History of Genoa Lodge

In the year 1868, the Village of Genoa, Ohio was incorporated. It is located in the southwestern corner of Ottawa County in northwest Ohio, and was determined to be an ideal location for east/west, as well as north/south commerce. It had good proximity and direct routes to Toledo in the west, Cleveland to the east, Columbus to the south, and Lake Erie to the north.  Residents began to inhabit the area, and it soon became a bustling village. Almost immediately it was determined that the new population center needed a place where the leaders of the village could congregate, and meet in a social and congenial atmosphere. There also needed to be a place where charitable endeavors could be launched, and plans could be laid down to help those in the community who needed assistance.  As so frequently happened during that era, plans were made to start up a Masonic Lodge in the Village to address these needs and spread Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth throughout the community. These well-laid plans soon came to fruition, and the very next year, 1869, saw the beginning of Genoa Lodge #433, Free and Accepted Masons.  June 26th, 1869 A dispensation was granted by The Grand Lodge of Ohio to form Genoa Lodge, sponsored by Rubicon Lodge #237 of Toledo (currently situated at Browning Masonic Community in Waterville, OH). Our first meeting hall was on the second floor of the Habbeler Building (later the Skilliter Hardware Building).

Acting under their new dispensation, Genoa Lodge was opened by Worshipful Brother R. E. Richards, Worshipful Master of Rubicon Lodge #237, assisted by Brother Hiram Warrimer as Senior Warden, and Brother Alexander McMillan as Junior Warden. The Dispensation from Most Worshipful Brother Howard Matthews, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons was read. It declared that Joshua E. Curtice would be the first Worshipful Master of Genoa Lodge, Brother Warrimer the first Senior Warden, and Brother McMillan the first Junior Warden. The other officers appointed were T. P. Taylor, Treasurer, S. D. Gregg, Secretary, H. A. Bowland, Senior Deacon, T. C. Jackson, Junior Deacon, and John Stevens,Tyler. The By-Laws Committee presented the newly written By-Laws of Genoa Lodge, which were read and approved.  

September 25th, 1869: Stated Meeting 

While operating under dispensation from the Grand Lodge, the Brethren conferred the Master Mason degree on Brother John Tiplady, making him the first to be raised by the Brethren of Genoa Lodge. There were sixteen Brethren in attendance, with three visitors.

October 20, 1869: Annual

Communication of the Grand Lodge

The Grand Lodge of Ohio convened and assembled in Cleveland, Ohio. MWB Howard Mathews, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Ohio, granted a Charter to Genoa Lodge and assigned the number 433. He appointed Joshua E. Curtice as Worshipful Master, Hiram L. Warriner as Senior Warden, and Alexander McMillan as Junior Warden.

November 2, 1869: First Annual

Communication of Genoa Lodge

Most Worshipful Brother Alexander Newcomb, newly elected Grand Master of Ohio, installed the officers of Genoa Lodge #433 and constituted us a regular Lodge. The Entered Apprentice Degree was then conferred upon Mr. John Moses, making him the first initiated into the newly constituted Genoa Lodge.

December 21, 1869: First Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed by WB Henry Gales, Past Master of Portage Lodge in Elmore, Ohio, to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Joshua E. Curtice

Senior Warden: Hiram Warriner

Junior Warden: Alexander McMillan

Treasurer: T. P. Taylor

Secretary: L. D. Gregg

Senior Deacon: H. A. Bowland

Junior Deacon: P. C. Jackson

Senior Steward: S. G. Ford

Tyler: John Stevens

September 6, 1870: Stated Meeting
A motion was made and carried that the members be taxed in the amount of fifty cents to enable the Lodge to pay some of its pressing debts, which, with rent, insurance, and several bank notes, were threatening to close the Lodge.


October 15, 1870: Special Meeting
Once again it was brought up that financial issues were threatening to close the young Genoa Lodge. The Brethren were called to a special meeting where the newest problem was presented. The Lodge was finding itself unable to pay the per capita to the Grand Lodge of Ohio. Two members stepped up to help, Brothers C. Geiger and E. S. Richards, who together loaned the Lodge $5.50 so they could pay the Grand Lodge. Membership of the Lodge numbered 28 Brethren.

December 20, 1870: Annual Installation of Officers 

The following officers were installed by Most Worshipful Brother Alex Newcomb, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Ohio, to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:
Worshipful Master: Joshua E. Curtice
Senior Warden: Alexander McMillan
Junior Warden: S. G. Ford
Secretary: S. D. Gregg
Treasurer: No Treasurer was elected this year
Senior Deacon: H. M. Williams
Junior Deacon: P. C. Jackson
Senior Steward: Conrad Geiger
Junior Steward: E. S. Richards
Tyler: John Parker


March 7, 1871: Stated Meeting
Worshipful Master Josua E. Curtice read to the Lodge the ancient Charges of Masonry, as well as a paper written by him on how to apply these Charges to life. The Secretary, Brother Gregg, remarked that it was a wonderful speech on being a good Mason. Brother Gregg also remarked that the paper would be on file with the minutes, but no such paper has been found at this time.


July 18, 1871: Stated Meeting
The Lodge held a trial for one of the Brethren, who had been accused of spreading a slanderous story about the Worshipful Master, Joshua E. Curtice. The Brethren examined the evidence, and found the Brother on trial guilty of spreading false information about Curtice, and the man was subsequently expelled from Masonry.

September 19, 1871: Stated Meeting
The Lodge voted on a petition for a Mr. Henry Randcamp, who was originally rejected as a member. He was subsequently elected to membership on January 2, 1872. Brother Randcamp would eventually go on to become Worshipful Master of Genoa Lodge in 1877. Membership of the Lodge numbered 33 Brethren.


December 19, 1871: Annual Installation of Officers
The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:
Worshipful Master: Joshua E. Curtice
Senior Warden: H. M. Williams
Junior Warden: Conrad Geiger
Secretary: L. D. Gregg
Treasurer: T. P. Taylor
Senior Deacon: John Parker
Junior Deacon: Samuel Williams
Senior Steward: G. V. Good
Junior Steward: T. E. Wight
Tyler: William Huffman


January 16, 1872: Stated Meeting
A ballot was had on the petition for initiation of Mr. William Humlong, who was subsequently elected to membership. Brother Humlong would go on to become Worshipful Master of Genoa Lodge in 1875. The 1871-72 Masonic Year was a busy year for candidates for Genoa Lodge, and, as a result, not much else of noteworthiness was accomplished. Membership of the Lodge numbered 36 Brethren.


December 17, 1872: Annual Installation of Officers
The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:
Worshipful Master: Alexander McMillan
Senior Warden: H. M. Williams
Junior Warden: John Parker
Secretary: Henry Randcamp
Treasurer: T. P. Taylor
Senior Deacon: William Humlong
Junior Deacon: Samuel Angus
Senior Steward: W. H. Pierson
Junior Steward: Frank Holt
Tyler: H. Gernhardt


May 20, 1873: Stated Meeting
A communication was read from the Worshipful Master of Portage Lodge asking the Brethren of Genoa Lodge if they would sell their ritual for the Masonic Funeral Services, as Genoa Lodge was considered to have one of the finer Funeral Rituals in the state. The Worshipful Master would not sell his Funeral Ritual, but rather informed the Brethren of Portage Lodge that they may make as many copies of it as they would like free of charge.


July 1, 1873: Stated Meeting
A communication was read from Brother G. A. Kramer, asking permission to establish a Lodge in Oak Harbor. Permission was granted, and the ultimate result was the beginning of Oak Harbor Lodge #495. Membership of the Lodge numbered 40 Brethren.


December 16, 1873: Annual Installation of Officers
The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:
Worshipful Master: John Parker
Senior Warden: William Humlong
Junior Warden: Henry Randcamp
Secretary: L. D. Gregg
Treasurer: T. P. Taylor
Senior Deacon: John Stevens
Junior Deacon: John Hall
Senior Steward: Frank Holt
Junior Steward: E. S. Richards
Tyler: L. Gaddis
At the same stated meeting, Worshipful Brother Alexander McMillan, having just finished his term serving as Worshipful Master of Genoa Lodge, demitted to another Lodge. The minutes do not specify which, and Worshipful Brother James P. Taylor, Lodge Education Officer, is still trying to track down information about WB McMillan.


April 21, 1874: Stated Meeting
The Brethren were welcomed with a visit from Brother Edward Raymond of St. Andrew Lodge #500. Currently, there is a St. Andrew Lodge #518 under the Grand Lodge of Scotland, but I was unable to find any link between #500 and #518. Perhaps the Lodge Secretary at the time confused the numbers, or Lodge #500 may not be in existence any more. During this meeting, the Brethren raised Brother C. G. Ruck to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason.

June 2, 1874: Stated Meeting
A communication was read by the Secretary, Brother L. D. Gregg. The communication was from Most Worshipful Brother Asa H. Battin, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Ohio, remarking on the destitute situation of the Brethren in certain
locations in the Southern United States still suffering from the aftermath of the Civil War. The Lodge Raised $6.05, which was sent to these Brethren in need. Membership of the Lodge numbered 44 Brethren.


December 15, 1874: Annual Installation of Officers
The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:
Worshipful Master: William Humlong
Senior Warden: Samuel Angus
Junior Warden: G. V. Wood
Secretary: T. J. White
Treasurer: T. P. Taylor
Senior Deacon: John Stevens
Junior Deacon: L. W. Gaddis
Senior Steward: J. S. Calkins
Junior Steward: C. G. Brown
Tyler: W. S. Bowland


August 17, 1875: Stated Meeting
Genoa Lodge finally came up with enough money to pay off some increasing bank notes, as well as continuing the insurance on the building for another year.


November 2, 1875: Stated Meeting
The Lodge discussed a proposal to start having public installations of officers. This had never been done by Genoa Lodge before, and the Brethren were for the proposal, and a motion was carried. Worshipful Master Humlong appointed a committee to investigate possible places to install the officers. Additionally, the officers and Brethren of Portage Lodge #351 in Elmore were invited to join the Lodge as the officers of Genoa were installed. The Brethren ultimately had a public installation in their Lodge room, and a small group of singers were on hand. Currently, the incoming Worshipful Master usually decides on whether to have a public or private installation. Membership of the Lodge numbered 43 Brethren.


December 21, 1875: Annual Installation of Officers
The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:
Worshipful Master: Conrad Geiger
Senior Warden: E. S. Richards
Junior Warden: John Stevens
Secretary: Henry Bruning
Treasurer: T. P. Taylor
Senior Deacon: N. F. Pierson
Junior Deacon: Henry Geiger
Senior Steward: L. W. Gaddis
Junior Steward: W. S. Bowland
Tyler: Frank Rogers


March 29, 1876: Emergent
Communication
The Brethren of Genoa Lodge gathered for an Emergent Communication for the purpose of conducting Masonic Funeral Services for Brother Hiram Warriner. Brother Warriner was one of the original members of the newly formed Genoa Lodge, serving as its first Senior Warden. It is noted in the minutes that some of the Lodge members had their differences with Brother Warriner (he was briefly expelled from the Lodge at one point), but that Brother Warriner redeemed himself in their eyes, and they held him in the utmost respect among members of the community. The Worshipful Master, WB Conrad Geiger, ordered that the Altar be draped in mourning for a period of thirty days out of respect for the memory of their fallen Brother.

September 19, 1876: Stated Meeting
In 1850, Most Worshipful Brother William B. Hubbard, Grand Master of Masons in Ohio, declared all Negro Lodges to be clandestine; This meant that a member of a Masonic Lodge could be suspended or expelled from Masonry if he had affiliated with these Lodges. At this meeting in 1876, a resolution was read from Most Worshipful Brother Charles A. Woodward, Grand Master of Ohio, that, for the first time, recognized the African Grand Lodge of Ohio. African Grand Lodge of Ohio would later change its name to The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Ohio, which still exists to this day, and has shared joint recognition with the Grand Lodge of Ohio since 1995.


November 21, 1876: Stated Meeting
A communication was read from a Brother G. Helbing, asking the consent of Genoa Lodge to set up a new Lodge in the town of Pemberville, Ohio. The consent was granted, and eventually a charter was granted to this new Lodge, called Pemberville Lodge #516. This Lodge still exists today, and is very active in the 11th Masonic District. They also continue to maintain a great relationship with Genoa Lodge. Membership of the Lodge numbered 37 Brethren.


December 19, 1876: Annual Installation of Officers
The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:
Worshipful Master: Henry Randcamp
Senior Warden: E. S. Richards
Junior Warden: John Stevens
Secretary: William Humlong
Treasurer: T. P. Taylor
Senior Deacon: N. F. Pierson
Junior Deacon: L. W. Gaddis
Senior Steward: J. S. Calkins
Junior Steward: G. V. Wood
Tyler: Frank Rogers
The 1876-1877 Masonic Year was filled with problems for the Lodge, and so the topics of discussion of nearly every meeting that year revolved around only a few subjects; namely, suspension/expulsion of Brethren for Non-Payment of Dues, and trying to procure a new Lodge Hall. Many Brethren were unable to pay dues, and the Lodge was forced with difficult decisions. At that time, the By-Laws of Genoa Lodge stated that a member would be suspended for six months for not paying dues on time. If the Brother had still not paid his dues after the six month suspension, he was to be expelled. The Lodge tried to prevent this as much as possible, but had to conform to the By-Laws. Secondly, the Lodge was making attempts to obtain its own Hall instead of renting it from Brother Habbeler. Several Building Comittees were appointed throughout the year, but no action was taken, and the Lodge continued to meet in the Habbeler building. There was only one candidate in this year. Membership of the Lodge numbered 36 Brethren.

December 18, 1877: Annual Installation of Officers
The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:
Worshipful Master: Conrad Geiger
Senior Warden: John Stevens
Junior Warden: J. S. Calkins
Secretary: S. G. Ford
Treasurer: T. P. Taylor
Senior Deacon: N. F. Pierson
Junior Deacon: W. S. Bowland
Senior Steward: F. Rogers
Junior Steward: L. W. Gaddis
Tyler: Fred Bruning
The 1877-1878 year was another difficult year for the Lodge. More Brethren were becoming in arrears for dues, and the Lodge remitted the dues of many Brethren who were unable to find steady work. The trend of having little or no candidates continued, and by the end of the year, they had only initiated one candidate, finishing his other degrees in the following Masonic year. The Lodge finances were very low, and the Lodge could only afford the necessities and often had to vote down aesthetic purchases in favor of paying rent and insurance first. The Lodge attendance was also down, and the officers often were absent. None of the other officers in line could continue to become Worshipful Master, and WB Conrad Geiger had to take the position for a second time. This trend continued, and WB Joshua Curtice, who had already served as Worshipful Master four times, would serve again for the next three consecutive years


December 17, 1878: Annual Installation of Officers
The Following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:
Worshipful Master: Joshua E. Curtice
Senior Warden: N. F. Pierson
Junior Warden: W. S. Bowland
Secretary: S. G. Ford
Treasurer: T. P. Taylor
Senior Deacon: H. A. Bowland
Junior Deacon: H. Gernhardt
Senior Steward: L. W. Gaddis
Junior Steward: Frank Bruning
Tyler: F. Rogers


May 19, 1879: Emergent Communication 

19 Brethren of Genoa Lodge, with 6 visitors, gathered for the purpose of conducting Masonic Funeral Services for Brother Henry Geiger. The Worshipful Master, Joshua E. Curtice, appointed Brother Frank Holt as Funeral Marshal for the day's service. The visiting Brethren represented Western Phoenix Lodge #296, Phoenix Lodge #123, Tecumseh Lodge #69 (Michigan), Sylvania Lodge #287, and Bigelow Lodge #243. The Master also ordered the Altar be draped in mourning for a period of thirty days.


December 2, 1879: Stated Meeting
A petition for initiation was read on behalf of James E. Curtice, son of the current Worshipful Master. The Investigating Committe reported favorably at the next stated meeting, and the Lodge subsequently elected him to membership. Membership of the Lodge numbered 39 Brethren.


Note: The minutes from January 1880 to January 1883 were written in a green ink, which has almost completely faded from the pages of the minutes. In some spots, it is nearly impossible to read, and in others it is still legible. Therefore, some important events may be skipped over.


December 16, 1879: Annual Installation of Officers
The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:
Worshipful Master: Joshua E. Curtice
Senior Warden: N. F. Pierson
Junior Warden: F. Bruning
Secretary: S. G. Ford
Treasurer: T. P. Taylor
Senior Deacon: H. A. Bowland
Junior Deacon: T. J. Sadler
Senior Steward: L. W. Gaddis
Junior Steward: W. S. Bowland
Tyler: C. Braunschweiger

January 6, 1880: Stated Meeting

A motion was carried that stated that Spittoons be barred from being in the Lodge Room during meetings. It was further stated that the Brethren wishing to use them should clean them afterwards, as some of them had gotten quite filthy, otherwise, they would be banned from the Hall altogether.

September 7, 1880: Stated Meeting

WB William Humlong, chairman of the Hall Committee, reported that he had raised fifteen dollars for the purpose of redecorating the Hall. The Lodge then moved to redecorate the Hall, for the purposes of having a dedication ceremony at a later date. The Lodge does not specify a date, but the Lodge had recently moved from the Habbeler building, where it had been meeting since the Lodge was started, to a building owned by brother H. A. Bowland.

October 5, 1880: Dedication of the Lodge

Room of Genoa Lodge #433 24 Brethren of Genoa Lodge, with 8 visitors, gathered in the Lodge building for the purpose of dedicating Genoa Lodge's Lodge Room. Most Worshipful Brother Reuben C. Lemmon, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Ohio (also a Toledo native, being a member of Toledo Lodge #144) was also on hand to handle the ceremony. Many Lodges in the area were represented, incluiding Rubicon #237  (Toledo), Phoenix #123 (Perrysburg), Tecumseh #69 (Tecumseh, MI), and Oak Harbor #495. This was a public dedication ceremony, and the members were invited to bring their wives and families to witness the ceremony, which went extremely well.

November 2, 1880: Stated Meeting

A petition for affiliation was read on behalf of Wesley Shaner, who, at that time, was a member of Phoenix Lodge #123 in Perrysburg, OH. Brother Shaner would later be elected to membership, and serve as Worshipful Master of Genoa Lodge four times. Membership of the Lodge numbered 41 Brethren.

December 21, 1880: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Joshua E. Curtice

Senior Warden: William Humlong

Junior Warden: Joseph W. Catlin

Chaplain: Wesley Shaner

Secretary: S. G. Ford

Treasurer: Conrad Geiger

Senior Deacon: Joshua E. Curtice, Jr.

Junior Deacon: W. E. Sadler

Senior Steward: L. W. Gaddis

Junior Steward: W. S. Bowland

Tyler: R. M. Guilford

This marked the first year that the Master had appointed a Chaplain. This position is an integral part of the officers line in the present time, but during the early parts of the Lodge, it was often unfilled (or neglected from being mentioned in the minutes). This was an up and down year for Genoa Lodge. They had several candidates for membership this year, but constantly had to attend to the matter of members not paying their dues. Several Brethren were suspended for non payment of dues, and others were given extra time to pay. The Lodge could not assist as many Brethren having trouble paying dues, as they were having financial difficulties as well. Membership of the Lodge numbered 45 Brethren.

December 20, 1881: Annual Installation of Officers

The following brethren were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: John Stevens

Senior Warden: N. F. Pierson

Junior Warden: J. W. Catlin

Secretary: S. G. Ford

Treasurer: Conrad Geiger

Senior Deacon: H. A. Bowland

Junior Deacon: J. Elkington, Jr.

Senior Steward: W. S. Bowland

Junior Steward: F. Rogers

Tyler: C. Bowland

May 16, 1882: Stated Meeting

The Lodge ordered a purchase for a lantern for the outside door of the Lodge, to be lit the nights of stated meetings, that Brethren might be notified thereby. Masonic Lodges still use this technique, although in place of a lantern, we usually have light boxes with the square and compasses that are lit when meetings are taking place. Other orders that meet in the same building have their own light box, the better to inform members of what body is meeting on what night. Membership of the Lodge numbered 47 Brethren.

December 19, 1882: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: John Stevens

Senior Warden: T. J. Sadler

Junior Warden: H. A. Bowland

Secretary: L. D. Gregg

Treasurer: Conrad Geiger

Senior Deacon: Wesley Shaner

Junior Deacon: J. M. Gallup

Senior Steward: W. S. Bowland

Junior Steward: L. W. Gaddis

Tyler: Samuel Williams

May 15, 1883: First Recorded Inspection of Genoa Lodge 24 Brethren of Genoa Lodge, with 5 visitors, gathered in the Lodge room for the Inspection of Genoa Lodge, and to raise Brother W. R. Harpster to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. The Lodge was inspected by Right Worshipful Brother R. E. Richards, Grand Lecturer of the 3rd Masonic District (of which Genoa Lodge then was a member; it has since been changed to the 11th district), and Past Master of Rubicon Lodge #237, Toledo, who reported that the degree was done well, but also had several points of improvement that he wanted Genoa Lodge to work on. Membership of the Lodge numbered 46 Brethren.

December 18, 1883: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: John Stevens

Senior Warden: N. F. Pierson

Junior Warden: Samuel Angus

Secretary: L. D. Gregg

Treasurer: Conrad Geiger

Senior Deacon: Wesley Shaner

Junior Deacon: W. R. Harpster

Senior Steward: W. S. Bowland

Junior Steward: E. S. Richards

Tyler: Samuel Williams

June 1, 1884: Emergent Communication

The Brethren of Genoa Lodge, along with visitors, gathered for the purpose of conducting Masonic Funeral Services for the departed Brother John Gordon. The Brethren

formed a procession from the Lodge and marched to the residence of the late Brother Gordon, where Services were performed in due and ancient form. They then accompanied the body to the place of interment, where graveside ceremonies were performed. Acting as pall bearers were Brothers T. E. Wight, N. F. Pierson, J. S. Calkins, Samuel Angus, S. G. Ford, and Samuel Williams.

June 25, 1884: St. Johns Day

Celebration The Brethren of Genoa Lodge held a public entertainment for the purpose of celebrating St. Johns Day. Many Brethren from Genoa Lodge, with their families, turned out in support of this event which was a huge success. Coincedentally, a celebration in the year 1884 cost approximately $4.83.

July 1, 1884: Stated Meeting

Brother Samuel Williams, Tyler of Genoa Lodge, gifted to the Lodge a large Masonic Square and Compasses, which was hung on the front of the Hall. Membership of the Lodge numbered 34 Brethren.

December 16, 1884: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: John Stevens

Senior Warden: Wesley Shaner

Junior Warden: W. R. Harpster

Secretary: S. G. Ford

Treasurer: Conrad Geiger

Senior Deacon: H. A. Bowland

Junior Deacon: W. E. Wood

Senior Steward: W. S. Bowland

Junior Steward: J. M. Gallup

Tyler: Samuel Williams

June 2, 1885: Stated Meeting

Brother H. A. Bowland, the current Senior Deacon, owned the building in which the Lodge was currently meeting. He reported to the Lodge that the building could be purchased for the cost of $1,200.00. The Master appointed a committee to investigate the possibility of purchasing the Hall from Brother Bowland.

July 7, 1885: Stated Meeting

The Lodge voted in approval of purchasing the Hall from Brother Bowland, as long as the Finance Committee could come up with the funds to purchase it.

August 4, 1885: Stated Meeting

The Finance Committee reported that it could not find a way to come up with the appropriate funds to purchase the Hall. The Master discharged the committee, and the Lodge continued to pay rent to Brother Bowland for the use of the Hall. Membership of the Lodge numbered 37 Brethren.

December 15, 1885: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Wesley Shaner

Senior Warden: W. R. Harpster

Junior Warden: L. W. Gaddis

Secretary: S. G. Ford

Treasurer: T. P. Taylor

Senior Deacon: H. A. Bowland

Junior Deacon: J. M. Gallup

Senior Steward: W. E. Wood

Junior Steward: J. Cook

Tyler: S. Williams

May 18, 1886: Stated Meeting

The Lodge was still having many difficulties with Brethren being suspended for non-payment of dues, and a motion, having been held over from a previous meeting, was on the

table to reduce the annual dues to $2.00 per year in hopes of making it more affordable for Brethren to keep their membership in Genoa Lodge. This motion was carried, amending the By-Laws of the Lodge. Membership of the Lodge numbered 37 Brethren.

December 21, 1886: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Wesley Shaner

Senior Warden: W. R. Harpster

Junior Warden: W. E. Wood

Secretary: S. G. Ford

Treasurer: T. P. Taylor

Senior Deacon: H. A. Bowland

Junior Deacon: J. Elkington, Jr.

Senior Steward: Samuel Angus

Junior Steward: J. S. Calkins

Tyler: S. Williams

April 23, 1887: Special Meeting

The Entered Apprentice Degree was conferred on Mr. H. H. Fassett. The Lodge had been hurting for membership in the last few years, and Mr. Fassett was the first candidate in quite some time.

June 7, 1887: Stated Meeting

A petition was presented for first reading on behalf of Mr. Charles E. Baker. Brother Baker would go on to be a prominent member of Genoa Lodge, serving as Master six times

between the years of 1890-1913.

July 5, 1887: Stated Meeting

A petition was presented for first reading on behalf of Mr. Phillip E. Manner. Brother

Manner would go on to be a prominent member of Genoa Lodge, serving as master five times between the years of 1900-1906. Membership of the Lodge numbered 43 Brethren.

December 20, 1887: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Wesley Shaner

Senior Warden: L. W. Gaddis

Junior Warden: Charles E. Baker

Secretary: S. G. Ford

Treasurer: T. P. Taylor

Senior Deacon: H. A. Bowland

Junior Deacon: Phillip E. Manner

Senior Steward: C. Braunschweiger

Junior Steward: W. L. Habbeler

Tyler: E. Meyers

After a great year the previous year in which the Lodge added several new candidates, each of them very promising (many of those candidates would go on to be Master), the Lodge had another difficult year. No new candidates had petitioned the Lodge, and the Lodge again was faced with suspending many Brethren for non-payment of dues. In addition, the Hall ownership had passed from Brother H. A. Bowland to Brother C. Braunschweiger, and the Lodge was doing its best to pay its quarterly rent. Membership of the Lodge numbered 44 Brethren.

December 18, 1888: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Wesley Shaner

Senior Warden: Charles E. Baker

Junior Warden: W. L. Habbeler

Secretary: S. G. Ford

Treasurer: T. P. Taylor

Senior Deacon: H. A. Bowland

Junior Deacon: Joseph Long

Senior Steward: W. S. Bowland

Junior Steward: B. J. Harford

Tyler: E. Meyers

This is the first mention of there being Oyster Stew at the Annual Installation of Officers.

Oyster Stew being served at the annual meeting is a tradition of Genoa Lodge, one that

continues to this day.

March 5, 1889: Stated Meeting

A petition for initiation was presented for first reading on behalf of Mr. George S. Richards. Brother Richards would go on to be a prominent member of Genoa Lodge, serving as Master five times between the years of 1895-1904. Membership of the Lodge numbered 44 Brethren.

December 17, 1889: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Charles E. Baker

Senior Warden: W. L. Habbeler

Junior Warden: J. M. Gallup

Secretary: S. G. Ford

Treasurer: T. P. Taylor

Senior Deacon: George S. Richards

Junior Deacon: Volney E. Shaner

Senior Steward: W. S. Bowland

Junior Steward: E. Meyers

Tyler: S. William

May 20, 1890: Stated Meeting

WB Wesley Shaner stood in as Master and reported that the current Worshipful Master, Charles E. Baker, had been taken seriously ill recently. WB Baker would miss several weeks of meetings, and the Lodge voted to employ a nurse to take care of WB Baker until he saw fit to return. Membership of the Lodge numbered 49 Brethren.

December 16, 1890: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Charles E. Baker

Senior Warden: H. A. Bowland

Junior Warden: John Stevens

Secretary: Phillip E. Manner

Treasurer: Conrad Geiger

Senior Deacon: George S. Richards

Junior Deacon: W. R. Harpster

Senior Steward: W. S. Bowland

Junior Steward: L. W. Gaddis

Tyler: S. Williams

This meeting also saw an amendment added to the By-Laws of the Grand Lodge of Ohio

Code, which required each district to have a District Lecturer. These Lecturers had been in use prior to this change in Code, but no provision in the Grand Lodge Code had been made until now. These Lecturers served as the first officers to inspect Lodges to make sure they were not in violation to the Grand Lodge Codes and Rituals. These officers are still used by the Grand Lodge of Ohio, but they are now titled District Deputy Grand Masters (DDGMs).

June 2, 1891: Stated Meeting

A communication was read from the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Ohio, regarding New England Lodge #4 (Worthington, OH). The Lodge's charter was temporarily taken by the Grand Lodge of Ohio, and a list of all its members was sent to Ohio Lodge, forbidding Lodges to accept any of these men into their memberships until such a time as the conflict was resolved. There are no details on this situation in the minutes, nor could I find any on the internet, but the charter of New England #4 was eventually reinstated. New England #4 is one of the oldest Lodges west of the Allegheney Mountains, and the old Lodge room is used as a Masonic Museum in Worthington. The Lodge now meets in the headquarters building of the Grand Lodge of Ohio, and still confers at least one degree a year in the Worthington Masonic Museum.

June 20, 1891: Emergent Communication

The Brethren of Genoa Lodge gathered for the purpose of performing Masonic Funeral

Services for their departed Brother and Senior Warden, H. A. Bowland. Brother Bowland, in addition to serving many years as an officer, also once owned the building where the Lodge met. He was reportedly well liked by all the Brethren of Genoa Lodge. The position of Senior Warden was filled in by others for the remainder of the year, mainly by WB Wesley Shaner, as the Lodge did not want to elect another Senior Warden for the remaining few months of the Masonic Year. Membership of the Lodge numbered 54 Brethren.

December 8, 1891: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Charles E. Baker

Senior Warden: George S. Richards

Junior Warden: E. F. Gregg

Secretary: Phillip E. Manner

Treasurer: Conrad Geiger

Senior Deacon: W. F. Truman

Junior Deacon: John Busch

Senior Steward: L. W. Gaddis

Junior Steward: John Stevens

Tyler: W. S. Bowland

January 27, 1892: Emergent

Communication

The Brethren of Genoa Lodge assembled and marched to the home of their late Brother J. S. Calkins, who passed away at the age of 73, for the purpose of conducting Masonic Funeral Services. The services were performed at the residence of Brother J. S. Calkins, and the Lodge accompanied the body to its final resting place. Brother Calkins was a very active member of Genoa Lodge, serving as an officer on several occasions. Also, Brother John Tiplady, 64 years of age, also passed away in the same week, and although Masonic Services were not conducted, he was also an active member of the Lodge, having been the first candidate to be raised to the degree of Master Mason by Genoa Lodge.

May 17, 1892: Stated Meeting

Two communications were read from Most Worshipful Brother Levi C. Goodale, Grand

Master of Masons in Ohio. The first ordered all subordinate Lodges in Ohio to drape the altar in mourning for sixty days in memory of the late Right Worshipful Brother William F. Baldwin, Junior Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge, who had passed away around that time. The second communication warned Brethren to vouch for any visiting Brother, or to have them prove themselves as Masons before admitting them into Lodge. Men had been admitted into Lodges after they claimed they were Masons of "Franklin Lodge" of Columbus, Ohio, but were in fact not Masons. The Grand Master also created a Test Oath, which Masons were supposed to recite before being admitted as a visitor to any Lodge. Membership of the Lodge numbered 51 Brethren.

December 20, 1892: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Conrad Geiger

Senior Warden: George S. Richards

Junior Warden: E. F. Gregg

Secretary: Phillip E. Manner

Treasurer: W. R. Harpster

Senior Deacon: John Stevens

Junior Deacon: John Busch

Senior Steward: L. W. Gaddis

Junior Steward: B. T. Harford

Tyler: W. S. Bowland

August 17, 1893: Annual Inspection

20 Brethren of Genoa Lodge, with one visitor, gathered in the Lodge room for the purpose of the Annual Inspection of Genoa Lodge. The District Lecturer, Clifford G. Ballou of Wakeman Lodge #522, reviewed the Secretarys and the Treasurers books, as well as inspecting the Lodges exemplification of the Master Mason Degree, which was reported on favorably. Membership of the Lodge numbered 53 Brethren.

December 19, 1893: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: John Stevens

Senior Warden: E. F. Gregg

Junior Warden: Joseph Ling

Secretary: Phillip E. Manner

Treasurer: H. R. Harpster

Senior Deacon: George Richards

Junior Deacon: John Busch

Senior Steward: John H. Bowman

Junior Steward: J. W. Doty

Tyler: W. S. Bowland

September 18, 1894: Stated Meeting

A petition was presented for a new Lodge to be located in East Toledo. The petition asked the Brethren of Genoa Lodge for permission to create this new Lodge, and one of its sponsors was WB Henry Randcamp (PM, 1877). WB Randcamp demitted from Genoa Lodge the same meeting, in order to become a member of this new Lodge, along with brother D. E. McIntyre. Genoa Lodge eventually granted permission and a new Lodge was set up. A year later, the Grand Lodge of Ohio granted a Charter to Yondota Lodge #572, the first of three Lodges to meet in East Toledo (Lotus #625 and Port Lawrence #685 would later meet in the same building as Yondota). These three Lodges had a rich history in Toledo, and in 2004, the three merged and became Paragon #788 and now meet in Millbury. Membership of the Lodge numbered 49 Brethren.

January 1, 1895: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: George S. Richards

Senior Warden: B. T. Harford

Junior Warden: Joseph Ling

Secretary: Phillip E. Manner

Treasurer: H. R. Harpster

Senior Deacon: Wesley Shaner

Junior Deacon: D. J. Black

Senior Steward: W. S. Bowland

Junior Steward: George Green

Tyler: J. W. Doty

June 4, 1895: Emergent Communication

The Brethren of Genoa Lodge gathered at the residence of their late Brother L. W. Gaddis, for the purpose of conducting Masonic Funeral Services. Brother Gaddis was a very active member of Genoa Lodge, serving as a Steward for many years.

September 17, 1895: Stated Meeting

After several years of relative financial success, the Lodge was faced again with Brethren who were unable to pay dues. During this year, several Brethren were suspended for

non-payment of dues, including Brothers Joseph Ling (the Junior Warden) and J. W. Doty (the Tyler). They were eventually reinstated after their dues were paid. The Lodge also was having some difficulty, and contacted the new owner of the Hall to see if their rent could not be reduced to relieve some of the financial burden. Membership of the Lodge numbered 42 Brethren.

December 17, 1895: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: John Stevens

Senior Warden: B. T. Harford

Junior Warden: John Busch

Secretary: Phillip E. Manner

Treasurer: H. R. Harpster

Senior Deacon: Charles E. Baker

Junior Deacon: S. G. Ford

Senior Steward: S. G. Stage

Junior Steward: George Green

Tyler: J. W. Doty

July 21, 1896: Stated Meeting

It was with much sadness that the Master reported the death of WB William Humlong, who was a Past Master of Genoa Lodge in 1875. WB Humlong was very active in Genoa Lodge throughout his life, serving as an officer many times, in addition to being Master. WB John Stevens appointed a committee to draft resolutions on his death, and ordered a copy to be delivered to the family, as WB Humlongs family did not request Masonic Funeral Services. Membership of the Lodge numbered 44 Brethren.

December 15, 1896: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: John Stevens

Senior Warden: S. G. Ford

Junior Warden: John Busch

Secretary: Phillip E. Manner

Treasurer: George S. Richards

Senior Deacon: S. H. Ralph

Junior Deacon: Henry Bahnsen

Senior Steward: Volney E. Shaner

Junior Steward: W. S. Bowland

Tyler: George Green

There were no major events to speak of in the 1896-1897 Masonic year. Genoa Lodge was busy with conferring degrees on candidates, and the finances were on an upswing. There were some disputes throughout the year, however, on several candidates. It used to be that Lodges had set jurisdictions, and candidates could only join the Lodge in whose jurisdiction they lived. Therefore, the Lodge had to make sure the candidates lived in the jurisdiction of Genoa Lodge. Also, there were no meetings between September 7 and December 7. There is no reason given in the minutes for this absence. Membership of the Lodge numbered 42 Brethren.

December 21, 1897: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: George S. Richards

Senior Warden: Phillip E. Manner

Junior Warden: Henry Bahnsen

Secretary: S. G. Ford

Treasurer: B. J. Harford

Senior Deacon: S. H. Ralph

Junior Deacon: W. S. Bowland

Senior Steward: John Stevens

Junior Steward: J. W. Doty

Tyler: George W. Green

March 1, 1898: Stated Meeting

The ownership of the Hall in which Genoa Lodge met had changed hands once again, and the new owner was Clay Lodge #584, International Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF). The Odd Fellows had been sharing the hall with Genoa Lodge for quite a few years, but in this past year, they had purchased the building, but kept Genoa Lodges rent low, as a gesture of fraternal relations. The International Order of Odd Fellows is a fraternal and social organization that still exists today, but Clay Lodge has since closed.

June 7, 1898: Stated Meeting

The District Lecturer, RWB J. M. Bessey, was on hand to inspect the Lodges records, and to give the Lodge a short lecture, followed by a short speech from WB Joshua E. Curtice.

July 15, 1898: Emergent Communication

The Brethren of Genoa Lodge gathered for the purposes of conducting Masonic Funeral

Services for their late Brother Samuel Angus, who had passed away the previous day at the age of 69. Brother Angus was a very active member of the Lodge, serving as an officer many times. Membership of the Lodge numbered 41 Brethren.

December 20, 1898: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: George S. Richards

Senior Warden: Phillip E. Manner

Junior Warden: J. Henry Bahnsen

Secretary: Sherman G. Ford

Treasurer: Benjamin T. Harford

Senior Deacon: Conrad Geiger

Junior Deacon: Wilson S. Bowland

Tyler: George W. Green

No Stewards were appointed this year.

December 31, 1898: Emergent

Communication

The Brethren of Genoa Lodge gathered at the home of their late Brother Samuel Williams, who had passed away two days earlier. They performed Masonic Funeral Services at his home, and then accompanied the body to the cemetary where it was interred with Masonic Honors. Brother Williams was an active member of the Lodge, serving as Tyler for many years.

April 4, 1899: Stated Meeting

Having laid over from a previous meeting, a motion was presented before the Lodge proposing to raise Lodge dues from $2.00 to $3.00 per year. The Lodge had been struggling to pay its various bills, and it was deemed necessary to raise dues. The motion was defeated by a close vote, however. Membership of the Lodge numbered 41 Brethren

December 19, 1899: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Phillip E. Manner

Senior Warden: Henry Bahnsen

Junior Warden: John Stevens

Secretary: L. D. Gregg

Treasurer: B. T. Harford

Senior Deacon: George S. Richards

Junior Deacon: John Busch

Senior Steward: W. S. Bowland

Junior Steward: George W. Green

Tyler: S. G. For

February 20, 1900: Stated Meeting

A petition for initiation was presented for first reading on behalf of Mr. James L. Stevens, son of WB John L. Stevens. Brother Stevens would become an active member of the Lodge, serving as Master in 1907.

June 19, 1900: Stated Meeting

The Master was saddened to announce the death of WB John Stevens, who had served

Genoa Lodge as Master seven times, most recently in 1897. Masonic Services were not recorded in the minutes. His death occured as his son, James L. Stevens, was taking his degrees in the Lodge.

October 16, 1900: Stated Meeting

The Master was saddened to announce the death of Brother L. D. Gregg, the Lodge's

current Secretary. Brother Gregg was extremely active in the Lodge, serving as the first Secretary of Genoa Lodge, and also serving in the same station off and on for the next thirtyyears. WB Manner appointed Brother S. G. Ford as Secretary to replace him until the next election, and Brother George Green as Tyler to replace Brother Ford.

November 4, 1900: Emergent

Communication

The sad trend of losing important members continued for the Lodge, and the Brethren gathered at the home of the late Worshipful Brother, Joshua E. Curtice, to conduct Masonic funeral services. WB Curtice was instrumental in setting up Genoa Lodge, serving as its first

Worshipful Master, and serving as Master a total of seven times, most recently in 1881. Membership of the Lodge numbered 42 Brethren.

December 18, 1900: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Phillip E. Manner

Senior Warden: Stephen H. Ralph

Junior Warden: Henry Bahnsen

Treasurer: B. T. Harford

Secretary: George S. Richards

Senior Deacon: Conrad Geiger

Junior Deacon: John Busch

Tyler: J. W. Doty

February 19, 1901: Stated Meeting

The Worshipful Master announced the death of WB Conrad Geiger, who passed away in Florida on January 22, 1901 at the age of 66. WB Geiger was currently serving the Lodge as

Senior Deacon, and had served the Lodge as Worshipful Master three times.

July 2, 1901: Stated Meeting

Due to lack of attendance, there were very few meetings during this year. The Master ordered a discussion to be taken up as to whether the Lodge should continue meeting or disband. The Brethren voted to continue meeting.

September 3, 1901: Stated Meeting

Adding to the financial woes of the Lodge, the owners of the Lodge building (Clay Lodge, International Order of Odd Fellows) doubled the quarterly rent from $16 to $32 per quarter.

Membership of the Lodge numbered 34 Brethren.

December 17, 1901: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were duly installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Phillip E. Manner

Senior Warden: B. T. Harford

Junior Warden: A. C. White

Treasurer: Wesley Shaner

Secretary: J. H. Bahnsen

Senior Deacon: J. L. Stevens

Junior Deacon: John Busch

Tyler: J. W. Doty

January 18, 1902: Emergent

Communication

The Brethren of Genoa Lodge gathered to mourn the death of Brother Nathan F. Pierson, who had been a very active member of the Lodge, serving in various offices throughout his life. Masonic Memorial Services were conducted, and Brothers John Elkington, John Busch, Henry Bahnsen, and WBs George S. Richards and Charles E. Baker served as pall bearers. Membership of the Lodge numbered 34 Brethren.

January 20, 1903: Annual Installation of Officers

Acting under a dispensation from MWB William A. Belt, Grand Master of Ohio, Genoa Lodge held elections and installations later than normal, and the following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: George S. Richards

Senior Warden: James L. Stevens

Junior Warden: W. S. Bowland

Treasurer: Wesley Shaner

Secretary: Phillip E. Manner

Senior Deacon: John Busch

Junior Deacon: J. W. Doty

Tyler: George Green

The Lodge membership continued to decline, and meetings were often only held once

per month due to lack of attendance. The Lodge also continued to struggle financially. Membership of the Lodge numbered 35 Brethren.

December 1, 1903: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: George S. Richards

Senior Warden: B. T. Harford

Junior Warden: John Busch

Treasurer: Wesley Shaner

Secretary: Phillip E. Manner*

Senior Deacon: Emmit Bowland

Junior Deacon: Ewalt Hansen

Tyler: J. W. Doty * E. A. Powers was originally elected Lodge Secretary, but declined to serve, so WB Manner was elected in his place.

September 20, 1904: Stated Meeting

A petition for initiation was presented for first reading for Mr. Charles F. Coleman. Mr. Coleman would be elected to membership the following meeting, and would go on to serve

Genoa Lodge as Master in 1908, 1909, and 1910. Genoa Lodge made a substantial turnaround this year, with many petitions for membership coming in (all of which were accepted). The finances also improved, and several improvements to the Lodge room were made. Membership of the Lodge numbered 41 Brethren.

January 17, 1905: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Phillip E. Manner

Senior Warden: Ralph S. Sloan

Junior Warden: Walter Camper

Treasurer: E. A. Powers

Secretary: Arb Null

Senior Deacon: Emmit Bowland

Junior Deacon: Wallace Gallup

Tyler: J. W. Doty

October 26, 1905: Annual

Communication of The Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star of Ohio: A charter was granted to Gertrude Chapter #219, Order of the Eastern Star, and they were permitted to meet in the Lodge Hall. According to the original authors of the Genoa Lodge History, the Brothers and Sisters of Gertrude Chapter were of great assistance in their early years, and continued to be until they eventually merged with Greenville Chapter, Pemberville, in 1997. Membership of the Lodge numbered 46 Brethren.

December 5, 1905: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Phillip E. Manner

Senior Warden: B. T. Harford

Junior Warden: Charles F. Coleman

Treasurer: E. A. Powers

Secretary: George S. Richards

Senior Deacon: R. Sloan

Junior Deacon: R. Whitinger

Tyler: J. W. Doty

January 2, 1906: Stated Meeting

A petition for initiation was presented for first reading on behalf of Mr. Ralph H. Utoff. Brother Utoff quickly became active in Genoa Lodge, serving as Master in 1918.

December 5, 1906: Stated Meeting

The Lodge voted to purchase a gas stove for five dollars to replace the coal and wood stoves they had been using. Membership of the Lodge numbered 41 Brethren.

January 8, 1907: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: James L. Stevens

Senior Warden: Charles F. Coleman

Junior Warden: C. D. Dodge

Treasurer: B. T. Harford

Secretary: Ralph H. Uthoff

Senior Deacon: L. K. Chambers

Junior Deacon: R. W. Whitinger

Senior Steward: J. M. Gallup

Junior Steward: John Busch

Tyler: J. W. Doty

March 7, 1907: Emergent

Communication

The Brethren of Genoa Lodge gathered to mourn the death of Brother Sherman G. Ford,

who was a very active member of Genoa Lodge, serving as secretary off and on for many years. The Brethren accompanied the body from Brother Fords home to Methodist Episcopal Church where Masonic Services were performed.

March 19, 1907: Stated Meeting

A petition for initiation was presented for a first reading on behalf of Mr. Bertram (Burt) A. Bell. Bell would go on to become very active in Genoa Lodge, serving as Master in 1920.

April 2, 1907: Stated Meeting

A communication from MWB Horace A. Irvin, Grand Master of Ohio, was read in which he ordered all Lodges in Ohio to drape their Altars for a period of sixty days in memory of MWB Charles A. Woodward, Past Grand Master of Ohio, who had recently passed away. Membership of the Lodge numbered 45 Brethren.

January 23, 1908: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Charles F. Coleman

Senior Warden: James M. Gallup*

Junior Warden: Henry Bahnsen

Treasurer: B. T. Harford

Secretary: Phillip E. Manner

Senior Deacon: George S. Richards

Junior Deacon: L. K. Chambers

Tyler: J. W. Doty

*Charles D. Dodge was originally elected to Senior Warden, but he declined to serve, so

a second election was ordered, and Brother Gallup was elected.

September 15, 1908: Stated Meeting

A petition for initiation was presented for first reading on behalf of Mr. Albert F. Camper. During his tenure as a member of Genoa lodge, he was extremely active, serving as Master on three separate occasions. He also rented us a Lodge room above his store, and Genoa Lodge still meets there to this day (the Lodge now owns the building). He is also credited with raising 105 Master Masons during his lifetime, a record number that still stands to this day.

October 20, 1908: Emergent

Communication

The Brethren of Genoa Lodge gathered to mourn the death of Brother W. S. Bowland, who had passed away two days prior. Brother Bowland was a very active member of the Lodge, serving as Senior Deacon for many years. Masonic Services were performed at his residence. Membership of the Lodge numbered 54 Brethren.

December 29, 1908: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Brethren were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Charles F. Coleman

Senior Warden: Henry Bahnsen

Junior Warden: Charles Powers

Treasurer: B. T. Harford

Secretary: Phillip E. Manner

Senior Deacon: Ralph Uthoff

Junior Deacon: John Werner

Senior Steward: Albert F. Camper

Junior Steward: Fred Whitinger

Tyler: Walter Camper

January 19, 1909: Stated Meeting

A communication was read from Portage Lodge #351 in Elmore, OH inviting the Brethren of Genoa Lodge to a Dedication Ceremony of their Lodge Room. The ceremony was presided over by MWB Charles S. Hoskinson, Grand Master of Ohio, and was well attended byBthe Brethren of Genoa. On an unrelated note, MWB Hoskinson, during his year as Grand Master, was responsible for making the then President of the United States, William Howard Taft, a Mason at sight. Brother Taft went on to join Kilwinning Lodge #356. MWB Hoskinson also mysteriously vanished around 1926 and was never found. For more information on MWB Hoskinson, see the Past Grand Masters section on www.freemason.com.

March 10, 1909: Annual Inspection

Genoa Lodge was inspected by RWB T. S. OHara, District Lecturer, and a Past Master of Rubicon Lodge #237, who reported favorably on the meeting.

May 15, 1909: Stated Meeting

A committee was formed to discuss leasing options with Brother Albert F. Camper, who had recently purchased a two story building and opened a store on the ground floor. These

plans would lead to fruition, and Genoa Lodge would move into Campers building. As of 2012, when this history is being written, Genoa Lodge still meets in the same building, and the Lodge currently owns it. Membership of the Lodge numbered 51 Brethren.

January 11, 1910: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Brethren were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Charles F. Coleman

Senior Warden: Ewaldt Hansen

Junior Warden: Walter Camper

Treasurer: B. T. Harford

Secretary: George S. Richards

Senior Deacon: Phillip E. Manner

Junior Deacon: James Gallup

Steward: Burt A. Bell

Tyler: Albert F. Campe 

February 15, 1910: Special Meeting

This was the first meeting in which Genoa Lodge met in Albert F. Campers building, although it was not in a good enough condition to hold stated meetings. Genoa Lodge has continuously met in this building for over 100 years.

March 10, 1910: Stated Meeting

A petition for initiation was read on behalf of Mr. John E. Brunner. WB Brunner was an integral part of Genoa Lodge, serving as Master twice in 1914-1915. He was also an important member of the Genoa Community, and Brunner Elementary School was named in his honor. Membership of the Lodge numbered 57 Brethren.

December 10, 1910: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Charles E. Baker

Senior Warden: Ewaldt Hansen

Junior Warden: John E. Brunner

Treasurer: Rolla Whitinger

Secretary: Ralph H. Uthoff

Senior Deacon: Phillip E. Manner

Junior Deacon: Albert F. Camper

Senior Steward: W. A. Gallup

Junior Steward: John Bush

Tyler: J. H. Bahnsen

May 16, 1911: Annual Inspection

The Brethren gathered for the purpose of the Annual Inspection, and to raise Brother O.C. Gall to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. The Lodge was inspected by RWB H. F. Mewling, District Lecturer of the 11th District, who reported favorably on the evening. Membership of the Lodge numbered 55 Brethren.

January 2, 1912: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Charles E. Baker

Senior Warden: John E. Brunner

Junior Warden: J. Frazier

Treasurer: J. M. Gallup

Secretary: Ralph H. Uthoff

Senior Deacon: Albert F. Camper

Junior Deacon: J. H. Bahnsen

Senior Steward: John Bush

Junior Steward: Charles F. Coleman

Tyler: W. A. Gallup

January 16, 1912: Stated Meeting

A petition for initiation was read on behalf of Mr. James A. Hennen. Mr. Hennen would later be elected to membership, and would serve Genoa Lodge as Master in 1919.

April 12, 1912: Special Meeting

A Special Meeting was called for the purpose of conferring the Master Mason degree upon Brother James A. Hennen. The officers of Genoa Lodge presided in the First Section of

the Degree, whereupon the Brethren of Portage Lodge #351 of Elmore, OH stepped in for the Second Section of the Degree. Membership of the Lodge numbered 60 Brethren

December 3, 1912: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Charles E. Baker*

Senior Warden: J. E. Frazier

Junior Warden: L. E. Hesser

Treasurer: J. M. Gallup

Secretary: Ralph H. Uthoff

Senior Deacon: Albert F. Camper

Junior Deacon: R. M. Strohl

Senior Steward: James A. Hennen

Junior Steward: J. L. Stevens

Tyler: W. A. Gallup

*Note: John E. Brunner was originally elected Worshipful Master, but due to unexplained

cirucumstances, he was unable to serve. WB Charles E. Baker was elected and installed in his place.

March 18, 1913: Stated Meeting

A petition for initiation was read on behalf of Bernard B. Gardner. Mr. Gardner would later be elected, and would serve Genoa Lodge as Master in 1922.

May 20, 1913: Annual Inspection

19 Brethren of Genoa Lodge, with 2 visitors, gathered in the Lodge for the purpose of the Annual Inspection, and to witness the raising of Brother Bernard B. Gardner to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. The Lodge was inspected by RWB Brocklebank (no first name given), District Lecturer of the 11th District, who reported favorably on the Degree work and gave a short talk about Masonry.

Membership of the Lodge numbered 67 Brethren.

December 11, 1913: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: John E. Brunner

Senior Warden: Albert F. Camper

Junior Warden: W. A. Dolph

Treasurer: L. E. Hesser

Secretary: Bernard B. Gardner

Senior Deacon: James A. Hennen

Junior Deacon: W. A. Burgoon

Senior Steward: Ralph H. Uthoff

Junior Steward: J. W. Gallup

Tyler: John Bush

March 3, 1914: Stated Meeting

A petition for initiation was read on behalf of Mr. James H. Hesser. He would later go on to serve Genoa Lodge as Master in 1921.

October 20, 1914: Stated Meeting

A petition for initiation was presented for first reading on behalf of Mr. Charles A. Taylor. He would later be elected to membership, and go on to serve Genoa Lodge as Master in 1924. Membership of the Lodge numbered 79 Brethren.

December 15, 1914: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: John E. Brunner

Senior Warden: Albert F. Camper

Junior Warden: W. A. Dolph

Treasurer: L. E. Hesser

Secretary: Bernard B. Gardner

Senior Deacon: James A. Hennen

Junior Deacon: H. Vine

Senior Steward: Ralph H. Uthoff

Junior Steward: J. M. Gallup

Tyler: John Busch

January 5, 1915: Stated Meeting

A petition for initiation was presented for first reading on behalf of Mr. John Clyde Doty. Mr. Doty would quickly become active in Genoa Lodge, serving as Master in 1923.

May 18, 1915: Stated Meeting

A petition for initiation was presented for first reading on behalf of Mr. Harvey A. Tank. Mr. Tank would later be elected to membership, and would go on to serve Genoa Lodge as Master in 1930 and 1931.

July 13, 1915: Emergent Communication

The Brethren of Genoa gathered to conduct Masonic services at the home of their late Brother J. W. Doty. Brother Doty was very active in Genoa Lodge, serving as Tyler for many years. Membership of the Lodge numbered 99 Brethren.

January 4, 1916: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Albert F. Camper

Senior Warden: Ralph H. Uthoff

Junior Warden: James A. Hennen

Treasurer: L. E. Hesser

Secretary: Bernard B. Gardner

Senior Deacon: H. Vice

Junior Deacon: J. McLargin

Senior Steward: J. M. Gallup

Junior Steward: J. Strohl

Tyler: John Busch

September 5, 1916: Stated Meeting

Resolutions of Respect were read in open Lodge in memory of their late Brother W. A. Dolph. Brother Dolph was a very active member of Genoa Lodge, serving in various offices for many years, most recently as Junior Warden in 1915. The Worshipful Master ordered the Altar to be draped in mourning for a period of thirty days.

December 6, 1916: Special Event

The Officers and Brethren of Genoa Lodge attended the Annual Installation of Officers of Gertrude Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, which also met in the same building as Genoa Lodge. The Brethren enjoyed the installation, and the program was well attended by Genoa

Lodge. Membership of the Lodge numbered 106 Brethren.

December 26, 1916: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Albert F. Camper

Senior Warden: Ralph H. Uthoff

Junior Warden: James A. Hennen

Treasurer: L. E. Hesser

Secretary: Bernard B. Gardner

Senior Deacon: H. Vine

Junior Deacon: C. M. Agler

Senior Steward: J. M. Gallup

Junior Steward: J. Strohl

Tyler: John Busch

January 16, 1917: Stated Meeting

A petition for initiation was presented for first reading on behalf of Mr. George I. Cheney. Mr. Cheney would later be elected to membership, and would serve Genoa Lodge as Master in 1933.

February 6, 1917: Stated Meeting

A petition for initiation was presented for first reading on behalf of Mr. Chester A. McLargin. Mr. McLargin would later be elected to membership, and would serve Genoa Lodge as Master in 1940.

May 15, 1917: Stated Meeting

The Master appointed a Temple Building committee consisting of Brothers John Brunner, L.E. Hess, C.E. Baker, John Sorby, and P. Mortice. On the advice of Brother L.K.

Chambers, an attorney, a stock company was formed and incorporated under the state of Ohio, and it was named The Genoa Masonic Temple Company, with shares of its stock selling for $25.00 per share. It fell by the wayside, and records are void as to what became of it as well as the money invested.

July 3, 1917: Stated Meeting

After many years of having dues set at $2.00 per year, the Brethren voted to raise dues to the sum of $4.00 per year. Membership of the Lodge numbered 119 Brethren.

Note: The minutes for the 1917-1918 Masonic Year are very difficult to read. As a result,

some names may be misspelled on this page.

December 18, 1917: Annual Installation of Officers The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Ralph H. Utoff

Senior Warden: James A. Hennen

Junior Warden: Howard Vice

Secretary: Bernard B. Gardner

Treasurer: Walter D. Skilliter

Senior Deacon: James H. Hesser

Junior Deacon: J. Clyde Doty

Tyler: John Busch

January 19, 1918: Emergent

Communication

An emergent communication was had to confer the last rites on Worshipful Brother Charles E. Baker, Past Master of Genoa Lodge in 1890, 1891, 1892, 1911, 1912, and 1913.

Eighteen Brethren formed a procession and marched from the Lodge to WB Bakers residence and conferred the Masonic Last Rites. They then accompanied the body to its resting place in Woodville Cemetery. Acting as pall bearers were Brothers John E. Brunner, J. Stroh, J. A. Hennen, Albert F. Camper, C. A. Powers, and L. Chambers.

January 22, 1918: Emergent

Communication

The members of Genoa Lodge gathered with members of Pemberville Lodge #516 to confer Masonic Last Rites on Brother James S. Frazier, who was a member of Pemberville Lodge. Brother Fraziers name appears numerous times in the records of Genoa Lodge, as he was a very frequent visitor.

November 7, 1918: Emergent

Communication

The Brethren of Genoa Lodge gathered to mourn the passing of the current Worshipful Master, Ralph H. Uthoff, who had recently passed away. Resolutions of Respect were read in open Lodge. The current Senior Warden, Brother James A. Hennen, would serve out the rest of the Masonic year as Worshipful Master Pro Tem, until his election as Worshipful Master for the next Masonic year. Membership of the Lodge numbered 125 Brethren.

Note: The minutes of the 1918-1919 Masonic Year are very difficult to read. As a result,

some of the names may be misspelled.

January 14, 1919: Annual Installation of Officers The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: James A. Hennen

Senior Warden: Burt A. Bell

Junior Warden: James H. Hesser

Secretary: John Sorby

Treasurer: Walter D. Skilliter

Senior Deacon: J. Clyde Doty

Junior Deacon: Charles A. Taylor

Senior Steward: J. M. Gallup

Junior Steward: George I. Cheney

Tyler: John Busch

March 25, 1919: Annual Inspection

18 Brethren of Genoa Lodge gathered for the Annual Inspection, and to Initiate Mr. George Gillard Powers as an Entered Apprentice. The Lodge was inspected by RWB Halley (no first name given) District Lecturer of the 11th Masonic District, who reported favorably on the business of the meeting. Membership of the Lodge numbered 126 Brethren.

December 2, 1919: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year (no Stewards were appointed):

Worshipful Master: Burt A. Bell

Senior Warden: James A. Hesser

Junior Warden: Bernard B. Gardner

Secretary: Earl F. Camper

Treasurer: Walter D. Skilliter

Senior Deacon: Charles A. Taylor

Junior Deacon: George I. Cheney

Tyler: Ralph E. Camper

May 4, 1920: Stated Meeting

A petition for initiation was presented for first reading on behalf of Mr. Ralph Hugh McOuat, who would later be elected to membership. Brother McOuat was one of the most active Masons from Genoa Lodge, becoming the only member of Genoa Lodge to serve as an officer of the AASR - Valley of Cleveland, and the first to receive the 33rd Degree from the Supreme Council, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite Northern Masonic Jurisdiction. He also served as Potentate of Al Koran Shriners in the Cleveland Area, and was an Honorary Member of dozens of Shrine Temples across the nation. All of his honorary membership certificates, as well as his 33rd Degree certificate, are still on display at Genoa Lodge.

December 7, 1920: Stated Meeting

A communication was read from MWB John R. Flotron, Sr., Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Ohio, ordering Lodges to drape the Altar for a period of sixty days in memory of MWB Lewis Philip Schaus, Past Grand Master of Ohio, who had recently passed away. MWB Schaus served as Grand Master in 1905. Membership of the Lodge numbered 135 Brethren.

December 7, 1920: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: James H. Hesser

Senior Warden: Bernard B. Gardner

Junior Warden: J. Clyde Doty

Secretary: Earl F. Camper

Treasurer: Walter D. Skilliter

Senior Deacon: Charles A. Taylor

Junior Deacon: George I. Cheney

Senior Steward: J. M. Gallup

Junior Steward: Burt A. Bell

Tyler: Ralph E. Camper

February 1, 1921: Stated Meeting

After having been rejected for membership only weeks previously, Genoa Lodge elected Burt M. Dart to membership of Genoa Lodge. Brother Dart would go on to serve Genoa Lodge as its Master in 1926. During the same meeting, Mr. Dale S. Bumpus was elected to membership. Worshipful Brother Bumpus would go on to be Master of Genoa Lodge in 1934.

March 15, 1921: Stated Meeting

46 Brethren were on hand to confer the Fellow Craft Degree on eleven candidates. Brothers Burt M. Dart, Earl S. Britton, Albert F. Sahr, Thomas L. Scott, Ernest Riedeman, Walter Reedman, Dale Bumpus, Andrew Young, Arthur Miller, Leroy Ford, and Ralph Meyers all received their Fellow Craft Degrees that night. (Note: In going through the minutes of Genoa Lodge, this is the single largest degree conferral I've ever come across. It was common practice to confer 4 or 5 degrees in one day, but never have I seen 11 degrees in one meeting. -Brother Mark Allred)

May 3, 1921: Stated Meeting

A ballot was had on Mr. Otto F. Camper, who was subsequently elected to membership. Worshipful Brother Camper would go on to become Master of Genoa Lodge in 1925.

May 3, 1921: Annual Inspection

The Brethren of Genoa Lodge, with 2 visitors, gathered in the Lodge room for the Annual Inspection, and to witness the raising of Brother Joseph S. Mizner to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. The Lodge was inspected by Otto H. Hohly, District Lecturer of the 11th Masonic District, who reported favorably on the business of the evening. Membership of the Lodge numbered 163 Brethren.

December 6, 1921: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Brethren were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Bernard B. Gardner

Senior Warden: J. Clyde Doty

Junior Warden: Charles Taylor

Secretary: Earl F. Camper

Treasurer: Walter D. Skilliter

Senior Deacon: George I. Cheney

Junior Deacon: Charles Bailey

Senior Steward: Burt M. Dart

Junior Steward: T. L.  Reuman

April 4, 1922: Annual Inspection

The Lodge was inspected by the District Lecturer, RWB Otto H. Hohly, who reported favorably on the business of the evening. 68 Brethren of Genoa Lodge and 8 Visiting Brethren were in the Lodge room to witness Brother Gordon W. Skilliter being raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. As an interesting side note, Otto H. Hohly (of Rubicon Lodge #237, Toledo, OH) would go on to become Grand Master of Ohio in 1928.

August 24, 1922: Special Function

Genoa Lodge teamed up with Gertrude Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star to have a summer picnic. The members reported that it was a great success. Membership of the Lodge numbered 169 Brethren.

November 21, 1922: Annual Installation of Officers The following officers were installed to lead Genoa #433 for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: J. Clyde Doty

Senior Warden: Charles H. Bailey

Junior Warden: George I. Cheney

Treasurer: Walter D. Skilliter

Secretary: Earl F. Camper

Senior Deacon: Howard E. McLargin (later, Otto F. Camper elected)

Junior Deacon: Emil Johnson

Senior Steward: J. L. Scott

Junior Steward: Neill McDougal

Tyler: Burt M. Dart

December 5, 1922: Stated Meeting

The committee investigating the petition of Samuel Floyd Angus reported favorable. A ballot was had and Mr. Angus was declared elected to membership. Brother Angus would later go on to become Worshipful Master of Genoa Lodge in 1928 and again in 1929.

February 3, 1923: Emergent

Communication

An emergent communication of Genoa Lodge was opened to conduct Masonic Funeral Rites for Brother John Busch. Brother Busch was a Tyler for Genoa Lodge in previous years. The Lodge formed a procession and marched to St. Johns Evangelical Church where the funeral oration was delivered by Brother Carl W. Sperling. The body was then conveyed to Woodville Cemetery where the grave ceremony was given by Brother Sperling. Acting as pall bearers were Brothers William Riedeman, A. F. Sahr, Charles Bailey, Oscar Stewart, Charles Taylor, and Peter Martin.

February 20, 1923: Stated Meeting

Senior Deacon Howard E. McLargin regularly resigned his office, being unable to regularly attend meetings. A special election was had, and Brother Otto F. Camper was elected to Senior Deacon.

May 15, 1923: Annual Inspection

The Lodge was inspected by District Lecturer Leroy E. Eastman who reported favorably on the business of the evening. 54 Brethren of Genoa Lodge with 13 visiting Brethren witnessed Brother John Wesley Marshall being raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason.  Membership of the Lodge numbered 173 Brethren.

December 4, 1923: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Charles A. Taylor

Senior Warden: Otto F. Camper

Junior Warden: Thomas L. Scott

Secretary: Earl F. Camper

Treasurer: Walter D. Skilliter

Senior Deacon: Burt M. Dart

Junior Deacon: Valie C. Miller

Senior Steward: S. Floyd Angus

Junior Steward: Harry Nelson

Tyler: Neill McDougal

January 15, 1924: Stated Meeting

Motions were made, seconded, and carried that the Lodge make some renovations to the club room as well as the Lodge room. The Worshipful Master appointed a team to wallpaper the club room, and another to carpet the Lodge. Carpet was purchased for around $300, and the Lodge had to sell their Liberty Bonds in order to pay for the renovations.

May 6, 1924: Annual Inspection

The Lodge was inspected by Brother Karl R. Irwin, representing Leroy E. Eastman, District Lecturer for the 11th Masonic District, who reported favorably on the business of the

evening. 51 Brethren of Genoa Lodge and 6 Visiting Brethren were in the Lodge to witness Brother Voight N. Martin being raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason.

October 7, 1924: Emergent

Communication

65 Brethren of Genoa Lodge with 6 visiting Brethren, held an Emergent Communication for the purposes of holding Masonic Services for Worshipful Brother James L. Stevens, who was Past Master of Genoa Lodge in 1907. The minutes from the meeting state that the Masonic funeral service oration was delivered by Brother Carl W. Sperling, and the grave ceremony given by Judge Sperling. Brothers John E. Brunner, C. F. Coleman, H. E. Wight, Ewald Hansen, J. E. Frazier, and James McLargin acted as pall bearers in the service. The following Resolutions of Respect accompanies the minutes for this meeting: Once again a brother Mason, having completed the designs written for him on lives trestle board has passed through the portals of Eternity and entered the Grand Lodge of the New Jerusalem and hath received as his reward the white stone with the new name written thereon; And, whereas the All-wise and Merciful Master of the Universe has called from labor to refreshments our beloved and respected brother, and he having been a true and faithful member of our Order, therefore be it resolved, that Genoa Lodge No. 433, F. & A.M. in testimony of her loss drape her charter in mourning for thirty days and that we tender to the family of our deceased brother our sincere condolence in their deep affliction. Upon the wings of our sorrow there comes to us the sublime truth that Death is not the enemy of mankind, since He holds the Key to There. In the midst of our pain Low in the heart faith singeth still her song and we are brought to know that behind the hill there lies the peace valley. Membership of the Lodge numbered 180 Brethren.

December 2, 1924: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Otto F. Camper

Senior Warden: Burt M. Dart

Junior Warden: Thomas L. Scott

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Secretary: Earl F. Camper

Senior Deacon: Valie C. Miller

Junior Deacon: S. Floyd Angus

Senior Steward: Harry E. Nelson

Junior Steward: John W. Marshall

Tyler: Walter D. Skilliter

February 17, 1925: Stated Meeting

Gertrude Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, was allowed by the Lodge to replace the gasoline stove in the kitchen for an updated oil stove, with the Chapter paying the difference from the trade in.

May 5, 1925: Annual Inspection

65 Brethren and 7 visitors gathered at Genoa Lodge for the Annual Inspection to witness Brother Paul O. David being raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. Brother Leroy E. Eastman, District Lecturer for the 11th Masonic District, Inspected the Lodge and reported favorably on the business for the evening.

May 18, 1925: Emergent Communication

The Brethren of Genoa Lodge met at the home of departed Brother John Elkington to conduct Masonic Services for their fallen Brother. The funeral oration was delivered by Brother Carl W. Sperling, whereupon they took the remains to Woodville Cemetery, where the grave ceremony was given by Brother Sperling. Membership of the Lodge numbered 184 Brethren.

December 1, 1925: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Burt M. Dart

Senior Warden: Thomas L. Scott

Junior Warden: Valie C. Miller

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Secretary: Earl F. Camper

Chaplain: Paul O. David

Senior Deacon: S. Floyd Angus

Junior Deacon: John W. Marshall

Senior Steward: Walter Riedeman

Junior Steward: Leroy C. Grant

March 16, 1926: Annual Inspection

The Brethren of Genoa Lodge assembled for the Annual Inspection. The Lodge was inspected by Worshipful Brother G. L. Frederich, Past Master of Damascus Lodge, who reported favorably on the business of the evening. Brother Harley B. Kemp was passed to the degree of Fellow Craft in fine manner.

October 5, 1926: Stated Meeting

A special request was made of Genoa Lodge on behalf of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky that Genoa Lodge examine Brother J. S. Offut in the Entered Apprentice degree. Brother Offut was initiated in Mt. Vernon Lodge #14, Georgetown, Kentucky. Brother Offut successfully passed his examination, and due report was sent to the Grand Lodge of Kentucky.

October 19, 1926: Stated Meeting

The Lodge was visited by Brother Blatt from Perseverance Lodge #329, Sandusky, Ohio, and Brother Lewis from Mendon Lodge, Mendon, Ohio. Both Brothers gave a few good

remarks on the proceedings of Genoa Lodge that evening. Membership of the Lodge numbered 185 Brethren.

Note: The Lodge minutes from the 1926-1927 Masonic year are very incomplete, with large gaps of months not being present. This could be for a number of reasons. The Lodge may have misplaced the minutes over the years, or they could have been kept in a separate book now lost, or there could have been a lack of attendance, making having meetings impossible (8 or more Brothers must be in attendance for a Lodge to be opened). We can only speculate on the reasons for these gaps.

December 21, 1926: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Albert F. Camper

Senior Warden: S. Floyd Angus

Junior Warden: Valie C. Miller

Secretary: Earl F. Camper

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Senior Deacon: Walter Riedeman

Junior Deacon: L. H. Coleman

Senior Steward: B. W. Porter

Junior Steward: Ernest Riedeman

Tyler: J. A. Angus

May 17, 1927: Annual Inspection

36 Brethren from Genoa Lodge, along with 9 visitors, gathered in the Lodge for the Annual Inspection to witness Brother Otto W. Zunk being raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. The Lodge was inspected by RWB Louis Bartlett, who reported favorably on the business of the night. Membership of the Lodge numbered 182 Brethren.

December 6, 1927: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year.

Worshipful Master: S. Floyd Angus

Senior Warden: Valie C. Miller

Junior Warden: Harvey A. Tank

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Secretary: Earl F. Camper

Senior Deacon: Lester Coleman

Junior Deacon: Harry E. Young

Senior Steward: Ernest Riedeman

Junior Steward: Fred N. Paulsen

Tyler: James A. Angus

Chaplain: Rev. Paul O. David

December 20, 1927: Stated Meeting

RWB Louis Bartlett, District Lecturer for the 11th Masonic District, representing Most Worshipful Brother B. Frank Thomas, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Ohio, gathered the Brethren of Genoa Lodge for the purpose of dedicating the Lodge Room of Genoa Lodge. RWB Bartlett took the station of Acting Most Worshipful Grand Master, with Brethren from Genoa Lodge filling the stations of other Grand Lodge Officers. The Lodge was dedicated in fine manner.

February 21, 1928: Stated Meeting

Brother Thomas L. Scott moved and Brother Andrew Young seconded that the Lodge purchase a gas heater for the Lodge. The motion was carried and the Lodge, which had been operating on a coal furnace since moving to its present location, was now switched over to gas heat. At that time, the monthly gas bill for the Lodge amounted to $1.90, which was much cheaper than having to purchase coal for around $15 dollars every two or three months. Also, Brother Elwood Arthur Pinniger was elected to membership of Genoa Lodge. Worshipful Brother Pinniger would later go on to become Worshipful Master of Genoa Lodge in 1939, as well as receiving a 50-year award on May 15, 1978.

May 1, 1928: Annual Inspection

42 Brethren of Genoa Lodge with 2 visitors gathered in the Lodge room for the Annual Inspection to witness Brother Ralph Riedeman being raised to the Sublime Degree of Master

Mason. The Lodge was inspected by RWB Louis Bartlett, District Lecturer for the 11th Masonic District, who reported favorably on the business of the evening.

October 16, 1928: Stated Meeting

In a previous meeting, Worshipful Brother Burt M. Dart proposed the Lodge dues be increased from $4.00 annually to $6.00. A compromise was made and the Lodge raised the dues to $5.00 annually. Membership of the Lodge numbered 184 Brethren.

December 4, 1928: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: S. Floyd Angus

Senior Warden: Harvey A. Tank

Junior Warden: Thomas L. Scott

Secretary: Earl F. Camper

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Senior Deacon: Harry E. Young

Junior Deacon: Minor W. Buehler

Senior Steward: Ralph C. Riedeman

Junior Steward: Lawrence O. Tank

Tyler: James A. Angus

February 19, 1929: Stated Meeting

A petition for membership from Harold David Lusher was read and he was subsequently elected to membership. Worshipful Brother Lusher would go on to become Worshipful Master of Genoa Lodge in 1942.

May 7, 1929: Annual Inspection

47 Brethren of Genoa Lodge, with 5 visitors, gathered in the Lodge room for the Annual Inspection to witness Brother Harold D. Lusher being raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. The Lodge was inspected by RWB Louis Bartlett, District Lecturer for the 11th Masonic District, who reported favorably on the evening.

May 21, 1929: Stated Meeting

An investigation committee reported favorably on the petition of Mr. Theodore K. Lorezen, who was subsequently elected to membership. Worshipful Brother Lorenzen would go on to become Worshipful Master of Genoa Lodge in 1935, and received his 50-year award on May 15, 1979. Membership of the Lodge numbered 191 Brethren.

December 3, 1929: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Harvey A. Tank

Senior Warden: Walter R. Samsen

Junior Warden: Lester H. Coleman

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Secretary: Earl F. Camper

Senior Deacon: Minor W. Buehler

Junior Deacon: Dale S. Bumpus

Senior Steward: Henry J. Krukemyer

Junior Steward: Lawrence O. Tank

Tyler: Walter D. Skilliter

March 18, 1930: Stated Meeting

Brothers L. C. Grant and Emil Hrbac moved that the Lodge room be enlarged and that the Lodge and the Gertrude Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, pay more rent to Worshipful Brother Albert F. Camper for the use of the second floor of his building. The Brethren were all in favor of this proposal and the motion carried. A month later, the Brethren voted to approve a plan by WB Camper for the enlargement of the Lodge room and to renew their lease with him for ten more years at $350.00 per year.

May 20, 1930: Annual Inspection

40 Brethren from Genoa Lodge, with 2 visitors, gathered in the Lodge room for the Annual Inspection, and to witness Brother Harry R. Johnson being raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. The Lodge was inspected by Worshipful Brother Burt Decker, Past Master of Rubicon Lodge, acting on behalf of the District 11 Lecturer Louis Bartlett, who reported favorably on the business of the evening.

October 19, 1930: Emergent

Communication

The Brethren of Genoa Lodge traveled to the home of late Brother James A. Angus, who was called to the Celestial Lodge on October 16, 1930. Masonic Funeral Services were

delivered by Brother Carl W. Sperling. The Brethren then drove to Woodville Cemetery, where the body was placed in a mausoleum. Membership of the Lodge numbered 194 Brethren.

December 2, 1930: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year

Worshipful Master: Harvey A. Tank

Senior Warden: Walter R. Samsen

Junior Warden: Lester Coleman

Secretary: Earl F. Camper

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Senior Deacon: Dale Bumpkus

Junior Deacon: Theodore Lorenzen

Senior Steward: Harold Lusher

Junior Steward: Lawrence Tank

Tyler: Joseph Mizner

December 16, 1930: Stated Meeting

A petition was voted on for Mr. Edwin E. Digby, who was subsequently elected to membership. Worshipful Brother Digby would go on to be Worshipful Master of Genoa Lodge in 1936.

May 19, 1930: Annual Inspection

42 Brethren of Genoa Lodge, with 9 visitors, gathered in the Lodge room for the Annual Inspection, and to witness the raising of Brother Edward Schnee to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. The Lodge was inspected by a representative of the 11th Masonic District Lecturer, but no name or report is given.

Membership of the Lodge numbered 184 Brethren.

November 17, 1931: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Walter R. Samsen

Senior Warden: George I. Cheney

Junior Warden: Dale Bumpkus

Secretary: Earl F. Camper

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Senior Deacon: Theodore K. Lorenzen

Junior Deacon: H. J. Krukemyer

Senior Steward: Fred Paulsen

Junior Steward: C. A. Krouse

Tyler: Albert F. Camper

January 19, 1932: Stated Meeting

The Investigating Committee for the petition for initiation for Mr. Ernest G. Vorce reported favorable, and he was subsequently elected to membership. Worshipful Brother Vorce would later go on to become Worshipful Master of Genoa Lodge in 1938.

March 8, 1932: Annual Inspection

27 Brethren of Genoa Lodge, with 8 visitors, gathered in the Lodge room for the annual inspection. The Lodge was inspected by Brother Nels Swanson, representing RWB George F. Sprunk, District Lecturer for the 11th Masonic District. There being no candidate for degrees, a substitute candidate was used and the Lodge portrayed the Master Mason Degree.

April 22, 1932: Special Meeting

As per an order by Most Worshipful Brother Harvey F. Ake, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Ohio, the Brethren of Genoa Lodge gathered to

celebrate the 200th anniversary of the birth of George Washington. A talk on George Washington's Masonic career was given by Brother Harry Young. The brethren then, led by

Brother Arthur in singing the ;Star Spangled Banner. Membership of the Lodge numbered 174 Brethren.

November 15, 1932: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: George I. Cheney

Senior Warden: Dale Bumpkus

Junior Warden: Theodore K. Lorenzen

Secretary: Earl F. Camper

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Senior Deacon: Henry J. Krukemyer

Junior Warden: Clarence A. Krouse

Senior Steward: W. G. McLargin

Junior Steward: John Johnson

Tyler: Albert F. Camper

May 2, 1933: Annual Inspection

61 Brethren of Genoa Lodge, along with 53 visitors, for a total of 114 Brethren, crowded into the Lodge room for what was one of the largest Inspections ever had at that point in time. The Lodge started off with Brother James M. Gallup being honored for being a 50 year member of Genoa Lodge. The Brethren then witnessed the raising of Brother Ralph W. DeWitt to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. The Lodge was inspected by RWB George F. Sprunk, District Lecturer for the 11th Masonic District, who reported favorably on the business of the evening.

May 16, 1933: Stated Meeting

In years before the Great Depression, it was standard practice to immediately suspend Brothers who had not paid Lodge dues in the appropriate time. However, given the

circumstances, Brother George A. Claus and Brother W. D. Skilliter moved that the Lodge communicate with all members delinquent in dues and see if they could pay at least part of their dues. The motion carried, and Brothers W. D. Skilliter and E. G. Vorce were placed on a committee to contact the Brethren who had not paid dues. This committee became known as the Brotherly Love Committee, and because of it and the two brothers who comprised it, many Brethren were saved from suspension.

October 3, 1933: Stated Meeting

A petition for affiliation of membership was accepted for Brother Burnett Henry Poggemeyer. Brother Poggemeyer had belonged to another Lodge (the minutes do not specify which one) and was accepted into Genoa Lodge. He would go on to be Worshipful Master of Genoa Lodge in 1937. Membership of the Lodge numbered 157 Brethren.

Note: The 1933-1934 Masonic Year marked the first time that Trustees of the Lodge were elected. Generally, in Genoa Lodge at the present time, the outgoing Master is elected to a term of three years as a Trustee of the Lodge.

December 5, 1933: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Dale Bumpkus

Senior Warden: Theodore Lorenzen

Junior Warden: Edwin E. Digby

Secretary: Earl F. Camper

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Chaplain: Rev. E. L. Arthur

Senior Deacon: Bert Poggemyer

Junior Deacon: Ernest G. Vorce

Senior Steward: W. G. McLargin

Junior Steward: Archie E. Wight

Tyler: Albert F. Camper

Trustees: George I. Cheney, Burt A. Bell, Albert F. Camper

January 2, 1934: Stated Meeting

Owing to the financial difficulties felt by nearly every American at this time, the Lodge was having difficulty paying its expenses. A motion was carried that made the resolution that the Lodge would continue to pay the janitor to clean the Lodge, and they would attempt to pay as much of the rent as they possibly could to Worshipful Brother Albert F. Camper, who owned the building.

March 6, 1934: Annual Inspection

31 Brethren of Genoa Lodge gathered in the Lodge room for the Annual Inspection and

to witness the initiation of Reverend Harold M. McAdow as an Entered Apprentice. The Lodge was inspected by Right Worshipful Brother George F. Sprunk, District Lecturer of the 11th Masonic District, who reported favorably on the business of the evening. Membership of the Lodge numbered 139 Brethren. Note: Due to economic hardships, there were no candidates for membership during this year.

December 4, 1934: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Theodore K. Lorenzen

Senior Warden: Edwin E. Digby

Junior Warden: Burnett H. Poggemeyer

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Secretary: Earl F. Camper

Chaplain: Rev. Harry M. McAdow

Senior Deacon: Ernest G. Vorce

Junior Deacon: W. G. McLargin

Senior Steward: Elwood A. Pinniger

Junior Steward: Otto Hartman

Tyler: Albert F. Camper

Trustee: Walter D. Skilliter

March 5, 1935: Stated Meeting

A communication was read from Most Worshipful Brother Carl W. Ellenwood, Grand

Master of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Ohio, ordering the Altar to be draped for 60 days in respect for the death of Right Worshipful Brother Asa Queen, Senior Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge.

March 19, 1935: Annual Inspection

23 Brethren of Genoa Lodge gathered in the Lodge room for the Annual Inspection. Due to there being no candidates this year, a substitute candidate was used and the Entered

Apprentice Degree was put on for the Inspecting officer. Inspecting the Lodge was Right Worshipful Brother George F. Sprunk, Lecturer for the 11th Masonic District, who reported favorably on the business of the evening. Membership of the Lodge numbered 137 Brethren.

November 19, 1935: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Edwin E. Digby

Senior Warden: Burnett H. Poggemeyer

Junior Warden: Ernest G. Vorce

Secretary: George Weis

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Chaplain: Rev. Paul O. David

Senior Deacon: Elwood A. Pinniger

Junior Deacon: Chester A. McLargin

Senior Steward: Otto R. Hartman

Junior Steward: A. E. Miley

Tyler: Albert F. Camper

Trustee: Burt A. Bell

March 3, 1936: Stated Meeting

A communication from Most Worshipful Brother Elmer R. Arn, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Ohio, notifying the Lodge of the death of Most Worshipful Brother Charles L. Minor, Past Grand Master of Ohio in 1926-1927. Out of respect for the death of this prominent Mason, Genoa Lodge resolved to drape the altar in mourning for a period of sixty days.

April 7, 1936: Stated Meeting

A ballot was had on the petition of Mr. C. Willard Rice and found clear. Worshipful Brother Rice would later go on to be Master of Genoa Lodge in 1941.

May 5, 1936: Annual Inspection

43 members of Genoa Lodge and 25 visitors gathered in the Lodge room to witness Brother Clyde G. Hederman being raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. The Lodge was inspected by Right Worshipful Brother George Sprunk, District Lecturer for the 11th

Masonic District, who reported favorably on the business of the evening. Membership of the Lodge numbered 157 Brethren.

November 17, 1936: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to lead Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Burnett H. Poggemyer

Senior Warden: Ernest G. Vorce

Junior Warden: Elwood A. Pinniger

Secretary: George C. Weis

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Senior Deacon: Chester A. McLargin

Junior Deacon: William Clark

Senior Steward: A. E. Miley

Junior Steward: C. Willard Rice

Chaplain: Edwin E. Digby

Tyler: Albert F. Camper

March 16, 1937: Annual Inspection

At the beginning of the meeting, a notice from the Grand Lodge of Ohio was read. It pertained to the recent passing of Most Worshipful Brother Frank M. Ransbottom, Past Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Ohio in 1921. In token of respect, all Lodges in Ohio were ordered to drape the Altar for a period of sixty days.

60 Brethren of Genoa Lodge with 22 visitors, gathered in the Lodge room to witness the raising of Brother Harold Ellsworth Crookton to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. Brother Crookton became very active in the affairs of the Lodge, and served as Secretary for many years. The Lodge was inspected by Right Worshipful Brother Milton C. Boesel, who reported favorably on the business of the meeting.

April 15, 1937: Special Meeting

1300 Brethren from the 33 Blue Lodges in the 11th Masonic District (14 were present from Genoa Lodge) gathered in the Civic Theater in Toledo, Ohio. Each Master from each Blue Lodge declared his Lodge open. Acting on a dispensation granted by Most Worshipful Brother John Phillip Perry, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Ohio, the Brethren from the District met for the purpose of conferring the Master Mason Degree on Brother Frederick J. Groll.

June 25, 1937: Special Meeting

23 Brethren from Genoa Lodge and 29 visitors from 8 different Lodges met at Genoa Lodge to raise Brother Edward C. Pohlman to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. The

Lodges represented at the meeting were: Calumet #612, Lotus #625, Port Lawrence #685, Portage #351, Northern Light #40, Bryan #215, Yondota #572, and Middleburg (Pennsylvania) #619. Worshipful Master Burnett H. Poggemeyer handed the gavel to Worshipful Brother Max J. Wood, Worshipful Master of Yondota Lodge, who presided over the meeting. Many Brethren from Genoa and other Lodges reported excellent degree work for the evening.

September 16, 1937: Constitution Night

Genoa Lodge met for the purpose of celebrating the 150th anniversary of the Constitution of the United States of America. The evening started with Patriotic music, followed by the Reading of the Constitution and what it stands for. The Brethren then listened to an address from Senator William Borah (R-Idaho) on the National Broadcast System. Membership of the Lodge numbered 157 Brethren.

November 16, 1937: Annual Installation of Officers

The following officers were installed to serve Genoa Lodge for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Ernest G. Vorce

Senior Warden: Elwood A. Pinniger

Junior Warden: Chester A. McLargin

Secretary: Harold E. Crookton

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Senior Deacon: C. Willard Rice

Junior Deacon: Donald Johnson

Senior Steward: Edward Pohlman

Junior Steward: C. Johnson

Chaplain: Burnett H. Poggemeyer

Tyler: Albert F. Camper

Trustees: Walter Sampsen, Burt A. Bell, E. Camper

January 18, 1938: Past Masters Night

53 Brethren from Genoa Lodge and 14 visitors gathered in the Lodge room for Genoa Lodges First Annual Past Masters Master Mason Degree. During these annual nights, the Past Masters of Genoa Lodge assume the stations of officers to confer the Master Mason degree on one candidate. WB Theodore K. Lorenzen acted as the Worshipful Master, WB Dale Bumpus as Senior Warden, WB George Cheney as Junior Warden, WB Burnett H. Poggemeyer as Senior Deacon, WB Walter Samson as Junior Deacon, and WB S. M. Taylor as Chaplain. Together, they raised Brother Perry W. Buchanan to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason in a fine manner.

March 15, 1938: Annual Inspection

78 Brethren of Genoa Lodge with 27 visitors gathered in the Lodge room for the Annual Inspection, and to witness the raising of Brother D. Roe Davis to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. The Lodge was inspected by Right Worshipful Brother Milton C. Boesel, District Deputy Grand Master for the 11th Masonic District, who reported favorably on the evening, and who also gave a talk on the condition of Lodges in the 11th District, reporting that Genoa Lodge was doing very well. This was the first year that the inspecting officer was titled District Deputy Grand Master, as inspecting officers had previously been called District Lecturer. The title of DDGM is still used to this day.

April 5, 1938: Stated Meeting

A ballot was had on the petition of Mr. Van Buren Evans, who subsequently was elected to membership. Worshipful Brother Evans would go on to be the Master of Genoa Lodge in 1943.

April 19, 1938: Stated Meeting

A ballot was had on the petition of Mr. Ross W. Kreager, who subsequently was elected to membership. Worshipful Brother Kreager would go on to be Master of Genoa Lodge in 1944. He also would go on to become the Grand High Priest of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons in Ohio, receiving the awards of Knight of the York Grand Cross of Honour, Order of the Purple Cross of York, and Knight Commander of the Temple. He served the Scottish Rite Valley of Toledo as Commander-in- Chief of Toledo Consistory from 1967-1969 and was awarded the 33rd Degree. Membership of the Lodge numbered 162 Brethren.

November 15, 1938: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing year:

Worshipful Master: Elwood A. Pinniger

Senior Warden: Chester A. McLargin

Junior Warden: C. Willard Rice

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Secretary: Harold E. Crookton

Chaplain: Burnett H. Poggemeyer

Senior Deacon: Harold D. Lusher

Junior Deacon: Bernard F. Mittendorf

Senior Steward: Van Buren Evans

Junior Steward: Ross W. Kreager

Tyler: Alfred F. Camper

Trustee: Ernest G. Vorce

January 3, 1939: Stated Meeting

To aid in the preparation of meals, the Lodge voted to purchase 2 - 18 quart double boilers for the kitchen. Total cost for both was $5.50.

February 3, 1939: Special Event

The Father and Sons Banquet was a successful evening, and involved many Brethren. The Entertainment Committee consisted of four Brethren, the Table Committee consisted of two, the Games Committee consisted of five, and the Receiving Committee consisted of four.

October 27, 1939: Special Celebration

Genoa Lodge had a 70-Year birthday party, with many in attendance. All Masons were invited to bring their wives, and all Eastern Stars were invited to bring their husbands. Brother Leon C. Smith was the Chairman of this special event. Ticket sales totaled $51.90.

Membership of the Lodge numbered 168 Brethren.

November 21, 1939: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Chester A. McLargin

Senior Warden: C. Willard Rice

Junior Warden: Harold D. Lusher

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Secretary: Harold E. Crookton

Chaplain: Elwood A. Pinniger

Senior Deacon: Van Buren Evans

Junior Deacon: Ross W. Kreager

Senior Steward: Radcliff F. Robinson

Junior Steward: Paul A. David

Tyler: Albert F. Camper

Trustee: Burnett H. Poggemeye 

February 22, 1940: Friendship Event

To facilitate friendship among the members and show appreciation for fathers and sons,

the Lodge again sponsored a successful Father & Son Banquet. The cost of the tickets was 0.50 per father and $0.50 per son, except that any additional sons were only $0.25 apiece.

April 13, 1940: Special Meeting

98 Brethren were present at the George Washington Memorial in Alexandria, VA. to

confer the Master Mason Degree on Brother John W. Messimore. Brethren from various

jurisdictions participated, including the New York City Square Club Fellow Craft Team and Brethren from Starr King Lodge of Massachusetts.

May 14, 1940: Special Meeting

Ninety Brethren crowded the Lodge Room for the conferral of the Master Mason Degree

on Brothers Milo L. Cowles and James R. Brinley. The second section of the degree was

conferred by the New York City Square Club officers.

September 24, 1940: Special Meeting

The Lodge Stewards, Brothers Radcliff F. Robinson and Paul A. David chaired a

Rededication Night at Genoa Lodge. The evening included a Ceremony of Rededication, and concluded with a Circle of Friendship about the Altar. Opening and Closing Prayers were offered by Reverend Brother Paul O. David. Membership of the Lodge numbered 168 Brethren.

November 19, 1940: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: C. Willard Rice

Senior Warden: Harold D. Lusher

Junior Warden: Van Buren Evans

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Secretary: Harold E. Crookton

Chaplain: Burnett H. Poggemeyer

Senior Deacon: Ross W. Kreager

Junior Deacon: Harold R. Sherk

Senior Steward: Joseph S. Mizner

Junior Steward: Thomas A. Hummel

Tyler: Albert F. Camper

Trustee: Earl F. Camper

January 21, 1941: Annual Past Master's

Night

The Past Masters Night was in conjunction with a Stated Meeting night. Sixty Brethren were present to see the Past Masters raise Brother Harry A. Mizner to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason.

February 25, 1941: Father & Son

Banquet

The Father &; Son Banquet once again was a great success. To insure the smooth planning and execution there were many committees, including Ticket Committee ($0.50 for fathers and $0.25 for sons), Decorations Committee, Dinner Committee, Reception Committee and Tables & Chairs Committee. Brother Radcliff F. Robinson was the Master of Ceremonies for the event.

April 1, 1941: Annual Inspection

65 Brethren attended the Annual Inspection to share in the initiation of Mr. Howard H. Harpel  to the degree of Entered Apprentice. A dinner was prepared and served by the ladies of the Eastern Star before the commencement of the meeting. They charged the Lodge $0.50 per

meal.

September 16, 1941: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Wayne L. Cowles. Brother

Cowles went on to achieve many Masonic honors, including Master of Genoa Lodge, Knight of the York Cross of Honour and Order of the Purple Cross of York. Membership of the Lodge numbered 166 Brethren.

November 18, 1941: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Harold D. Lusher

Senior Warden: Van Buren Evans

Junior Warden: Ross W. Kreager

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Secretary: Burnett H. Poggemeyer

Chaplain: Ernest G. Vorce

Senior Deacon: Harold R. Sherk

Junior Deacon: Thomas A. Hummell

Senior Steward: Milo L. Cowles

Junior Steward: Lee Robinson

Tyler: Albert F. Camper

Trustee: Burnett H. Poggemeyer

December 2, 1941: Stated Meeting

The Superintendent of Walbridge Schools, Brother Olen Slough and 16 other Brethren

from Walbridge surprised WB Lusher by showing up and presenting him with a top hat. Brother Slough, it is said, gave a very interesting talk in conjunction with the presentation.

January 20, 1942: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Earl Ray Warnke. Brother

Warnke had a very long tenure at Genoa Lodge, and received an award for 70-Years of Service to the Lodge in the 2011-2012 Masonic year.

June 9, 1942: Special Meeting

35 members of Genoa Lodge and 28 visitors were in attendance for the conferring of the

Master Mason Degree on Brothers Charles Harpel and Edward Berger. The Degree Team of O-Ton-Ta- La Grotto was in attendance, and portrayed the second section of the Master Mason Degree for both Candidates.

September 23, 1942: Supreme Council,

AASR - NMJ Brother Ralph H. McOuat was crowned an Honorary 33rd Degree Member of the Supreme Council, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction. He is the first member of Genoa Lodge to receive this honor.

October 20, 1942: Stated Meeting

As with many Masonic Lodges during this period, Genoa Lodge struggled because many

of its members were deployed overseas during World War II. At this meeting the Brethren voted to remit the dues of all the Brethren who were members in the Armed Services of the United States. The Lodge would, however, accept the $1.50 per capita of the Grand Lodge of F&AM of Ohio Membership of the Lodge numbered 166 Brethren.

November 17, 1942: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Van Buren Evans

Senior Warden: Ross W. Kreager

Junior Warden: Harold R. Sherk

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Secretary: Harold E. Crookton

Chaplain: S. Floyd Angus

Senior Deacon: Paul A. David

Junior Deacon: Harry M. Drayton

Senior Steward: Paul M. Johnson

Junior Steward: Wayne L. Cowles

Tyler: Albert F. Camper

Trustee: Edwin E. Digby

January 19, 1943: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Glenn A. Marsh. Brother Marsh went on to achieve many Masonic honors, including Master of Genoa Lodge.

February 2, 1943: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Alvin W. Felbinger. Brother Felbinger also went on to achieve many Masonic honors, including Master of Genoa Lodge.

March 2, 1943: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Dewey M. Widmer. Brother Widmer went on to achieve many Masonic honors, including Master of Genoa Lodge and Knight of the York Cross of Honour.

October 5, 1943: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. John W. Sherk. Along with Brothers Marsh, Felbinger and Widmer above, Brother Sherk also went on to be elected Master of Genoa Lodge.

November 2, 1943: Annual Meeting

Amidst all the other business of the Annual Meeting, a petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Roger C. Hesselbart. Brother Hesselbart joined the ranks of all the other Brethren who petitioned the Lodge this year and went on to later become Master of Genoa Lodge. Membership of the Lodge numbered 176 Brethren.

November 16,1943: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Ross W. Kreager

Senior Warden: Harold R. Sherk

Junior Warden: Paul A. David

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Secretary: Harold E. Crookton

Chaplain: Ernest G. Vorce

Senior Deacon: Paul M.Johnson

Junior Deacon: Wayne L. Cowles

Senior Steward: Glenn A. Marsh

Junior Steward: Alvin W. Felbinger

Tyler: Albert F. Camper

Trustee: Earl F. Camper

December 7, 1943: Stated Meeting

WB Kreager appointed the following committees for the Lodge year: Finance Committee;

Grievance Committee; Lunch Committee; Masonic Home Endowment Fund Committee;

Masonic Instruction Committee; Music Committee; Past Masters Night Committee; Service Men Committee (this being the second anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor) Sick Committee and Tickets Committee.

December 21, 1943: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Fred P. Byers. Brother Byers was one of six brethren who petitioned the Lodge in 1943 and later went on to be elected Master of

Genoa Lodge.

May 9, 1944: Special Meeting

The Secretary read a card from A. Townsend, the Secretary of Peal Harbor Lodge #598 of

Honolulu, HI regarding the recent visitation to their Lodge of Genoa Lodge Brother Russell E. Rice, who was serving in the Armed Forces in Hawaii at the time.

June 6, 1944: Stated Meeting

The Master reported that on May 24th he received word that Mr. Robert Martin Tank was home on leave from the military, and was prepared to receive his Entered Apprentice Degree. Because there wasn‘t enough time to call a Special Meeting for the purpose, the Master contacted the Master of Boaz Lodge #669 in Toledo, and Boaz Lodge conferred the Entered Apprentice Degree on Brother Tank on May 26th as a courtesy candidate. WB  Kreager  was on hand to present the E.A. Lecture to our newest Brother.

November 3, 1944: Special Celebration

The brethren of Genoa Lodge gathered to celebrate the Lodges 75th birthday. The

Committee consisting of Chairman WB Elwood Pinniger, and Brothers Harold Sherk, Macy

Smith and WB George Cheney made quite a production of the event, and it was well attended and very well received. Membership of the Lodge numbered 186 Brethren.

November 21,1944: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Harold R. Sherk

Senior Warden: Paul M. Johnson

Junior Warden: Wayne L. Cowles

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Secretary: Harold E. Crookton

Chaplain: Ross W. Kreager

Senior Deacon: Glenn A. Marsh

Junior Deacon: Alvin W. Felbinger

Senior Steward: John W. Sherk

Junior Steward: Macy W. Smith

Tyler: Albert F. Camper

Trustee: Ernest G. Vorce

February 2, 1945: Special Event

The annual Father & Sons Banquet, which has been a tradition at the Lodge for many

years now, is again a great success. The Chairman, WB Elwood Pinniger and Brothers Wayne Cowles and Paul Johnson did a great job with the event, as it paid for itself and no bills were read into the minutes.

March 20, 1945: Annual Inspection 

Frederic M. Williams was the Inspection candidate this year, which was conducted in the Fellow Craft Degree. The District Deputy Grand Master RWB Vernon S. Amos reported very favorably on the event as well as on the administration of Genoa Lodge. In particular he mentioned the importance of the Masonic Home and Masonic Service Men Committees, and the good work they were doing to help others.

June 19, 1945: Stated Meeting

85 brothers were present for the evenings events, which included a dinner followed by two Master Mason degrees. Additionally, a petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. James E. Ryan. Brother Ryan later went on to be elected as Master of Genoa Lodge.

November 6, 1945: Annual Meeting

The Audit Committee Report showed that the total expenditures for the year were $1,708.19.

The biggest expense item was Lunches and Entertainment, which totaled $608.07. The next biggest expenditure was Grand Lodge dues (per-capita) which totaled $378.00, closely followed by rent at $350.00. Membership of the Lodge numbered 196 Brethren.

December 5, 1945: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Paul M. Johnson

Senior Warden: Wayne L. Cowles

Junior Warden: Glenn A. Marsh

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Secretary: Harold E. Crookton

Chaplain: Ross W. Kreager

Senior Deacon: Alvin W. Felbinger

Junior Deacon: John W. Sherk

Senior Steward: Macy W. Smith

Junior Steward: Roger C. Hesselbart

Tyler: Albert F. Camper

Trustee: Theodore K. Lorenzen

January 15, 1946: Stated Meeting

62 brethren were in attendance this evening, which the Master had declared to be Past

Masters Night. Instead of portraying the Master Mason degree, the Past Masters took part in

portraying 2-Fellow Craft degrees instead; different officers for each candidate. Candidates were Brother Howard A. Layman and Brother Russell R. Layman. It was a long meeting that evening, as all three degrees were opened and closed in due form for various reasons, and the regular business had to be attended to as well. In addition to everything else, four petitions were presented for first reading and assigned to committees.

February 5, 1946: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Albert J. Cairl. Brother Cairl went on to achieve many Masonic honors, including Master of Genoa Lodge.

February 19, 1946: Stated Meeting

This was a busy time for the Lodge, with new petitions coming in rapidly. Due to all the

membership activity, other events had to be postponed or skipped. In addition to all the regular business at this meeting, the Master postponed the annual Fathers & Sons Banquet, and conferred four Fellow Craft degrees.

October 1, 1946: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Spencer J. Stewart. Brother Stewart later was elected Master of Genoa Lodge, and served the Lodge as Chaplain in the latter part of the century.

October 30, 1946: Special Event

The Brethren of the Lodge came together to celebrate the 77th Birthday of Genoa Lodge

with their annual Birthday Party. The Committee consisting of Brother John Sherk and WBs Ernest Vorce and Ross Kreager was commended on a job well done, and the event was very well attended.

November 5, 1946: Annual Meeting

In addition to the other regular business of the evening, a petition for first reading was

presented on behalf of Mr. Max F. Geldine. Brother Geldine is the third brother who petitioned the Lodge in 1946 and went on to become Master of Genoa Lodge. Membership of the Lodge numbered 211 Brethren.

December 3, 1946: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Wayne L. Cowles

Senior Warden: Glenn A. Marsh

Junior Warden: Alvin W. Felbinger

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Secretary: Harold E. Crookton

Chaplain: Elwood A. Pinniger

Senior Deacon: John W. Sherk

Junior Deacon: Macy W. Smith

Senior Steward: Roger C. Hesselbart

Junior Steward: Fred P. Byers

Tyler: Albert F. Camper

Trustee: Ross W. Kreager

January 21, 1947: Stated Meeting

79 Brethren were on hand for this Past Masters Degree Night. Because it was a Stated Meeting there was much business to conduct. Nevertheless, Brother Spencer J. Stewart received the Master Mason Degree in very fine manner.

March 11, 1947: Special Meeting

Brother Max F. Geldine was rasied to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason by the Square Club of the Erie Ordinance Depot. Brother Rollie McCloud presided over the degree, and the 22 visitors swelled attendance for the evening to a total of 57 brethren.

October 21, 1947: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. John F. Werner. Brother Werner was very active over the years with the establishment of a Temple Company, and also served Genoa Lodge as its Master.

October 22, 1947: Special Event

In keeping with a long-established tradition, the Brethren celebrated the Lodge's Birthday with a birthday party to commemorate 77 years of service to the community and to mankind. The Committee consisted of Brothers Glenn Marsh, Robert Pohlman and Dewey Widmer. Membership of the Lodge numbered 223 Brethren.

November 18, 1947: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Glenn A. Marsh

Senior Warden: Alvin W. Felbinger

Junior Warden: John W. Sherk

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Secretary: Harold E. Crookton

Chaplain: Ross W. Kreager

Senior Deacon: Macy W. Smith

Junior Deacon: Roger C. Hesselbart

Senior Steward: Fred P. Byers

Junior Steward: Dewey M. Widmer

Tyler: Albert F. Camper

Trustee: Harold D. Lusher

February 24, 1948: Special Event

A long-standing tradition continued, with another Fathers & Sons Banquet evening. Once again it was very well received, thanks to the hard efforts of its Chairman this year, Brother John W. Sherk.

April 6, 1948: Annual Inspection

94 Brethren were on hand to see Genoa Lodge initiate Brother Charles E. Connor as an

Entered Apprentice. Brother Robert W. Pohlman was in charge of the dinner preceding the degree-work, and it was greatly appreciated by everyone in attendance. Total cost to the Lodge for the dinner that evening: $8.34.

April 20, 1948: Stated Meeting

The Annual Inspection report by RWB James W. Long was read in Lodge and was very

complimentary. It stated that & The ritualistic work of the officers of this Lodge is among the best. The work of the Lodge and social activities are well thought out.... This is a live and going Lodge. It shows in the work of the officers and the cooperation of its members. The tradition of excellence in Genoa Lodge continues to be a long-standing one which endures to this day. As additional business to come before the Lodge, Brother Spencer J. Stewart moved that photos of all Past Masters of the Lodge be framed and hung in the Club Room. WB Marsh appointed him Chairman of the Committee, along with WBs Alvin Felbinger, Ross Kreager, Elwood Pinniger and Brother Emerson Marsh. Also at this meeting, a petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Gordon A. Claus. Brother Claus went on to achieve many Masonic honors, including Master of Genoa Lodge.

June 1, 1948: Stated Meeting

24 visitors and 17 members were present for this meeting to see Brother Clarence R. Smith receive the Master Mason Degree. The degree was portrayed by the Toledo Scale Fellow Craft Team.

September 21, 1948: Stated Meeting

Brother Macy Smith moved and Brother Dewey Widmer seconded the motion that the Lodge procure and offer 25-year pins to all Brethren who have achieved that many years of service to the Lodge. This practice continues today, and has since expanded to include additional service award pins as well. Membership of the Lodge numbered 230 Brethren.

December 7, 1948: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Alvin W. Felbinger

Senior Warden: John W. Sherk

Junior Warden: Macy W. Smith

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Secretary: Harold E. Crookton

Chaplain: Ross W. Kreager

Senior Deacon: Roger C. Hesselbart

Junior Deacon: Fred P. Byers

Senior Steward: Dewey M. Widmer

Junior Steward: Spencer J. Stewart

Tyler: Albert F. Camper

Trustee: Glenn A. Marsh

February 22, 1949: Special Event

The Fathers & Sons Banquet hosted by the Lodge continues to be an important part of

the Masonic year for the Lodge, and all the Brethren look forward to it. This year the committee responsible for its success consisted of Macy Smith, John Werner and Ervin Schimmer.

April 5, 1949: Annual Inspection

At the Annual Inspection this year, two Brethren were on hand to receive their respective Fellow Craft Degrees. After receiving their Degrees, Brothers Eugene Rice and Richard Crookton  were addressed by the District Deputy Grand Master RWB Henry G. Stahl, and informed that they had joined one of the premier Lodges in the area. RWB Stahl went on to report very favorably on the events of the evening.

April 19, 1949: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Robert G. Widmer. Brother Widmer went on to achieve many Masonic honors, including Master of Genoa Lodge. In the 2008-2009 Masonic year, he received his 60Year service Award from Grand Master Charles R. Murphy.

June 7, 1949: Stated Meeting

Due to the large number of candidates petitioning the Lodge, the brethren had to do

multiple degrees some evenings. This evening was a good example, with three Master Mason Degrees conferred on Brothers Robert Widmer, Dwight Slater and Lester Henningsen after the regular business of the Stated Meeting had concluded.

September 6, 1949: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Walter C. Boday. Brother Boday was active in several Masonic bodies, and also served as Master of Genoa Lodge. In the 2008-2009 Masonic year, he received his 60Year service Award from Grand Master Charles R. Murphy.

October 18, 1949: Stated Meeting

103 Brethren were present for the raising of two Brethren, Brothers Howard A. Grabow

and Cameron E. Bridgeman to the sublime degree of Master Mason. Brother Ackerman

presided, and brethren of the New York City Square Club joined him in taking part.

Membership of the Lodge numbered 233 Brethren.

November 15, 1949: Annual

Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: John W. Sherk

Senior Warden: Macy W. Smith

Junior Warden: Roger C. Hesselbart

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Secretary: Harold E. Crookton

Chaplain: Harold R. Sherk

Senior Deacon: Fred P. Byers

Junior Deacon: Dewey M. Widmer

Senior Steward: Spencer J. Stewart

Junior Steward: John F. Werner

Tyler: Thomas L. Scott

Trustee: Alvin W. Felbinger

November 18, 1949: Special

Celebration

The Brethren of Genoa Lodge celebrated the Lodge‘s 80th Birthday party with much

fanfare. Brother Macy Smith Chaired the event, and in conjunction with the events of the

evening passed the hat to raise money for Masonic Charity.

December 6, 1949: Stated Meeting

Brother Roger Hesselbart announced the formation of a Lodge Fellow Craft Club on

December 4th. He invited any other brothers who were interested to join the club as well. He

proposed that the Lodge purchase a  Fellow Craft Club Jewel for every Brother who works on the Fellow Craft Club and has 80% participation.

March 21, 1950: Emergent

Communication

The Brethren of Genoa Lodge conducted Masonic Funeral Services for their Tyler,

Brother Thomas L. Scott. He had passed away on March 18, while preparations were being

made for his 64th birthday 9 days later. The office of Tyler was occupied on a pro-tempore

basis for the remainder of the Masonic year.

April 18, 1950: Stated Meeting

In addition to the regular business of the evening, five Brerthren received their Fellow

Craft Degrees at this meeeting. Brothers Lawrence Peterson, Robert White, Russell Yackee, Richard Keller and Donald Bennett all received their degrees in proper form, then were presented the Degree Lecture by Brother Dewey Widmer.

September 5, 1950: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Gerald E. Spurgeon. Brother

Spurgeon later became Master of Genoa Lodge, and ultimately received an award from the Grand Lodge of Ohio commemorating 60 years of service to the fraternity.

October 3, 1950: Stated Meeting

WB Ross Kreager, as Chairman of the By-Laws Revision Committee, presented a

proposal for second reading of new By-Laws for the Lodge. He also recommended that the

Lodge receive approval of the Grand Lodge that 400 copies be made. This would allow each of the members to have a copy, as well as each new member to receive one as he joins. The By-Laws were approved, and the motion for extra copies was passed. Membership of the Lodge numbered 245 Brethren.

November 21, 1950: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Roger C. Hesselbart

Senior Warden: Fred P. Byers

Junior Warden: Dewey M. Widmer

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Secretary: Harold E. Crookton

Chaplain: Clarence C. Hesselbart

Senior Deacon: Spencer J. Stewart

Junior Deacon: James E. Ryan

Senior Steward: Gordon A. Claus

Junior Steward: Max F. Geldine

Tyler: John F. Werner

Trustee: John W. Sherk

February 20,1951: Stated Meeting

44 Members and 52 visitors, for a total of 96 brethren crowded the Lodge Room for an

official visitation from Fort Industry Lodge #630 of Toledo. Fort Industry Lodge conferred the

Master Mason Degree on Brother David E. Sidner, with Brother Paul B. Doren presiding.

March 6, 1951: Annual Inspection

Much time and preparation went into the dinner preceding the Entered Apprentice Degree, and was provided by Brothers Fred Byers, John Werner and James Ryan. Mr. Norman D. Hughes received the Entered Apprentice Degree, and the evening was applauded by the District Deputy Grand Master, RWB Charles H. Strayer.

March 20, 1951: Stated Meeting

The pool table in the Club Room was in a state of disrepair, and there was much discussion about either repairing it or removing it altogether. Brother Eugene Rice offered to repair the table and cues at cost, and the brethren voted to accept his kind offer.

May 15, 1951: Stated Meeting

The Senior Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge of Ohio, RWB Thomas A. Reber was on hand for the Master Mason Degree conferral on Brother John L. Chambers. RWB Reber and

the District Deputy Grand Master RWB Charles Strayer were there to honor WB Alfred F.

Camper with a plaque commemorating his raising his 100th candidate this evening. In honor of WB Camper, the Master proclaimed this to be WB Albert F. Camper night at Genoa Lodge.

September 18, 1951: Stated Meeting

Fellow Craft robes needed to be replaced, and Brother Spencer J. Stewart presented a

cost structure to replace them. The Lodge voted to disburse a total sum of $225.00 to purchase 16 new robes.

October 2, 1951: Stated Meeting

Having been properly prepared and laid over, a By-Laws change was presented for vote

of the Brethren. Heretofore the Stated Meetings were scheduled to occur at 8:00pm on the first and third Tuesdays of every month, and the brethren present voted to change the official time of assembly to 7:30pm on the same evenings. Membership of the Lodge numbered 250 Brethren.

November 20, 1951: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Fred P. Byers

Senior Warden: Dewey M. Widmer

Junior Warden: Spencer J. Stewart

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Secretary: Harold E. Crookton

Chaplain: Roger C. Hesselbart

Senior Deacon: James E. Ryan

Junior Deacon: John F. Werner

Senior Steward: Max F. Geldine

Junior Steward: Albert J. Cairl

Tyler: Gordon A. Claus

Trustee: Roger C. Hesselbart

February 19, 1952: Stated Meeting

The Brethren had a long discussion regarding the purchase of leather aprons for the

Fellow Craft Team. Ultimately they elected to purchase fifteen of them despite the cost; they

were $1.00 apiece.

February 26, 1952: Special Event

The tradition of the Fathers &  Sons Banquet continued, and once again was very well attended and very well received. The committee members, Brothers Gordon Claus, Spencer Stewart and Max Geldine were commended for all their hard work to make it such a success.

March 18, 1951: Stated Meeting

WB Ross Kreager, Chairman of the Building Committee, reported on the progress of the

Committee for the Lodge to purchase and own its own building. He indicated that there were

several options under review, and the Brethren agreed that the Committee should continue its work in that regard.

May 6, 1952: Stated Meeting

WB Ross Kreager reported that he was able to procure the Past Masters& frame/board from The Valley of Toledo - AASR at no cost. It will hold the photographs of 100 Past Masters, and was very well received by the Brethren.

July 20, 1952: Special Event

Brother Spencer Stewart was charged with coordinating a picnic and Chaired a committee to conduct a Fellow Craft Picnic. Held at Bay Point, it was a resounding success.

November 4, 1952: Annual Meeting

Brother Irwin M. Johnson presented a demit request to Genoa Lodge. He petitioned

Ernest W. Schaefer Lodge #739 of Akron, Ohio, where he will become a Charter member of that Lodge. He was wished well by the Brethren. Membership of the Lodge numbered 260 Brethren.

November 18, 1952: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Dewey M. Widmer

Senior Warden: Spencer J. Stewart

Junior Warden: James E. Ryan

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Secretary: Harold E. Crookton

Chaplain: Ross W. Kreager

Senior Deacon: John F. Werner

Junior Deacon: Gordon A. Claus

Senior Steward: Albert J. Cairl

Junior Steward: Robert G. Widmer

Tyler: Max F. Geldine

Trustee: Fred P. Byers

December 2, 1952: Stated Meetng

Brother James Ryan announced that the Fellow Craft Team would paint the kitchen if

the Lodge would purchase the paint. It was approved by the brethren. Soon thereafter it was reported that the flooring needed to be replaced as well, and that expenditure was approved at the next Stated Meeting on December 16.

February 24, 1953: Special Event

With the ever-rising costs due to infolation, the Chairman of the Fathers And Sons Banquet

Brother Spencer Stewart reported that the cost of the event this year would be increased to

$1.10 per person.

March 17, 1953: Stated Meeting

Barton Smith Lodge #613 made an official visitation to Genoa Lodge with 46 members of

their Lodge in attendance. Their Fellow Craft Team was in attendance, and performed the

Fellow Craft degree on Brother Robert J. Cramer in due form.

August 4, 1953: Stated Meeting

Chairman of the Building Committee, WB Ross Kreager reported on the Committee And 

recommendations. Property at the corner of 8th and Main Streets, known as The Taylor Property; had become available at a cost of $18,750. Rental income was $125.00 per month, and Genoa Bank would finance $11,250.00. The Membership of the Lodge would need to come up with the remaining $7,500.00. After much discussion, the Master ordered the Committee to have a detailed report on the cost to each member at the first meeting in September.

September 1, 1953: Stated Meeting

After much discussion on the matter, the motion was passed that the Building

Committee keep looking at options other than the one proposed at the previous Stated Meeting. A further recommendation was made by several brethren that the Master appoint a Finance Committee; which he indicated he‘d take under advisement. Membership of the Lodge numbered 269 Brethren.

November 17, 1953: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Spencer J. Stewart

Senior Warden: James E. Ryan

Junior Warden: John F. Werner

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Secretary: Harold E. Crookton

Chaplain: Ross W. Kreager

Senior Deacon: Gordon A. Claus

Junior Deacon: Max F. Geldine

Senior Steward: Robert G. Widmer

Junior Steward: Gerald E. Spurgeon

Tyler: Albert J. Cairl

Trustee: Dewey M. Widmer

November 24, 1953: Special Meeting

Five candidates received their Entered Apprentice Degrees on this evening, each from a different presiding officer. Brother Alton Moritz received his degree from WB Spencer Stewart, Brother Joseph Latham received his from Brother H. F. Fleitcher of Lotus Lodge #625, Brother Rolla Ludwig from Brother James Ryan, Brother William Knowles from WB Roger Hesselbart, and Brother George Bowland from WB Dewey Widmer. It was a full evening, and by all accounts a fullfilling one as well.

January 19, 1954: Stated Meeting

There were 78 brethren in attendance for the Past Masters Degree Night his year. Brother George Bowland received a great degree, and WB Albert Camper was recognized for raising his 102nd candidate.

February 16, 1954: Stated Meeting

Two Master Masons received their degrees, and the Degree Lecture was given to seven Brethren. WB Spencer Stewart presented the Master Mason Lecture, and it was dramatized by the Vacationland Fellow Craft Team, which consisted of Members of Oliver H Perry Lodge #341 of Port Clinton.

April 20, 1954: Stated Meeting

30 members and 56 visitors were present to see Brother Robert Haack receive his

Master Mason degree. The Zenobia Craftsmen were on hand to do the degree work for the

evening, and Brother Haack received a great degree in the style of the Craftsmen Unit. Brother Carol N. White, Past Potentate of Zenobia Shrine also gave a talk on the meaning and aims of the Shrine, which was very well accepted.

May 4, 1954: Stated Meeting

For this evenings Master Mason degree, the Army Square Club conducted the work of the evening. Brother Junior Bauman received a very good degree, and the Brethren present

agreed that there were a number of benefits from having visiting groups portray the degrees on occasion.

October 19, 1954: Stated Meeting

A petition was presented on behalf of Mr. Donald C. Mallett. Brother Mallett was a long

time member of Genoa Lodge, then demitted to Oak Harbor Lodge #495, where he served as Worshipful Master in the 2002-2003 Masonic year.

November 9, 1954: Special Event

Brother James E. Ryan was the Chairman of the celebration of Genoa Lodge's 85th

Birthday Party. The event was a great success, and a great way for him to transition into the

position of Master of the Lodge. Membership of the Lodge numbered 278 Brethren.

November 16, 1954: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: James E. Ryan

Senior Warden: John F. Werner

Junior Warden: Gordon A. Claus

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Secretary: Harold E. Crookton

Chaplain: Ross W. Kreager

Senior Deacon: Max F. Geldine

Junior Deacon: Albert J. Cairl

Senior Steward: Gerald E. Spurgeon

Junior Steward: Walter C. Boday

Tyler: Robert G. Widmer

Trustee: Spencer J. Stewart

January 4, 1955: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. William T. Walters. Brother

Walters went on to achieve honors in his Masonic career, including Master of Genoa Lodge.

January 18, 1955: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Ellsworth F. Bittner. Brother

Bittner went on to achieve many Masonic honors, including Grand Marshal of the Grand

Chapter, RAM of Ohio, Knight of the York Cross of Honour and Master of Genoa Lodge.

Also at this meeting, WB Dewey Widmer gave a talk on the Toledo Masonic Bulletin, and

recommended that Genoa Lodge make application for a column when space becomes

available. The Lodge voted to participate in the Bulletin, and this long-standing relationship

continues today.

March 15, 1955: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Roy W. Dombrowski. Brother

Dombrowski went on to become very active in his Masonic career, and later served Genoa

Lodge as its Master.

April 19, 1955: Stated Meeting

Brother James C. Taylor was raised to the degree of Master Mason by his father, WB

Charles A. Taylor. Brother James C. Taylor afforded Genoa Lodge many years of service, and received a 50-Year Service Award in the 2004-2005 Masonic Year.

May 3, 1955: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Wesley V. Teems. Brother Teems became a very active Mason and ultimately was elected Master of Genoa Lodge.

October 12, 1955: Special Event

Genoa Council #138, Royal and Select Masons, was granted a Charter by the Grand

Council of Ohio and given permission to hold meetings in the Lodge Hall. Worshipful Brother

Ross Kreager was the first to serve as its Illustrious Master. Membership of the Lodge numbered 292 Brethren.

November 15, 1955: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: John F. Werner

Senior Warden: Gordon A. Claus

Junior Warden: Max F. Geldine

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Secretary: Harold E. Crookton

Chaplain: Ross W. Kreager

Senior Deacon: Albert J. Cairl

Junior Deacon: Robert G. Widmer

Senior Steward: Walter C. Boday

Junior Steward: Wesley V. Teems

Tyler: Gerald E. Spurgeon

Trustee: James E. Ryan

November 15, 1955: Annual Meeting

Upon his installation as Worshipful Master, WB John F. Werner appointed a Temple Building Fund Committee consisting of WB Ross Kreager, Chairman, WB Spencer Stewart and WB Roger Hesselbart. WB Kreager proposed that $50.00 made from a Fathers & Sons Banquet be taken from the Lodge Funds and be placed in a separate account to be called The Genoa Lodge Building Fund. Motion was made and carried.

November 19, 1955: Special Event

Genoa Assembly #107 - Order of Rainbow for Girls was officially instituted, and co-sponsored by Gertrude Chapter Order of the Eastern Star and Genoa Lodge #433. The Lodge granted permission to use the Lodge Room, and to split all the immediate costs 50%-50% with Gertrude Chapter. The Brethren also voted to buy the new Assembly 100 wrist aprons, their own American Flag, and a Rainbow Girls flag.

February 21, 1956: Stated Meeting

A difficult issue was addressed at this meeting, where the Brethren voted on unmasonic

Conduct charges against a Past Master of the Lodge. During this period Lodges were empowered to conduct trials against Brethren of their Lodge, with the penalties being either

reprimand, suspension or expulsion. The brother pleaded guilty of the charges preferred, and the Brethren voted to suspend him from membership for a period of one year. On April 17, by order of Grand Master MWB Frank W. Nicholas the matter was revisited, and this Past Master was expelled from Freemasonry.

March 20, 1956: Stated Meeting

After investigating a number of options, the Lodge voted to purchase a new Altar, Pedestals and Lights from WB Frank J. Stamm of Oak Harbor Lodge #495. These pieces of furniture are still used by the Lodge today, and the previous pedestals and Altar were donated

to the Knights of Columbus, Genoa Council.

April 17, 1956: Stated Meeting

Lodge dues were increased to $10.00 per year, with $4.00 to be appropriated to the Genoa Lodge Building Fund.

April 21, 1956: Special Meeting

98 Brethren were on hand for a visitation from Tyrian Lodge #500 of Detroit, Michigan.

Dispensations were read from the Grand Masters of Ohio and Michigan, and Tyrian Lodge exemplified the Michigan Ritual to confer the Master Mason Degree on their Brother Steve Drazinga. The event was so well received that a return visit to Tyrian by the Brethren of Genoa Lodge was planned, where they would confer the Ohio Ritual to exemplify the Master Mason Degree on one of their candidates.

September 18, 1956: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Lawrence E. Widmer. Brother

Widmer went on to achieve many Masonic honors, including Master of Genoa Lodge and Knight of the York Cross of Honour.

October 13, 1956: Special Meeting

Acting under dispensations of the Grand Masters of Ohio and Michigan, Genoa Lodge

traveled to Tyrian Lodge #500 of Detroit, Michigan, and conferred the Master Mason on their own candidate Brother Robert E. Samson. To make the event even more special, Brother Samsen was raised to the degree of Master Mason by his father, WB Walter R. Samsen.

November 6, 1956: Annual Meeting

In addition to the regular business of this annual meeting, petitions for degrees were

read on behalf of Mr. Robert W. Spurgeon and Mr. Leo E. Garey. Both of these Brethren went on to long distinguished careers in Freemasonry. Both received awards for fifty years of service to Genoa Lodge, and Brother Spurgeon went on to serve as Master of Genoa Lodge. Brother Garey moved to Findlay, Ohio and ultimately became a plural member of Findlay Lodge #227. In addition to serving as Master of Findlay Lodge, he also received the honors of Meritorious Service Award from the Valley of Toledo - AASR, and Knight of the York Cross of Honour. Membership of the Lodge numbered 292 Brethren.

November 20,1956: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Gordon A. Claus

Senior Warden: Max F. Geldine

Junior Warden: Albert J. Cairl

Treasurer: John E. Brunner

Secretary: Harold E. Crookton

Chaplain: George A. Claus

Senior Deacon: Robert G. Widmer

Junior Deacon: Gerald E. Spurgeon

Senior Steward: Wesley V. Teems

Junior Steward: Calvin S. Barrett

Tyler: Walter C. Boday

Trustee: John F. Werner

December 18, 1956: Stated Meeting

56 Brethren were on hand to share the conferral of the Master Mason Degree on Brother Arthur R. Peth. The degree was exemplified by The Army Square Club of Port Clinton, Ohio, which drew its membership primarily from Camp Perry Military Outfit.

February 5, 1957: Stated Meeting

Due to the rising costs of electricity, heat, telephone and janitorial services, it was

determined that the other bodies meeting in the building would need to pay rent to help defray these expenditures. As a result, Gertrude Chapter Order of the Eastern Star and Genoa Council R&SM were asked to pay a per-capita amount of $0.75 per member per year (or $75.00, whichever is greater), and the Genoa Assembly Rainbow for Girls was asked to pay a flat fee of $50.00 per year.

March 12, 1957: Special Event

Brother Albert J. Cairl conducted the Fathers; Sons Banquet, which was reported in the minutes as a very successful evening. Although the event lost almost $5.00 this year (receipts were $144.75 and disbursements were $149.60), it still was regarded as well worth the time, effort and expenditure.

April 15, 1957: Stated Meeting

A letter was read from the Deputy Grand Master of Ohio, RWB Andrew J. White,

congratulating the Brethren of Genoa Lodge on the Lodges Inspection. He indicated that ;In every respect, this is a splendid report, and the reading of it has given me such pleasure.

Genoa Lodge has my best wishes for its continued success; Once again, proof that the excellence of the Lodge has remained consistent throughout its history.

May 21, 1957: Stated Meeting

Mr. Robert Spurgeon was Initiated an Entered Apprentice, and his brother, the Junior

Deacon Gerald Spurgeon acted as Senior Deacon for the degree. Brother Gerald Spurgeon also presented his brother Brother Robert Spurgeon with his apron.

October 11, 1957: Emergent Communication

45 Brethren were present for the Masonic Funeral Service for the Lodges long-time

Treasurer, WB John E. Brunner. WB Brunner had passed away the day before, October 10,

1957. A long time servant of the Lodge, he had served Genoa Lodge as its Master in 1914 and 1915, later followed by a tenure as its Treasurer for over 30 years. Membership of the Lodge numbered 302 Brethren.

November 19, 1957: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Max F. Geldine

Senior Warden: Albert J. Cairl

Junior Warden: Robert G. Widmer

Treasurer: Albert F. Camper

Secretary: Harold E. Crookton

Chaplain: Ross W. Kreager

Senior Deacon: Gerald E. Spurgeon

Junior Deacon: Walter C. Boday

Senior Steward: Calvin S. Barrett

Junior Steward: William T. Walters

Tyler: Wesley V. Teems

Trustee: Gordon A. Claus

February 4, 1958: Stated Meeting

Five visitors joined the fifty members for this Past Masters night, bringing the total

attendance to 55 for the conferring of the Master Mason Degree on Brother Raymond I. Wenzel. The visitors were from Port Lawrence Lodge #685, and their Past Masters present were invited to participate in the degree.

April 1, 1958: Stated Meeting

Two candidates received their Master Mason degrees, Brothers Leonard Wicks and Wayne Bittner. The Master conferred the Master Mason Degree on Brother Wicks, but passed the gavel to Brother Ellsworth Bittner to raise his son Wayne E. Bittner to the degree of Master Mason.

April 15, 1958: Stated Meeting

Due to the cost of the materials presented to the candidates, a vote was taken to increase the fees of Initiation. This amendment to the By-Laws passed, increasing the fees from $40.00 to $55.00. this fee is in addition to the $20.00 Ohio Masonic Home fee. The new

fee of $75.00 would be effective immediately.

April 29, 1958: Special Event 

104 members of Genoa Lodge, 21 visitors and 26 members of St Omer Commandery #59 crowded the Lodge Room for a total of 151 Brethren. The purpose of the meeting was to present 3 50-Year service awards, and welcome the Junior Grand Warden, RWB Charles Strayer, who was on hand to make the presentations on behalf of the Grand Lodge of Ohio. The recipients were Brothers Fred E. Werner, John C. Werner and WB Albert F. Camper. St. Omer Commandery posted the colors, and many dignitaries were present. The recipients of the awards all were very pleased to provide informative and insightful remarks on their tenure in Genoa Lodge. Membership of the Lodge numbered 307 Brethren.

November 18, 1958: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Albert J. Cairl

Senior Warden: Robert G. Widmer

Junior Warden: Gerald E. Spurgeon

Treasurer: Albert F. Camper

Secretary: Harold E. Crookton

Chaplain: Spencer J. Stewart

Senior Deacon: Walter C. Boday

Junior Deacon: Wesley V. Teems

Senior Steward: Lawrence J. Petersen

Junior Steward: Junior E. Bauman

Tyler: William T. Walters

Trustee: Max F. Geldine

January 6, 1959: Stated Meeting

The Brethren received information from Mr. Paul Wyatt regarding oil painting of signs for

each of the bodies that meet in the building. The signs, consisting of eight separate panels,

would cost $87.50 for materials and labor. They voted to purchase the signs, and then bill the various bodies for their respective portions.

January 20, 1959: Stated Meeting

In conjunction with Past Masters Degree Night, the Chaplain WB Spencer J. Stewart

conducted a memorial service for all deceased Past Masters of Genoa Lodge. For each name read, there was a white carnation placed on the Altar as a token that their presence was missed by all the Brethren.

February 24, 1959: Special Event

The annual Fathers Sons Banquet has now been renamed the Fathers, Sons &

Daughters Banquet, and once again it was a great success. This years Chairman, Brother Gerald Spurgeon reported that the total attendance for the evening was 135 brothers and guests.

June 16, 1959: Stated Meeting

The Senior Grand Warden of Ohio, RWB Charles Strayer was in attendance along with

58 other Brethren, for the presentation of a 50-Year Service Award to Brother Richard M. Strohl. In conjunction with the event the Lodge hosted a fish fry, and the entire evening was very well received by all who were able to attend.

August 19, 1959: Emergent Communication

A Masonic Memorial Service was conducted for WB George I. Cheney, who served

Genoa Lodge as its Master in 1933. A 42-Year member of the Lodge, his funeral service was

very well attended by the Brethren.

November 10, 1959: Special Event

Brothers Robert Widmer and Gerald Spurgeon were the hosts of this years Birthday Party for the Lodge, which celebrated 90 Years of continuous service to the Genoa, Ohio community. It was a very successful event, and had great attendance from the members of the community at large, as well as the Lodge Brethren and their families. Membership of the Lodge numbered 305 Brethren.

November 17, 1959: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Robert G. Widmer

Senior Warden: Gerald E. Spurgeon

Junior Warden: Walter C. Boday

Treasurer: Albert F. Camper

Secretary: Harold E. Crookton

Chaplain: Dewey M. Widmer

Senior Deacon: Wesley V. Teems

Junior Deacon: William T. Walters

Senior Steward: Lawrence J. Petersen

Junior Steward: Junior E. Bauman

Tyler: Lawrence J. Petersen

Trustee: Albert J. Cairl

February 20, 1960: Special Meeting

There were 98 Brothers present for a visitation of Tyrian Lodge of Detroit, MI to confer the Master Mason Degree on a Brother utilizing the Michigan ritual. Dispensations from the Grand Masters of Michigan and Ohio were read, and the degree was presented in due and proper form according to the rutual of the Grand Lodge of Michigan.

March 8, 1960: Annual Inspection

104 Brethren packed the Lodge room for the Lodges Inspection in the Entered Apprentice Degree. The newest member of Genoa Lodge Brother Walter F. Knudson was welcomed by RWB L. Burge Smith, who was pleased to report on the very fine work of the evening, and on the wonderful administration of the Lodge records.

March 29, 1960: Special Event

The Fathers Sons & Daughters Banquet once again was a very successful, and spurred

discussions of the possibility of establishing a DeMolay Chapter at the Lodge. As a result at the next Stated Meeting on April 5th, the Master appointed a committee consisting of WB Dewey Widmer and Brother Wesley Teems to investigate the matter.

May 3, 1960: Stated Meeting

At this meeting, the Brethren voted to sponsor a Chapter of DeMolay. Shortly thereafter,

the Lodge received a letter from the International Supreme Council, Order of DeMolay thanking the brethren of Genoa Lodge #433 for their willingness to sponsor a Chapter.

August 8, 1960: Emergent Communication

52 Brethren were on hand to pay their last respects to WB Gordon A Claus, who passed

away on August 6, 1960. Having just served as Master of the Lodge in 1957, his death was a particularly hard blow to many of the brethren.

September 6, 1960: Stated Meeting

After the conclusion of the Stated Meeting, Henry Stanz Chapter Order of DeMolay

conferred the Initiatory Degree on three candidates in the lodge Room. After the degree work, they were thanked by the Master for sharing the degree with the Brethren of the Lodge.

October 4, 1960 Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. John F. Wilhelm. Brother

Wilhelm went on to achieve many Masonic honors, including Master of Genoa Lodge; recipient of the Distinguished Service Award of the Grand Chapter, Royal Arch Masons of Ohio and District Deputy Grand Master of the 11th Masonic District of Ohio. Membership of the Lodge numbered 303 Brethren.

November 15, 1960: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Gerald E. Spurgeon

Senior Warden: Walter C. Boday

Junior Warden: Wesley V. Teems

Treasurer: Albert F. Camper

Secretary: Harold E. Crookton

Chaplain: Spencer J. Stewart

Senior Deacon: William T. Walters

Junior Deacon: Lawrence J. Petersen

Senior Steward: Lawrence E. Widmer

Junior Steward: Ellsworth F. Bittner

Tyler: Junior E. Bauman

Trustee: Robert G. Widmer

December 3, 1960: Special Event

29 members of Genoa Lodge traveled to Tyrian Lodge in Detroit, Michigan to protray the

Ohio ritual for the 55 members of Tyrian Lodge who were present for the occasion. Dispensations were read from the Grand Masters of Ohio and Michigam pertaining to the event, after which Brother Roger D. Traver was raised to the degree of Master Mason in due and proper form.

December 6, 1960: Stated Meeting

A petition for degrees was read on behalf of Mr. Rodney J. Wilhelm. Over the years

Brother Wilhelm maintained plural memberships in Genoa Lodge as well as Oak Harbor Lodge, and went on to serve as Master of Oak Harbor Lodge in the year 2010.

February 14, 1961: Special Event

For the first time, the Fathers, Sons & Daughters Banquet was opened up to interested DeMolay  boys as well as to the traditional attendees. The only requirement was that in order to attend they must have procured a Masonic Sponsor.

June 5, 1961: Special Event

The very first Inspection of Ottawa Chapter, Order of DeMolay was conducted in the

Initiatory Degree in the Lodge Room. The Brethren of Genoa Lodge supported this new chapter with great pride that evening. The great tradition of DeMolay still has a strong presence in Genoa to this day.

November 14, 1961: Special Event

Brother Walter Boday was the host of the Lodges Birthday Party this year, and it was well received. It was a great evening with dinner and entertainment. Membership of the Lodge numbered 305 Brethren.

November 21, 1961: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Walter C. Boday

Senior Warden: Wesley V. Teems

Junior Warden: William T. Walters

Treasurer: Albert F. Camper

Secretary: Harold E. Crookton

Chaplain: Clarence E. Mallett

Senior Deacon: Lawrence J. Petersen

Junior Deacon: Junior E. Bauman

Senior Steward: Ellsworth F. Bittner

Junior Steward: Francis J. Magrum

Tyler: Lawrence E. Widmer

Trustee: Gerald E. Spurgeon

December 5, 1961: Stated Meeting

Brother Hary Reuss was raised to the degree of Master Mason by Brothers visiting from

other Lodges. All the degree work of the evening was presented by the Sun Oil Acacia Club, which consisted of brethren from many different Lodges, all of whom happened to work at the Sun Oil Company.

March 13, 1962: Annual Inspection

The Lodge was opened at 6:00pm, the colors were posted by Toledo Commandery #7,

introductions were conducted, and then the Brethren went to refreshment at 6:30pm for the

purpose of dinner prepared by the Eastern Star Ladies. 71 were present to enjoy the dinner.

Brother Alphonsus L. Barron received a very fine Master Mason degree, and the evening was very well done according to the Inspecting Officer, RWB Robert D. Sager.

March 27, 1962: Special Event

Brother William T. Walters organized the annual Fathers Sons and Daughters Banquet,

and the cost for everyone, regardless of age was $1.10 per plate.

May 18, 1962: Emergent Communication

69 Brethren were present at the Masonic Service conducted for the long-term Secretary

of the Lodge, Brother Harold E. Crookton, who passed away suddenly the day before, May 17, 1962. He was a 25 year Mason, and was to receive his 25-year Award at the Awards Night on May 26. Brother Crookton had served Genoa Lodge as its Secretary for nearly his entire tenure as a Mason.

September 18, 1962: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. E. LeRoy Williams. Brother

Williams went on to achieve honors in many different Masonic bodies, including Master of

Genoa Lodge, President of the International Shrine Recorders Association and Meritorious

Service Award from the AASR - Valley of Toledo. WB Williams also served Zenobia Shriners as their Recorder for almost 20 years, receiving the designation of Recorder Emeritus in the year 2011.

September 24, 1962: Emergent Communication

Masonic Services were conducted to honor our Past Master, Otto F. Camper, who passed away September 22, 1962. He was a 41-year Mason at the time of his death, and had served Genoa Lodge as its Master in 1925.

November 7, 1962: Emergent Communication

Masonic Services were conducted to honor our Past Master, Paul M. Johnson, who passed away November 5, 1962. He was a 20-year Mason at the time of his death, and had

served Genoa Lodge as its Master in 1946. Membership of the Lodge numbered 305 Brethren.

November 20, 1962: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Wesley V. Teems

Senior Warden: William T. Walters

Junior Warden: Lawrence E. Widmer

Treasurer: Ross W. Kreager

Secretary: Walter C. Boday

Chaplain: Kenneth W. Farrell

Senior Deacon: Junior E. Bauman

Junior Deacon: Ellsworth F. Bittner

Senior Steward: John F. Wilhelm

Junior Steward: Evert Suydam

Tyler: Francis J. Magrum

Trustee: Albert J. Cairl

January 15, 1963: Stated Meeting

The Lodge received a framed portrait of Brother George Washington as a as donation

from Brother William F. Smith. The Brethren were very appreciative of this generous gift, and promptly hung it on the wall - where it still remains to this day.

February 17, 1963: Emergent Communication

Masonic Services were conducted to honor our Past Master, Charles A. Taylor, who passed away February 14, 1963. He was a 45-year Mason at the time of his death, and had served Genoa Lodge as its Master in 1924.

February 23, 1963: Emergent Communication

Masonic Services were conducted to honor our Past Master, Burnett H. Poggemeyer, who passed away February 21, 1963. He had served Genoa Lodge as its Master in 1937.

March 26, 1963: Annual Inspection

The Lodge held its annual inspection, under dispensation of the Grand Master MWB

Ralph M. Francisco, in the Fellowship Hall of St. Johns United Church of Christ in Genoa. 105 Brethren joined in this special event, and the church proved to be a good venue for the degree work as well as for the dinner.

August 20, 1963: Stated Meeting

Haing been given an air conditioning unit by the bank, a committee was appointed at the

Stated Meeting on July 2 to investigate the matter of contracting to have it connected. The

committee made their report at this meeting, and the brethren voted to move forward with

having the air conditioning unit installed. The total price was not to exceed $225.00.

September 3, 1963: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Ronald A. Spencer. Brother

Spencer went on to achieve many Masonic honors, including Master of Genoa Lodge and

Knight of the York Cross of Honour . Membership of the Lodge numbered 305 Brethren.

November 19, 1963: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: William T. Walters

Senior Warden: Lawrence E. Widmer

Junior Warden: Junior E. Bauman

Treasurer: Ross W. Kreager

Secretary: Walter C. Boday

Chaplain: Max F. Geldine

Senior Deacon: Ellsworth F. Bittner

Junior Deacon: John F. Wilhelm

Senior Steward: Roy W. Dombrowski

Junior Steward: E. LeRoy Williams

Tyler: Evert Suydam

Trustee: Wesley V. Teems

January 7, 1964: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Richard D. Boltz, Jr.. Brother

Boltz went on to achieve many Masonic honors, including Master of Genoa Lodge .

January 21, 1964: Stated Meeting

It was determined that Genoa Lodge #433 needed to express its pride and presence in

the Genoa Community. As a result the Brethren voted to purchase road-side sign to place at the entrance to the Village Limits.

March 25, 1964: Special Event

The Brethren of Genoa Lodge traveled as a group to the Maundy Service, sponsored by

the AASR - Valley of Toledo. There was a good turn-out at the event, which was held at the

Toledo University Field House.

May 2, 1964: Special Event

Tyrian Lodge #500 of Detroit, Michigan once again visited Genoa Lodge to raise a

Brother to the degree of Master Mason according to the Michigan Ritual. Proper dispensations were read from the respective Grand Masters, and after raising Brother Donald Malone to the degree of Master Mason, the Master of Tyrian Lodge invited the Brethren of Genoa Lodge back to visit them. All the Brethren agreed it would need to be scheduled for the near future.

July 4, 1964: Emergent Communication

Masonic Services were conducted to honor our Past Master, Harold R. Sherk, who passed away July 1, 1964. He had served Genoa Lodge as its Master in 1945.

October 20, 1964: Stated Meeting

Due to the the large number of Brethren of the Lodge who had passed away during the year, WB Max Geldine and Senior Deacon Ellsworth Bittner prepared and presented a memorial service in honor of all who had passed away during the previous year. It was said to have been ;most impressive; Membership of the Lodge numbered 309 Brethren.

November 17, 1964: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Lawrence E. Widmer

Senior Warden: Junior E. Bauman

Junior Warden: Ellsworth F. Bittner

Treasurer: Ross W. Kreager

Secretary: Lawrence F. Hoyt

Chaplain: Dewey M. Widmer

Senior Deacon: John F. Wilhelm

Junior Deacon: Roy W. Dombrowski

Senior Steward: Robert W. Spurgeon

Junior Steward: Milton M. LaPlantz

Tyler: E. LeRoy Williams

Trustee: William T. Walters

February 2, 1965: Stated Meeting

There was a discussion regarding the Fathers & Sons Banquet, and how it had transitioned over the years to be a Fathers & Sons & Daughters Banquet, and then an event with the youth groups invited as well. The brethren voted to chage it back to its original form, a Fathers & Sons Banquet only.

February 23, 1965: Annual Inspection

Brother Thomas D. Penny received the Master Mason degree with a record-setting attendance of 118 Brethren - 45 members and 73 visitors. The District Deputy Grand Master RWB E. Roger Kirk was very complimentary, indicating that the excellence for which Genoa Lodge had become known continued on.

June 5, 1965: Special Event

A long-standing tradition continues. John Jacob Camper was the candidate this year

who received the Master Mason Degree in Detroit, Michigan, where Genoa Lodge was hosted by Tyrian Lodge #500. After the respective Grand Masters Dispensations were read, WBLawrence Widmer conferred the degree accordng to the Grand Lodge of Ohio ritual. The Brethren shared refreshments with their hosts after the Lodge was closed.

June 8, 1965: Special Meeting

Two Master Mason Degrees were conferred, both under special circumstances. Brother

Rodney J. Wilhelm had both sections of the degree conferred on him by Brother John F.

Wilhelm. Immediately thereafter, Brother Thomas Paul David received his degrees, with the second section being conferred by his Grandfather, WB Albert F. Camper. It was noted that his Grandson was the 105th Mason raised by WB Camper in his Masonic career.

November 2, 1965: Annual Meeting

Prior to the annual ballot for the election of officers, Brother Junior Bauman informed the

Brethren that he would not be able to serve the coming year as Worshipful Master, due to work commitments. As a result, there were several Brethren who missed the opportunity to serve in all the progressive line chairs while serving the Lodge as Officers. Membership of the Lodge numbered 310 Brethren.

November 23, 1965: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Ellsworth F. Bittner

Senior Warden: John F. Wilhelm

Junior Warden: Roy W. Dombrowski

Treasurer: Ross W. Kreager

Secretary: Walter C. Boday

Chaplain: William T. Walters

Senior Deacon: E. LeRoy Williams

Junior Deacon: Robert W. Spurgeon

Senior Steward: Richard D. Boltz, Jr.

Junior Steward: Glenn D. Sondergeld

Tyler: Milton M. LaPlantz

Trustee: Lawrence E. Widmer

December 21, 1965: Stated Meeting

The Master indicated that some remodeling was necessary on the Lodge Room. Brother Glenn Sondergeld repaired and updated the Altar lights, and a committee of six was appointed to investigate rebuilding the officers platforms in the East, West and South sides of the Lodge Room.

January 13, 1966: Emergent Communication

A Masonic Memorial Service was conducted for WB Walter R. Samsen, who served

Genoa Lodge as its Master in 1932. He had passed away two days earlier, January 11, 1966.

January 18, 1966: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. T. Dale Brandt. Brother Brandt

went on to serve the Lodge as Master, as well as Secretary of Genoa Lodge. Also at this

meeting, the Master drew attention to the new stage built in the Lodge Room, and thanked all the Brethren for their efforts.

February 1, 1966: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Ronald E. Cashen. Brother

Cashen went on to achieve many Masonic honors, including Master of Genoa Lodge three

times, and Grand Aide to the Grand Master of Royal & Select Masons of Ohio.

March 15, 1966: Stated Meeting

Standing Resolutions pertaining to Ottawa Chapter, Order of DeMolay were read and

adopted. They read in part as follows: 1) that the Lodge will continue to sponsor, encourage and assist the Chapter, 2) that the Lodge will continue to furnish the Lodge Hall rent free, and 3) that the total fees paid to the Chapter may be used as cash credit for the three degrees of Freemasonry in the Lodge, providing the petitioner is a member in good standing of Ottawa Chapter, and that he presents his petition to the Lodge before his 24th birthday.

April 5, 1966: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Edsel W. Burkholder. Brother

Burkholder later moved to Pennsylvania and ultimately became a dual member of Henry M.

Phillips Lodge #337 in Monongahela, Pennsylvania. He went on to serve Henry M. Phillips Lodge as its Master in 2006.

April 12, 1966: Special Meeting

A number of Brethren from from Jefferson Lodge #533 were in attendance for the

conferring of the Master Mason Degree on Brother Wayne F. Hamilton. Among the visitors in attendance was WB Harry Hasmilton, the Master of Jefferson Lodge, who also was Brother Wayne Hamiltons brother.

May 7, 1966: Special Event

The Brethren of Tyrian Lodge #500 of Detroit, Michigan joined the Brethren of Genoa

Lodge for a fish fry, followed by the conferral of the Fellow Craft Degree - Michigan form. After the proper dispensations were read, Tyrian Lodge conferred the degree on their member Brother Ted James. The members of Ottawa Chapter, order of DeMolay served the dinner, as well as pie and coffee after the conclusion of the evenings meeting.

November 1, 1966: Annual Meeting

WB Walter C. Boday, Lodge Secretary, announced that he would not be able to serve

as Secretary of the Lodge for the coming year due to the pressures of his job. He was thanked and commended by the brethren for his commitment and work over the past few years. Membership of the Lodge numbered 319 Brethren.

November 26, 1966: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: John F. Wilhelm

Senior Warden: Roy W. Dombrowski

Junior Warden: E. LeRoy Williams

Treasurer: Ross W. Kreager

Secretary: William L. Hammye

Chaplain: William T. Walters

Senior Deacon: Robert W. Spurgeon

Junior Deacon: Richard D. Boltz, Jr

Senior Steward: Rodney J. Wilhelm

Junior Steward: George E. Gerkensmeyer

Tyler: Glenn D. Sondergeld

Trustee: Ellsworth F. Bittner

February 11, 1967: Annual Inspection

100 Brothers gathered under dispensation of Grand Master Ben R. Evans for the

Inspection of the Lodge at St. Johns United Church of Christ in Genoa. Brother Dennis F. Wilhelm was raised to the degree of Master Mason in proper form by his father, WB John F. Wilhelm, and the District Deputy Grand Master, RWB Maurice J. Edgington praised the officers of the Lodge for their continued fine work. To thank the Church for allowing the Lodge to use their facility, they appropriated $25.00 to be given to the church.

February 28, 1967: Special Event

Once again the Fathers & Sons Banquet was a tremendous success. It was reported

that the entertainment was great, so the Brethren voted to send them a monetary thank you - in the amount of $25.00.

March 7, 1967: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Paul L. Wyatt. Brother Wyatt

went on to become quite active in the affairs of the Lodge, and served as its Master in 1975.

April 4, 1967: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. William E. Rost. Brother Rost

also became quite active in the affairs of the Lodge, and served as its Master in 1974.

May 6, 1967: Special Event

The Lodge Room was filled by Masons, ladies and guests for the presentation of Service

Awards, as well as for a Memorial Service to honor our Brethren who passed away during the year. RWB C. Robert Smith, the District Deputy Grand Master, was in attendance and very impressed with the events of the evening.

September 5, 1967: Stated Meeting

The Master reported on the remodeling which took place during the summer months. The kitchen was completely revamped, with cabinets, new paint, new tile on the floor, etc. The cost of materials was $142.65. The Brethren pitched in and donated the labor.

Membership of the Lodge numbered 337 Brethren.

November 11, 1967: Annual

Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Roy W. Dombrowski

Senior Warden: E. LeRoy Williams

Junior Warden: Robert W. Spurgeon

Treasurer: Ross W. Kreager

Secretary: William L. Hammye

Chaplain: William T. Walters

Senior Deacon: Richard D. Boltz, Jr

Junior Deacon: Rodney J. Wilhelm

Senior Steward: T. Dale Brandt

Junior Steward: William H. Cable

Tyler: George E. Gerkensmeyer

Trustee: John F. Wilhelm

December 5, 1967: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Charles H. Brick. Brother Brick

became active in Genoa Lodge, and went on to serve as Worshipful Master in 1973. Several

years later, he transferred his membership to Oak Harbor Lodge #495.

March 12, 1968: Annual Inspection

Brother Edward Bowman was the Inspection Candidate this year, where he received his

Fellow Craft Degree. The Lodge was honored to have a special Guest Inspector, the Junior

Grand Deacon, RWB Robert D. Sager. RWB Sager and the DDGM RWB Maurice J. Edgington both reported very favorably on the evening.

April 2, 1968: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Richard N. Ousky. Brother

Ousky went on to achieve several Masonic honors, among them, Master of Genoa Lodge.

May 11, 1968: Special Meeting

During the visit of Tyrian Lodge #500 to Genoa Lodge this year, WB Ralph Black of Tyrian Lodge conferred the Entered Apprentice degree in Michigan ritual on Mr. Robert Radclift of Detroit. There were 54 Brethren present for the event, and it was very well received.

August 11, 1968: Special Event

The Brethren of Genoa Lodge gathered at the Michigan summer cottage of WB Roy W.

Dombrowski for a Fellow Craft Picnic. It was a great event by all accounts, and everyone had a great time.

November 5, 1968: Annual Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Donald L. Ruthsatz. Brother

Ruthsatz went on to achieve numerous Masonic honors, including Meritorious Service Award -AASR Valley of Toledo, he was a prominent long time member of the Genoa Temple Company and served as Master of Genoa Lodge. Membership of the Lodge numbered 339 Brethren.

November 19, 1968: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: E. LeRoy Williams

Senior Warden: Robert W. Spurgeon

Junior Warden: Richard D. Boltz, Jr

Treasurer: Ross W. Kreager

Secretary: Lowell L. Hartman

Chaplain: Arthur F. Haack

Senior Deacon: T. Dale Brandt

Junior Deacon: William H. Cable

Senior Steward: Charles H. Brick

Junior Steward: William E. Rost

Tyler: Lowell D. Peppers

Trustee: Roy W. Dombrowski

January 7, 1969: Stated Meeting

The death of Past Master Van Buren Evans was reported to the Brethren; he had

passed away on December 21, 1968. There was no Masonic Service, but the brethren stood for a moment of silence in his honor and memory.

January 21, 1969: Stated Meeting

Whereas this is the 100th year of existence of Genoa Lodge #433, this years birthday

party would be an extra special one. As a result, WB Williams appointed eight Lodge leaders to serve on the Committee for the event, under the leadership of WB Gerald E. Spurgeon, Chairman. The date of the celebration was set for August 30, 1969, and confirmed by Grand Master MWB Robert A. Hinshaw.

March 4, 1969: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. James M. Baum. Brother

Baum went on to achieve many Masonic honors, including Master of Genoa Lodge, President of the 11th Masonic District Association, District Education Officer and Knight of the York Cross of Honour.

April 19, 1969: Special Event

Women were included in the bus trip to Tyrian Lodge #500 in Detroit this year. While Genoa Lodge conferred the Master Mason Degree on Brother Charles J. Noftz after the dinner, the ladies of Genoa Lodge and Tyrian Lodge enjoyed entertainment together.

September 16, 1969: Stated Meeting

A revision to the By-Laws was properly presented to increase the dues and the fees

structure. The proposal read that the dues be increased from $10.00 to $15.00 annually, and

that the fees for conferring the degrees be increased from $75.00 to $90.00. The revision was subsequently voted on and passed at the Stated Meeting on November 18th. The change was scheduled to become effective November 1, 1970. Membership of the Lodge numbered 342 Brethren.

November 25, 1969: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Robert W. Spurgeon

Senior Warden: Richard D. Boltz, Jr

Junior Warden: T. Dale Brandt

Treasurer: Ross W. Kreager

Secretary: E. LeRoy Williams

Chaplain: Arthur F. Haack

Senior Deacon: William H. Cable

Junior Deacon: Lowell D. Peppers

Senior Steward: William E. Rost

Junior Steward: Paul L. Wyatt

Tyler: Charles H. Brick

Trustee: Ellsworth F. Bittner

December 30, 1969: Special Meeting

The meeting was called specifically for the purpose of examining Brother John Ruthsatz

as to his proficiency in the Master Mason Degree. Due his being at home on leave from the Navy for a very brief period of time, he was very appreciative for this accommodation. He was presented a Masonic ring by his father, Brother Donald L. Ruthsatz.

January 13, 1970: Special Event

The Annual Past Masters and Officers Association dinner meeting was conducted at

Lathans Country House Restaurant, because the assemblage was too big for the Lodges

dining room. As usual, the business at hand included assignments for the Annual Past Masters Degree Night, which this year was scheduled for January 20th. The Master Mason candidate was to be Brother Loren Lau.

March 3, 1970: Stated Meeting

Due to the business-related relocation of the Junior Deacon to Alabama, he had to resign his position in the Lodge. As a result, a special election and installation was conducted under dispensation of the Grand Master. The newly installed officers were:

Junior Deacon: Charles H. Brick

Senior Steward: Paul L. Wyatt

Junior Steward: Donald L. Ruthsatz

Tyler: William E. Rost

March 10, 1970: Annual Inspection

After all the introductions were completed, the Master called the Lodge from Labor to

Refreshment and invited the boys of Ottawa Chapter, Order of DeMolay to enter and post

colors. This special touch was very well received by the Brethren, and the boys received a hearty round of applause.

May 21, 1970: Emergent Communication

A Masonic Memorial Service was conducted for WB Dale Bumpus, who served Genoa

Lodge as its Master in 1934. He had passed away two days earlier, May 19, 1970.

October 13, 1970: Special Meeting

The Master Mason Degree was conducted on two candidates, Brother Marvin D. Harrell

and Brother Tyrone L. Cairl. WB Albert J. Cairl, the father of Brother Cairl was very pleased to be able to preside when his son received the Master Mason Degree. Membership of the Lodge numbered 345 Brethren.

November 21, 1970: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Richard D. Boltz, Jr

Senior Warden: T. Dale Brandt

Junior Warden: William H. Cable

Treasurer: Ross W. Kreager

Secretary: William L. Hammye

Chaplain: Arthur F. Haack

Senior Deacon: Charles H. Brick

Junior Deacon: William E. Rost

Senior Steward: Donald L. Ruthsatz

Junior Steward: Richard N. Ousky

Tyler: Paul L. Wyatt

Trustee: Robert W. Spurgeon

December 15, 1970: Stated Meeting

Having received proper approval from the Grand Lodge Temple Committee , the Lodges

Building and Planning Committee recommended to the brethren that they purchase approximately 18 acres of land at the corner of Washington Street and Route 51 from Mrs. Laura Humlong Kingham of Chicago, granddaughter of Past Master WB William Humlong. The Brethren voted to utilize the services of Brother George Bowland during a 60-day option period to verify all the legal issues.

January 5, 1971: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Robert A. Prahl. Brother Prahl

became very active in the Lodge affairs; he was a prominent long time member of the Genoa Temple Company, and served as Master of Genoa Lodge both in 1979 and in 1991.

February 2, 1971: Stated Meeting

Of the 42 Brethren present, the vote was overwhelmingly in favor of purchasing the

property at the corner of Washington Street and Route 51 for a site on which to build a Lodge Building. As a result of this vote, a vote also was taken to form a non-profit corporation to manage the property, named Genoa Masonic Temple Company. That vote passed unanimously.

May 10, 1971: Special Event

The purchase of the land was finalized and the deed closed. The Brethren also learned that the house on the property rented for $75.00 per month, rather than the $65.00 per month as originally reported.

October 5, 1971: Stated Meeting

108 Brethren were in attendance for this meeting which was held by dispensation in the

Quarry at the Lodges new property on Washington Street. After introducing dignitaries, the Lodge was called from labor to refreshment for the purpose of enjoying fellowship over bean soup, johnny cakes and coffee. After going back to labor, Brother Ralph DeShilter received the Master Mason degree in proper form. All the tools were hand made, and the benches and tools were logs. It was a wonderful and memorable event. Membership of the Lodge numbered 339 Brethren.

November 9, 1971: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: T. Dale Brandt

Senior Warden: William H. Cable

Junior Warden: Charles H. Brick

Treasurer: Ross W. Kreager

Secretary: William L. Hammye

Chaplain: John F. Wilhelm

Senior Deacon: William E. Rost

Junior Deacon: Paul L. Wyatt

Senior Steward: Richard N. Ousky

Junior Steward: James E. Sheahan

Tyler: Donald L. Ruthsatz

Trustee: Richard D. Boltz, Jr.

Also at this meeting, WB John F. Wilhelm was installed by RWB Robert D. Sager,

Junior Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge of Ohio, as District Deputy Grand Master of the

11th Masonic District of Ohio. This was a singular occasion, as Genoa Lodge had never before had a District Deputy Grand Master come from its ranks. RWB John F. Wilhelm went on to distinguish himself as a strong and effective leader for the Grand Lodge of Ohio.

January 4, 1972: Stated Meeting

The long-time janitor for the Lodge, Alice Haar had submitted her resignation effective

October 1, 1971, resulting in the need for a replacement. As a result, the Trustees entered into an agreement with Mrs. Ellsworth (Viola) Bittner to serve as janitor for the fee of $6.00 per week, payable monthly, and renewable on an annual basis.

February 15, 1972: Stated Meeting

Due to the resignation of the Secretary for health reasons on January 18th, a special

election was held under dispensation of the Grand Master to fill the vacant office. WB Wesley V. Teems was regularly elected to fill the office of Secretary, and was duly installed into the position by RWB John F. Wilhelm.

June 3, 1972: Special Event

At the annual visitation of Tyrian Lodge, the Lodge voted to to have entertainment, and

to pay for the dinners of all the visiting Tyrian Brothers and their ladies. In addition to the price of the dinners for the 24 visitors, the entertainment cost $50.00.

June 13, 1972: Special Meeting

91 Brethren were present this year to once again confer the Master Mason Degree on a

candidate in the quarry on the Lodges property. Under dispensation of the Grand Master, Brother Vincent J. Egidi was raised to the degree of Master Mason by an all-star cast from across the District, and it was a very successful and memorable event. Ham and bean soup was served to all the Brethren between the two degree sections.

November 7, 1972: Annual Meeting

WB John Werner presented a recommendation for staggered terms for the members of the Board of the Temple Company. This will insure continuity, but at the same time allow for change and new ideas. The motion passed.

Membership of the Lodge numbered 339 Brethren.

November 28, 1972: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Charles H. Brick

Senior Warden: William E. Rost

Junior Warden: Paul L. Wyatt

Treasurer: Ross W. Kreager

Secretary: Wesley V. Teems

Chaplain: Arthur F. Haack

Senior Deacon: Donald L. Ruthsatz

Junior Deacon: Richard N. Ousky

Senior Steward: James M. Baum

Junior Steward: Robert A. Prahl

Tyler: James E. Sheahan

Trustee: T. Dale Brandt

December 19, 1972: Stated Meeting

It was determined by the brothers that the officers aprons and jewels were not in good

shape. A committee had been appointed, and they reported that the cost for new aprons and jewels would be $326.00. They asked to see samples at an upcoming meeting. The Brethren voted to purchase them at the January 16, 1973 Stated Meeting.

February 8, 1973: Emergent Communication

A Masonic Memorial Service was conducted for WB Albert Camper, who served Genoa

Lodge as its Master in 1926. He had passed away two days earlier, May 19, 1970. WB Camper also served as Tyler for Genoa Lodge for nearly twenty years.

May 1, 1973: Stated Meeting

The Board of Trustees for the Genoa Temple Company was again amended by a vote of

the Lodge. It was now to consist of six Lodge Officers and five aditional trustees, with an annual vote to rotate the members.

May 15, 1973: Stated Meeting

The Master informed the Brethren that the annual meeting with Tyrian Lodge #500 in

Michigan had been canceled this year due to lack of interest.

June 12, 1973: Special Meeting

The meeting was called from Labor to Refreshment for the purpose of of inviting the girls of the Genoa Chapter, #107 Order of the Rainbow into the Lodge Room for a presentation. They gave a talk on the flag, and then sang the Battle Hymn of the Republic. There were 10 girls and 3 Advisors present for the event.

September 11, 1973: Emergent

Communication

103 Brethren were on hand for the Masonic Funeral Service of the Lodges Treasurer,

WB Ross W. Kreager. In addition to serving Genoa Lodge as Master in 1944, he also was a presiding officer of the AASR - Valley of Toledo, and served the Grand Chapter, Royal Arch Masons of Ohio as Grand High Priest. His impact to Ohio Freemasonry was great, and his loss was deeply felt.

October 16, 1973: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Dale R. Brandt. Brother

Brandt quickly become very active in Genoa Lodge, and served as Master in 1981. Membership of the Lodge numbered 344 Brethren.

November 13, 1973: Annual

Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: William E. Rost

Senior Warden: Paul L. Wyatt

Junior Warden: Donald L. Ruthsatz

Treasurer: T. Dale Brandt

Secretary: Fred P. Byers

Chaplain: Arthur F. Haack

Senior Deacon: Richard N. Ousky

Junior Deacon: James E. Sheahan

Senior Steward: Robert A. Prahl

Junior Steward: Donald D. Dazley

Tyler: James M. Baum

Trustee: Charles H. Brick

December 2, 1973: Special Meeting

The first meeting of the Genoa Lodge Historical Committee convened at the home of WB Ellsworth Bittner. Its purpose was "...to lay out and make plans to display and preserve articles and documents of historical value, (and) to research and compile a brief history of the highlights of the Lodge....The committee was formed as a result of the artifacts left to the Lodge by WB Ross W. Kreager.

January 29, 1974: Special Meeting

49 Brothers were present for this years Past Master Degree Night. The Master Mason

Candidate was Dale R. Brandt, son of Past Master and Treasurer WB T. Dale Brandt. By all accounts it was a great evening. In addition, at this meeting the Historical Committee made a formal report regarding the wall-mounted display case in the Club Room. The report indicated that it is to be used only for Genoa Lodge Masons who have been honored by the fraternity and their Masonic history, such as Past Grand Officers, 33rds and Knights of the York Cross of Honour.

April 2, 1974: Stated Meeting

The subject of the Temple Company was broached, and its specific duties. Specifically,

the minutes state that "A lengthy discussion was held on what the duties of the Trustees of the Lodge were and what the duties of the Temple Company were, no conclusion was reached.

May 7, 1974: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Darrell L. Hanely. Brother

Hanely quickly become very active in Genoa Lodge, and served as Master in 1983.

June 11, 1974: Special Meeting

This meeting was called for the purpose of a visitation from Genoa Rainbow Girls

Assembly #107. The girls gave a very well prepared patriotic program. As a part of the

program they also sang Battle Hymn of the Republic and  How Great thou Art. They then joined the brethren for refreshments after the Lodge closed.

September 3, 1974: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Lyle E. Clapsaddle. Having

relatives in the Lodge and a history with the Order of DeMolay, Brother Clapsaddle was already very familiar with Genoa Lodge and Masonic protocol. He served as Master in 1985. Membership of the Lodge numbered 343 Brethren.

November 5, 1974: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Paul L. Wyatt

Senior Warden: Donald L. Ruthsatz

Junior Warden: Richard N. Ousky

Treasurer: T. Dale Brandt

Secretary: Fred P. Byers

Chaplain: Arthur F. Haack

Senior Deacon: James E. Sheahan

Junior Deacon: James M. Baum

Senior Steward: Ronald A. Spencer

Junior Steward: Dale R. Brandt

Tyler: Robert A. Prahl

Trustee: William E. Rost

February 6, 1975: Special Event

A number of Brethren from Genoa Lodge traveled to Port Lawrence Lodge #685 to

present them with the District Traveling Gavel, along with a ceremonial apron. The gavel was an initiative started by the District to encourage brethren to visit other Lodges, and couldn’t be in the possession of a Lodge for more than a couple of weeks. Genoa had received it from Lotus Lodge #625 several weeks earlier, and the Brethren of Genoa decided to take it to Port Lawrence where they were very well received. The Brethren of both Lodges adjourned to the Dining Room after the meeting for refreshments and fellowship.

March 11, 1975: Special Event

The Fathers and Sons Banquet was again a success; however; the bills reflect that the

costs continued to increase from year to year. This year the cost to the Lodge for holding the

event was $123.75.

June 14, 1975: Special Event

The young men of DeMolay held a ritualistic event in the Lodges Quarry property, and it went over very well. The attendance was great, and there were a lot of visitors. In general terms the DeMolay Chapter was doing very well at this time; in fact, it was reported at one of the Stated Meetings of the Lodge that the (DeMolay) movement is really snowballing.

September 16, 1975: Stated Meeting

It was reported that for personal reasons, the Senior Deacon Brother James Sheahan

had decided not to remain in the Lodges progressive line. Membership of the Lodge numbered 346 Brethren.

November 11, 1975: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Donald L. Ruthsatz

Senior Warden: Richard N. Ousky

Junior Warden: James M. Baum

Treasurer: T. Dale Brandt

Secretary: Fred P. Byers

Chaplain: Arthur F. Haack

Senior Deacon: Robert A. Prahl

Junior Deacon: Ronald A. Spencer

Senior Steward: Ora D. Skaggs

Junior Steward: Darrell L. Hanely

Tyler: Dale R. Brandt

Trustee: Paul L. Wyatt

February 10, 1976: Annual Inspection

109 Brethren were at the Annual Inspection this year to witness Brother Ray Fredrickson

receive the Fellow Craft Degree in fine form. Many dignitaries were present, and the District

Deputy Grand Master RWB F. Fredrick Fether gave a wonderful report on the administration of the Lodge and on the evenings work.

May 18, 1976: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Michael W. Driver. Brother

Driver went on to achieve many Masonic honors, including Master of Genoa Lodge, District Education Officer, District Deputy Grand Master and 33rd Degree Mason of the AASR - Northern Masonic Jurisdiction.

July 4, 1976: Special Event

In honor of the 200th Birthday of the United States of America, WB Ellsworth Bittner and

Brother Robert Prahl Co-Chaired a Pot-Luck/Picnic Celebration with the Knights of Columbus to celebrate together. They joined together at the Veterans Memorial Park in Genoa, and everyone had a great time. Membership of the Lodge numbered 340 Brethren.

November 6, 1976: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Richard N. Ousky

Senior Warden: James M. Baum

Junior Warden: Robert A. Prahl

Treasurer: T. Dale Brandt

Secretary: Fred P. Byers

Chaplain: Arthur F. Haack

Senior Deacon: Ronald A. Spencer

Junior Deacon: Dale R. Brandt

Senior Steward: Darrell L. Hanely

Junior Steward: Lyle E. Clapsaddle

Tyler: Ora D. Skaggs

Education Officer: William T. Walters

Trustee: Donald L. Ruthsatz

December 7, 1976: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Earl R. Kleage, Sr. Brother

Klaege quickly became active in the affairs of the Lodge, and served as Master in the year

1982.

February 8, 1977: Annual Inspection

The Lodge was opened at 6:00pm, for the purpose of the Annual Inspection. The

formalities taken care of, the Brethren went to refreshment for dinner, and then back to labor at 7:30 for the degree work. Brother Eugene Potter received the Master Mason degree that

evening, and the District Education Officer, WB James E. Olmstead and the District Deputy

Grand Master, RWB George O. Braatz both commented very favorably on Genoa Lodge.

May 10, 1977:Special Event

Once again, it appears that the annual Fathers & Sons Banquet has had its name

changed. Having reverted its name from Fathers Sons & Daughters Banquet to Fathers & Sons Banque a few years ago, the brothers now again refer to it as the Fathers, Sons & Daughters Banquet. The cost was $1.50 for those under 12 years of age, and $3.25 for adults.

July 4, 1977: Special Event

Once again the Lodge held a pot luck picnic at Veterans Park in Genoa with the members of the Knights of Columbus. It was a success, and now is billed as an annual picnic.

September 28, 1977: Emergent

Communication

The Masonic funeral service for the Lodge education Officer WB William T. Walters

generated an attendance of 72 Brethren. Having served as Master of Genoa Lodge in 1964, his death two days earlier, September 26, 1977 came as quite a shock to the brethren. Just the week before on September 20, he had presented a very well-received educational presentation to the Brethren in Lodge. Membership of the Lodge numbered 340 Brethren.

November 5, 1977: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: James M. Baum

Senior Warden: Robert A. Prahl

Junior Warden: Ronald A. Spencer

Treasurer: T. Dale Brandt

Secretary: David C. Baker

Chaplain: Arthur F. Haack

Senior Deacon: Dale R. Brandt

Junior Deacon: Darrell L. Hanely

Senior Steward: Robert Stanton

Junior Steward: Robert Hosley

Tyler: Earl R. Klaege, Sr.

Education Officer: Donald L. Ruthsatz

Trustee: Richard N. Ousky

January 17. 1978: Stated Meeting

Genoa Lodge always had very good fraternal relations with Portage Lodge #351 in

neighboring Elmore, Ohio. The Lodges often visited and supported each other. At this meeting Genoa Lodge welcomed the Brethren of Portage Lodge and raised one of their candidates, Brother Frank Porkorny to the degree of Master Mason.

February 7, 1978: Stated Meeting

Up to this point, the Lodge had not owned a flag of the State of Ohio. The Grand Master

of Ohio urged all the Lodges in the State to consider purchasing one, and at this meeting one was presented as a gift to the Lodge from the Senior Steward, Brother Robert Stanton.

March 7, 1978: Stated Meeting

The Grand Lodge was supporting a new charity this year, the Ohio Special Olympics.

The Brethren of the Lodge voted to support the endeavor, with a donation of $25.00 to the

cause. Since that time, the Lodge has faithfully donated to the Ohio Special Olympics on an

annual basis.

September 19, 1978: Stated Meeting

The motion was presented to modernize the lecture program presentations, and purchase a slide projector and slides. The motion carried.

November 7, 1978: Annual Meeting

As a result of the resignation of the Janitor, Mrs. Viola Bittner in September, the

DeMolay boys had acted as janitors of the Lodge since that time. At this meeting the Brethren voted to donate $50.00 to Ottawa Chapter, Order of DeMolay as a way of saying thank you to them. Membership of the Lodge numbered 335 Brethren.

November 17, 1978: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Robert A. Prahl

Senior Warden: Ronald A. Spencer

Junior Warden: Dale R. Brandt

Treasurer: T. Dale Brandt

Secretary: David C. Baker

Chaplain: Arthur F. Haack

Senior Deacon: Darrell L. Hanely

Junior Deacon: Earl R. Klaege, Sr.

Senior Steward: Michael W. Driver

Junior Steward: Lyle E. Clapsaddle

Tyler: John C. Ruthsatz

Education Officer: Donald L. Ruthsatz

Trustee: James M. Baum

February 6, 1979: Stated Meeting

Sylvania Masonic Lodge was preparing a time capsule to be placed in the cornerstone of

their new building. A copy of the recently completed Lodge history was sent.

March 6, 1979: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. Douglas A. Habegger. Brother

Habegger went on to achieve many Masonic honors, including Master of Genoa Lodge, Grand Master of the Grand Council of Royal & Select Masons of Ohio and Knight of the York Grand Cross of Honour.

May 5, 1979: Special Event

Under proper dispensations from the Grand Masters of Ohio and Indiana, the Lodge

welcomed Brethren from Wayne Lodge #25 to raise one of their candidates to the degree of

Master Mason according to the Indiana Ritual. The Master of Wayne Lodge, WB George

Diamond had been raised in Genoa Lodge, and expressed his pleasure of being back. He then invited the Brethren of Genoa Lodge to visit Wayne #25, so they could reciprocate.

September 4, 1979: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Dr. Keith A. Norwalk. Brother

Norwalk became very active in Freemasonry, serving as Master of Genoa Lodge, Monarch of O-Ton- Ta-La Grotto, and receiving the 33rd Degree, AASR - NMJ.

October 13, 1979: Special Event

The brethren of Genoa Lodge traveled to Wayne Lodge #25 in Indiana, to portray the

Master Mason Degree via the Ohio ritual. After the proper dispensations were read and the

degree conferred, the Master of Genoa Lodge, WB Robert A. Prahl presented WB Diamond of Wayne Lodge with a set of Masonic Working Tools. Membership of the Lodge numbered 335 Brethren.

November 10, 1979: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Ronald A. Spencer

Senior Warden: Dale R. Brandt

Junior Warden: Darrell L. Hanely

Treasurer: T. Dale Brandt

Secretary: John W. Tapley

Chaplain: Harry A. Spencer

Senior Deacon: Earl R. Klaege, Sr.

Junior Deacon: John C. Ruthsatz

Senior Steward: Lyle E. Clapsaddle

Junior Steward: David C. Baker

Tyler: Michael W. Driver

Education Officer: Donald L. Ruthsatz

Trustee: Robert A. Prahl

February 5, 1980: Stated Meeting

The Grand Master of Ohio was seeking nominations for a new award, the  Excellence in Youth Award. Because Genoa Lodge is one of the few Lodges with both a DeMolay Chapter and a Rainbow Girls Assembly, the brethren voted to refer the nominations to the respective advisory boards for recommendations.

February 12, 1980: Annual Inspection

Unfortunately the Senior Deacon, Brother Earl Klaege was in the hospital, so all the junior officers were forced to move up for the inspection to confer the Master Mason Degree on Brother Larry R. Everhardt. Nevertheless in typical Genoa Lodge style, the District Deputy Grand Master, RWB George Christopher reported that the Inspection was enjoyable, and that Brother Everhardt received a great degree. He would be submitting a very good report to the Grand Master.

February 19, 1980: Stated Meeting

Brother Arthur Haack fell and fractured his hip, and was having difficulties with his recovery. In honor of his tenure as Lodge Chaplain, the Brethren voted to present him an apron recognizing him as Chaplain Emeritus.

April 12, 1980: Emergent Communication

A Masonic Memorial Service was conducted for WB Ellsworth F. Bittner, who served Genoa Lodge as its Master in 1966. Fifty Brethren were on hand to honor his memory, and RWB John Wilhelm conducted the funeral service.

July 6, 1980: Special Event

The annual Independence Day picnic this year was to be hosted by the Lodge; the

Knights of Columbus and the Masonic brethren had agreed to rotate responsibility for the event each year. Brother Darrell Hanely was Chairman of the picnic this year, and it was very well received. Membership of the Lodge numbered 328 Brethren.

November 8, 1980: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Dale R. Brandt

Senior Warden: Earl R. Klaege, Sr.

Junior Warden: Darrell L. Hanely

Treasurer: T. Dale Brandt

Secretary: John W. Tapley

Chaplain: Harry A. Spencer

Senior Deacon: John C. Ruthsatz

Junior Deacon: Michael W. Driver

Senior Steward: Douglas A. Habegger

Junior Steward: Keith A. Norwalk

Tyler: Lyle E. Clapsaddle

Education Officer: Donald L. Ruthsatz

Trustee: Ronald A. Spencer

November 18, 1980: Stated Meeting

MWB Edgar L. Miller, Grand Master of Ohio showed up to give his respects to WB

James M. Baum. WB Baum was installed as District Education Officer, the first Brother of

Genoa Lodge to be honored with this great responsibility. The great and widespread respect felt for WB Baum was illustrated by all the additional dignitaries which showed up to honor him from both the 5th and the 11th Masonic Districts.

February 3, 1981: Stated Meeting

The subject of the property owned by the Lodge was brought up. The Lodge was

pleased to accept $50.00 for the use of 3 acres of land owned by the Lodge.

February 17, 1981: Stated Meeting

The brethren voted to purchase a trophy cabinet for the Rainbow Girls and Demolay

boys to share. The idea was to give them the opportunity to display the trophies they have

earned.

June 2, 1981: Stated Meeting

The Brush-Wellman Fellowcraft Team was on hand to confer the Master Mason degree

on Brother Melvin M. Hoeft. There were Brethren from a number of lodges participating as a part of the Fellowcraft Team, and the degree was conferred by WB Paul E. Tornow of Gibsonburg Lodge #575.

June 23, 1981: Special Event

The Master opened a Lodge of Entered Apprentices for the purpose of table instruction

in conjunction with The Feast of St. John.  This Table Lodge was well attended, and very well received by the brethren.

August 30, 1981; Emergent Communication

A Masonic Memorial Service was conducted for WB Dewey M. Widmer, who served

Genoa Lodge as its Master in 1953. Brethren were on hand from several different Lodges to

honor his memory, and RWB John Wilhelm conducted the funeral service.

September 15, 1981: Stated Meeting

Having been properly presented, a By-Laws change to increase the Initiation Fees was voted upon. The amendment passed, which set the new fee structure at a total of $110.00, plus the Ohio Masonic Home contribution.

October 24, 1981: Special Meeting

The officers and Brethren of Wayne Lodge #25 from Fort Wayne, Indiana again visited

under proper dispensations from both Grand Masters, and this time they conferred the Fellow Craft Degree on one of their candidates according to the Indiana ritual. After the degree, the brethren shared a number of interesting comparisons noted between the ritual and customs of the neighboring jurisdictions. Membership of the Lodge numbered 331 Brethren.

November 6, 1981: Annual

Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Earl R. Klaege, Sr.

Senior Warden: Darrell L. Hanely

Junior Warden: Michael W. Driver

Treasurer: T. Dale Brandt

Secretary: Dale R. Brandt

Chaplain: Ronald A. Spencer

Senior Deacon: Lyle E. Clapsaddle

Junior Deacon: Douglas A. Habegger

Senior Steward: Frank L. Duncan

Junior Steward: Carl R. Gordon

Tyler: Keith A. Norwalk

Education Officer: Donald L. Ruthsatz

Trustee: James M. Baum

December 1, 1981: Stated Meeting

The boys of Ottawa Chapter, Order of DeMolay were invited to the Lodge meeting to portray ritual work for the Masonic Brethren. The Lodge went to refreshment, and the young

men portrayed the Initiatory Degree for the Lodge members. The event led to numerous

favorable comments from the Brethren.

April 20, 1982: Stated Meeting

The brethren determined that the Lodge needed to be remodeled, and Brother Norwalk

reported on its progress. Unfortunately there were repairs which needed to be completed first, so the process was taking a bit longer than originally anticipated.

May 19, 1982: Emergent Communication

The brethren of the Lodge gathered to honor the memory of WB Elwood A. Pinniger, who passed away two days earlier, May 17th. He had served Genoa Lodge as its Master in

1939, and RWB John Wilhelm did his usual great job of conducting the service.

June 15, 1982: Stated Meeting

The meeting was called to order and conducted completely in candlelight, due to a

spring storm that turned off the electricity in the Village of Genoa. Among other items of business, two new members, Brothers George Wagner and Robert Winniger presented their

proficiencies by candlelight. Undaunted by the unusual circumstances, they both did a good

job.

October 23, 1982: Special Event

A bus was rented to transport the Brethren to Wayne Lodge #25 in Fort Wayne, Indiana

for their visitation. Brother Dean L. Schwamberger was the candidate, and he received the Fellow Craft Degree in proper form according to the Ohio Ritual. Membership of the Lodge numbered 316 Brethren.

November 6, 1982: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Darrell L. Hanely

Senior Warden: Michael W. Driver

Junior Warden: Lyle E. Clapsaddle

Treasurer: T. Dale Brandt

Secretary: Dale R. Brandt

Chaplain: Charles H. Brick

Senior Deacon: Douglas A. Habegger

Junior Deacon: Keith A. Norwalk

Senior Steward: Carl R. Gordon

Junior Steward: Jeffrey A. Bryan

Tyler: Frank L. Duncan

Education Officer: Donald L. Ruthsatz

Trustee: Earl R. Klaege, Sr.

December 7, 1982: Stated Meeting

After the conclusion of the meeting, the DeMolay boys from Ottawa Chapter were welcomed into the Lodge Room, where they portrayed the DeMolay Degree for the Brethren.

March 15, 1983: Stated Meeting

Brother Keith A. Norwalk presented to the Lodge a set of handmade symbolic

implements, a square, level, plumb and Letter G for use at the various officer stations. The

Lodge still uses them to this day.

March 29, 1983: Emergent Communication

The Genoa Lodge brethren assembled to pay their final respects to Brother Arthur F.

Haack, Chaplain Emeritus who passed away two days earlier, March 27th. He served the

Lodge as Chaplain for many years, and his years of service were highly regarded. During his funeral service the following day, the Lodge Officers and Past Masters wore tuxedoes out of respect to serve as pall bearers.

April 5, 1983: Stated Meeting

A petition for first reading was presented on behalf of Mr. James A. Essman. Brother

Essman quickly became active in the affairs of the Lodge, and went on to serve as its Master.

May 3, 1983: Stated Meeting

At this meeting, the death of WB Roger Hesselbart was reported by the Secretary. He

had served as Master of Genoa Lodge in 1951. Also at this meeting, the Brethren voted on and passed a By-Laws change to increase the annual Lodge dues to $20.00.

October 4, 1983: Stated Meeting

Brother Lyle E. Clapsaddle announced that the project he had undertaken to update the

Past Masters Board was now complete, and several new and updated photos had been added.

October 18, 1983: Stated Meeting

Brother Michael W. Driver had undertaken the project of refurbishing the Fellowcraft Pillars. He was acknowledged and congratulated for a job well done. Membership of the Lodge numbered 310 Brethren.

November 5, 1983: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Michael W. Driver

Senior Warden: Lyle E. Clapsaddle

Junior Warden: Douglas A. Habegger

Treasurer: T. Dale Brandt

Secretary: Dale R. Brandt

Chaplain: Wesley V. Teems

Senior Deacon: Keith A. Norwalk

Junior Deacon: Frank L. Duncan

Senior Steward: James A. Essman

Junior Steward: Ronald E. Cashen

Tyler: Carl R. Gordon

Education Officer: Donald L. Ruthsatz

Trustee: Darrell L. Hanely

December 6, 1983: Stated Meeting

A petition for affiliation was presented on behalf of Brother Wayne G. Duez, who had

been a member of Boaz Lodge #669 in Toledo. Brother Duez became quite active in the affairs of the Lodge, and later served as Master four times: 1990, 2001, 2002 and 2004.

December 27, 1983: Special Event

This years Table Lodge ceremony was celebrated in honor of St. John the Evangelist.

The proceeds from the box of fraternal assistance was slated to benefit both the Ohio Special Olympics, and the DeMolay Christmas baskets for the needy.

March 31, 1984: Special Event

The Grand Master, MWB C. Rolland Lattanner and the other Grand Lodge officers were

present to conduct a ceremony of reconsecration for the Lodge. Many brethren participated in the event, and it was memorialized with commemorative plates which the Lodge presented to all the Grand Lodge Officers.

May 15, 1984: Stated Meeting

Brother Edward L. Albright received his Master Mason degree, and his father, Lewis E.

Albright participated in the degree. The Master read a poem entitled When I raise my son.

June 8, 1984: Special Event

Under proper dispensation of the Grand Master, the Lodge participated in Genoa's

Community Homecoming Parade. The brethren wore their Masonic regalia, and the boys of Ottawa Chapter, Order of DeMolay joined them in the event.

September 4, 1984: Stated Meeting

Brother Dennis M. Traver was presented by the Senior Deacon, and specifically thanked

by the Master. He had donated 96 pairs of white gloves to the Lodge for use in the Masonic Memorial Services.

October 23, 1984: Special Event

For only the second time in its history, the Lodge had a Brother elevated to the position

of District Education Officer. WB Michael W. Driver was installed into this position by the Junior Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge of Ohio, RWB George O. Braatz, with James M. Baum, Past District Education Officer serving as Installing Chaplain.

November 6, 1984: Annual Meeting

Among all the other business associated with the Annual Meeting, a letter was read by

WB Theodore Lorenzen, who served as Master in 1935. It read, in part: Fifty years ago on this election night, I received the highest honor a Blue Lodge can bestow upon a member. I was elected to be Master of your Lodge  He went on to conclude the letter with the following. in memory of my 50 years as a Past Master, I am enclosing a Gift Check in the amount of Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00).  I also want to thank the Supreme Commander of the Universe for letting me live to make this donation possible.; Membership of the Lodge numbered 305 Brethren.

November 10, 1984: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Lyle E. Clapsaddle

Senior Warden: Douglas A. Habegger

Junior Warden: Keith A. Norwalk

Treasurer: T. Dale Brandt

Secretary: Wesley V. Teems

Chaplain: Gene J. Clapsaddle

Senior Deacon: Frank L. Duncan

Junior Deacon: James A. Essman

Senior Steward: Wayne G. Duez

Junior Steward: Edward L. Albright

Tyler: Ronald E. Cashen

Education Officer: Donald L. Ruthsatz

Trustee: Michael W. Driver

November 28, 1984: Emergent Communication

Forty brethren assembled to honor and pay their last respects to WB Wesley V. Teems,

the Lodge Secretary, who served as Master of Genoa Lodge in 1963. He had passed away

unexpectedly two days before, on November 26, 1984. The service was conducted by the

previous Secretary, Dale R. Brandt, PM.

January 15, 1985: Stated Meeting

Under proper dispensation from the Grand Master, MWB Richard M. Wilson, a special

election was conducted to fill the office left open by the untimely death of the Lodge Secretary. WB Dale R. Brandt was elected to complete the unfinished term, and was immediately installed by WB Clapsaddle.

June 4, 1985: Stated Meeting

Due to the resignation of the Senior Deacon on May 7, 1985, a dispensation was granted by MWB Wilson to elect a Senior Deacon, as well as any other office that may become vacant as a result of this election. The results of the special election and resultant appointments

necessitated by vacancies are as follows:

Senior Deacon: James A. Essman

Junior Deacon: Ronald E. Cashen

Senior Steward: Edward L. Albright

Junior Steward: Eric W. Barker

Tyler: Wayne G. Duez

The Master installed all the new officers of Genoa Lodge in due and proper form.

September 11, 1985: Emergent Communication

Twenty brethren were on hand to honor the memory of Brother William L. Hammye, who

served as Lodge Secretary during the late 1960s and early 1970s. He had passed away the day before, September 10, 1985. The service was conducted by the current Secretary, WB Dale R. Brandt. Membership of the Lodge numbered 296 Brethren.

November 9, 1985: Annual Installation of Officers

The following Officers were duly installed to lead Genoa Lodge #433 for the ensuing

year:

Worshipful Master: Douglas A. Habegger

Senior Warden: Keith A. Norwalk

Junior Warden: James A. Essman

Treasurer: T. Dale Brandt

Secretary: Dale R. Brandt

Chaplain: Lester Henningsen

Senior Deacon: Ronald E. Cashen

Junior Deacon: Wayne G. Duez

Senior Steward: Eric W. Barker

Junior Steward: *Jon A. Schwandner

Tyler: Henry B. Dale

Education Officer: James M. Baum

Trustee: Lyle E. Clapsaddle

*Brother Schwandner was Installed as Junior Steward on March 4, 1986

February 15, 1986: Special Event

The Brethren and their ladies enjoyed a dinner and entertaining evening together at the

Chadwick Inn. They dubbed it Sweethearts night  due to the proximity of Valentines Day, and everyone had a great time.

August 24, 1986: Special Event

The annual Knights of Columbus and Freemasons Picnic was again a success. The

Genoa Lodge Brethren and their ladies won the attendance award.

October 21, 1986: Stated Meeting