History of Genoa Lodge
Dispensation to form Genoa Lodge 1869
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).
August 3, 1869: First Meeting of Genoa
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
1870 - 1879
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
1880-1889
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
1890 - 1899
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
1900 - 1909
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