetwater Lodge # 571, Sweetwater, TX was introduced.
R\W\B\ Harvey A. Lewis was installed as Marshal by WM, W\B\ James.
Jan. 20, 1992, EA proficiency heard and FC Degree conferred on EA B\ Steven L. Swisher. R\W\B\ Flaugher conducted the proficiency and conferred the FC Degree.
R\W\B\ Peachey gave the Lecture and R\W\B\ Sanders gave the "G" Lecture and Charge.
Jan. 27, 1992, EA Proficiency heard and FC Degree conferred on EA, B\ Larry Blevins, The proficiency was conducted by WM, James. The FC Degree was Conferred by SW, B\ Belknap; W\B\ Warren V. Vilott gave the "G" Lecture and R\W\B\ Peachey gave the Charge.
Feb. 20, 1992, R\W\B\ Tommie L Holmes, PM of Gavel Lodge, Sheridan, OK was conducted to the East in due form, given Grand Honors and seated in the East.
DDGM, R\W\B\ Peachey reported on Open House to be held on Sunday, Feb. 23rd. WM, James appointed a Scholarship Committee consisting of R\W\B\ Flaugher, and W\B\ Penney and W\B\ Wood. Committee to report back in April.
NO COMMUNICATION IN MARCH. Because of Grand Lodge.
April 16, 1992, W\B\ Norman Welborn and B\ Vern Roberts were introduced at the Altar.
R\W\B\ Peachey, DDGM, was conducted to the East, given Grand Honors, and turned the meeting back to Acting Master, SW, B\ Belknap.
JW B\ R. Lewis, Chairman of the Building Committee, reported on the renovations proposed for the Lodge Room. Consisting of Painting the ceiling, Paneling and insulating the walls. Moved and after a lively discussion, Passed, to proceed with the renovations at a cost of $3,957.18.
Scholarship Committee, having been unable to meet as some were out of town, had no report. However Secretary Sanders reported that the Grand Lodge and Santa Fe Scottish Rite matching funds had been increased to $ 125.00 each thereby making our scholarship worth $375.00
Third Annual White Sands Outdoor Meeting Invitation.
A thank you letter from the York Rite Bodies for the use of the Lodge facilities.
April 28, 1992, Special meeting to hear the Proficiency of FC B\ Larry Blevins, conducted by R\W\B\ Flaugher and accepted by the Lodge.
May 16, 1992, THIRD ANNUAL WHITE SANDS OUTDOOR MEETING.
Dispensation having been received from M\W\B\ B. Mac Page, GM of M in NM, the meeting was opened in full form in Sacramento Lodge by Acting Master, SW, B\ Belknap.
Introduced were R\W\B\ Peachey, DDGM, who, then introduced first time visitors, Masters, and Grand Lodge Officers present. Then introduced M\W\B\ B. Mac Page and his Grand Lodge entourage. B\ Peachey then reported that this meeting was called to confer the MM Degree on FC B\ Larry Blevins. The Degree team consisted of members of the Roswell Area Lodges. Between the First and Second Sections a B-B-Q dinner, prepared by Carrizozo Lodge # 41, was served and eaten at White Sands Monument and enjoyed by all.
May 21, 1992, Meeting opened by SW, B\ Belknap as WM, James had been called away by Military Duties elsewhere.
Charter Draped for B\ Richard E Patterson and B\ Ike N. Davis.
Moved by R\W\B\ Flaugher to grant Two $500.00 Scholarships, which, with contributions from Grand Lodge and Scottish Rite of Santa Fe would cost the Lodge only $750.00. Seconded and Passed.
The following petitions were acted on favorably: Mr. Michael Penrod for the Degrees, B\ William Mitchell, B\ Richard Harris, and R\W\B\ William MacVeigh for affiliation.
A donation of $25.oo was given to Miss. Melissa J. Usener to attend a National Youth Leadership Forum in Washington DC.
B\ Joe and Mrs. Chapin were thanked for the refrigerator donated to the Lodge.
It was moved by W\B\ George Wood that all Past Masters be allowed $150.00 for a Past Masters Apron or Jewel. Motion Passed.
B\ Matthew S. Saul was granted Life Membership.
May 25, 1992, First time visitor W\B\ Fred Mandrosky, PM of Mt. Moriah Lodge # 54 at Ft. Sumner, NM was introduced.
Mr. Michael R. Penrod was initiated with SW, B\ Belknap acting as Master, R\W\B\ Sanders gave the Lecture, Gavel Lecture and Charge.
June 18, 1992, SW, B\ Belknap presiding.
Mr. Fred R. Cox was elected to receive the Degrees.
R\W\B\ H. Lewis moved to reserve a booth at the Fair for the purpose of Youth Identification Program on Aug. 14th and 15th. Passed.
Petition from Carrizozo Lodge # 41 asking the Brethren to join the Lincoln Masonic Foundation and inviting them to the Institution of the Travel Lodge in Lincoln on Aug. 22.
June 22, 1992, Meeting opened by JW, B\ Robert A. Lewis to confer the MM Degree on FC, B\ Steven L. Swisher. R:.W:.B:. Sanders acted as Master in both Sections and gave the Degree Lecture, B\ John Secrest Jr. gave the Gavel Lecture and Charge. His Masonic Bible was presented by John Secrest Jr. assisted by his father B\ Lowell Swisher.
June 29, 1992, Meeting opened by SW, B\ Belknap to receive the MM proficiency from B\ Steven L. Swisher. Proficiency conducted by R\W\B\ Flaugher and passed by the Lodge. W\B\ Amos Hampton DDGL, commented, "Oh, for the mind of youth!"
July 16, 1992, Moved, Seconded and Passed to reglue and reupholster the Station Chairs for approximately $800.00.
Moved, Seconded and Passed that R\W\B\ Sorenson and B\ Richard Harris be granted Life Memberships.
Secretary, R\W\B\Sanders reported that our income exceeded our expenses and made a Motion that we reduce our Annual Dues back to $24.00. Motion Seconded, but must lay over for thirty days before action could be taken.
Committee was formed to research and report on a Computer for the Lodge.
July 20, 1992, SW, B\ Belknap opened Lodge on the First Degree.
First Time visitor, EA B\ Clifford Mills from Tularosa Lodge # 49 was introduced.
Mr. Fred R. Cox received his EA Degree. R\W\B\ Sanders, Conferred the Degree and gave the Gavel Lecture and Charge, R\W\B\ MacVeigh, gave the Lecture.
July 21, 1992, SW, B\ Belknap opened on the Second Degree.
First time visitor FC, B\ Erwin Netzer and W\B\ Norman Welborn from Mt. Top Daylight Lodge # 81 was introduced together with R\W\B\ T. P. Hanson of Eddy Lodge # 21.
EA, B\ Michael R. Penrod received his FC Degree. R\W\B\ Sanders conferred the Degree and gave the "G" Lecture and Charge. W\B\ Vilott gave the Staircase Lecture.
Aug. 3, 1992, SW, B\ Belknap opened on the First Degree.
First time visitors B\ David Parent of Silver Cord Lodge # 51, Henderson, NV. and W\B\ Clyde Hanes of King Solomon Lodge, in OH. were introduced.
Mr. Walter W. Erck received his EA Degree. SW, B\ Belknap conferred the Degree, R\W\B\ MacVeigh gave the Lecture and R\W\B\ Sanders gave the Gavel Lecture and Charge.
Aug. 17, 1992, SW, B\ Belknap opened on the Third Degree.
First time visitors B\ Raymond Israel from Fidelity Lodge # 192, Ft. Collins, CO and W\B\ Jack Yeager from MTDL # 81 was introduced.
FC, B\ Michael R. Penrod received his MM Degree. SW, B\ Belknap conferred the First Section, R\W\B\ Sanders conferred the Second Section and gave the Degree Lecture, Gavel Lecture and Charge. B\ John Secrest Jr. gave the Bible Presentation.
Aug. 21, 1992, WM, W\B\ James opened on the Third Degree.
First time visitors, B\ Robert O. Wells from St. Elmo Lodge # 349, Oakland, CA. and B\ Clyde M. Starmes from Lavaca Lodge # 6, Port Lavaca, TX. was introduced.
Motion to reduce the Dues from $36.00 to $24.00 was read a second time and approved unanimously by the members present.
Sept. 17, 1992, WM, W\B\ James opened the Lodge on the MM Degree.
The Charter was draped in memory of B\ Charles Pinchard who passed away Dec. 24th 1991.
JW, B\ R. Lewis, Chairman of the Computer Committee, made a motion to spend approximately $2000.00 for a 386SX-type computer, printer and accessories for the Lodge. Motion Seconded and Passed.
Our Insurance Inspector stated the need of emergency lighting in the Lodge Room and Dinning Room. Moved and Passed that they be purchased at a cost of about $80.00 per unit.
Oct, 15, 1992, It being Past Masters Night, after a delicious dinner served by members of Alamo Chapter # 11, Order of The Eastern Star, all repaired to the Lodge Room where R\W\B\ Peachey, DDGM, presented 25-year pins to B\ Chester G. Sehorn, B\ Phillip Bentley and B\ Frank A. Gilmore. R\W\B\ Sanders then presented R\W\B\ Carroll R. Sorenson with his 50-year pin and WM, W\B\ James presented him with his Life Membership.
The following Past Masters opened the Lodge:
WM, Herman L. Price; SW, George Wood; JW, Rex Werner; Tres., James E. Penney; Sect., Delmar A. Sanders; Chap., Arnold G. Flaugher; SD, LeRoy Kalbfliesh; JD, Warren V. Vilott; Tyler, Marion George Cutter.
R\W\B\ Delmar A. Sanders, Grand Lecturer, was introduced at the Altar. R\W\B\ Shem Peachey, DDGM, was conducted to the East, introduced and seated in the East.
Moved and passed to send $200.00 each to Hurricane Relief of Florida and Hawaii.
Moved and passed to pay half ($200.00) of the cost to purchase a new vacuum cleaner with the Eastern Star.
Nov. 19,1992, The Lodge was opened on the MM Degree by WM, W\B\ James.
WM elect, B\ Richard Gouker of Tularosa Lodge # 49 and W\B\ Jack Yeager of MTDL # 81, was introduced and welcomed at the Altar.
Sect. Sanders noted that Bs\, Wood, Hampton and Belknap had installed the Emergency Lights in the Lodge and Dinning Rooms.
The Computer Committee had completed their task and purchased a 386SX computer in El Paso, TX.
B\ Alan Berg and B\ Raymond Israel was accepted as plural members.
Election of Officers resulted in the following elected:
WM, Walter G. Belknap; SW, Robert A. Lewis; JW, John Secrest Jr.; Treasurer W\B\ James E. Penney; Secretary, R\W\B\ Delmar A. Sanders.
Dec. 17, 1992, WM, W\B\ James opened in the MM Degree.
The Charter was draped in Memory of M\W\B\ Thomas A. Case, PGM, who died Dec. 6, 1992
Moved and passed to donate $100.00 to Masonic Charities in Memory of M\W\B\ Case.
Grand Lodge Annual Report indicated that Sacramento Lodge had increased by 1 this year.
Moved and passed to give the Janitor a $100.00 bonus.
Moved by B\ Belknap that Gold Seals be purchased to be put on the pictures of our deceased Past Masters, Seconded by W\B\ Cutter and Passed.
W\B\ James then thanked the Lodge for a wonderful year and apologized for his absence for much of the year.
Dec. 19, 1992, WM, W\B\ James opened the Lodge on the MM Degree at 5:30 PM for the purpose of installing the Elected and Appointed Officers.
At 7:30 B\ Otto H. (Dutch) Bruggerman, MC, announced the Installing Officer.
R\W\B\ Shem Peachey, Installing Officer; W\B\ Herman L. Price, Installing Marshal and R\W\B\ Arnold G. Flaugher, Installing Chaplain.
Installed were: WM, B\ Walter G. Belknap, SW, B Robert A. Lewis; JW, B\ John Secrest Jr.; Tres. W\B\ James E. Penney; Sect.. R\W\B\ Delmar A. Sanders; Chap., R\W\B\ Arnold G. Flaugher; SD, B\ George W. Moree; JD, B\ Alan Berg; Mar. B\ Joe Ater; SS, B\ Michael Penrod; JS, B\ Raymond Israel; Tyler, W\B\ Marion George Cutter.
W\B\ James was conducted to the East along with his father-in-law, R\W\B\ Harvey A. Lewis, who presented his Past Masters Apron. W\B\ James then presented W\B\ Belknap with the Masters Traveling Pin.
Jan. 21, 1993, R\W\B\ Amos Hampton, DDGM, was conducted to the East, given Grand Honors, and seated in the East.
DeMolay Chapter Dad, B\ Michael Penrod stated the DeMolay would hold Initiatory and DeMolay Degrees in Las Cruces, Sat., Jan 23rd.
Mr. John C. Pflug was elected to receive the Degrees in Masonry.
B\ Edwin Dewlen was conducted to the Altar and congratulated on 45 years in Masonry.
R\W\B\ Hampton, DDGM, brought greetings from M\W\B\ Kenneth Klentschy, GM of M in NM. And also reported on the progress of the White Sands Outdoor Degree.
Feb.1, 1993, WM, W\B\ Belknap opened the Lodge and then called it to refreshment and invited the Ladies in to enjoy the program.
R\W\B\ Ward Redshaw presented a slide program on outstanding Masons in History.
The Lodge was called back to Labor and B\ Charles Cuthbert and B\ John Mueller, Worthy Grand Patron of Eastern Star, were introduced and welcomed at the Altar.
B\ Redshaw was conducted to the East and given Grand Honors.
WM, Belknap then remarked on how he and 20 Brethren traveled to El Paso Sunland Lodge # 1344 and brought back the El Paso District Traveling Gavel for the first time.
Mar. 18, 1993, first time visitors, B\ Marcus Thomas of George Washington Lodge # 820, Rheimstein, Germany, and B\ Mel Savel of Friendship Lodge # 630, Biloxi, MS. were introduced and welcomed at the Altar.
Mr. Thomas Lynch and Mr. Thomas Pennington were elected to receive the Degrees.
Motion to buy a small Computer Desk passed.
Motion to buy a new Coffee Maker Passed.
Mar. 22, 1993, WM, W\B\ Belknap opened an EA Lodge to confer the EA Degree on Mr. Thomas Lynch and Mr. Thomas Pennington, W\B\ James conferred on Mr. Lynch and WM, Belknap Conferred on Mr. Pennington and gave the Lecture. R\W\B\ Sanders gave the Gavel Lecture and Charge.
B\ Lester W. Dezsy passed to his rewards March 29, 1993. B\ Dezsy affiliated with Sacramento Lodge on Nov. 20, 1969.
April 15, 1993, WM, W\B\ Belknap opened the Lodge then went to refreshment and invited in the guests. Introduced at the Altar were: W\B\ Fred Mandrosky of Tularosa Lodge # 49, R\W\B\ Hampton, DDGM, R\W\B\ Sanders, GL, Worthy Patron and Worthy Matron, of Alamo Chapter # 11, B\ Ted and Jackie DeHart; and PGP, B\ Rodney Toon.
M\W\B\ Ray D. Carpenter, PGM, GS, was conducted to the East, warmly welcomed and gave a very interesting program on "Baf-O-Met", Masonry and Southern Baptists.
The Guest was dismissed and the Lodge called to Labor.
R\W\B\ Hampton was elected to Plural Membership with Sacramento Lodge,
A bid from John Jaramillo to repair the roof for $345.11 was accepted.
May 20, 1993, B\ Robert Smith was elected to Plural Membership with the Lodge.
An Edict from Grand Master, M\W\B\ Kenneth Klentschy, was read ordering that future Candidates Proficiency be limited to the Obligation, Signs and Tokens of the Three Degrees. Time between the Degrees to be determined by the ability of the Candidate to memorize and Each Candidate gets the Lodge System of Masonic Education.
Moved and Passed to sponsor a Babe Ruth Baseball Team.
May 29, 1993, DISTRICT 11 WHITE SANDS OUTDOORS MEETING.
Having a dispensation received by R\W\B\ Hampton, DDGM, the Lodge was opened by members of the 11th District, 95 members from 13 New Mexico and 9 Texas Lodges were introduced.
FC, B\ George Chavez of Wallace Houston Lodge of El Paso, TX., received the first section of the MM Degree by the Knights of Mecca Degree Team in true Texas style in Sacramento Lodge.
The Brethren and their Guests journeyed to White Sands Monument for dinner, and after the Guests had departed back to Sacramento Lodge, the Texas Team conferred the Second Section of the Degree.
June 17, 1993, WM, W\B\ Belknap opened the Lodge and called to refreshment and invited the guests to enter to hear W\B\ Johnson Stearns of Carrizozo Lodge #41 give an interesting talk on the early days of Railroading in NM and the early days in White Oaks, NM .
The Lodge was called from Refreshment to Labor and:
A request was made to enter the Forth of July Parade, WM, Belknap offered his 1968 Cadillac for the float.
B\ Dan Wooden was presented his 50-year pin by R\W\B\ Sanders.
Motion made and Passed to spend $7537.91 for a new stove in the Kitchen, which included Stove, Exhaust Fan, Fire Extinguisher, Plumbing, Taxes, Material and Labor.
Amaranth donated $250.00 toward the stove project.
July 15, 1993, Scholarships were allowed for Deena and Tiffinie Owen in the amount of $500.00 each.
Moved to allow $250.00 for J&L Creative Wood Designs to build a new Desk for the Secretary. Passed.
Moved and Passed to donate $200.00 to Miss Katie Rogers for a reading device.
Aug. 19, 1993, WM, W\B\ Belknap opened the Lodge then went to refreshment and invited the guests to enter to hear a presentation of M\W\B\ Kenneth Klentschy, GM of M in NM who gave an interesting talk on the support given by our wives in our Lodge endeavors.
The guests were excused and the Lodge called to Labor.
Sect. Sanders reported the Desk was completed at a cost of $225.00.
Mr. Jim O. Turner and Mr. James Morrison were elected to receive the Degrees.
Moved to allow $500.00 for Flood Relief to Masonic Service Association. Passed
Moved to get rid of old Secretary Desk. Passed
W\B\ Leo. Mitchell of Ruidoso Lodge # 73 was presented with the NM Traveling Gavel.
M\W\B\ Klentschy stated that 16 Grand Lodges did not allow Ciphers but 33 did and that sense he was appointed to the Grand Lodge Line in 1986 the Grand Lodge had lost over 3500 members.
Sept. 6, 1993, WM, W\B\ Belknap called the Lodge to Order to confer the EA Degree on Mr. James Morrison and Mr. Jim Turner.
Introduced at the Altar were B\ Mark Forchand from George Washington Lodge # 820, Kaiserlautern, Germany and W\B\ Ed Turner, PM, of Tularosa Lodge #49, father of Jim Turner.
WM, Belknap conferred the Degree on Mr. James Morrison and gave the Degree Lecture. R\W\B\ Sanders conferred the Degree on Mr. Jim Turner and gave the Gavel Lecture. SD, B\ Alan Berg gave the Charge.
Sept. 16, 1993, WM, W\B\ Belknap noted that the Kitchen was now completed.
Sept. 28, 1993, SW, B\ R. Lewis opened the Lodge on the FC Degree to confer the FC Degree on EA, B\ Jim O. Turner. R\W\B\ Sanders conferred the Degree and gave the "G" Lecture and Charge. R\W\B\ Peachey gave the Staircase Lecture.
Oct. 21, 1993, Being Past Masters Night, the Lodge was opened by the following Past Masters: WM, Arnold G. Flaugher; SW, Rex Werner; JW, Warren V. Vilott; Tres., R\W\B\ Leaden Posey; Sect., Delmar A. Sanders; Chap., Shem Peachey; SD, Terry Divet; JD, James E. Penney, SS, LeRoy Kalbfliesh; JS, George R. Wood; Mar., Amos Hampton; Tyler, Marion G. Cutter.
First time visitor, B\ Frank Bosley of Tuscon Lodge #1275, was introduced.
Masters W\B\ Lloyd Lewis of MTDL # 81 and W\B\ Fred Mandrofsky of Tularosa Lodge # 49 were introduced at the Altar. R\W\B\ Amos Hampton, DDGM, and R\W\B\ Delmar A. Sanders, Grand Lecturer, were introduced at their seats. M\W\B\ Ron Brinkman, HPGM, was introduced in the East and given Grand Honors.
Lodge was called to refreshment and the Guests were invited to enter.
Honored Ladies: Lora Fenimore, Marion Cox, Laura Pappas, Wanda Berkler, Rose Norman, Miriam Martin, and Bertha Patterson were introduced and B\ Brinkman presented Rose L. Norman with her Masonic Widow Pin. B:. Brinkman then presented B\ Jerome T. Henry with his 25-year pin and B\ Daniel J. Wooden and B\ Richard F. Harris with their 50- year pins.
B\ Brinkman then gave a very interesting talk on Masonry with many personal side remarks involving local Brethren.
Dinner for the evening by Amaranth cost $274.50
Motion to permit the Shrine Club to place a 10X10 building behind the Lodge Passed.
Oct. 23, 1993, 17 Brethren from Sacramento Lodge and 2 from Deming Lodge # 12 traveled to El Paso's Wallace Hughston Lodge # 1393 to confer the MM Degree on FC, B\ John Pflug.
WM, W\B\ Samuel Patino and his Officers opened the Lodge Texas Style at 11:00 AM.
The First Section was conferred by WM, W\B\ Belknap and gave the Degree Lecture. The Second Section was conferred by R\W\B\ Sanders and gave the Masters Admonition. R\W\B\ Peachey gave the Charge, R\W\B\ William T. Beckett gave the Traveling Lecture ( Bible presentation)
The Grand Master of Chihuahua, Gran Maestro, Aquino de Chihuahua Y Cosmos, and his personal secretary, Oscar Aquilar, P.M., were present and introduced.
There were present 44 Brethren from NM, TX, KY, and Chih. Registered.
Oct. 25, 1993, WM, W\B\ Belknap opened the Lodge to confer the MM Degree on FC, B\ James O. Turner.
First time visitors W\B\ Walter E. Bowes, PM and B\ J. Dale Phillips of Fostoria Lodge # 288, Fostoria, OH., was presented at the Alter, introduced and welcomed.
WM, Belknap conferred the First Section and gave the Degree Lecture. R\W\B\ Sanders conferred the Second Section and gave the Masters Admonition. R\W\B\ Peachey gave the Charge and Bible Presentation. R\W\B\ Flaugher gave the Soliloquy.
Nov. 15, 1993, SW, B\ R. Lewis opened the Lodge on the FC Degree to confer the FC Degree on EA, B\ James Morrison.
R\W\B\ Sanders conferred the Degree and gave the "G" Lecture and Charge. R\W\B\ Peachey gave the Staircase Lecture.
Nov. 18, 1993, R\W\B\ Amos Hampton, DDGM was introduced at the Altar.
B\ Jimmie Randell was introduced and presented with his 25-Year pin by R\W\B\ Sanders.
Mr. John Barr and Mr. Gilbert Isley were elected to receive the Degrees.
R\W\B\ Lewis presented a bill for printing and postage for the newsletter, apparently for several months, the bill was paid along with other expenses.
Annual Elections were held with the following Elected.
WM, Robert A. Lewis; SW, John R. Secrest Jr.; JW, George W. Moree; Tres. R\W\B\ Arnold G. Flaugher; Sect., R\W\B\ Delmar A. Sanders.
Dec. 7, 1993, WM, W\B\ Belknap opened an EA, Lodge for the purpose of conferring the EA, Degree on Mr. John Barr and Mr. Gilbert Isley and Courtesy Candidate, Mr. John Leasure of Mt. Salus Lodge # 595 in Clinton, MS.
W\B\ Penney conferred the Degree on Mr. Barr. R\W\B\ Sanders Conferred the Degree on Mr. Isley and Mr. Leasure and gave the Gavel Lecture and Charge. R\W\B\ MacVeigh gave the Degree Lecture.
Dec. 16, 1993, WM, W\B\ Belknap opened the Lodge and had R\W\B\ Hampton and R\W\B\ Sanders conducted to the Altar where he thanked them for their support for the past year.
R\W\B\ Omar Horn, JGW, was conducted to the East, introduced and given Grand Honors.
Mr. Edward P Cutler and Mr. Perry D. Lawson were elected to receive the Degrees.
Moved to donate $200.00 to the Community Food Bank. Passed
WM, Belknap thanked the Brethren for their help for his year. Traveling to Roswell, Ruidoso, and El Paso to acquire the Traveling Gavels. For setting up the new kitchen and the Saturday Morning Coffee. Exchanging candidates with Wallace Hughston Lodge, and especially to Bros., LeMon, Sorenson, Sanders, Penney, Cutter and Hampton for all their help and support.
R\W\B\ Horn then closed the Lodge with a fine message about the inevitable change and a poem ending with T B 1 A 1! ! !
Dec. 18, 1993, WM, W\B\ Belknap opened the Lodge for the purpose of Installing the 1994 Officers.
Installing Officer, R\W\B\ Harvey A. Lewis, (father of the incoming Master); Installing Marshall, W\B\ Herman L. Price; Installing Chaplain, R\W\B\ Arnold G. Flaugher.
Officers Installed was: WM, Robert A. Lewis; SW, John R. Secrest Jr.; JW, George W. Moree; Tres. R\W\B\ Arnold G. Flaugher, Sect., R\W\B\ Delmar A. Sanders; Chap., R\W\B\ Amos Hampton; SD, Alan B. Berg; JD, Michael Penrod; Mar., Joseph Ater; Tyler, W\B\ Marion George Cutter.
Dec. 20, 1993, WM, W\B\ R. Lewis opened the Lodge on the EA Degree to confer the EA Degree on Mr. Edward Paul Cutler.
First time visitors B\ Gary D. Barham and W\B\ Lewis Richardson of Aztec Lodge # 3 of Las Cruces, NM, was introduced at the Altar.
R\W\B\ Sanders conferred the Degree and gave the Gavel Lecture and Charge. W\B\ Belknap gave the Degree Lecture.
Jan. 4, 1994, WM, W\B\ R. Lewis opened an EA Lodge to confer the EA Degree on Mr. Perry D. Lawson.
B\ George Bemis, SS and B\ Tracy Johnson, JS were installed in their offices by R\W\B\ Sanders, IO and R\W\B\ Hampton, IM.
W\B\ Belknap conferred the Degree, R\W\B\ MacVeigh gave the Degree Lecture, R\W\B\ Sanders gave the Gavel Lecture and SD, B:. Berg gave the Charge.
Jan.5, 1994, WM, W\B\ R. Lewis opened a MM Lodge to confer the MM Degree on FC, B\ James Morrison.
R\W\B\ MacVeigh conferred the First Section, R\W\B\ Sanders conferred the Second Section and gave the Gavel Lecture and Charge. W\B\ Belknap gave the Degree Lecture.
Jan.24, 1994, WM, W\B\ R. Lewis opened a FC Lodge to confer the FC Degree on EA, B\ Thomas Pennington.
R\W\B\ Flaugher conferred the Degree, R\W\B\ Peachey gave the Staircase Lecture, R\W\B\ Sanders gave the "G" Lecture and Charge.
Jan.31, 1994, WM, W\B\ R. Lewis opened a FC Lodge to confer the FC Degree on EA, B\ John E. Leasure.
R\W\B\ Sanders conferred the Degree and gave the "G" Lecture and Charge, R\W\B\ Peachey gave the Staircase Lecture.
Following the degree, a moment of silent Prayer was held for Carol Belknap Fisler, daughter of PM, W\B\ Walter Belknap.
Feb. 17, 1994, WM, W\B\ R. Lewis opened the Lodge and had W\B\ Jerry Hilgeman, Master of Tularosa Lodge # 49, introduced at the Altar.
WM, R. Lewis asked the Building and Grounds Committee to check on what the possibilities of would be when Smith Grocery stores built across the street from the Lodge.
B\ Ken Holt and B\ Rolland Curtice were elected to plural membership with the Lodge.
Moved to support a Little League Team @ $ 350.00. Passed
Mover to donate $ 200.00 to the Earthquake relief in California. Passed
Moved to purchase new Bibles to replace the Altar and Funeral Service ones. The Altar Bible has been in service since 1902. Passed
Feb. 21, 1994, WM, W\B\ R. Lewis opened on the MM Degree to confer the MM Degree on FC, B\ Thomas Pennington.
W\B\ Connie N. Grenell, PM of Manistee Lodge # 228 and R\W\B\ Walter G. Belknap DDGM, were introduced at the Altar. R\W\B\ Flaugher conferred the First Section and gave the Soliloquy. R\W\B\ Sanders conferred the Second Section and gave the Masters Admonition and Charge. R\W\B\ Belknap gave the Degree Lecture, and SW, B\ Secrest gave the Bible Presentation.
Feb. 23, 1994, WM, W\B\ R. Lewis opened a FC Lodge to confer the FC Degree on EA, B\ Thomas Lynch. B\ Lynch was asked to enter the Lodge and give his EA Proficiency, which was accepted by the Lodge.
WM, R. Lewis conferred the Degree, R\W\B\ Peachey gave the Staircase Lecture, R\W\B\ Sanders gave the "G" Lecture and Charge.
Feb. 28, 1994, WM, W\B\ R. Lewis opened a FC Lodge to confer the FC Degree on EA, B\ Gilbert Isley.
B\ Jack Vickery of Indian Wells Lodge # 691, Ridgecrest, CA. Was introduced at the Altar.
R\W\B\ Flaugher conferred the Degree, R\W\B\Belknap gave the Staircase Lecture and R\W\B\ Sanders gave the "G" Lecture and Charge.
March 17, 1994, WM, W\B\ R. Lewis opened the Lodge and had W\B\ Harry Frazier of Deming Lodge # 12 introduced at the Altar. R\W\B\ Belknap, DDGM, was conducted to the East, tendered the Hat and Gavel, which he used to seat the Lodge.
JD, B\ Penrod reported that as a part of DeMolay Week, they would be serving refreshments after the meeting.
The Grand Lodge Quarterly Committee reported that O.E.S. would be serving at the Table Lodge Friday night and that the Rainbow would be serving the Saturday lunch.
Mr. Larry L. Eakin was elected to receive the Degrees.
R\W\B\ Belknap DDGM, gave a short report on what M\W\B\ Tom Payne, GM of M in NM, would like this year: Open House and Youth ID Program were some of them.
Motion made to allow Tres. Flaugher to spend up to $50.00 for a new briefcase. Passed
March 21, 1994, WM, W\B\ R. Lewis opened on the MM Degree to confer the MM Degree on FC, B\ Gilbert Isley.
R\W\B\ Flaugher Conferred the First Section and gave the Soliloquy, R\W\B\ Sanders Conferred the Second Section and gave the Masters Admonition and Charge. R\W\B\ Belknap gave the Degree Lecture and SW, B\Secrest Jr. gave the Bible Presentation.
March 28, 1994, WM, W\B\ R. Lewis opened on the EA Degree to confer the EA Degree on Mr. Larry L. Eakin.
EA, B\ John Barr and EA, B\ Perry Lawson were introduced at the Altar.
R\W\B\ Belknap conferred the Degree, R\W\B\ MacVeigh gave the Degree Lecture, R\W\B\ Sanders gave the Gavel Lecture, SD, B\ Berg gave the Charge.
March 30, 1994, WM, W\B\ R. Lewis opened the Lodge on the MM Degree to confer the MM Degree on FC, B\ John Leasure.
R\W\B\ Belknap conferred the First Section and gave the Degree Lecture, R\W\B\ Sanders conferred the Second Section and gave the Masters Admonition and Charge.
April 4, 1994, WM, W\B\ R. Lewis opened the Lodge on the MM Degree to confer the MM Degree on FC, B\ Thomas Lynch.
R\W\B\ MacVeigh conferred the First Section, R\W\B\ Sanders conferred the Second Section gave the Degree Lecture, Masters Admonition and Charge, SW, B\ Secrest Jr. gave the Bible presentation and R\W\B\ Flaugher gave the Soliloquy.
April 7, 1994, WM, W\B\ R. Lewis opened the Lodge on the FC Degree to confer the FC Degree on EA, B\ Perry Lawson and EA, B\ John Barr.
WM, B\ R. Lewis conferred the Degree on EA, B\Perry Lawson and R\W\B\ Flaugher conferred the Degree on EA, B\ John Barr. R\W\B\ Peachey gave the Staircase Lecture and R\W\B\ Sanders gave the "G" Lecture and Charge.
April 8, 1994, WM, W\B\ R. Lewis opened a Table Lodge on the EA Degree with 43 Brethren present, following a dinner prepared by Alamo Chapter # 11, O.E.S.
WM, R. Lewis introduced the Masters present, W\B\ Bill Begley, MTDL # 81; W\B\ Jerry Hilgeman, Tularosa # 49 and W\B\ Art Pitsford, Hiram # 13 of Albuquerque.
PGM Kenneth Klentchy, from Belen and PGM Merlin Black, from Hobbs.
DDGM, Walter Belknap District # 11 and DDGM, William T. Beckett, District # 9.
Grand Lodge Officers: R\W\B\ Ernest Copeland, G. Tyler; R\W\B\ Shem Peachey, JGS; R\W\B\ Mark V. Vander Vere, SGS; R\W\B\ Dan Irick, SGD; R\W\B\ Leslie Morrow, JGW; M\W\B\Ray D. Carpenter, PGM, G. Secretary; and M\W\B\ Tom Payne, GM of M in NM.
Following Toasts given by several Brethren of Sacramento Lodge, B\ Carpenter was introduced as the Guest Speaker, and gave a very interesting and informative talk.
The Grand Master then gave a few comments ending with each one of us is "SOMEONES IDEA OF A MASON" and should conduct ourselves accordingly.
April 19, 1994, SW, B\John Secrest Jr. opened a Lodge of sorrow to conduct Courtesy Graveside Services for W\B\ Herrell McCombs, a life member and PM of Rocky Comfort Lodge # 468, Foreman, Ark. B\ Secrest conducted the Service.
April 21, 1994, WM, W\B\ R. Lewis had R\W\B\ Belknap, DDGM conducted to the Altar and introduced.
W\B\ Price gave a preliminary report on the repair of the roof, consisting of five ways and the cost of each.
Bills for the Table Lodge of April 18th equaled $634.12.
Treasurer's Briefcase cost $44.49.
Moved to allow $500.00 for purchase of an R F Microphone System for the Lodge. Passed
May 19, 1994, WM, W\B\ R. Lewis opened the Lodge and had first time visitor B\ Howard Railey of Richland Lodge in MO. and R\W\B\ Belknap, DDGM, introduced at the Altar.
After much discussion of the roof repair and a failed vote, WM, Lewis said the issue would be reconsidered in June.
Moved to donate $500.00 to Alice Anderson who was burned out. Passed
Moved to pay Rainbow Assembly # 18 $300.00 for Luncheon served at Grand Lodge Quarterly. Passed
Moved to allow Life Membership to 48 year Members B\ Kenneth Calkins and B\ G. Gorden Wimsatt. Passed
Moved to remit 1994 Dues for B\ Silas Correu and B\ Raymond Welley. Passed
Moved to allow $25.00 for Mr. Winford Haynes to attend the 1994 Blind Track and Field event in Berlin, Germany. Passed
May 23, 1994, WM, W\B\ R. Lewis opened a FC Lodge to confer the FC Degree on EA, B\ Larry L. Eakin.
WM, Lewis conferred the Degree, R\W\B\ Belknap gave the Staircase Lecture and R\W\B\ Sanders gave the "G" Lecture and Charge.
May 28, 1994, White Sands Communication.
The Master Mason Degree was conferred on five Brethren from Mexico by, a Degree Team composed of, Brethren from Mexico.
There were ninety registered Brethren present.
13 Lodges were represented from Mexico including Juarez, Ojinaga, Delicious, Chihhuahua and Vera Cruz. 1 Lodge from Germany, Cornerstone # 836, Wuerzberg., 13 Lodges from NM., 5 Lodges from TX., 1 from Ill., And 1 from Miss.
M\W\B\ Tom E. Payne, GM of M in NM, and M\W\B\ Mario Aquino-Medina, Gran Maestro of the Gran Logia " Cosmos" of Chihuahua, were presented and introduced along with 4 WM' of NM Lodges and 2 WM' of Mexican Lodges. Also introduced were 4 NM Grand Lodge Officers and 2 Mexican Grand Lodge Officers.
The First Section was conferred at Sacramento Lodge and then everyone went to White Sands for Dinner and the Second Section.
While the Degree work was performed in Espanol, there were a few Brethren who spoke enough of the language to interpret for the rest of us.
June 4, 1994, R\W\B\ Sanders opened a Lodge of Sorrow to perform Graveside Services for B\ Harry H. Mathews, which followed Chapel Services at Hamilton Funeral Home.
June 15, 1994, WM, W\B\ R. Lewis opened the Lodge and called to refreshment to allow Architect, Mr. Nolan Conner, to explain the refitting of the Lodge roof after which the Lodge was called to Labor.
Moved that $500.00 Scholarships be given to 2 candidates. Passed
Letter from M\W\B