| History of Prince Hall Freemasonry in Alaska |
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“Originally written by PGM Richard J. Watts Sr.”
“Edited and Revised by R.W. Adisa J. Aiyetoro - 2005, 2006 and 2007”
T. Hall, The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Master of Oklahoma. Austin Grice
T. Hall, The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Master of Oklahoma. Austin Grice
took the steps necessary and informed Grand Master Amos T. Hall Alpha Lodge No.
16 is desirous to become a viable member of the Prince Hall Family.
16 is desirous to become a viable member of the Prince Hall Family.
Through Grice’s initiative, Alpha Lodge No. 16 became the first Prince Hall Lodge
in Alaska. Alpha Lodge No. 16 was re-designated Alpha Lodge No. 61 under the
Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Oklahoma on October 1959. In the
years 1960, 1963 and 1964, three more Lodges received Prince Hall Charters. They
were Unity Lodge No. 65, Midnight Sun No. 67 and Summit Lodge No. 68,
respectively. This brought to four the number of lodges chartered under the
Jurisdiction of Oklahoma. These Lodges remained under the Jurisdiction of
Oklahoma until May 1965.
It was then that Unity, Alpha and Midnight Sun Lodges sought Charters from the
Grand Lodge of Washington. They did not make a haphazard decision, which only
came about based upon the excessive expenses incurred due to the considerable
distance between the Oklahoma and Alaska. Summit Lodge No. 68 remained under
the Jurisdiction of Oklahoma.
With the addition of Arctic Lodge No. 56, there were five Lodges in the state of
Alaska but only four were under the Jurisdiction of the State of Washington. With
their charters from the state of Washington, Unity Lodge No. 65 then reconstitute as
Mt. McKinley No. 50, Midnight Sun No. 67 became Midnight Sun No. 51; and
Alpha Lodge No. 61 became Alpha Lodge No. 52. In September 1969, our mother
Grand Lodge, The Grand Lodge of the state of Washington set up the Most
Worshipful Prince Hall grand Lodge of the state of Alaska. It was then that Alpha
Lodge No. 52 became Alpha Lodge No. 1; Mt. McKinley Lodge No. 50 became Mt.
McKinley Lodge No. 2; and Midnight Sun Lodge No. 51 became Midnight Sun Lodge
No. 3. Arctic Lodge No. 56 chose to remain under the Jurisdiction of the state of
Washington and Summit Lodge No. 68 remained under the Jurisdiction of the state
of Oklahoma. The Grand Lodge for the state of Alaska initially had three Lodges
under its Jurisdiction.
The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of the state Alaska and its
Jurisdiction held its First Grand Communication in the city of Anchorage, between
the 19th through 21st day of July 1970. The first Grand Master for the State of
Alaska was the Honorable Richard J. Watts, Sr. Grand Master Watts immediately
began to facilitate the work that was necessary to bring all Prince Hall Lodges in the
state of Alaska under the fold of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of
Alaska and its Jurisdiction. Grand Master Watts began to realize he accomplished
the initial part of his task when, in the year 1971, Castle Rock Lodge No. 4 came
into establishment. In addition, 1971 proved to be a very beautiful year as Pillar
Mountain Lodge No. 5 and Summit Lodge No. 68 of Oklahoma came under the
auspices of the Grand Lodge of Alaska. Summit Lodge No. 8 re-designated to Summit
Lodge No. 6 upon its admittance into the Alaska Masonic Family.
Grand Master Watts continued to formulate his plans for the expansion of Masonry
in Alaska. In 1972, the “Brothers” in the Prince Hall Family, while realizing their
strength did not come from within, sought ways to establish a Grand Chapter in
Alaska. Again, Grand Master Watts spearheaded the initiative to gain a Grand
Chapter in Alaska by contacting Oregon’s Grand Matron, Dorothy Vickers, to assist
in forming a Grand Chapter in Alaska. They laid the foundation for establishing a
Grand Chapter in Alaska before their terms of office expired.
It was on June 10, 1972, that Grand Patron, Felix T. Hall, and Grand Matron,
Lenora Gaskins, organized the Grand Chapter for the State of Alaska. It was one of
the many bright Auroras in the early history of Prince Hall Masonry in the state of
Alaska.
Raymond W. Coleman, the second Grand Master for the State of Alaska, demanded
proficiency within the ranks as he endeavored to foster Masonry as a force in Alaska.
During the continuous and rapid growth of Prince Hall Masonry in the state of
Alaska, Grand Master Coleman established and maintained the harmonious
communication necessary for the continued fellowship of brotherly love, friendship
and truth. He also laid the groundwork for bringing Arctic Lodge No. 56 (which
later became Arctic Lodge No. 7) under the Jurisdiction of Alaska by communicating
with Grand Master James W. Davis, of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand
Lodge of the state of Washington.
The Fifth Annual Grand Communication, under the leadership of Grand Master
Joshua J. Wright, the Jurisdiction continued to excel. Grand Master Wright brought
new zeal and leadership qualities that had become expected of those who led by
example in Alaska.
The Sixth Annual Grand Communication convened in Kodiak, Alaska, in July 1975.
The craft elected Most Worshipful Grand Master Herbert Turner to take the reins
and to be responsible for carrying on that outstanding tradition set by his
predecessors. Grand Master Turner’s guidance provided many accomplishments.
During his tenure, Arctic Lodge No. 56 that was under the Jurisdiction of
Washington became part of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge for the
state of Alaska. Arctic Lodge No. 7 then re-designated Arctic Lodge No. 7.
The Eight Annual Grand Communication convened at the New Pioneer Hall in
Anchorage, Alaska in July 1977. Most Worshipful Grand Master David Williams
succeed Past Grand Master Herbert Turner by election of the members present.
Under Grand Master Williams’ zealous leadership, Prince Hall Masonry continued
to mandate the teachings that we are indeed our brother’s keeper.
The Tenth Annual Communication took place at Fairbanks, Alaska, in July 1979.
For the first time in the history of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge in
Alaska, a Past Grand Master, receive re-election to lead the way as Grand Master of
Masons. Past Grand Master Richard Watts, Sr. presided for another term as Grand
Master.
At the Eleventh Annual Grand Lodge Communication, Frederic T. Ready succeeded
Past Grand Master Watts at the helm of Prince Hall Masonry in Alaska. Through
his preeminence, the ranks of Masonry swelled in each individual Lodges.
At the Twelfth Annual Communication which as held in Fairbanks, Alaska, Herman
L. Smith was elected Grand Master of Master Masons in Alaska. His devotion to the
duties of his office strengthened the principles in which our fraternity had its
establishment.
Arthur C. Williams was the preference to head symbolic Masonry in the Prince Hall
Family as the craft elected him Grand Master of Masons at the Thirteenth Annual
Communication conducted in Anchorage, Alaska. He advocated brotherly love,
harmony, charity and sense of worthiness within all constituent Lodges. Grand
Master Williams’ philosophy and illustration of leadership were unparalleled in the
history of Prince Hall Masonry in Alaska.
By the action of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, state of Alaska and
its Jurisdiction, Arthur L. Jackson advanced by election to the position of Most
Worshipful Grand Master at the Fifteenth Annual Grand Communication that
convened in Kodiak, Alaska 14-18 July, 1984. Most Worshipful Grand Master
Arthur L. Jackson assumed the Jurisdiction’s most esteemed and prestigious
position as the head of the Prince Hall Family. Grand Master Jackson immediately
established the theme of “unity” and began demonstrating his excellent leadership
ability by moving the Masonic Family toward better understanding and growth.
Grand Master Jackson was responsible for the Grand Lodge having the money to
purchase the Grand Lodge property in Anchorage when the opportunity presented
itself. Through his leadership and determination, he was able to persuade the
membership to vote in an assessment, which was very unpopular at that time.
The Seventeenth Annual Grand Communication convened in Fairbanks, Alaska
from July 19-23, 1986 at the Travelers Inn. During the Communication, R.W.
Deputy Grand Master Eugene Akers, was elected to the most powerful and
prestigious position in the Prince Hall Masonic Order. Grand Master Akers, a
proven leader in the Masonic Order, accepted the challenge to direct the Prince Hall
Masons to greater heights. During his leadership, he encouraged each lodge and all
members to strive for excellence. During the period Grand Mater Akers was in
office, the Masonic Family became more visible in their communities and held in
high esteem by many community organizations and leaders.
During the Twentieth Annual Communication of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall
Grand Lodge, the craft elected R.W. Deputy Grand Master Frank U. Davis to the
most renowned position in Free Masonry. During the Davis era, peace and harmony
prevailed. The Westmark Hotel in the city of Fairbanks, Alaska, marks the location
for this Communication July 15-18, 1989.
The Twenty-first Annual Communication of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand
Lodge F. and A.M. State of Alaska and its Jurisdiction convened on October 6-9,
1990 at the Anchorage Hilton, in Anchorage, Alaska. At this Communication, the
craft elected R.W. Junior Grand Warden L.V. Lewis to the honorable position in the
symbolic grades of Free Masonry. During his tenure in office, he put great emphasis
on increasing membership. He held two terms, 1990-1992.
During the Twenty-third Annual Communication, the members present elected Past
Grand Master Eugene Akers for a third term in the dignified position of Grand
Master of Masons. Past Grand Master Akers was the second Past Grand Master to
be re-elected to this esteemed position. Grand Master Akers, as always, tried to unify
the brothers and spread peace and harmony through the Jurisdiction and he was
able to accomplish that. The Communication convened at the Lodge Hall of The
Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Alaska F. & A.M. (Non-Prince Hall), 18-21 July
1992.
The Twenty-fourth Annual Communication convened at the Westmark Hotel in
Fairbanks, Alaska July 17-29, 1993. During that Communication, the craft elected
R.W. Past Junior Grand Warden Ruben L. Jackson to the exalted position of Grand
Master of Masons in the state of Alaska. He was a young energetic and dynamic
Grand Master whose primary goal was to get our Grand Lodge Hall built. Having
extensive construction experience, he was able to jump-start much of the
construction. At the Twenty-fifth Annual Communication at the Sheraton Hotel in
Anchorage, Alaska, Ruben L. Jackson was re-elected.
Fairbanks, Alaska was the site of the Twenty-sixth Grand Communication, at that
meeting; the members present elected James H. Watson Most Worshipful Grand
Master. The Twenty-sixth Annual Grand Communication convened in the beautiful
city of Anchorage, Alaska, at the Anchorage Hilton Hotel April 13-16, 1995, Grand
Master, James Watson was re-elected by the Grand Lodge, to the Supreme position,
of Grand Master of the state of Alaska and its Jurisdiction in 1996 for a job well
done.
The Twenty-seventh Annual Communication of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall
Grand Lodge and its Jurisdiction took place at the Westmark Hotel in the city of
Fairbanks from the 19th – 22nd day of April 1997.
Michael Boone advanced to the Supreme position of Free Masonry as Grand Master.
The reason Grand Master Boone received so much support to become our leader was
that his record of accomplishment proved he was a man with a vision. The craft
believed he was the man to press forward the construction on our new Grand Lodge
Hall and their belief proved to be true. None of this accomplishment could become
possible without the dedicated aid of Past Grand Master Ruben Jackson. Grand
Master Boone lifted the construction of the Grand Lodge building out of the
stalemate where it stalled for six years.
One of the most significant events while in office was the ceremony of mutual
limited recognition between the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, Alaska
and its Jurisdiction, Free and Accepted Masons and the Grand Lodge of Alaska, Free
and Accepted Masons, which occurred on 10 May 1997 at the Fairbanks Masonic
Hall (Non-Prince Hall). The recognition ceremony took place in Fairbanks Alaska.
Most Worshipful Brother Stanley Foulke, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Free
and Accepted Masons of Alaska and Most Worshipful Brother Michael Boone,
Grand Master of the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of
Alaska officiated at the Ceremony. Over one hundred and thirty Freemasons and
their spouses attended to witness the signing of this document. Many in attendance
shed tears of joy as the two Grand Bodies join hands in hands to end segregation of
Freemasons within the state of Alaska.
To date, Past Grand Master Boone is the second Grand Master to serve three
consecutive terms as Grand Master from 1997 to 2000 next to Past Grand Master
Richards Watts at the beginning of the Grand Lodge era.
Most Worshipful Grand Master Sterling R. Taylor succeeded the Chair to become
the 19th Grand Master of this historic Jurisdiction on April 2000. His actions
involved continuous development of the Grand Lodge and Masonic Education. At the
32nd Annual Grand Lodge Communication Most Worshipful Sterling Taylor was re-
elected to serve his second consecutive term in the esteemed office of Grand Master
of Masons in Alaska. At 33rd Grand Lodge Session in Anchorage , then, Deputy
Grand Master Alfred Boyle succeeded the chair by election as the 20th Grand Master
of Prince Hall Freemasons.
On April 2003 at the 34rd Grand Lodge Communication, held at the Westmark
Hotel in Fairbanks, the craft re-elected Grand Master Boyle to serve in the most
esteemed position of Most Worshipful Grand Master. Grand Master Boyle vowed to
move forward with the completion of the Grand Lodge building, Masonic Education,
Youth Sponsorship and increase of membership. Grand Master Boyle pledged his
heart to develop a better environment for the Youth who will be our successors of
the future. On the early morning on 3 December 2004, Past Grand Master Boyle
was called to labor in that eternal Lodge, not made with hands, after fighting a long
battle with cancer.
Though written in the original constitution and bylaws includes the specifications
for youth sponsorship, nothing was in place except for scholarship programs. On
January 2004, Grand Master Boyle appointed R.W. Adisa J. Aiyetoro of Arctic
Lodge No. 7 as State Director to pioneer the Knights of Pythagoras Program for the
jurisdiction. The Knights of Pythagoras is a Youth organization dedicated to the
Fatherhood of God and the Universal Brotherhood of Man, sponsored by Prince
Hall Freemason over the globe. The K.O.P. has been in existence since 1951 under
the leadership of Grand Master Amos T. Hall.
On January 2005, Sir Knight Aiyetoro and several Master Masons of Arctic Lodge
No. 7 and Midnight Sun lodge No. 3 formed the first Knights of Pythagoras Council
in Fairbanks/North Pole region (District No. 2). Upon unanimous vote and
recommendation of Brother Aiyetoro, the members present named the Council
“Honorable Alfred Boyle Council No. 1” honoring the memory of our late Past
Grand Master Alfred Boyle. It was in this meeting, where the unanimous vote of
newly initiated Sir Knights and Junior Knights elected Junior Knight Eric
Robinson Jr. to become the Council’s first Master Knight. Sir Knight Aiyetoro
appointed Sir Knight Cary Landry as the Council’s Advisor.
Sunday, April 18, 2004 marks one of the many historic and memorable events in
the history of Prince Hall Freemasonry in Alaska. Grand Master Boyle, in a public
ceremony, commemorates the completion of the Grand Lodge building by laying the
corner stone on the southeast corner of the building. Grand Master Boyle served
until 2004, at the 35th Annual Grand Lodge Communication where Right
Worshipful Deputy Grand Master James L. Adams succeeded him as the 21st Grand
Master of Prince Hall Freemasons, Alaska.
The year 2004 was a very treacherous one towards the health of Freemasonry in
this Jurisdiction as it marks the calling of Past Grand Master Herman L. Smith,
Past Grand Master Richards Watts, Past Grand Master Alfred Boyle and Past
Grand Master Grand Master Arthur L. Jackson to that eternal Lodge not made with
the hands of men. Our Brothers are gone from this lifetime but surely not forgotten.
At the 36th Annual Grand Lodge Communication held at the Most Worshipful
Prince Hall Grand Lodge Hall in Anchorage, Grand Master James L. Adams was re-
elected and continues to preside as Grand Master. It was at this communication that
R.W. Adisa J. Aiyetoro, R.W. Cary W. Landry and R.W. Timothy Mullins (Three
known active York Rite Freemasons) petitioned to the Grand Lodge to seek
permission to establish a York Rite Body of Freemasons in this Jurisdiction,
consisting of a Chapter, Council and Commandery. After a very lengthy period of
discussion and strong majority vote towards this great endeavor of the members
present, Grand Master Adams grants the petition to proceed. Grand Master Adams
noted that there is need for education of Prince Hall Freemasons in the Jurisdiction.
On 25 October 2005, the Rev. Joseph T. Thornton Most Worshipful Prince Hall
Grand Chapter, Holy Royal Arch Masons, Most Excellent Grand High Priest James
E. Hubbard presiding, granted a Dispensation under the care of R.W. Adisa J.
Aiyetoro as the First Excellent High Priest, R.W. Cary W. Landry as the First
Excellent King and R.W. Timothy Mullins as the First Excellent Scribe who
petitioned to form Uriel Chapter, H.R.A.M. (U.D.) in North Pole, Alaska (now
Chartered as Uriel Chapter No. 69, H.R.A.M.).
On 17 February 2006, the Herman E. Duncan Grand Council and Commandery,
Knights Templar, Jurisdiction of Oklahoma, Right Eminent Grand Commander, Sir
Knight Anthony Bowens presiding, granted a dispensation to form A.J. Aiyetoro
Council, R.S.M. (U.D) (now Chartered as A.J. Aiyetoro Council No 20, R.S.M.) and
Cary W. Landry Commandery, K.T. (U.D.) (now Chartered Cary W. Landry
Commandery No. 24) in North Pole, Alaska.
Probably one of the most significant actions took place while Grand Master Adams
was in office is the granting of a Dispensation to Arctic Lodge No. 7 to operate
outside the jurisdictional boundaries of Alaska. In January 2006, a Dispensation
was granted under the care of R.W. Adisa J. Aiyetoro, District Deputy Grand Master
at Large to admit, enter, pass and raise Masons into Arctic Lodge No. 7 while
deployed in Iraq for a combat tour with Alaska's valorous unit, the 172nd Stryker
Brigade Combat Team. This was proven to be a worthwhile Dispensations which
aided in the building a better and stronger organization allowing the members
deployed in combat to practice and remain proficient Masons. It is the first time in
history that a Prince Hall Lodge operated in the Nineveh Province of Iraq, an area
also known as "Ur", the birth place of Abraham. The Dispensation was terminated
upon return of the 172nd in December 2006
With the beauty and foundation that the Arctic Lodge No. 7 brought to Iraq and the
need for continuance of the legend and legacy of Prince Hall Freemasonry, Past
Master Ronnie Jones and sixteen Brothers of Arctic Lodge No. 7 that were
remaining in Iraq and are mostly civilians contractors, petitioned the Grand Lodge
through R.W. Aiyetoro for a Dispensation to form its own Lodge bearing the name
"Richard J. Watts Sr. Military Lodge, U.D." in honor and memory of the
Jurisdiction's first Grand Master, the late, PGM Richard J. Watts Sr. and a
continued presence of Prince Hall Freemasonry, Alaska in Iraq. A dispensation was
granted in January 2007 bearing Bro. Tarrence Rhone (Worshipful Master), Bro.
Michael Riley (Senior Warden) and Bro. Memlon Shumaker (Junior Warden) as
the three principle officers and in the care of PM Ronnie Jones, Special District
Deputy Grand Master
At the 37th Grand Lodge Session held in Fairbanks from 15-18 April 2006, Deputy
Grand Master Edward A. Miller Sr. was elected to the Oriental Chair and now
presides honorably as the Grand Lodge's Most Worshipful Master
“Edited and Revised by R.W. Adisa J. Aiyetoro - 2005, 2006 and 2007”
T. Hall, The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Master of Oklahoma. Austin Grice
T. Hall, The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Master of Oklahoma. Austin Grice
took the steps necessary and informed Grand Master Amos T. Hall Alpha Lodge No.
16 is desirous to become a viable member of the Prince Hall Family.
16 is desirous to become a viable member of the Prince Hall Family.
Through Grice’s initiative, Alpha Lodge No. 16 became the first Prince Hall Lodge
in Alaska. Alpha Lodge No. 16 was re-designated Alpha Lodge No. 61 under the
Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Oklahoma on October 1959. In the
years 1960, 1963 and 1964, three more Lodges received Prince Hall Charters. They
were Unity Lodge No. 65, Midnight Sun No. 67 and Summit Lodge No. 68,
respectively. This brought to four the number of lodges chartered under the
Jurisdiction of Oklahoma. These Lodges remained under the Jurisdiction of
Oklahoma until May 1965.
It was then that Unity, Alpha and Midnight Sun Lodges sought Charters from the
Grand Lodge of Washington. They did not make a haphazard decision, which only
came about based upon the excessive expenses incurred due to the considerable
distance between the Oklahoma and Alaska. Summit Lodge No. 68 remained under
the Jurisdiction of Oklahoma.
With the addition of Arctic Lodge No. 56, there were five Lodges in the state of
Alaska but only four were under the Jurisdiction of the State of Washington. With
their charters from the state of Washington, Unity Lodge No. 65 then reconstitute as
Mt. McKinley No. 50, Midnight Sun No. 67 became Midnight Sun No. 51; and
Alpha Lodge No. 61 became Alpha Lodge No. 52. In September 1969, our mother
Grand Lodge, The Grand Lodge of the state of Washington set up the Most
Worshipful Prince Hall grand Lodge of the state of Alaska. It was then that Alpha
Lodge No. 52 became Alpha Lodge No. 1; Mt. McKinley Lodge No. 50 became Mt.
McKinley Lodge No. 2; and Midnight Sun Lodge No. 51 became Midnight Sun Lodge
No. 3. Arctic Lodge No. 56 chose to remain under the Jurisdiction of the state of
Washington and Summit Lodge No. 68 remained under the Jurisdiction of the state
of Oklahoma. The Grand Lodge for the state of Alaska initially had three Lodges
under its Jurisdiction.
The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of the state Alaska and its
Jurisdiction held its First Grand Communication in the city of Anchorage, between
the 19th through 21st day of July 1970. The first Grand Master for the State of
Alaska was the Honorable Richard J. Watts, Sr. Grand Master Watts immediately
began to facilitate the work that was necessary to bring all Prince Hall Lodges in the
state of Alaska under the fold of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of
Alaska and its Jurisdiction. Grand Master Watts began to realize he accomplished
the initial part of his task when, in the year 1971, Castle Rock Lodge No. 4 came
into establishment. In addition, 1971 proved to be a very beautiful year as Pillar
Mountain Lodge No. 5 and Summit Lodge No. 68 of Oklahoma came under the
auspices of the Grand Lodge of Alaska. Summit Lodge No. 8 re-designated to Summit
Lodge No. 6 upon its admittance into the Alaska Masonic Family.
Grand Master Watts continued to formulate his plans for the expansion of Masonry
in Alaska. In 1972, the “Brothers” in the Prince Hall Family, while realizing their
strength did not come from within, sought ways to establish a Grand Chapter in
Alaska. Again, Grand Master Watts spearheaded the initiative to gain a Grand
Chapter in Alaska by contacting Oregon’s Grand Matron, Dorothy Vickers, to assist
in forming a Grand Chapter in Alaska. They laid the foundation for establishing a
Grand Chapter in Alaska before their terms of office expired.
It was on June 10, 1972, that Grand Patron, Felix T. Hall, and Grand Matron,
Lenora Gaskins, organized the Grand Chapter for the State of Alaska. It was one of
the many bright Auroras in the early history of Prince Hall Masonry in the state of
Alaska.
Raymond W. Coleman, the second Grand Master for the State of Alaska, demanded
proficiency within the ranks as he endeavored to foster Masonry as a force in Alaska.
During the continuous and rapid growth of Prince Hall Masonry in the state of
Alaska, Grand Master Coleman established and maintained the harmonious
communication necessary for the continued fellowship of brotherly love, friendship
and truth. He also laid the groundwork for bringing Arctic Lodge No. 56 (which
later became Arctic Lodge No. 7) under the Jurisdiction of Alaska by communicating
with Grand Master James W. Davis, of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand
Lodge of the state of Washington.
The Fifth Annual Grand Communication, under the leadership of Grand Master
Joshua J. Wright, the Jurisdiction continued to excel. Grand Master Wright brought
new zeal and leadership qualities that had become expected of those who led by
example in Alaska.
The Sixth Annual Grand Communication convened in Kodiak, Alaska, in July 1975.
The craft elected Most Worshipful Grand Master Herbert Turner to take the reins
and to be responsible for carrying on that outstanding tradition set by his
predecessors. Grand Master Turner’s guidance provided many accomplishments.
During his tenure, Arctic Lodge No. 56 that was under the Jurisdiction of
Washington became part of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge for the
state of Alaska. Arctic Lodge No. 7 then re-designated Arctic Lodge No. 7.
The Eight Annual Grand Communication convened at the New Pioneer Hall in
Anchorage, Alaska in July 1977. Most Worshipful Grand Master David Williams
succeed Past Grand Master Herbert Turner by election of the members present.
Under Grand Master Williams’ zealous leadership, Prince Hall Masonry continued
to mandate the teachings that we are indeed our brother’s keeper.
The Tenth Annual Communication took place at Fairbanks, Alaska, in July 1979.
For the first time in the history of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge in
Alaska, a Past Grand Master, receive re-election to lead the way as Grand Master of
Masons. Past Grand Master Richard Watts, Sr. presided for another term as Grand
Master.
At the Eleventh Annual Grand Lodge Communication, Frederic T. Ready succeeded
Past Grand Master Watts at the helm of Prince Hall Masonry in Alaska. Through
his preeminence, the ranks of Masonry swelled in each individual Lodges.
At the Twelfth Annual Communication which as held in Fairbanks, Alaska, Herman
L. Smith was elected Grand Master of Master Masons in Alaska. His devotion to the
duties of his office strengthened the principles in which our fraternity had its
establishment.
Arthur C. Williams was the preference to head symbolic Masonry in the Prince Hall
Family as the craft elected him Grand Master of Masons at the Thirteenth Annual
Communication conducted in Anchorage, Alaska. He advocated brotherly love,
harmony, charity and sense of worthiness within all constituent Lodges. Grand
Master Williams’ philosophy and illustration of leadership were unparalleled in the
history of Prince Hall Masonry in Alaska.
By the action of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, state of Alaska and
its Jurisdiction, Arthur L. Jackson advanced by election to the position of Most
Worshipful Grand Master at the Fifteenth Annual Grand Communication that
convened in Kodiak, Alaska 14-18 July, 1984. Most Worshipful Grand Master
Arthur L. Jackson assumed the Jurisdiction’s most esteemed and prestigious
position as the head of the Prince Hall Family. Grand Master Jackson immediately
established the theme of “unity” and began demonstrating his excellent leadership
ability by moving the Masonic Family toward better understanding and growth.
Grand Master Jackson was responsible for the Grand Lodge having the money to
purchase the Grand Lodge property in Anchorage when the opportunity presented
itself. Through his leadership and determination, he was able to persuade the
membership to vote in an assessment, which was very unpopular at that time.
The Seventeenth Annual Grand Communication convened in Fairbanks, Alaska
from July 19-23, 1986 at the Travelers Inn. During the Communication, R.W.
Deputy Grand Master Eugene Akers, was elected to the most powerful and
prestigious position in the Prince Hall Masonic Order. Grand Master Akers, a
proven leader in the Masonic Order, accepted the challenge to direct the Prince Hall
Masons to greater heights. During his leadership, he encouraged each lodge and all
members to strive for excellence. During the period Grand Mater Akers was in
office, the Masonic Family became more visible in their communities and held in
high esteem by many community organizations and leaders.
During the Twentieth Annual Communication of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall
Grand Lodge, the craft elected R.W. Deputy Grand Master Frank U. Davis to the
most renowned position in Free Masonry. During the Davis era, peace and harmony
prevailed. The Westmark Hotel in the city of Fairbanks, Alaska, marks the location
for this Communication July 15-18, 1989.
The Twenty-first Annual Communication of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand
Lodge F. and A.M. State of Alaska and its Jurisdiction convened on October 6-9,
1990 at the Anchorage Hilton, in Anchorage, Alaska. At this Communication, the
craft elected R.W. Junior Grand Warden L.V. Lewis to the honorable position in the
symbolic grades of Free Masonry. During his tenure in office, he put great emphasis
on increasing membership. He held two terms, 1990-1992.
During the Twenty-third Annual Communication, the members present elected Past
Grand Master Eugene Akers for a third term in the dignified position of Grand
Master of Masons. Past Grand Master Akers was the second Past Grand Master to
be re-elected to this esteemed position. Grand Master Akers, as always, tried to unify
the brothers and spread peace and harmony through the Jurisdiction and he was
able to accomplish that. The Communication convened at the Lodge Hall of The
Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Alaska F. & A.M. (Non-Prince Hall), 18-21 July
1992.
The Twenty-fourth Annual Communication convened at the Westmark Hotel in
Fairbanks, Alaska July 17-29, 1993. During that Communication, the craft elected
R.W. Past Junior Grand Warden Ruben L. Jackson to the exalted position of Grand
Master of Masons in the state of Alaska. He was a young energetic and dynamic
Grand Master whose primary goal was to get our Grand Lodge Hall built. Having
extensive construction experience, he was able to jump-start much of the
construction. At the Twenty-fifth Annual Communication at the Sheraton Hotel in
Anchorage, Alaska, Ruben L. Jackson was re-elected.
Fairbanks, Alaska was the site of the Twenty-sixth Grand Communication, at that
meeting; the members present elected James H. Watson Most Worshipful Grand
Master. The Twenty-sixth Annual Grand Communication convened in the beautiful
city of Anchorage, Alaska, at the Anchorage Hilton Hotel April 13-16, 1995, Grand
Master, James Watson was re-elected by the Grand Lodge, to the Supreme position,
of Grand Master of the state of Alaska and its Jurisdiction in 1996 for a job well
done.
The Twenty-seventh Annual Communication of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall
Grand Lodge and its Jurisdiction took place at the Westmark Hotel in the city of
Fairbanks from the 19th – 22nd day of April 1997.
Michael Boone advanced to the Supreme position of Free Masonry as Grand Master.
The reason Grand Master Boone received so much support to become our leader was
that his record of accomplishment proved he was a man with a vision. The craft
believed he was the man to press forward the construction on our new Grand Lodge
Hall and their belief proved to be true. None of this accomplishment could become
possible without the dedicated aid of Past Grand Master Ruben Jackson. Grand
Master Boone lifted the construction of the Grand Lodge building out of the
stalemate where it stalled for six years.
One of the most significant events while in office was the ceremony of mutual
limited recognition between the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, Alaska
and its Jurisdiction, Free and Accepted Masons and the Grand Lodge of Alaska, Free
and Accepted Masons, which occurred on 10 May 1997 at the Fairbanks Masonic
Hall (Non-Prince Hall). The recognition ceremony took place in Fairbanks Alaska.
Most Worshipful Brother Stanley Foulke, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Free
and Accepted Masons of Alaska and Most Worshipful Brother Michael Boone,
Grand Master of the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of
Alaska officiated at the Ceremony. Over one hundred and thirty Freemasons and
their spouses attended to witness the signing of this document. Many in attendance
shed tears of joy as the two Grand Bodies join hands in hands to end segregation of
Freemasons within the state of Alaska.
To date, Past Grand Master Boone is the second Grand Master to serve three
consecutive terms as Grand Master from 1997 to 2000 next to Past Grand Master
Richards Watts at the beginning of the Grand Lodge era.
Most Worshipful Grand Master Sterling R. Taylor succeeded the Chair to become
the 19th Grand Master of this historic Jurisdiction on April 2000. His actions
involved continuous development of the Grand Lodge and Masonic Education. At the
32nd Annual Grand Lodge Communication Most Worshipful Sterling Taylor was re-
elected to serve his second consecutive term in the esteemed office of Grand Master
of Masons in Alaska. At 33rd Grand Lodge Session in Anchorage , then, Deputy
Grand Master Alfred Boyle succeeded the chair by election as the 20th Grand Master
of Prince Hall Freemasons.
On April 2003 at the 34rd Grand Lodge Communication, held at the Westmark
Hotel in Fairbanks, the craft re-elected Grand Master Boyle to serve in the most
esteemed position of Most Worshipful Grand Master. Grand Master Boyle vowed to
move forward with the completion of the Grand Lodge building, Masonic Education,
Youth Sponsorship and increase of membership. Grand Master Boyle pledged his
heart to develop a better environment for the Youth who will be our successors of
the future. On the early morning on 3 December 2004, Past Grand Master Boyle
was called to labor in that eternal Lodge, not made with hands, after fighting a long
battle with cancer.
Though written in the original constitution and bylaws includes the specifications
for youth sponsorship, nothing was in place except for scholarship programs. On
January 2004, Grand Master Boyle appointed R.W. Adisa J. Aiyetoro of Arctic
Lodge No. 7 as State Director to pioneer the Knights of Pythagoras Program for the
jurisdiction. The Knights of Pythagoras is a Youth organization dedicated to the
Fatherhood of God and the Universal Brotherhood of Man, sponsored by Prince
Hall Freemason over the globe. The K.O.P. has been in existence since 1951 under
the leadership of Grand Master Amos T. Hall.
On January 2005, Sir Knight Aiyetoro and several Master Masons of Arctic Lodge
No. 7 and Midnight Sun lodge No. 3 formed the first Knights of Pythagoras Council
in Fairbanks/North Pole region (District No. 2). Upon unanimous vote and
recommendation of Brother Aiyetoro, the members present named the Council
“Honorable Alfred Boyle Council No. 1” honoring the memory of our late Past
Grand Master Alfred Boyle. It was in this meeting, where the unanimous vote of
newly initiated Sir Knights and Junior Knights elected Junior Knight Eric
Robinson Jr. to become the Council’s first Master Knight. Sir Knight Aiyetoro
appointed Sir Knight Cary Landry as the Council’s Advisor.
Sunday, April 18, 2004 marks one of the many historic and memorable events in
the history of Prince Hall Freemasonry in Alaska. Grand Master Boyle, in a public
ceremony, commemorates the completion of the Grand Lodge building by laying the
corner stone on the southeast corner of the building. Grand Master Boyle served
until 2004, at the 35th Annual Grand Lodge Communication where Right
Worshipful Deputy Grand Master James L. Adams succeeded him as the 21st Grand
Master of Prince Hall Freemasons, Alaska.
The year 2004 was a very treacherous one towards the health of Freemasonry in
this Jurisdiction as it marks the calling of Past Grand Master Herman L. Smith,
Past Grand Master Richards Watts, Past Grand Master Alfred Boyle and Past
Grand Master Grand Master Arthur L. Jackson to that eternal Lodge not made with
the hands of men. Our Brothers are gone from this lifetime but surely not forgotten.
At the 36th Annual Grand Lodge Communication held at the Most Worshipful
Prince Hall Grand Lodge Hall in Anchorage, Grand Master James L. Adams was re-
elected and continues to preside as Grand Master. It was at this communication that
R.W. Adisa J. Aiyetoro, R.W. Cary W. Landry and R.W. Timothy Mullins (Three
known active York Rite Freemasons) petitioned to the Grand Lodge to seek
permission to establish a York Rite Body of Freemasons in this Jurisdiction,
consisting of a Chapter, Council and Commandery. After a very lengthy period of
discussion and strong majority vote towards this great endeavor of the members
present, Grand Master Adams grants the petition to proceed. Grand Master Adams
noted that there is need for education of Prince Hall Freemasons in the Jurisdiction.
On 25 October 2005, the Rev. Joseph T. Thornton Most Worshipful Prince Hall
Grand Chapter, Holy Royal Arch Masons, Most Excellent Grand High Priest James
E. Hubbard presiding, granted a Dispensation under the care of R.W. Adisa J.
Aiyetoro as the First Excellent High Priest, R.W. Cary W. Landry as the First
Excellent King and R.W. Timothy Mullins as the First Excellent Scribe who
petitioned to form Uriel Chapter, H.R.A.M. (U.D.) in North Pole, Alaska (now
Chartered as Uriel Chapter No. 69, H.R.A.M.).
On 17 February 2006, the Herman E. Duncan Grand Council and Commandery,
Knights Templar, Jurisdiction of Oklahoma, Right Eminent Grand Commander, Sir
Knight Anthony Bowens presiding, granted a dispensation to form A.J. Aiyetoro
Council, R.S.M. (U.D) (now Chartered as A.J. Aiyetoro Council No 20, R.S.M.) and
Cary W. Landry Commandery, K.T. (U.D.) (now Chartered Cary W. Landry
Commandery No. 24) in North Pole, Alaska.
Probably one of the most significant actions took place while Grand Master Adams
was in office is the granting of a Dispensation to Arctic Lodge No. 7 to operate
outside the jurisdictional boundaries of Alaska. In January 2006, a Dispensation
was granted under the care of R.W. Adisa J. Aiyetoro, District Deputy Grand Master
at Large to admit, enter, pass and raise Masons into Arctic Lodge No. 7 while
deployed in Iraq for a combat tour with Alaska's valorous unit, the 172nd Stryker
Brigade Combat Team. This was proven to be a worthwhile Dispensations which
aided in the building a better and stronger organization allowing the members
deployed in combat to practice and remain proficient Masons. It is the first time in
history that a Prince Hall Lodge operated in the Nineveh Province of Iraq, an area
also known as "Ur", the birth place of Abraham. The Dispensation was terminated
upon return of the 172nd in December 2006
With the beauty and foundation that the Arctic Lodge No. 7 brought to Iraq and the
need for continuance of the legend and legacy of Prince Hall Freemasonry, Past
Master Ronnie Jones and sixteen Brothers of Arctic Lodge No. 7 that were
remaining in Iraq and are mostly civilians contractors, petitioned the Grand Lodge
through R.W. Aiyetoro for a Dispensation to form its own Lodge bearing the name
"Richard J. Watts Sr. Military Lodge, U.D." in honor and memory of the
Jurisdiction's first Grand Master, the late, PGM Richard J. Watts Sr. and a
continued presence of Prince Hall Freemasonry, Alaska in Iraq. A dispensation was
granted in January 2007 bearing Bro. Tarrence Rhone (Worshipful Master), Bro.
Michael Riley (Senior Warden) and Bro. Memlon Shumaker (Junior Warden) as
the three principle officers and in the care of PM Ronnie Jones, Special District
Deputy Grand Master
At the 37th Grand Lodge Session held in Fairbanks from 15-18 April 2006, Deputy
Grand Master Edward A. Miller Sr. was elected to the Oriental Chair and now
presides honorably as the Grand Lodge's Most Worshipful Master