The Masonic Lodge in Blackwell was chartered on
October 13, 1887, with 14 members:� Samuel Cummins, James Madden, Solomon Stong,
William M. Jones, George C. Jones, Newton Hawkins, William T. Blackwell, Sr., James M.
Pinson, William Blackwell, Jr., John Long, R. H. Dearing, Aquilla Blackwell, William B.
Mallicoat, and Frank McGready.� For approximately six years their meetings were held
over the store in Blackwell.� In 1893 a contract was made with W. J. Lee to erect a
two-story building at a cost of $1,000.00.� The land for the building was donated by
Aunt Lavinia Blackwell.� The lower floor was used as the Methodist Church, and the
lodge hall was on the upper floor.�
��� On April 6, 1894, the Dillion Chapter Order of Eastern Star (O.E.S.)
was formed.� The Chapter was named for Sallie E. Dillion who was the Grand Secretary
at that time. � Miss Lulu McGready was the first Matron and Fannie Welch the first
secretary. � The members were:� Mr. Thomas Welch, M. Hawkins, William Blackwell,
Jr., Samuel Cummins, E. M. Dearing, John Blackwell, Mrs. Elizabeth Welch, Kitty Hawkins,
Runa Jones, Lena Blackwell, Helen Blackwell, Jane McGready, Ann McGready, Misses Lavinia
Blackwell, Laura Blackwell, Callie Dearing, Lulu McGready, Annie Blackwell and Fannie
Welch.�
In 1987 a new lodge hall was built further West on Highway "CC".� The
original building pictured above burned down� after the new lodge was constructed.
��
RESOLUTIONS
OF RESPECT
Benjamin Blackwell - Dated October 27, 1894
Helen Blackwell - Dated November 25, 1912
William
T. Blackwell, Jr. - Dated May 14, 1941
Runa Blackwell - Dated June 13, 1948
Click HERE
to view original receipts issued by
Dillion Chapter No. 16, Order of the Eastern Star (O.E.S.)
dated February 23, 1895 and April 7, 1898
(Contributed by Wm. C. Blackwell)
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