Allen A. Johnson

A bit of history surrounds the petition of WB Allen Johnson, recently departed member of Washington Lodge. A question was asked by one member if Allen’s home lodge was Washington #46. I had to dig through our files to find the answer and yes, he petitioned Washington #46 and had all degrees conferred in 1956.

What I also discovered was that the lodge had to ask for a special dispensation from the Grand Master to act upon and vote on his petition. As many of you are aware Allen lost his left foot in a train accident and this request was to determine if he would be a burden on society.

We have attached two letters, one from the lodge and one from the Grand Master, MWB Ralph Moore, with those requests and answer.
How have things changed over the last 65 years! We now have members of many faiths and disabilities proving that masonry recognizes men of good character wanting this fraternity to be part of their life’s journey.