Where History Fuels Present-Day Service
At the heart of Rhode Island Freemasonry lies Saint Johns Lodge No. 1 Providence (St. Johns 1P), a vibrant brotherhood whose present-day work is deeply intertwined with its rich historical roots. In a recent interview, RW Tim Culhane, Past Master of St. Johns 1P and Director of Masonic Education for the Grand Lodge of Rhode Island, eloquently shared the remarkable journey of this lodge. His words paint a picture of a Masonic body deeply rooted in history, actively engaged in the present, and strongly committed to its core tenets.
The Present: Charity in Action
Today, St. Johns 1P is a thriving lodge known for its robust charitable endeavors and a strong, active brotherhood. Prudent and responsible governance of the lodge's resources by many generations of St. Johns 1P brethren has resulted in continued opportunities to serve their community. The ongoing efforts of the lodge to maintain a high level of charitable giving allow them to actively support their community in a wide variety of ways.
This work is characterized by a quiet dedication to those in need. Each year, the lodge organizes a Christmas basket program, providing essential food to families in need, identified within their community, a program where other lodges across the State can also participate. They also dedicate efforts on specific causes, such as their current partnership with the Rhode Island School for the Deaf[1], where they organized a successful car wash bringing together brothers and students to raise funds. Beyond these initiatives, St. Johns 1P often provides discreet assistance to individuals and families facing hardship, embodying the Masonic principle of relief without seeking public acclaim. As RW Culhane emphasized, their motivation is simply "to support our communities," a core value that we as Freemasons are called to exercise.
Masonic Tradition: The Enduring Link
The lodge's commitment to Masonic education and impactful ritual serves as a bridge between its past and present-day. Their origins trace back to 1757. Born from the desire of Freemasons in Providence to establish their own lodge rather than undertaking the long journey to St. John's in Newport. Since that time, the legacy of prominent Masonic figures like Thomas Smith Webb, a Past Master of the lodge whose influence on American Masonic ritual is profound, continues to inspire ritual excellence and engagement with the Craft.
The interview also highlighted the lodge's dedication to continuous improvement, one example is their unique "candidate wranglers" program, a team of brothers who guide and educate new members, ensuring a comprehensive and supportive journey into Freemasonry.
The Past: A History Forged in Independence
But the rich history of St. Johns 1P is not limited by the walls of Masonic temples, the impact of this lodge in Rhode Island history is quite significant. As RW Culhane revealed in his research paper “The Involvement and Influence of Saint Johns Lodge No. 1 Providence Free and Accepted Masons in the Burning of H.M.S. Gaspee”[2], the early brethren of St. Johns 1P were not merely observers of their time. Research strongly suggests that at least four members were active participants in the burning of the Gaspee in 1772, a bold act of defiance against British authority that fueled the flames of revolution. These were not just ordinary men; they were the "movers and shakers of Providence," influential figures in shipping, commerce, and early governance. Names etched in the city's history, like Tillinghast, Brown, Whitaker, Burgess, Atwells, Eddy, and Bowen, graced the rolls of St. Johns 1P, highlighting the lodge's integral role in the development of Providence itself.
Even the lodge's unique designation, "1P," speaks to its historical significance. Initially considered St. John's Lodge No. 2 after the formation of the Grand Lodge of Rhode Island (to acknowledge the precedence of St. John's 1 Newport), a later decision in 1831 recognized the distinct identity of the Providence lodge, leading to the "1P" designation – a testament to its historical standing within the state's Masonic landscape. The lodge even defied the state's attempt to ban public Masonic meetings during the tumultuous Morgan Affair, boldly refusing to surrender its original civil charter – a testament to their commitment to their principles.
The Future: Shaping new generations
Proud of its heritage, St. Johns 1P is also future-focused. They actively involve families and support youth organizations like DeMolay[3] and Rainbow for Girls[4], recognizing the importance of community and supporting the next generation.
In RW Culhane’s words “Rhode Island Freemasonry is a crown with many gems”, referring to the 25 lodges across the state and to the wonderful work that they all do. St. Johns 1P is undoubtedly one of the "very first gems" in that Masonic crown, a vital cornerstone in our Grand Jurisdiction. Their history and contemporary action serve as a powerful inspiration and reminder that appreciation for the past is the fuel that drives present-day service and shapes a vibrant future for Freemasonry in Rhode Island.
If you want to learn more from St. Johns 1P, visit their website: https://www.stjohns1p.com/
[2] https://riscottishrite.org/membership/hauts-grades-academy
