Owner Comments:
MASONIC ISSUE APPEARANCE/CONDITION:
Choice Gem Uncirculated — Antiqued Bronze
*Stunning overall issue with sandy and chocolate brown surfaces as noted by the antiqued bronze that was used. If not for the very few marks/abrasions on the reverse, this piece would have graded even higher. An exceptional rarity.*
MASONIC ISSUE BACKGROUND:
Issued to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the Most Excellent Grand Royal Arch Chapter in Colorado (1875-1975).
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The history of the Most Excellent Grand Royal Arch Chapter is as follows:
“In 1875 there were five chapters at work in the Colorado Territory, each holding a charter from the General Grand Chapter, and with a total membership of 283 Royal Arch Masons, the lodges in the Territory having a membership of approximately 1300 Masons. Early in the year these five chapters made known to the General Grand High Priest their desire to establish a Grand Chapter for the Territory of Colorado, and permission to do so was granted by General Grand High Priest Elbert H. English on April 22, 1875.
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Due notice of the proposed action having been sent to the five chapters, representatives from each chapter assembled in the Masonic Hall, on the top floor of the Fink Block (15th and Holladay – now Market Sts.) in Denver at eleven o’clock on the morning of May 11, 1875, for the purpose of organizing the Grand Chapter of Colorado. John W. Webster, of Denver City Chapter was elected President of the convention and John W. Ratliff, of Central City Chapter was elected secretary. Credentials of the representatives of the five chapters were examined and approved; a Constitution for the new Grand Chapter was adopted and the following officers were elected:
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William N. Byers, Denver City Chapter #2, Grand High Priest; Irving W. Stanton, Pueblo Chapter #3, Deputy Grand High Priest; Benjamin W. Wisebart, Central City Chapter #1, Grand King; Francis E. Everett, Golden Chapter #5, Grand Scribe; Richard C. Lake, Central City Chapter #1, Grand Treasurer; Ed. C. Parmelee, Georgetown Chapter #4, Grand Secretary; George Q. Richmond, Pueblo Chapter #3, Grand Captain of the Host.
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The object for which the Convention had been called having been accomplished, the convention adjourned sine die (without assigning a day for a further meeting or hearing. To adjourn an assembly sine die is to adjourn it for an indefinite period). The Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Colorado was then immediately opened and its officers installed.
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William N. Byers, as proxy for General Grand High Priest, E.H. English, with George M. Howe, acting as Grand Marshal, then constituted the Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Colorado in due form, and proclamation was made that the Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Colorado was duly organized, and the officers installed.
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The Grand Chapter of Colorado was thus launched upon a career which, for over one hundred and thirty-five years, has been unmarred by any serious unpleasantness or lack of harmony. On the contrary, it has been especially characterized by the peace and good-will, and the pleasant associations that should be the distinguishing features of all Masonic organizations.” — Credited Source: Most Excellent Grand Royal Chapter of COLORADO | https://yorkriteco.org/megrac/
RARITY: Unknown; Likely scarce - I have seen a few examples come to auction
MASONIC ISSUE DESCRIPTION:
(Antiqued Bronze, 40mm, Round, Plain Edge)
OBVERSE: Most Excellent Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Colorado / Org / May 11 1875
REVERSE: 100th / (Cattle Pulling Wagon) / Anniversary