George Washington Lodge worked under dispensation from January 12, 1856 to September 20, 1856, with permission of Grand Lodge of Illinois, seated in Springfield, Illinois.
On October 7, 1856 the Lodge was granted a charter as George Washington Lodge #222 A.F. & A.M. by the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of A.F. & A.M. of the State of Illinois by Most Worshipful Grand Master M. U. Harrick, DGM J. C. Hibbard, SGW H. Dills, JGW N. A. Deitz,at Springfield, Illinois to brethren W. M. McLean WM, H. A. Raney SW, and L.A. Wood JW by Grand Secretary H. G. Reynolds.
The first meeting of George Washington Lodge after receiving dispensation and prior to receiving Charter of record was January 12, 1856, with brethren W. M. McLean WM, H. A. Raney SW, and L.A. Wood JW brethren W. M. McLean WM, H. A. Raney SW, and L.A. Wood JW at which time work was started on constitution and by-laws of the organization.
The Lodge was then known as George Washington Lodge U.D., with a membership of 18. Growth from this time was as follows; 1888 – 23; 1908 – 113; 1921 – 210; 1941 – 190; 1948 – 278; 1956 – 341. The total number of brethren raised and affiliated since first regular meeting was 755 up to August 20,1956.
Bro. W. M. McLean served as our first Master and was returned to the chair three times. Bro. J. F. Thomas, Master four times; Bro. Hosmer, five times; Bro. J. L. Kenner, three times; Bro. C. W. Carroll, six times; Bro. W.M. Mead, two times; Bro. N. S. Cutright, two times; Bro. H. F. Caldwell, three times; Bro. G. W. Friedrich, five times; Bro. J.M. Tawney, five times; Bro. E. L. Walker, two times; Bro. John Weaver, two times; Bro. Tony Anderson, two times; Bro. H. V. Thomas, two times; Bro. H. G. Friedrich, two times; Bro. F. G. Carr, two times; Bro. E. Swift, two times; and Bro. R. Rankin, two times.
In the early days petitions for membership meant that in order to advance in Masonry it was necessary to petition for each degree, besides being proficient, and to be balloted on each time before the degree was conferred.
At the meeting of April 6, 1857, the Lodge resolved that fifty cents be taken from fee received for conferring degrees and all members be taxed fifty cents to form a Charity Fund. At this meeting a Constitution and By-laws were adopted after being duly read.
Minute books in those days also recorded members in attendance as well as officers.
In 1859 the Lodge met in a room rented from Bro. W. M. McLean. Candles were used for lighting. Practice of balloting on candidates to be passed from one degree to another still in order and any petition rejected was declared foul.
In the year ending July 29, 1861, George Washington Lodge #222 used Calumet Lodge I.O.O.F. rooms for meetings and moved to the Modern Woodman Hall where they met for a great many years.
August 6, 1866, an invitation was received from A. C. Spaulding of Peoria, Illinois to assist in laying corner stone of Soldiers Monument in Court House Square in Peoria. It was not acted upon, however.
At this period and previous to and following in the record, brethren delivering lectures before the Lodge were were remitted in cash for this service.
In 1871, Secretary in recording minutes, when referring to the Lodge, made oblong square instead of writing the word Lodge.
Through period of 1876, brethren in arrears for dues were called for trial to show why they should not be suspended. Grand Lodge dues for 1881 were $25.00.
On May 15, 1882 the Lodge received an invitation to attend laying of corner stone of the Masonic Temple in Peoria for June 1, 1882; was accepted and members went as Lodge to assist in this fine work.
In 1885 M.W.G.M. Darrah issued edict not permitting Illinois Masons to hold Masonic intercourse with any Lodge of the Province of Quebec; for which, the Prince of Wales, G.M. Of British Free Masons put the Illinois Grand Lodge under ban. This was recorded in the minutes of November 16, 1885 stated meeting.
New code by-law adopted at June 28, 1886 meeting after being informative share for several months.
First Lodge register for members and visitors ordered procured at August 15, 1887 stated meeting.
April 8, 1889 stated meeting secretary began to keep income and out go on minutes of meeting page.
From early record up to and including November 18, 1889, minutes of previous meeting were and adopted. After this meeting minutes began to be read and approved.
George Washington Lodge #222 moved to New Hall in Mead Building, December 9, 1889.
A vote of thanks is recorded Bro. W. M. McLean for donation of model Lodge in glass case (now in our reception room), at stated meeting of February 17, 1890.
Some time prior to August 1, 1890, balloting on members being advanced from one degree to another had been discontinued.
First lamp for Lodge ordered at meeting of December 15, 1890.
On May 19, 1891, stated meeting a committee was appointed to work on a petition for organization of an Eastern Star Chapter.
On November 16, 1891, stated meeting discontinued closing Lodge in old form and began closing on degrees in form.
At special communication November 10, 1892, six Brethren were raised to sublime degree of Master Mason; first record of class of this size, (which is now frequent in our time).
June 19, 1893, are again in quarters at I.O.O.F. Building. Grand Lodge dues for 1893 were $51.00.
At stated meeting December 18, 1893, communication received from M.W.G.M. Warning Lodges against Clandestine Mason operation was read.
First electric lighted Lodge room about January 15, 1896.
June 1, 1896, first sterioptican machine for projection of slides to assist instruction of degree work purchased for $88.37.
December 21, 1896, Bro. Wm McLean given vote of thanks and gratitude for service of almost 25 years, on his retiring as secretary.
September 6, 1897, Lodge was presented picture of Bro. W. McLean, by himself; (this picture now hangs in reception room of the Lodge); the Lodge accepted with thanks.
September 19, 1899, Bro. Wm. McLean, first Master and Charter Member of George Washington Lodge #222 and secretary for nearly 25 years was laid to rest with the usual ceremonies of the craft. Brethren from other Lodges in the area assisted in this sad work.
Up to and through a period before and after December 16, 1891, installation of new officers the W. M. appointed a past master as acting G.M. And one brother as Grand Marshall to do installing.
October 21, 1902, meeting voted to buy six cuspidors for the usual purposes.
On July 5, 1903, resolved that the first and third Monday of each month be stated meeting nights and on same being placed for discussion of the Lodge. This resolution was voted and adopted August 3, 1903
Bro. G. O. Griedrich was laid to rest February 7, 1904. He had been Master of the Lodge five times. D.D.G.M. in 1889 and was D.D.G.L. of the then 14th district in 1890.
First real-estate owned by the Lodge was called the “Old Enquirer Property” was bought October2, 1905, at a cost of $125.00.
May 7, 1905, voted to send $10.00 for relief of distressed at San Fransisco earthquake and fire. Grand Lodge dues 1906, were $93.80.
Moved to Daugherty and Friedrich Hall July 1, 1910
September 5, 1910, the building committee reported completion of Masonic Building erected on “Old Enquirer Property”; building to be known as Majestic Theater, cost $4,130.14.
May 6, 1911, taxes on Masonic Property were $43.31. December 4, 1911, Majestic Thertre rented to M. W. McGown for $50.00 per month. December 16, 1911, plans for Lodge rooms over Majestic Thertre were discussed.
March 18, 1912, motion passed to purchase Black hat for the Master.
December 15, 1913, custom of W. M. approving minutes with his signature was started.
September 28, 1914, M.W.G.M. Henry Burnapp officially introduced and received by the Lodge.
First telephone installed March 1915. The Lodge moved to Woodman Hall 1915. Bro. J. M. Tawney presented Past Masters Jewell, December 20, 1915.
1917, purchased $200.00 Liberty bond and another $200.00 in 1918.
1918, donated $95.00 to Red Cross.
1918, edict received from M.W.G.M. Scroggins prohibiting use of all languages except English in Lodge work or minutes record.
1919, practice of Wardens assisting W.M. I conferring degrees established, ie.: Master 3rd, Sr. Warden 2nd, and Jr. Warden 1st. 1919, Majestic Thertre sold to R.W. Warren for $6,000.00.
Matthews and Entz. Building bought in 1921. This same year donated $44.00 for ornamental lights for the city.
January 10, 1922, Bro. J.M. Tawney laid to rest with Masonic Honors. November 6, 1922, Bro. H.G. Friedrich appointed D.D.G.M. of 49th st. November 22, 1922, Bro. G.R. Lester presented the Lodge with a new Bible.
August 16, 1923, silent prayer offered for Bro. Warren G. Harding, 29th President of the United States of America.
1924, finance committee, F.G. Carr, Chairman authorized to get plans and estimates on remodeling building, recently purchased with view to making Lodge rooms on the second floor.
July 2, 1925, work being nearly complete on new Lodge quarters, the Lodge celebrated by 3rd degree work, entertainment, and talks by brethren W.M. Mead and M.S. Cutright.
December 7, 1925, Building Committee formally discharged and given vote of thanks for their efforts in a job well done.
November 16, 1926, Chillicothe members of DeMolay, Creve Coeur Chapter Peoria, marshaled by Bro. Ennis D. Nolan formed escort and with the color guards presented our National Colors to the Lodge which were accepted by Bro. C.W. Hettrick, W.M.
November 21, 1938, a beautiful set of handmade gavels were presented to the Lodge by Bro. H.M. Wilkey of Hilton Lodge #1118 of East Peoria, which were gratefully accepted by the Lodge.
1938, Brethren H.E. Stoekhousen and Robert Combs, presented a plaque of George Washinton, which now hangs above the W.M. chair.
May 1, 1939, Bro. Sam Givnew of South Carolina Lodge #19, gave an interesting talk on aspect of Masonry in Revolutionary War Period.
September 4, 1939, arrangements made to place son of deceased Bro. Frank Helper in Masonic Orphan Home at LeGrange, Illinois.
January 6, 1941, newly revived practice of presenting out going Master of the Lodge with recognition of work well done by awarding him with a past masters Jewell, established at this meeting and has been done since this time, at the time new officers are installed.
June 6, 1941, 50th District meeting, at which D.D.G.M. Al Kappler presided and this outline of history of George Washington Lodge #222, presented to the Lodge for the first time by W.M. H.N. Carvat.
June 16, 1941, members serving in armed forces of U.S. Voted to have dues remitted by Lodge.
June 16, 1941, new and beautiful hand made and finished alter, in service of the Lodge; work was done by Bro. H, Wilkey of Hilton Lodge #1118, father Harry Wilkey a local craftsman in wood.
November 3, 1941, Bro. John Lewallyn commended for donation and installing exhaust fan to wall in Lodge room.
March 16, 1942, no meeting due to tornado, lighting and power badly disrupted. Severe damage at Barrville and Lacon, one person killed and several injured.
January 18, 1943, collection of $124.00 sent to Masonic Service Center, as member contribution to all Illinois Masons in service for this work. Sponsored by Illinois Grand Lodge.
October 4, 1943, donation to Illinois Masonic Orphan Home, skipped account, home advised had enough money on hand for Christmas party.
December 6, 1943, resolved that refinancing of debt of George Washington Lodge be taken care of by Executive Committee, which was done.
February 7, 1944, committee appointed to procure Service Flag and have Roll of Honor of all members of George Washington Lodge placed in reception room, of all who were in service. April 17, 1944, committee directed to procure honor roll of service men.
June 5, 1944, Mrs. Frank Helper, widow of same, now financially able to take care of her son, who had been in Illinois Masonic Orphan Home at LaGrange for four years withdrew him, thanking the fraternity for its help.
October 16, 1944, Lodge made donation of $25.00 to U.S.O. for servicemen. 1944 taxes $281.50.
March 19, 1945, Lodge made donation of $25.00 to American Red Cross.
July 2, 1945, new window shades for west windows of Lodge ordered.
August 6, 1945, D.D.GM J.L. Carson on ending of four visits to the Lodge for the purpose of instruction, was sent a letter of appreciation and a check to cover his expenses.
October 15, 1945, resolved that any member 50 years in good standing and service to the Lodge, that he then become a life member and be exempt from annual dues.
November 19, 1945, action taken to have broken emblem over entrance to Lodge replaced, further discussed at December 3rd meeting.
January 5, 1946, new minute book started at this meeting on which the heading of date, current month and year only are printed; old heading of A.D. 19-- and A.L. 59--- has been abandoned.
March 18, 1946, Scottish Rite Consistory Club granted use of Lodge Hall for meeting and practice of degree work.
January 20, 1947, building committee, appointed as per motion to Lodge of January 6, consisting of three members in good standing, term to be for one year, two years and three years. One new member to be appointed annually.
July 21, 1947, note and interest of $1000.00 and #25.00, respectively being paid made George Washington Lodge #222 clear and free of debt for the first time.
September 29, 1947, George Washington Lodge #222 celebrated the last payment on the mortgage made on July 1, 1947, by burning same along with other documents that made the Lodge clear and free of debt. The Master of ceremonies was Bro. E.C. Neal oldest Past Master, who did a bang up job.
The burning of the debt documents was done by Brethren Frank Carr and Charlie Hettrick, surviving members of the original committee. Needless to say a good time was had by all attending.
Practice of sending Senior Warden to Grand Lodge has been done for several years now and is working out fine.
November 15, 1948, no appeal for Christmas donation made from Orphans home, this year,. All Members who can, urged to attend. The Lodge sent the usual contribution.
December 21, 1948, joint Christmas party of the Star and Mason groups held in the Lodge Hall. A very good time was had by all attending.
March 7, 1949, committee appointed to look into fire safety, reported equipment ordered and would be installed soon.
April 2, 1949, special meeting for 3rd degree work called for six candidates, the first five of new members were given the work by Illinois Lodges in area. The sixth new member was given the work by 34 Master Masons from Fort Madison, Iowa. Bro. R.E. Blackwell was the the receiver of this honor.
June 26, 1949, second annual Eastern Star and George Washington Lodge picnic held at Melody Acres, at which a large crowd attended and had a good time.
September 19, 1949, new Hamilton Beach Sweeper purchased for cleaning Lodge carpet fo $50.00.
December 20, 1949, annual joint Christmas party held in Lodge Hall.
All down through the years any worthy cause asking for funds has been helped, to list each one here would fill a page.
On February 6, 1950, we subscribed to the National Polio, as in the past contributed $15.00.
March 6, 1950, received invitation to attend 65th Anniversary celebration of the Illinois Masonic Orphan's Home at LaGrange, March 25th, number attending not known.
August 21, 1950, Plaque presented to Lodge on which names and years of office of the George Washington Past Masters were printed, presented to the Lodge by W.B. C.F. Brown who was assisted in this worthy project by Bro. Harry Camp and was received by the Lodge by W.B. E.C. Neal oldest Past Master.
October 2, 1950, new gas heating plant, ordered and expected to be installed in the next few weeks.
November 20, 1950, new toilet room now in operation for some time. Cost $343.52.
December 4, 1950, resolved that George Washington Lodge #222 sponsor a Chapter of DeMolay and to carry resolution through to completion.
December 18, 1950, new heating units and various other charges total $3010.95. allowed.
February 5, 1951 George Washington Lodge #222 Blood Bank formed with Bro. Don Brown chairman of committee.
March 6, 1951, resolved that Lodge by-laws be amended to permit salaried officers increase in compensation, passed.
April 16, 1951, W.B. J.W. Houser voted honorary member of the Lodge in recognition of his service in degree work to us.
July 21, 1951, discussion of insurance on Lodge Home at great length and moved by W.B. O.E. Smith and seconded by W.B. C.A. Brown, insurance be increased to protect Lodge , carried.
August 4, 1952, letter received from M.W.G.M. relative to 200th anniversary of George Washington, our first U.S. President as an Entered Apprentice, on November 4, requesting us to join Grand Lodge of Virginia in this observance, which was done.
September 15, 1952, secretary directed to place order for six folding tables for use in dining room, Eastern Star having agreed to help with expense.
May 4, 1953, Plan of having building committee abandoned, account inactive and original plan of executive committee, acting revived.
April 5, 1954, New acoustical accepted by Lodge, cost $695.00.
May 17, 1954 Lodge roof reported not draining as it should, action taken.
November 1, 1954, resolution passed regarding request of admission to Illinois Masonic Home of widow of deceased Bro. W.J. Brown and to handle through to completion with the Superintendent of the Illinois Masonic Home.
December 20, 1954, motion passed to purchase addressing machine for use of secretary.
June 20, 1955, new street lighting discussed and $100.00 donation voted to help project.
October 17, 1955, request of Bro. U.L. Anderson desiring steps to be taken to help him be admitted to the Illinois Masonic Home, received and action taken to get papers necessary, resolution of November 7, 1955, passed.
November 19, 1955 communication received from Grand Master that the code now amended to read Illinois Masonic Children's Home instead of Illinois Masonic Orphan Home.
April 14, 1956, a large group of George Washington Lodge members attended Lawn Ridge Lodge to honor Bro. Lester Lamoree. Purpose 70 year pin presentation by Lawn Ridge Lodge.
April 16, 1956, received communication from M.W.G.M. That he would attend George Washington Lodge #222 Centennial Celebration October 10, 1956, (our centennial date is October 7, but the Grand Master gave above date of being available).
May 7, 1956, new carpet for floor of Lodge viewed for first time, covers floor from wall-to-wall, cost $2500.00.
May 21, 1956, new gavels and pedestal tops presented to Lodge by Bro. Ralph Simmons, for which he received a vote of thanks from the Lodge.
The above being an outline of the activities of George Washington Lodge #222 the historian prays the indulgence of the Lodge and its members, if he has omitted anything thought important by anyone, and has derived a great deal of pleasure of having the honor of doing this work.