April 13, 2019 Meeting Summary

As we had hoped, the weather for our April 13th meeting at San Felipe de Austin was glorious! We had an eventful day and if you missed it you missed out on a good deal of learning.

The "upper room" of the church building was unlocked and we were able to take in the progress made thus far on restoring the upper room to a more usable condition.  The air conditioning unit and ductwork have been removed from the old lodge room, the flooring repaired with the original flooring, and window shades installed to prevent further deterioration due to light.  The improvements stimulated our imaginations for how our lodge might be of service in helping to restore the lodge room to a more original appearance for limited service.

At noon we had a delicious lunch of rice and stew, with cooked carrots, rolls, tea and a cake that was highly praised.  The lodge was then set up for work and for the reception of our District Deputy Grand Master (DDGM).   


The pro temp Master of the lodge presented a very brief history update of additional information about Cincinnati, Texas, the birthplace of Olive Branch No. 26.  These have been added to the Cincinnati portion of the History page at the tab above.

Following the usual ceremonies and business, we received the petitions for affiliation by Certificate of Good standing from four brothers wishing to affiliate with Olive Branch Lodge and they were introduced and unanimously elected.

Michael Dupuy, Chris Dalrymple and DDGM David Williams

Usual business proceeded and the DDGM was officially received.  Though we officially presented the Golden Trowel Award to Brother Michael Dupuy at our last meeting, we had the physical award on hand at this meeting and DDGM David Williams, at the request of the Master, presented of the award on behalf of the Lodge.  

We then elected new officers for the 2019-20 Masonic year and solicited a list of volunteers wiling to serve as appointed officers for the WM-elect's consideration.

Plans for installation of officers at our next meeting, an open house, and perhaps the public presentation of a Community Builder Award were discussed and set in motion.

The brothers then restored the hall to its original set up, cleaned up our luncheon, loaded our cars and trucks, and then enjoyed brotherly fellowship in the sunshine of a glorious afternoon before driving our separate ways back home.

Our next meeting will be held July 13, 2019.  Brother Jerry Jackson will prepare a meal for us as we meet for lunch at noon and when the brothers have completed their meal and set up the lodge for work, the meeting will begin at a time thereafter.  

Mark July 13 on your calendars, assume your Victorian era clothing (if you've a mind to) and come on out to enjoy the food, fun, fellowship and frivolity of a Saturday afternoon meeting with Masonic brothers.  It makes for a good and pleasant day.