“We want to get back, and give back, to our community,” says Worshipful Master Toney Gassaway. “It’s about helping the community as best we can.”
Fairfield Masonic Lodge #452, Prince Hall, Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Texas, is celebrating its 100th Anniversary this year, and in honor of that, they have re-chartered their lodge.
Originally founded by freed slave, Prince Hall, the lodge was made up of men of color. Now, the lodge prides itself in being made up of a diverse group of men.
“If we can work together and eat together, then why can’t we lodge together?” explains Gassaway. “There is no need to be separate when we all believe the same things.”
This group of about 25 members meets on the second and fourth Thursday of each month at the Holiday Inn in Fairfield; and plan to do so until they can obtain their own lodge building.
Some of their community activities include a Christmas Toy Drive, Thanksgiving Meal Giveaway, Meals on Wheels, and most recently, a blood drive at the LaQuinta in Fairfield. Coming up soon, they will be hosting a free health fair.
Officers for Lodge #452 include: Worshipful Master – Toney Gassaway; Senior Warden – James Green; Junior Warden – Weldon Alexander; Senior Deacon – Michael Bass; Junior Deacon – LaDarius Brackens; Secretary – Tyler Wigfall; and Treasurer – Dale Adams.
Their motto is: “Making men better men.”
Their slogan is: “To be one, ask one.”
They would like to thank the following businesses and organizations for their assistance, donations, and participation in community projects: LaQuinta, Holiday Inn, Dollar General, Freestone County Sheriff’s Reserves, Inspiring Word Christian Center, Carter BloodCare, LOVES Truck Stop, Freestone County Citizens, and Plainview Lodge #709.
Stay tuned for further details on their upcoming Health Fair.
