175 YEARS OF FREEMASONRY IN THE
WILD WEST
OREGON MASONIC NEWS
SEPTEMBER
Marc
Johnny
Gregory
Zachary
Gary
Timothy
From Summer’s Rest to Autumn’s Light
Rekindling Our Obligations and Unity in the Masonic Family
Ihope this month’s OMN nds you enjoying the gentle transition into autumn. Across our beautiful state, the leaves are changing into brilliant shades of gold and crimson, and ocks of birds are gathering, preparing for their long journeys to warmer places.
In many ways, our Masonic Family is like those birds. Over the summer, we’ve each been busy— whether with our families or with our Masonic Family—attending picnics, parades, and other summertime activities. Now, as fall arrives and Lodges that go dark in the summer return to light, we gather again, drawing renewed strength from each other and the bonds of our brotherhood. Just as birds rely on their ock, we rely on each other to rejuvenate our spirits and remember our obligations. is is also a season for giving. Opportunities abound to support our charities, the Home Endowment Fund, and Oregon Masonic Charitable Foundation. Whether through a one-time gi or a recurring donation, your generosity can li up many—perhaps even you or your loved ones—someday.
Our Masonic Family deserves the same care and respect we give to any cherished relationship. In Lodge, let us welcome every voice, honor each other’s experiences, and work together toward more light in Masonry. Newer members can learn much from the wisdom of our seasoned Brethren, while longstanding members can be inspired by the energy and ideas of the newer ones. Building a strong Lodge culture takes time, patience, and dedication—but the rewards are worth it.
Treat your Masonic Brothers as you would your own family, and you’ll nd the fellowship of the Lodge becomes one of life’s greatest joys. When we honor our obligations to one another, we strengthen not only our Lodge but ourselves—and that is a journey worth taking together.
Sincerely and Fraternally,
Marc L. Strong Grand Master 2025-2026
175 YEARS OF FREEMASONRY IN THE
WILD WEST
Freemasonry made its way into the Oregon Territory long before statehood, predating the rst railroad, as gold fever swept through the West. Ours is a history built by pioneers—men who carried the working tools of the Cra alongside their ri es and plows, who gathered in log halls and candlelit rooms to lay the foundation for a Grand Lodge in the rugged, untamed land that would one day be Oregon.
In the 1800s, Grand Lodges across the United States were being formed as settlers pushed west. Oregon Freemasons carved their own path in this historic march, and now we’re approaching a milestone of American Freemasonry worth celebrating.
wilderness. e 175th anniversary will honor not only the passage of years, but the enduring bonds of our Masonic Family.
While the 175th Annual Communication took place in June 2025, our true jurisdictional anniversary is September 15, 2026—exactly 175 years since the Grand Lodge of Oregon was o cially established in the heart of frontier life. is date is more than a number, it marks a legacy of grit, vision, and brotherhood.
From the candlelit halls of Oregon City in 1851 to the thriving Cra we enjoy today, our journey has been shaped by the pioneering spirit that carried Freemasonry across mountains and through the
To mark this occasion, we invite you to join us for a full season of celebration. Mark your calendars for Sept. 12, 2026, for a special anniversary event. A custom anniversary logo will be shared across digital platforms and may appear on commemorative materials. We plan to share historical artifacts from the archives (including the leather-wrapped trunk that carried our rst charter along the Oregon trail from the Grand Jurisdiction of Missouri), highlight stories and milestones from our history, and encourage Lodges and Masons across the state to participate in local celebrations.
We encourage Lodges to incorporate the milestone into the 2026 calendar, o ering a special event to engage both members and the public. Want to collaborate on an idea? Connect with me via email! is celebration belongs to all Oregon Masons, and it will be a time for the entire Masonic Family to come together to honor this legacy.
Marissa Douglas Marketing Director mdouglas@oregon eemasonry.com
A TRAILBLAZING TIMELINE
FEB. 5, 1846
An Oregon City notice published in e Spectator calls frontier Freemasons to gather to begin organizing Masonic work in the West.
OCT. 17, 1846
Missouri grants the charter for Multnomah Lodge No. 84
AUG. 16, 1851
FEB. 21, 1846
A formal petition rides east to the Grand Lodge of Missouri, with Bro. Joel Palmer, requesting a charter for a lodge in Oregon City.
SEPT. 11, 1848
e charter arrives by wagon train, carried over mountains and through rivers by Brothers Kellogg, father and son, and is placed in the hands of Oregon Masons. at same day, the Brethren meet and open the lodge for the rst time.
Resolutions are passed to form a Grand Lodge for the Territory of Oregon, with Oregon City chosen as the meeting place.
SEPT. 15, 1851
e Grand Lodge of Oregon is o cially established, the Constitution adopted, and o cers installed at this rst Annual Communication. is is the moment our jurisdiction came into being—a milestone rmly etched into the Masonic history of the American West.
JUNE 4, 2025
Opening day of the 175th Annual Communication of this grand jurisdiction.
SEPT. 13, 1851
Delegates convene in Oregon City, ready to bring the vision to life.
JUNE 14, 1852
e second Annual Communication, just months after the rst, set the pace for the annual gathering of future Oregon Freemasons.
SEPT. 15, 2026
Marks 175 years of Freemasonry in the Oregon Territory, celebrating the true jurisdictional anniversary.
W.B. Johnny J. Edwards, Grand Historian
Education and Care
How Masons Are Supporting the Next Generation
R.W.B. Gregory A. Hinkelman, Senior Grand Warden
There are some exciting changes in our Masonic e orts to take care of our families with our important Educational Assistance program. To remind our Brothers, this program was set up 75 years ago and is limited to resident and nonresident children and grandchildren of Master Masons of a Lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction who are currently in good standing or were at the time of their death. Financial assistance is provided to aid students in obtaining an education in an accredited, tax supported public institution for grades K-12, or post high school through age 22.
e new changes involve a restructuring of the nancial eligibility criteria. e Grand Lodge Trustees, using data and diligent research by Courtney Chun our Educational Assistance Program Director, approved a new method of determining levels of assistance. Using empirical data gathered from ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained & Employed);
the trustees have raised the household income threshold for assistance to better align with today’s cost of living.
Our family works very hard to support our kids with their expanding hobbies & it’s not always easy due to limited finances. With help from the Educational Assistance program, we are able to fulfill our kids’ goals.
- Grateful Recipient
For the 2025-2026 academic year, the Grand Lodge has allocated just shy of $200,000 for assistance and as of this writing, we have 25 cases, representing 38 students in the process of reapplying for nancial assistance. All Brothers need to be on the lookout for Masonic families in their Lodges who might bene t from this amazing program. e funds provided by Educational Assistance may be used for school expenses, extracurricular activities, or everyday living expenses. A reminder to all that K-12 applications must be completed and turned into the trustees by December 31 of each year and post high-school applications are due by January 31.
Let us all be on the lookout for families that could use this assistance. is is one of the nest things we can do for our Masonic Family in our jurisdiction.
A of Light
How Masons Can Use Life Insurance to Support the Craft for Generations
W.B. Zachary Steele, Endowments Committee
WHAT LEGACY WILL YOU LEAVE BEHIND?
As Masons, we are taught to leave the world better than we found it. While many of us live this principle daily, few realize the lasting impact we can make with a simple, o en overlooked tool: life insurance. Using life insurance for charitable giving is a powerful way to continue supporting your Lodge or the Oregon Masonic Grand Lodge’s charitable e orts—well beyond your earthly years.
1. BUY A POLICY WITH A MASONIC CHARITY AS BENEFICIARY
A straightforward method is to purchase a life insurance policy and name one the Oregon Masonic 501(c)(3) Charities as the bene ciary. is could include the Home Endowment or Oregon Masonic Charitable Foundation. is turns your monthly premium into a future gi of meaningful value.
✓ Charitable donations avoid probate
✓ Your estate may receive tax advantages
✓ Your premiums may be tax-deductible (consult your tax professional)
If you are not interested in the tax advantages of this method you could even select your home Lodge as the bene ciary.
2. DESIGNATE A PORTION TO CHARITY
If you’d prefer to balance your legacy between family and Fraternity, you can split your policy bene ts. For example, 90% to family, 10% to your Lodge.
✓ Multiple bene ciaries allowed
✓ Percentages fully customizable
✓ Update any time without cost
is method ensures your loved ones are provided for— while still contributing to the cra that shaped your life.
3. CHARITABLE GIVING RIDERS: HIDDEN GEMS
Some life insurance companies are now o ering charitable riders at no cost. ese riders pay an additional 1% (up to $10,000) to the charity of your choice—without reducing your main death bene t.
✓ No impact on loved one’s bene t
✓ Easy to set up
✓ Great way to amplify your giving
Example: If you have a $500,000 life insurance policy, your designated charity could receive $5,000 in addition to the full death bene t going to your family.
Ask your insurance advisor if your current policy quali es.
LEAVE A LEGACY THAT REFLECTS YOUR LIGHT
Whether you want to create a modest gi or a signi cant endowment, life insurance is one of the most e cient and exible charitable vehicles available to Masons today.
Talk to your insurance agent, nancial advisor, or a member of the Grand Lodge Endowments Committee to explore your options.
Where Generosity Meets Masonic Purpose
“Including the Oregon Masonic Charities in our estate plan was an easy decision. It feels good to know that even a er we’re gone, we will still be part of something meaningful— helping others and supporting the values we believe in.”
W. Myles and Sue McMillan Past Grand Master 2017-2018
The best decision you can make for a life of independence confidence and freedom.
2300 Masonic Way Forest Grove, OR 97116
503-357-4133 www.jenningsmccall.com
— SUPPORTING —
• Adult Living You Design
• Independent Living
• Assisted Living
• Progressive Care
your free lunch & tour!
Enduring, compassionate care since 1922
• Memory Care
Recognizes individuals who include Oregon Masonic Charities in their will, trust, or estate plan.
GIVING LEVELS
Pearl – $5,000
Emerald – $20,000
Ruby – $100,000
Diamond – $500,000
MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS
START SMALL, MAKE A IMPACTBIG
✓ Perpetuate your values for future generations
✓ Recognition in annual publications & on the Legacy donor wall in the Richmond Library and Museum
OREGON MASONIC CHARITIES Oregon Masonic Charitable Foundation
From Birdies to Big Impact
OMCF Golf Tournament Celebrates 21 Years of Giving Back
R.W.B. Gary L. Ball, Grand Treasurer
The 21st annual Oregon Masonic Charitable Foundation Golf Tournament was held at Glendoveer’s East Course in Portland on July 17, 2025. e rst tournaments in 2004 and 2005 bene tted the Masonic Model Student Assistance Program before the OMCF was created in 2006 to fund the MMSAP and other charitable organizations. is year, the OMCF
Golf Committee was chaired by M.W.B. Dave Fryday, who did an outstanding job. Seventy players participated in the event and a fun time was had by all. Nearly $41,000 was raised in sponsorships and player fees, and $10,000 was spent on tournament expenses, resulting in almost $35,000 to bene t the OMCF fund. e OMCF fund is invested with other Grand Lodge funds for additional income and for the last two years, the statewide SMART Reading literacy program has been the recipient of $50,000 each year. e OMCF fund also supports local Lodges using the Creating a Partnership program which supports local community charities and Lodge scholarship programs. Congratulations and thanks to the sponsors, the participants, and the Golf Committee for their support of this event. Congratulations also to the Tigard-Orenomah Lodge No. 207 team for their rst-place performance of an amazing 19 under par score of 54. ey scored two eagles . . . and een birdies if my math is correct! And congratulations to Grand Secretary M.W.B. Jim Morgan the longest drive in the over-70 division!
Celebrating Oregon Freemasonry EVERY DAY!
The 175th Annual Communication was held at Chinook Winds Casino Resort in Lincoln City, Ore. on June 5 & 6, 2025. M.W.B. Timothy J. Best opened the event, which saw more than 200 Oregon Freemasons, and dignitaries representing ten Grand Jurisdictions in attendance. Grand Lodge was opened in ample form to conduct elections, approve the budget, and consider proposed legislation.
A MasonicAid luncheon was held as a meaningful opportunity to reconnect our dedicated MasonicAid sta with many past members of the Masonic & Eastern Star Home Board and their ladies. Updates on today’s program were shared to equip them to continue serving as valued stewards within the Masonic community. e event concluded with the installation of M.W.B. Marc L. Strong as Grand Master.
Thank you Brothers for your service to your Lodges and fellow Masons!
SECRETARY OF THE YEAR
MASON OF THE YEAR
M.W.B. Best selected R.W.B. Michael D. Sullivan, Past Master of North Bend Lodge No. 140 and Blanco Lodge No. 48, for his outstanding leadership, mentorship, and service to the Cra . He has served in nearly every Lodge o ce, as District Deputy, and in key York Rite roles. He exempli es the spirit of Masonry, living M.W.B. Best’s theme Every Day!
Each year, the Grand Lodge sta select an outstanding Lodge Secretary. is year, R.W.B. Jerald G. Boyd of Prineville Lodge No. 76 was awarded Secretary of the Year. Brother Boyd is 36-year Oregon Freemason, has served as Lodge secretary for 20 years, and is a Hiram Award recipient who diligently serves this Fraternity and his Brethren. e Grand Lodge Sta recognized him for his deep sense of responsibility as a Secretary and for being a joy to work with. Brother Boyd was delighted to receive this award.
“OUR ANNUAL COMMUNICATION WAS A SHINING EXAMPLE OF UNITY AND PURPOSE, REMINDING US OF THE ENDURING STRENGTH OF FREEMASONRY IN OREGON. EVERY DAY!”
—Timothy
J. Best Immediate Past Grand Master
Board Chairman
Timothy J. Best, I.P.G.M.* MESH
Mark R. Reed Senior Grand Deacon
Gary L. Ball Grand Treasurer
James L. Morgan, P.G.M. Grand Secretary Scan
e 2024 Impact Report re ects the profound di erence your generosity has made this year. Together, we have provided critical resources, guidance, and relief to individuals and families in need—strengthening the bonds of compassion that de ne Oregon Freemasonry. Your support is more than a gi ; it is a testament to our shared values of brotherly love, relief, and truth. ank you for standing with us, giving so sel essly, and helping us build a legacy of kindness that will endure for generations.
ARRIVING IN MAILBOXES NOW! SHOW YOUR MASONIC PRIDE!
MASONIC PASSPORTS & LODGE SEALS
Masonic Passports are a great way to celebrate your journey through the Cra . Each Lodge you visit can stamp your passport— creating a personal record of Brotherhood and Masonic fellowship.
If you don’t have a passport yet, get yours now on Amazon and start collecting your Masonic memories.
Lodges—make sure your Lodge seal is ready for visiting Brothers.
Represent the Cra with the Grand Master’s o cial merchandise. You can order from the Grand Lodge o ce or directly from the Grand Master.
Challenge Coin | Lapel Pin | Baseball Cap Bucket Hat | Grand Master’s Pocket Calendar
ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL
e Grand Lodge is preparing for the 2026 membership renewal period, with notices going out by email in August and by mail in September to all dues-owing members.
Payments can be made online through Grand View or directly to your Lodge.
Life Members will not receive renewal notices this year (based o past feedback), and Lodges remain responsible for sending their own annual election notices. Scan the QR code to access Grand View.
75-Year Diamond Jubilee Celebration for Roy F. Anderson
On May 12, 2025, 97-year-old Roy Anderson was honored for an extraordinary 75 years of membership in Freemasonry by the Grand Lodges of California and Oregon. A special ceremony took place at the Masonic Homes of California, where Brother Anderson now resides.
Brother Anderson re ected on his remarkable Masonic journey, sharing memories, insights, and the enduring values that have guided him through nearly eight decades in the fraternity in a video shared by the Grand Lodge of California. To watch the video, scan this QR code.
Summer Brotherhood in the Stands
Corvallis Lodge No. 14 and Marys Rivers Lodge No. 221 got together with their families to fellowship and enjoy a Knights baseball game at Goss Stadium this summer.
Brotherhood Thrives in Central Oregon
Bend Lodge No. 139 marked several rsts this summer. Senior Warden Scott T. Hegness sat in the East, and Brothers William M. Alexander and Lance A. McCarthy took on new roles—serving as Senior Deacon (2nd Section) and delivering a lecture for the rst time. Congratulations to our newest Master Masons, Jared M. Eisenhauer and David C. Luman. Special thanks to our visiting Brethren from Redmond Lodge No. 154, Prineville Lodge No. 76, and Texas!
50-Year Jewel Presented by the Grand Master
Brother E.G. “Buddy” Barnett, member of McKenzie River Lodge No. 195, was presented his 50-year jewel on June 12 by M.W.B Timothy J. Best. Brother Barnett lives in Umatilla with his wife Dolly. R.W.B. Jason Edmiston, District Deputy No. 19 helped facilitate.
OREGON MASONIC NEWS
e Grand Lodge of A.F. & A.M. of Oregon
2150 Masonic Way
Forest Grove, OR 97116
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Scan this QR Code for a quick link to the other issues of the OMN.
WASHINGTON D.C. BOOK YOUR JOURNEY
Travel with the Grand Master to Washington, D.C.!
Join us for an unforgett able Masonic journey to our nation’s capital from April 26 – May 1, 2026. Explore historic sites, deepen your Masonic bonds, and experience Washington, D.C. like never before — alongside fellow Oregon Masons and guests.
Highlights include:
• George Washington Masonic National Memorial
• House of the Temple Tour
• Wreath Laying Ceremony at Mt. Vernon
• And much more!
Scan this QR code to view the full itinerary & details.
Reserve your spot early — space is limited!