over 150 years ago. These were true pioneering and rugged people who were driven to create the town of Union. They created and established businesses, orchards, and ranches, and in turn they laid the Masonic cornerstone within the town. Two pioneering individuals who made an early impact on the success of this Lodge were Brothers William Wright, P.G.M. 1883 and Edward Kiddle, P.G.M. 1908. Both of these men came from the midwest on the Oregon Trail. They were significant supporters of the Fraternity and the Grande Ronde Valley Lodge. Both were influential businessmen renowned all over Oregon for their pioneering efforts of progress and building the future of Oregon. M.W.B. Wright was Worshipful Master in Grande Ronde Valley in 1882, a banker by trade, and mayor of Union from 1891-1895. He founded the merchandise and milling operations in Union, and also throughout the Eastern Oregon and Western Idaho region. M.W.B. Kiddle was Master of Grande Ronde Valley in 1891 & 1895 and a prominent manager within many large business circles in Union County. He was a huge promotor of all the Masonic bodies. He was the head of all the local York Rite bodies, a member of the Shrine, Scottish Rite, and Order of the Eastern Star. In 1909 he was elected Grand High Priest of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Oregon. In 1901 he was elected custodian of the work for Blue Lodge. For 150 years the Grande Ronde Valley Lodge has benefitted from intelligent and impactful Masters and Brothers who have dedicated themselves to the success of this Lodge. As we look towards the next 150 years,our Lodge will continue that pioneering spirit and focus on creating a positive impact within our local Union community.
Corn, Wine, and Oil
In Freemasonry, corn or grain, wine, and oil symbolize prosperity, health, and peace. They are considered a Freemason’s wages and are featured in Masonic degrees. All three are used as symbols in building and Lodge consecration ceremonies.
Corn
A SIGN OF PLENTY I pour this corn, the emblem of nourishment, and consecrate this Lodge to charity.
Wine
A SIGN OF JOY I pour this wine, the emblem of refreshment, and consecrate this Lodge to hope.
Oil
A SIGN OF PEACE I pour this oil, the emblem of joy, and consecrate this Lodge to faith.
The Corn , W ine , a nd O il ceremony is my favorite because it brings the lo ca l Lodge a nd the G ra nd Lodge together with the pu blic . In ma ny case s the pu blic has never seen the inside of a Masonic Lodge a nd this ceremony give s a nyone the oppor tu nit y to see a lit tle bit of what we do. It shows the longevit y of the Fraternit y a nd hopefu l ly inspire s ever yone to continue in that trad ition . - Eric Head ley, G ra nd Ma r sha l
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