Down in southeastern Ohio, very close to where the Muskingum and Ohio rivers converge, is the home of American Union Lodge No. 1. Located on Front Street in Marietta, this lodge boasts a charter originating in Massachusetts and dating back to 1776. Meetings found their beginnings in Roxbury, Massachusetts and travelled from there through New York, Connecticut and New Jersey before settling into their forever home of Marietta.
One of many noteworthy pieces of history surrounding the Lodge is its seal, designed by Benjamin Franklin and engraved by Paul Revere. Several notable figures have visited and been members of the Lodge, but perhaps the most familiar in the history of Ohio Freemasonry would be Rufus Putnam, the first elected Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Ohio. Today he is remembered annually through the Rufus Putnam Award, given to individuals for distinguished service beneficial to mankind, eminent leadership or achievement in the service of Freemasonry.
Today there are 253 Master Masons belonging to American Union Lodge No. 1, with their membership spanning from a dynamic age of 20 to the experienced age of 94. Annually, they host a degree at Masonic Park and most recently, the Lodge participated in an unprecedented joint installation with Harmar Lodge No. 390 conducted by four past Grand Masters of Ohio (MWB Kevin Todd, MWB Ron Winnett, MWB Jim Easterling and MWB Richard Wilson). A recent and growing tradition is a pork and kraut luncheon open to members, their family and this past year, family friends. Worshipful Master Benjamin Anderson appreciates the privilege of carrying on the tradition of such a proud heritage.
