Yelverton Peyton Page, Grand Master,
1863
Brother Page
possessed one of the most interesting personalities in the
history of the Grand Lodge, and through a eulogy pronounced upon
him by his intimate friend, Past Grand Master B. B. French, in
1863, we are permitted an insight into his life and character as
fortunate as it is unusual.
He was born
in Washington, D. C, July 17, 1823, of parents noted for their
integrity and worth, and among the prominent citizens of the
city. They were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, as
was also their son, and his early youth under the care of such
parents promised to develop a character for goodness, truth, and
morality, which promise was amply fulfilled. In early boyhood he
was a page in the U. S. Senate, and became a favorite with many
of the Senators. During the recess periods he devoted himself to
study, and later became one of the most important clerks in the
office of the Secretary of the Senate. He was initiated in Naval
Lodge, No. 4, June 5, 1847; passed July 31, 1847, and raised
August 2, 1847, and served as Master during the years 1852,
1856-58; exalted in Washington R. A. Chapter; made a Knight
Templar May 11, 1853.
Besides his
service as Master he held various offices in Naval Lodge. In
manner he was dignified, yet kind and courteous. As a Mason his
charity was known throughout the jurisdiction; to him Free
masonry was not a mere shadow, it was a solemn and abiding
obligation.
In the Grand
Lodge he stood high, and was bold and decided in the expression
of opinions he considered right He was elected Grand Master for
the year 1863, while ill, and was installed in his home. In his
address on that occasion he closed with the pathetic words: "You
have summoned me in my weakness; you must sustain me by your
strength." At this time he was apparently convalescing from an
attack of pneumonia, and while he became better, he never
regained his health, and died September 26, 1863, while Grand
Master of the District, and but forty years of age.
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.
|
