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Bro. Shevin A. Ravenel
Master of the Lodge
Bro. Booker T. Arradondo
Senior Warden
Bro. Samuel Calvin
Junior Warden
P.M. Robert Bonner, Jr.
Secretary
Bro. Clarence O. Favorite
Treasurer
Bro. Nicholas D. Wells
Chaplain
Bro. Robert L. Briggs
Senior Deacon
Bro. Charles J. Loner
Junior Deacon
Bro. James L. Clerkley
Senior Steward
Bro. Alexander B. Powell
Junior Steward
Bro. Michael Mason, Jr.
Marshal
P.M. Darius Moore
Tiler
Bro. Crete Hwang
Assistant Treasurer
About us
Brief History of San Antonio Lodge No. 1, Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, Free & Accepted Masons of Texas (Prince Hall Affiliated) from 1871 - 1969
By: Past Master Burrell Parmer (1)
Freemasonry is the leading fraternal organization in the world. Its origins are lost in the unrecorded history of medieval times, but it was formally organized in London, England, in 1717. As a fraternal organization, Freemasonry unites men of good character who, though of different religious, ethnic or social backgrounds, share a belief in the Fatherhood of God and the Brotherhood of mankind. It exists to take good men and help them to become better men. The fraternity embodies an attractive system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols. Founded upon Christian principles established in the Holy Bible, Freemasonry strives to teach a man the duty he owes to God, his neighbor and to himself, but interferes neither with religion or politics as it prescribes the practice of virtues in the conduct of its business. The foundation is character. Its purpose is service. Its measure is giving. It cultivates the exercise of charity in its best and broadest sense, to assist the Widows and Orphans of its deceased members, to stimulate friendship, harmony and brotherly love, and generally, to promote in its own way, the happiness of mankind. Freemasonry among Blacks began in 1775 when Prince Hall, a community leader in Boston, Mass., and 14 other men of color became Freemasons in Lodge No. 441 (Irish Constitution). After receiving a Charter to operate as African Lodge No. 459 from the Grand Lodge of England in 1784, Prince Hall Lodges were established in Providence, R.I., and Philadelphia, Pa., and eventually spread throughout the country. In 1871, the first Masonic Lodge of Black men, San Antonio Lodge No. 22, was established in San Antonio under the jurisdiction of the King Solomon Grand Lodge of Kansas (National Grand Lodge). In 1875, the five Prince Hall Lodges in Texas met in Brenham and formed The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Texas in which San Antonio Lodge No. 22 was re-chartered as San Antonio Lodge No 1 on May 10, 1876. The lodge’s first principal officers were Brothers George Jackson (Master of the Lodge), Richard Wallace (Senior Warden), and Nelson Williams (Junior Warden). One of the lodge’s most prominent members was Bro. Rev. Abraham L. Grant who served as the 4th Grand Master of Prince Hall Masons of Texas from 1881 – 1885. Bro. Grant, an African Methodist Episcopal minister, was the pastor of St. James AME Church in 1878. In less than two years, the church became the largest, most spiritual, most active and most harmonious church in the state. Rev. Grant became a mighty force in San Antonio, relied upon by the mayor to provide advice relating to interests of the Black race. His popularity among Blacks and Whites rose steadily and continued the unbroken line of leaders that sprang out of the A.M.E. Church. Rev. Grant’s elevation to bishop came May 24, 1888 at the General Conference of the A.M.E. Church in Indianapolis. He died Jan. 22, 1911 in Kansas City, Kan., and was buried in the Grand United Order of Odd Fellows Cemetery in San Antonio on Jan. 29, 1911. San Antonio Lodge No. 1 quickly gained a reputation as a very prestigious lodge with many of its members being doctors, lawyers, ministers, and other professionals. Charles Andrews, Sr., a famed physician and 1931 Howard Medical School graduate, worked tirelessly to provide medical care to those who entrusted their medical needs to his expertise. In those days, the doctor became a part of the family. Bro. Andrews provided medical care for all who came to his office or whose home he visited without regards to their race or ability to pay. He maintained the Well Baby Clinic at the old YWCA (now the Delta House) until Santa Rosa Hospital began allowing Black children into their facility. He served as president of the Lone Star Medical Association, the state affiliate of the National Medical Association. He wrote a weekly article for the San Antonio Register entitled, “Your Baby and Mine.” Additionally, the San Antonio Housing Authority dedicated the Dr. Charles C. Andrews Apartments in his honor. Bro. Andrews died at the age of 100 on Sept. 19, 2004 and is buried at Sunset Memorial Park. Mt. Zion First Baptist Church Pastor and Civil Rights Activist Bro. Rev. Claude W. Black, Jr., was a member of the Lodge. He served on the City Council in the 1970s and was the city’s first black mayor pro-tem. He was amongst religious leaders who fought against segregation and helped integrate San Antonio’s parks, swimming pools, movie theaters, and department store lunch counters. Bro. Black also became an associate of Martin Luther King, A. Phillip Randolph, Thurgood Marshall and Adam Clayton Powell Jr. He was appointed a delegate to the 1995 White House Conference on Aging by President William Clinton. During the Johnson administration, he was a delegate to the White House Conference on Civil Rights. In 1993, the Eastside Multi-purpose Center located at 2805 East Commerce Street was renamed the Claude W. Black Community Center. Bro. Black died on March 13, 2009 and is buried at Meadowlawn Memorial Park. In the 1960s, Bro. Norris L. McVea, Sr., had aspirations of becoming a Freemason; following in the footsteps of his father. A prominent cement contractor over 50 years, he was employed by H. B. Zachry Construction before forming his own successful business. A beloved and devoted member of New Light Baptist Church, Bro. McVea served as a commissioner for housing and vice-president and president of the San Antonio Development Agency. Bro. McVea served as the longest tenured Master of the Lodge totaling 13 years. A 33rd Degree Mason, he served as a Special District Deputy Grand Master for the 19th Masonic District and was an Honorary Past Grand Master of the Prince Hall Grand Lodge. As a member of Moussa Temple No. 106 (Prince Hall Shriners), Bro. McVea served as the Illustrious Potentate and was an Honorary Past Imperial Potentate. Bro. McVea died on Oct. 26, 2018 and is buried at Sunset Memorial Park. In 1965, Bro. William Woods, a retired Air Force food superintendent, became a member of San Antonio Lodge No. 1 during the administration of Grand Master Dr. Isadore H. Clayborn. Bro. Woods would later reach the second highest office in The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Texas, as the Deputy Grand Master. Additionally, a Past Potentate of Moussa Temple No. 106, Bro. Woods later became the Imperial Deputy of the Desert of Texas, a direct appointee of the Imperial Potentate, Ancient Egyptian Arabic Order Nobles Mystic Shrine of North & South America, Inc. He is currently an Honorary Past Grand Master in The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Texas. In 1969, the Lodge purchased one acre of land located at 1307 Wheatley Avenue and erected a building which included a meeting hall, laundromat, grocery store, and a snack bar. Previously, the Lodge met at 605 W. Travis Street. One of the most solemn ceremonies within Freemasonry, the Masonic funerial or Last Rites Ceremony have been performed by members for deceased Brothers. The ceremony is performed by a deceased Master Mason's lodge, so that he can be honored by those who have known him and his works. It is one of the few ceremonies performed in public by Freemasons. The Masonic funeral is carried out at the request of the deceased Master Mason’s family. Additionally, San Antonio Lodge No. 1 had performed Cornerstone Laying Ceremonies at St. James AME and St. Paul United Methodist Churches. Other Masonic Lodges in the area have performed Ceremonies at St. Paul Baptist Church and numerous others. A cornerstone will sometimes be referred to as a "foundation-stone", and is symbolic of Christ, whom the Apostle Paul referred to as the "head of the corner" and is the "Chief Cornerstone of the Church" (Ephesians 2:20). The cornerstone also symbolizes sturdiness, morality, and truth. At his first initiation, the Mason is tasked with erecting a spiritual temple in his heart, drawing symbolic parallels to the strong, trusty cornerstone; without which, a building (symbolically, the Mason's mind and heart) cannot stand.
By: Past Master Burrell Parmer (1)
Freemasonry is the leading fraternal organization in the world. Its origins are lost in the unrecorded history of medieval times, but it was formally organized in London, England, in 1717. As a fraternal organization, Freemasonry unites men of good character who, though of different religious, ethnic or social backgrounds, share a belief in the Fatherhood of God and the Brotherhood of mankind. It exists to take good men and help them to become better men. The fraternity embodies an attractive system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols. Founded upon Christian principles established in the Holy Bible, Freemasonry strives to teach a man the duty he owes to God, his neighbor and to himself, but interferes neither with religion or politics as it prescribes the practice of virtues in the conduct of its business. The foundation is character. Its purpose is service. Its measure is giving. It cultivates the exercise of charity in its best and broadest sense, to assist the Widows and Orphans of its deceased members, to stimulate friendship, harmony and brotherly love, and generally, to promote in its own way, the happiness of mankind. Freemasonry among Blacks began in 1775 when Prince Hall, a community leader in Boston, Mass., and 14 other men of color became Freemasons in Lodge No. 441 (Irish Constitution). After receiving a Charter to operate as African Lodge No. 459 from the Grand Lodge of England in 1784, Prince Hall Lodges were established in Providence, R.I., and Philadelphia, Pa., and eventually spread throughout the country. In 1871, the first Masonic Lodge of Black men, San Antonio Lodge No. 22, was established in San Antonio under the jurisdiction of the King Solomon Grand Lodge of Kansas (National Grand Lodge). In 1875, the five Prince Hall Lodges in Texas met in Brenham and formed The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Texas in which San Antonio Lodge No. 22 was re-chartered as San Antonio Lodge No 1 on May 10, 1876. The lodge’s first principal officers were Brothers George Jackson (Master of the Lodge), Richard Wallace (Senior Warden), and Nelson Williams (Junior Warden). One of the lodge’s most prominent members was Bro. Rev. Abraham L. Grant who served as the 4th Grand Master of Prince Hall Masons of Texas from 1881 – 1885. Bro. Grant, an African Methodist Episcopal minister, was the pastor of St. James AME Church in 1878. In less than two years, the church became the largest, most spiritual, most active and most harmonious church in the state. Rev. Grant became a mighty force in San Antonio, relied upon by the mayor to provide advice relating to interests of the Black race. His popularity among Blacks and Whites rose steadily and continued the unbroken line of leaders that sprang out of the A.M.E. Church. Rev. Grant’s elevation to bishop came May 24, 1888 at the General Conference of the A.M.E. Church in Indianapolis. He died Jan. 22, 1911 in Kansas City, Kan., and was buried in the Grand United Order of Odd Fellows Cemetery in San Antonio on Jan. 29, 1911. San Antonio Lodge No. 1 quickly gained a reputation as a very prestigious lodge with many of its members being doctors, lawyers, ministers, and other professionals. Charles Andrews, Sr., a famed physician and 1931 Howard Medical School graduate, worked tirelessly to provide medical care to those who entrusted their medical needs to his expertise. In those days, the doctor became a part of the family. Bro. Andrews provided medical care for all who came to his office or whose home he visited without regards to their race or ability to pay. He maintained the Well Baby Clinic at the old YWCA (now the Delta House) until Santa Rosa Hospital began allowing Black children into their facility. He served as president of the Lone Star Medical Association, the state affiliate of the National Medical Association. He wrote a weekly article for the San Antonio Register entitled, “Your Baby and Mine.” Additionally, the San Antonio Housing Authority dedicated the Dr. Charles C. Andrews Apartments in his honor. Bro. Andrews died at the age of 100 on Sept. 19, 2004 and is buried at Sunset Memorial Park. Mt. Zion First Baptist Church Pastor and Civil Rights Activist Bro. Rev. Claude W. Black, Jr., was a member of the Lodge. He served on the City Council in the 1970s and was the city’s first black mayor pro-tem. He was amongst religious leaders who fought against segregation and helped integrate San Antonio’s parks, swimming pools, movie theaters, and department store lunch counters. Bro. Black also became an associate of Martin Luther King, A. Phillip Randolph, Thurgood Marshall and Adam Clayton Powell Jr. He was appointed a delegate to the 1995 White House Conference on Aging by President William Clinton. During the Johnson administration, he was a delegate to the White House Conference on Civil Rights. In 1993, the Eastside Multi-purpose Center located at 2805 East Commerce Street was renamed the Claude W. Black Community Center. Bro. Black died on March 13, 2009 and is buried at Meadowlawn Memorial Park. In the 1960s, Bro. Norris L. McVea, Sr., had aspirations of becoming a Freemason; following in the footsteps of his father. A prominent cement contractor over 50 years, he was employed by H. B. Zachry Construction before forming his own successful business. A beloved and devoted member of New Light Baptist Church, Bro. McVea served as a commissioner for housing and vice-president and president of the San Antonio Development Agency. Bro. McVea served as the longest tenured Master of the Lodge totaling 13 years. A 33rd Degree Mason, he served as a Special District Deputy Grand Master for the 19th Masonic District and was an Honorary Past Grand Master of the Prince Hall Grand Lodge. As a member of Moussa Temple No. 106 (Prince Hall Shriners), Bro. McVea served as the Illustrious Potentate and was an Honorary Past Imperial Potentate. Bro. McVea died on Oct. 26, 2018 and is buried at Sunset Memorial Park. In 1965, Bro. William Woods, a retired Air Force food superintendent, became a member of San Antonio Lodge No. 1 during the administration of Grand Master Dr. Isadore H. Clayborn. Bro. Woods would later reach the second highest office in The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Texas, as the Deputy Grand Master. Additionally, a Past Potentate of Moussa Temple No. 106, Bro. Woods later became the Imperial Deputy of the Desert of Texas, a direct appointee of the Imperial Potentate, Ancient Egyptian Arabic Order Nobles Mystic Shrine of North & South America, Inc. He is currently an Honorary Past Grand Master in The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Texas. In 1969, the Lodge purchased one acre of land located at 1307 Wheatley Avenue and erected a building which included a meeting hall, laundromat, grocery store, and a snack bar. Previously, the Lodge met at 605 W. Travis Street. One of the most solemn ceremonies within Freemasonry, the Masonic funerial or Last Rites Ceremony have been performed by members for deceased Brothers. The ceremony is performed by a deceased Master Mason's lodge, so that he can be honored by those who have known him and his works. It is one of the few ceremonies performed in public by Freemasons. The Masonic funeral is carried out at the request of the deceased Master Mason’s family. Additionally, San Antonio Lodge No. 1 had performed Cornerstone Laying Ceremonies at St. James AME and St. Paul United Methodist Churches. Other Masonic Lodges in the area have performed Ceremonies at St. Paul Baptist Church and numerous others. A cornerstone will sometimes be referred to as a "foundation-stone", and is symbolic of Christ, whom the Apostle Paul referred to as the "head of the corner" and is the "Chief Cornerstone of the Church" (Ephesians 2:20). The cornerstone also symbolizes sturdiness, morality, and truth. At his first initiation, the Mason is tasked with erecting a spiritual temple in his heart, drawing symbolic parallels to the strong, trusty cornerstone; without which, a building (symbolically, the Mason's mind and heart) cannot stand.
Upcoming events
Join us for our monthly meetings on the first and third Tuesday at 7 p.m. Non-members, contact the Lodge Secretary at sanantoniolodge1@gmail.com.
May 9
Honoring PGM Abraham Grant
Texas AME Church Conference will honor Bishop (PGM) Abraham Grant at his gravesite. San Antonio Lodge No. 1 will be supporting.
May 9
3rd Annual Blue Banquet
June 7
Annual Car Show
Triple Double Event Center
310 Kitty Hawk Rd, Universal City, TX
$60 per Person
For tickets: (210) 884-8984.
Beehive Social Club No. 1 and 1st Impressions of San Antonio, Texas will host a Car Show at Comanche Park Pavilion 2.
$25 Entry Fee per Vehicle
For more information call (210) 884-8984.
June 19 - 22
June 24
July 19
Annual Grand Session
The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, Free & Accepted Masons will host its annual Grand Session in Frisco, TX.
St. John's Day
Wings with Red Beans & Rice
The Beehive Social Club No. 1 will host a plate fundraiser at the Fred Brock American Legion Post, 3415 Martin Luther King Drive, San Antonio, TX from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Plates are $15 each. Proceeds support the Lodge's 150th Anniversary Celebration.
San Antonio Lodge No. 1 (PHA)
Sesquicentennial Sponsors
Why Become a Freemason?
A Sense of Belonging and Brotherhood
One of the primary attractions of Freemasonry is the sense of belonging it offers. Members are part of a global fraternity, bound by shared values and principles. This sense of brotherhood provides emotional support, camaraderie, and a network of like-minded individuals who are committed to each other's well-being.
Personal Growth and Self-Improvement
Freemasonry emphasizes the importance of self-improvement and personal growth. Members are encouraged to reflect on their actions, strive for excellence, and uphold high moral standards. Through rituals, lectures, and discussions, Freemasons learn valuable lessons in ethics, integrity, and responsibility that can be applied to their everyday lives.
Philanthropy and Community Service
Freemasons are deeply committed to charitable work and community service. By participating in various philanthropic activities, members have the opportunity to make a positive impact on society. This commitment to helping others not only benefits the community but also provides a sense of fulfillment and purpose for the individual.
Networking Opportunities
As an organization with a long history and a global presence, Freemasonry offers numerous networking opportunities. Members come from diverse backgrounds and professions, providing valuable connections and potential career advancement. The fraternity's emphasis on mutual support ensures that members can rely on each other for guidance and assistance.
Tradition and Ritual
Freemasonry is steeped in tradition and ritual, which many find appealing. The ceremonies and symbols used in Freemasonry serve to reinforce its values and principles, creating a sense of continuity and connection to the past. These rituals also provide a unique and enriching experience for members, fostering a deeper appreciation for the organization's heritage.
A Legacy of Great Individuals
Throughout history, many notable individuals have been Freemasons, including statesmen, philosophers, artists, and scientists. By joining Freemasonry, individuals feel connected to this legacy of greatness and are inspired to contribute to the betterment of humanity. This sense of being part of something larger than oneself can be a powerful motivator.