The North Carolina Mason

G ather around, brethren, for a Masonic history lesson that includes a glimpse of the future. This history is unfolding even as you're reading these words, and you have the power to write your own name in the newest chapter. This is the story of a place known over time as Oxford Orphan Asylum, Oxford Orphanage, and the Masonic Home for Children at Oxford. Its name may have changed, but it is, and always has been, a home for the children who need it most. It is a sacred place to those who know it best. And this year North Carolina's oldest children's home – the Home Masons built – is celebrating its 150th anniversary. Two chronicles of our Home's origin and early years were written by key players and are available online: "The Story of St. John's College and Oxford Orphanage" by Creasy K. Proctor, superintendent from 1928 to 1946; and "Life at Oxford" by Nettie Bemis, who held the title of Lady Supervisor from 1897 to 1931. Two other sources reach into the 21st century. "A (Non-Authoritative) History of Oxford Orphanage," which tells the Home's story through mid-2003, is found on the ibiblio.org website. A new history, written for the 150th anniversary by Granville County's Lewis Bowling, will be unveiled June 24 during the Home's St. John's Day celebration. Proctor's history opens with the 1838 resolution passed by the Grand Lodge to establish a "charity school" of higher education. After the vote, committees met. Nothing happened. In 1847 Grand Master W.F. Collins lit a fire under the delegates, sending a message that after nine years of inactivity, "the time has now arrived for action – ACTION! Let us, then, not leave to be done by others that which is our duty to perform." It was decided that the Masons would establish St. John's College in Oxford, which opened in 1858 and suspended operations in 1861 with the onset of war. After the war, several educators tried – and failed – to operate schools on the property, which was heavily encumbered by debt. The Grand Lodge HOME FOR CHILDREN LOOKS AHEAD WHILE Celebrating 150 Years of Service By Speed Hallman Chairman, MHCO Board of Directors and Past Grand Master 10 | T H E M A S O N M AGA Z I N E

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