Paris Lodge No. 27, A. F. & A. M.
Paris, Lamar County, Texas
Marker Inscription
The 1845 charter establishing Paris Lodge No. 27 was the last charter issued by the Grand Lodge of Texas during the Republic of Texas period. The lodge was organized by George W. Wright, founder of Paris, as a refuge for transient immigrant Masons. Over the years members have met at numerous locations in Paris before building a hall at this site in 1985. Paris Lodge No. 27, noted for its charitable and civic contributions, has been in continuous existence since 1845. In 1873, 1956, and 1961 a member of this lodge served as Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Texas.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Paris Lodge No. 27 holds a distinctive place in Texas history: its 1845 charter was the last issued by the Grand Lodge of Texas during the Republic of Texas period. Organized by Paris founder George W. Wright as a refuge for traveling immigrant Masons, the lodge has met continuously since, contributing to civic and charitable life, and has produced three Grand Masters of the state.
Why it matters
Fraternal lodges were vital social and mutual-aid institutions on the frontier, and this one's Republic-era charter ties Paris directly to Texas's founding years.
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Related people
- · George W. Wright
Themes & tags
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