The North Carolina Mason

could not sell or even lease the building and grounds, and in 1872 delegates to the annual communication struggled with what to do about the vacant school. "It was an hour for some real man to step forward with a challenging solution," Proctor wrote. That man was John H. Mills, who presented a resolution that the former college should "be made into an asylum for the protection, training and education of indigent orphan children." Delegates chose sides and debated. Some lined up with Mills, others wanted to sell the campus and build a Masonic temple, and still others wanted to house homeless people there. When the question on starting an orphanage at Oxford was called, the vote was a tie. Grand Master John Nichols cast the deciding vote in favor and as long as Nichols lived, Proctor said, he saw that vote as the greatest act of his life. At the Home's centennial celebration in February, Grand Master Kevan Frazier recounted Its name may have changed over time, 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. JUNE 24 Celebrate St. John's Day in Oxford or with your lodge. The campus celebration, held in partnership with the Eastern Star, features an ice cream social, car show and many other family-oriented activities. Grand Master Frazier is encouraging lodges to hold their own lodge events, fundraisers or awareness campaigns on June 24. See the Home's website for details. OCTOBER 13-14 Homecoming: Featuring the state's largest Shrine parade, the famous barbecue contest, music, fellowship and good times under the oaks. This year's event is dedicated to the Shrine. DECEMBER 10 Our year-long celebration concludes with the York Rite Christmas Observance in York Rite Chapel. MHCO 150th Anniversary Upcoming Events S P R I N G 2 0 2 3 | 11

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