Celebrating 138 Years of Masonic History

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Throughout our 138-year history, the members of Arlington Lodge #58 have persevered, never losing sight of the vision our forefathers left for us. It is because of the realization of this shared vision, and the dedication and commitment of our Masonic brothers, both past and present, that has allowed us to continue this long.

A Rich History

     Arlington Lodge #58 has had a long and rich history, with many of our Masonic brethren making outstanding contributions that have had a far-reaching impact, not only in Masonry but in the community at large and society in general.

     In 1845, 17 years before the Emancipation Proclamation, Universal Lodge #1 in Alexandria became the first lodge to be organized by black men in the state of Virginia. Arlington Lodge was granted a charter in October 1888, with the number "58." 

The first officers included:

   - Henry L. Holmes, Worshipful Master

   - Edmund C. Fleet, Sr., Secretary

   - Tibbett Allen, Senior Warden

   - Robert E. Smith, Sr. Deacon

   - S. H. Thompson, Junior Warden

   - Abraham Pinn, Jr. Deacon

   - James Tunston, Treasurer

   - Henry Thomas, Chaplain

   - John Alexander Tiler

Legacy of Leadership

     Henry L. Holmes, the first Worshipful Master, served as Commissioner of Revenue for Arlington County for an uninterrupted 27 1/2 years. In recognition of his outstanding work and tradition of community service, a building was named in his honor.

     After the death of Brother Holmes, Arlington Lodge #58 continued to meet at Stevens Lodge Odd Fellows Building. In 1963, fire destroyed the building, but some ledgers were saved and are now housed in the Virginia Room of the Arlington County Central Library.

Preserving Tradition

     Brother Edmund C. Fleet, Sr., donated the original Tiler's sword to Arlington Lodge in 1888. The sword, a symbolic Masonic possession, was saved from the 1963 fire by Brother Edmund C. Fleet Jr. It was returned to the lodge by Mrs. Alice Fleet in 1994.

Enduring Through Challenges

     Arlington Lodge #58 has functioned masonically for more than 138 years, with a brief pause during World War II. After the war, in 1945, the lodge was reorganized with the help of Lincoln Lodge #11 of Alexandria. The lodge has since thrived, achieving recognition in various Masonic endeavors.

Community Engagement

     On September 7, 1945, Arlington Lodge #58 adopted Arlington Chapter #173, Order of the Eastern Star, consisting of the wives, mothers, widows, sisters, and daughters of Freemasons.

     Each year, the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Virginia hosts the "Jewel Contest," and in 1981, Arlington Lodge #58 won this prestigious award.

Honoring Leaders

     In 1986, Past Master William F. Milton was elected Right Worshipful Junior Grand Deacon, eventually becoming Most Worshipful Grand Master of Prince Hall Masons for the jurisdiction of Virginia in 1996.

A Lasting Legacy

     As we commemorate another milestone in the history of our lodge, we, the members of Arlington Lodge #58, feel a sense of pride and humility. From the labors of our first Master, Henry L. Holmes, to the present Master, Maurice Spraggins, the work to promote the highest type of manhood based on the practice of brotherly love, community service, and the Golden Rule continues.

"The attentive ear is still receiving the sound from the instructive tongue."    

        - Past Master Carlton Newton -