A Brief History of Grand Lodge of New York
The Grand Lodge of New York was organized on December 15, 1782, under the a Provincial Grand Warrant dated September 5, 1781 from the “Athol” or modern Grand Lodge of England. The Grand Lodge declared its independence on June 6, 1787 and assumed the title “Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of New York. In 1784 Robert R. Livingston was appointed Grand Master as was elected to the office for the next 16 years. He presided at the swearing in ceremony of the only president of the United States to take office in New York City, President George Washington. Other presidents who were Masons are: James Monroe, Andrew Jackson, James K. Polk, James Buchanan, Andrew Johnson, James A. Garfield, William McKinley, Theodore Roosevelt, Harry S. Truman & Gerald Ford.
Brief History of Smithtown Lodge #1127
In the fall of 1942, the Smithtown Square Club was organized by sojourners and on November 17th 1947 a petition was signed by 22 of its members and presented to Grand Lodge for Dispensation to form a Lodge. This was Granted June 25th 1948.
On October 15th 1948 the first meeting was held in Northport, NY and the first officers were installed. At the meeting in St. James, these officers assumed their stations with 62 affiliated Masons. On June 10th 1949, W:.W:. Charles W. Frossel presented the Charter and instituted Smithtown Lodge #1127 with 77 members. On April 20th, 2024,
the Smithtown Masonic Lodge marked a significant milestone as it celebrated the 75th anniversary and re-dedication of its building located at 34 River road in Smithtown. Since its inception in 1948, the lodge has been an integral part of the Smithtown community, serving as a beacon of fellowship, charity, and service.
The anniversary celebration was attended by numerous members of the Smithtown community, including business leaders and residents who have long benefited from the lodge’s events and philanthropic endeavors. Among the distinguished guests were representatives from the Grand Lodge of the State of New York, Grand Chapter of the State of New York, and delegates from other lodges across the state.
A highlight of the event was also a solemn re-dedication ceremony of a concordant body of Royal Arch Masonry, Asharokan Chapter No. 288 that celebrated its 125th year.
These Masonic organizations continue to be committed to the principles of brotherhood and community service. As part of the ceremony, a time capsule was also sealed, containing artifacts and memorabilia from the lodge’s history, to be opened during its 100th and 150th anniversary in 2048, providing future generations with a glimpse into the rich heritage of Freemasonry in Smithtown.
Freemasonry, a fraternal organization, is dedicated to fostering brotherhood and aiding those in need, has a long and storied history dating back centuries. Its members, known as Freemasons, are united by shared values and a commitment to helping others, both within their organization and in the broader community. With a presence in various forms around the world, Freemasonry continues to uphold its tradition of service and fellowship, exemplified by institutions like these.
As the Smithtown Masonic Lodge and Asharokan Chapter commemorate these milestone anniversaries they remain dedicated to the service of the Smithtown community. Its members look forward to continuing their mission of promoting goodwill, charity, and brotherhood for many years to come.
