| Citation |
BG.739.013
25 Jun-2 Jul 1739:22 (1015)
Tuesday last being the day appointed by the Right
Worshipfull Robert Thomlinson Grand Master of the ancient
and honourable Society of the Free and Accepted Masons, in
and of New England, for the celebration of a festival in
commemoration of their patron Saint John the Baptist: The
same was observed here with the utmost decency, and
solemnity, by the gentlemen of that society.
At three in the afternoon they assembled at the house of
their Brother John Waghorn, from whence they walk'd in
procession to his Excellency's house, properly cloathed, and
distinguished, with badges, and other implement pertaining
to the several orders and degrees of the society, preceeded
by a compleat band of musick, consisting of trumpets, kettle
drums, &c.
The Society was elegantly entertain'd at the Governour's,
from whence they walk'd in the same order with his
Excellency their brother, to their Brother Stephen Deblois
house, where they were entertain'd with a fine concert of
musick: After which they walk'd to the Royal Exchange
Tavern in King-street, where a sumptuous supper was
provided, to which were invited many gentlemen of
distinction, civil, and military.
The ship Hallowell (commanded by their Brother Alexander
French) was purposely haul'd off into the Stream, and at sun
rising display'd her jack. Ensigns, pendents, and
streamers, with a mason's apron hoisted at the mizzen peak:
she made a beautiful gallant appearance; and discharged 21
great guns three times, viz at five, six, and seven o'clock
in the evening: There was great rejoycing on board said
vessel till the setting of the sun, at which time precisely,
all decoration and ornaments were by command of the captain
taken down.
A vast concourse of people attended to see this
procession, insomuch that almost all occupation ceas'd, the
streets were crowded; windows, balcony's, and battlements of
churches and houses were full of spectators, who were highly
pleased with an appearance of so many gentlemen, who in
their countenances express'd complacency, delight and love,
in the company of one another, which (they say) is the
cement and connection of their fraternity.
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