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St. James Lodge #47, Baton Rouge, LA

History of St. James Lodge

CONCLUSION

The one hundred and fifty year history of St. James Lodge is a testimony to the dedication and devotion of members who have gone before us. To have continued to conduct fraternal business through wars, economic depressions, natural disasters and the social changes is a phenomenal accomplishment indeed. To have also made significant contributions to the community and grown in numbers during these one hundred and fifty years must inspire us, today’s members, to work in a manner that many decades from now, St. James Lodge may remain vibrant a vital part of Baton Rouge.

This writer has been touched profoundly by the deeds of our brothers who have preceded us in the Lodge and hopes that this humble effort will not stop here. Much work remains to be done to record the events of the years past. We should continually update the history and add to it when more facts become known. It has been a privilege to have been asked to prepare this history for the sesquicentennial celebration. May the Great Architect of the Universe keep and protect us and ours. Amen.

("The History of St. James Lodge No. 47, F&AM" was written by Bro. Naresh Sharma, P.M. and this is only a small sample of what is included in his book. To learn more about the History, contact a member of St. James Lodge #47 or email the Administrator. This is a list of the complete contents of the book.)

CONTENTS

Foreword
Introduction
Baton Rouge's Early Years	1
State of Masonry in Louisiana in 1844	3
St. James Receives Charter	5
Membership	7
Procedures/Rituals	11
Degree Work and Petitions	15
Dues and Meeting Dates	19
Traditions	21
Lodge Locations and Buildings	23
Notable Beginnings	27
Cornerstone Layings	29
Centennial Celebrations	31
Civil War and the 1860's	33
Charity	35
People	37
Officers and Service to the Lodge	41
Families That Have Served the Lodge	43
Conclusion	45
Glossary of Masonic Terms	47
Bibliography	49
Roll of Past Masters	51
By–Laws of Lodge Adopted in 1844	53