Hanging below this piece is a disc or circular piece. Along the top of the disc are the words “Pentucket Lodge” and along the bottom edge is the word “Lowell” (probably Massachusetts?). Between each set of words are three tiny stars on either side. In the center of the disc appears a carpenter’s compass and square. Above the compass appears to be a trowel and below the square may be a tiny pyramid sitting on the base. Could this last medal be related to the Masonic lodge? Any help in identifying these decorations would be greatly appreciated. Sincerely —Sheila, Wilton.
ANSWER: Your intuition is spot on. Pentucket Lodge in Lowell, Mass. was chartered in March 1807. It is, indeed, a Masonic lodge. According to www.masonicgeneology.com, the Freemasons of Pentucket Lodge recognized their centennial on Saturday, March 9, 1907 in an “elaborate” celebration. In fact, the website says about the event, “It is not an exaggeration to state that no banquet in the annals of Lowell’s social or fraternal life (had) been so lavishly planned.” The event, attended by hundreds of fraternity brethren from all over New England with their wives, lasted nearly all day, with tours of buildings of local Masonic historic significance, church parades, services, entertainment, dining, many speeches and much pomp and circumstance.
The website provides a detailed account of the day’s festivities, however, the medal about which you inquire is unmentioned. Whether or not it was part of the ceremonies of that day, it is likely that the medal you describe is, at the very least, a commemorative souvenir of the organization’s centennial year.
DEAR SUN SPOTS: In February, I asked for your help with the Woman’s Literary Union 3rd Annual Fairy Godmother Prom Gown Giveaway. Thanks to you, we collected over 400 prom gowns, along with jewelry, shoes and accessories for area girls attending the April 5 event. We would also like to thank our local business sponsors for their donations that helped to make the day extra special for the girls.
Please remember to save the date June 18 from 2 to 4 p.m. when WLU invites girls to the Foss mansion for tea and the chance to pay it forward by donating their cleaned gown. Many thanks to all who helped to make this possible. — Carol Mashaw, Special Events Chair.
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