How about a glimpse into the heart of Liberty’s Masonic history? We are standing before the Liberty Masonic Lodge No. 48, A. F. & A. M. Plaque. It marks a story that stretches back to 1848. This plaque commemorates the founding and enduring legacy of this important institution.
Liberty Masonic Lodge No. 48, A. F. & A. M. was organized in 1848. It received its charter the following year. The initial membership comprised eleven individuals. Names like William J. Mills and W. C. Abbott are etched in its history. E. T. Branch and B. W. Hardin also played a crucial role. William Beazley and Jesse Devore were among the founders too. Reason Green, William H. Mills, and C. J. O’Connor completed the original group.
Initially, the Liberty Masonic Lodge No. 48, A. F. & A. M. gathered in the county courthouse. This arrangement continued until 1851. In that year, they constructed their own lodge hall. Its precise location is now a mystery. Tragedy struck in 1858 when fire consumed the building. Records offer no clue as to where the Liberty Masonic Lodge No. 48, A. F. & A. M. convened.
The Liberty Masonic Lodge No. 48, A. F. & A. M. persevered despite the setback. In 1867 a new facility arose at the corner of Main and Trinity streets. But fate repeated itself. Fire once again devastated the Lodge Hall in 1909. Undeterred, the members rebuilt. A two-story brick structure replaced the former hall. It stood on the same site. This served as home for the Liberty Masonic Lodge No. 48, A. F. & A. M. until 1979.
In 1979 a new Lodge Hall was erected at the current site. This plaque stands as a testament to their resilience. The Liberty Masonic Lodge No. 48, A. F. & A. M. has been integral to the community. Members actively participate in local government. They contribute to public education and community affairs.
Liberty Masons include Texas Revolutionary War veterans. Representatives to Republic of Texas conventions also belonged to the Lodge. State legislators and supreme court justices were members too. City and county officers and school board trustees were part of it as well. Even a governor of Texas held membership in the Liberty Masonic Lodge No. 48, A. F. & A. M..
This plaque is not just a marker. It represents the Liberty Masonic Lodge No. 48, A. F. & A. M.’s enduring commitment to community. It shows their dedication to service. It serves as a reminder of the values they uphold. The Liberty Masonic Lodge No. 48, A. F. & A. M. continues to shape Liberty’s history.