From the Archives: Masonic Lodges of Warren County

In the beginning…

The history of Masonic Lodges in Warren County is a captivating journey through time, tradition, and the enduring bonds of fraternity. As one of the most notable and longstanding fraternal organizations in the region, Masonic Lodges have played a pivotal role in shaping the social and moral landscape of this area for well over a century. Many of the earliest settlers in the county played a key role in creating the Grand Lodge of Mississippi at Natchez in 1818 before establishing their lodges at Vicksburg and Warren County where they have existed throughout the generations.

Origins

The origins of Masonic Lodges in Warren County are deeply intertwined with the county’s early history. As settlers began to establish themselves in this region, the bonds of community and brotherhood took on a special significance. It was against this backdrop that the Masonic Order found fertile ground. The establishment of the Grand Lodge of Mississippi in Natchez laid the foundation for Masonic activities in the state, and soon many local lodges were granted their charters. Among them were the Franklin Lodge in 1826, the Vicksburg Lodge in 1836, the Ancient York Lodge in 1839, the Hill City (later known as the W. H. Stevens Lodge) in 1849, the Hyland, Bovina, and Oak Ridge Lodges in 1850, the Walnut Hills Lodge in 1855, the Benjamin Springer Lodge in 1871, and the W. G. Paxton Lodge in 1916. There is an interesting period in 1848 when the Vicksburg Lodge was the only active lodge in the county.

Hyland Lodge. Photo courtesy of the Old Courthouse Museum

The County seat moved in 1836

Due to the animosity created when the county seat was moved from the town of Warrenton to Vicksburg in 1836, the people of Warrenton organized their lodge (Hyland Lodge). In time,
most of them consolidated or became defunct except for the Hyland, W. H. Stevens, and W. G. Paxton Lodges, which remain active today. A remarkable aspect of the Masonic Order is the brotherhood that extends beyond borders and politics.

An invitation to Magnolia Lodge #2. Courtesy of the Old Courthouse Museum. Click to enlarge

Invitation to Magnolia Lodge #2, page 2. Courtesy of the Old Courthouse Museum. Click to enlarge

During the Siege of Vicksburg, one of the lodges was left open by their brethren with a Bible opened on a desk and a compass placed on its pages.

Over time the compass had left an impression on the pages but remained undisturbed even throughout occupation.

Once the brethren were able to reenter the building, they found the Bible still intact and opened to the original pages. Alongside the Bible was a list of the Union soldiers that had also been Free Masons. They included their names and rank within the Masonic Order on the parchment. A similar incident during the Civil War led William McKinley to join the Free Masons. While stationed at a Union hospital, in Winchester, Virginia, McKinley noticed the regimental surgeon was on intimate terms with some of the southern prisoners, even giving them money and food. McKinley, upon discovering the reason that they were connected through the Masonic Order, was deeply impressed by the act of kindness that extended beyond national loyalties. Within two days he was initiated into the Order.

Vicksburg had the first publicly funded schools thanks to Free Masons

Free Masons have always been an integral part of our local fabric, providing not only a sense of brotherhood but also actively participating in philanthropic and community-building activities. Charity and relief are built into the foundation of their organization. Thousands of dollars are provided each year for needy members and their families, and these funds are matched by the Grand Lodge of the State. Their charity is not limited to those within the brotherhood though. In 1845, Vicksburg boasted of having the first publicly funded school system in Mississippi due to the efforts of the local Masons who helped cover the costs for 120 pupils.

1845 Thomas Rigby Masonic Passport. Courtesy of the Old Courthouse Museum.

Charitable works

When a disastrous hurricane hit Galveston, Texas in 1900 killing over 5,000 people and leaving more than 8,000 homeless, the lodges of Warren County pooled funds to assist with the relief effort. During World War I, Hyland Lodge allowed the use of their building for fundraising events for the Red Cross. Since 1908, the Grand Lodge of Mississippi has operated an orphanage for children of Mississippi Masons, even providing each child with college tuition. This effort has been supported by our local Lodges throughout the years. Their charitable work is extensive in the community, and their presence and influence have left an indelible mark on Warren County’s history.

Charity, morality and community service

Masonic Lodges in Warren County, Mississippi, have enriched our community in countless ways, their charitable work extending far beyond their ranks. Their traditions have been passed down through the generations, and families have a long history of Masonic involvement. This multi-generational commitment to the principles and values of the Masonic Order has played a significant role in maintaining its strength and influence in Warren County. Their enduring presence and influence have not only left an indelible mark on our county’s history but also stand as a testament to the unwavering commitment of Masons to the values of charity, morality, and community service.