Ben W. Murch, Deputy Grand Master, 1911

Born in Carmel, Me., June 29, 1858, he graduated from Bates College, Lewiston, Maine, in 1882, and has since been engaged in educational work, teaching in Maine, Ohio, Vermont, and the District of Columbia, coming to this city in January, 1887. He is at present Supervisor of the Second Division Schools and Director of Night Schools.

Brother Murch brings to the discharge of the duties of his exalted station the broad culture of the scholar and the benefit of years of executive experience. He is a logical and forceful speaker; is a man of dignified presence, yet modest and unassuming, and has the respect and esteem of the entire Fraternity.

He was made a Master Mason November 24, 1881, in Benevolent Lodge, No. 87, Carmel, Maine; affiliated with George C. Whiting Lodge, No. 22, of this jurisdiction December 12, 1889; served in several of the subordinate offices of the latter lodge and as Master, 1898-99; was elected Junior Grand Steward December, 1901, and has served successively in each of the offices of the Grand Lodge to his present station. He is a member of Potomac R. A. Chapter, No. 8, and has served therein as Captain of the Host, Scribe, King, High Priest, and Secretary, having filled the latter office for six years.

He is a member of Potomac Commandery, No. 3, K T., and served that body as Recorder for four years.

He is a member of Mizpah Chapter, No. 8, O. E. S., and was Patron thereof in 1899; a member of the Convention of Anointed High Priests, President in 1909, and present Secretary; a member of Washington Council, No. 1, R. and S. M., the Masonic Veterans' Association, and Almas Temple, Mystic Shrine.

AHGP District of Columbia

Source: History of the Grand Lodge and Freemasonry in the District of Columbia, compiled by W. Brother Kenton N. Harper, 1911.