City Leaders and Prince Hall Masons Gather at the Masonic Temple on February 25 to Unveil a “History Here” Marker Honoring San Antonio Lodge No. 1.
In honor of Black History Month, a special “History Here” marker unveiling ceremony was held February 25 at the historic Masonic Temple to recognize the significant contributions of San Antonio Lodge No. 1 — the first Masonic Lodge for African Americans in Texas.
The event celebrated the lodge’s pivotal role in the local community and its enduring legacy of leadership, service, and fellowship spanning 150 years.
Members of the 19th Masonic District, state and county officials, clergy, community leaders, and members of the media gathered to commemorate the occasion, reflecting on the lodge’s historic impact on San Antonio and beyond.
Preserving Untold Stories
“Our mission is to work with the community and stakeholders to explore, discover, and celebrate the people, places and traditions that make San Antonio unique,” said Corey Edwards, interim director for the city’s Office of Historic Preservation. “The History Here Marker Program was designed to prioritize the untold stories here in our community.”
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Edwards noted that this marker is the eighth approved by the city and includes a QR code that brings historical storytelling into the 21st century.
Honoring Founders and Builders
Special District Deputy Grand Master Burrell Parmer, who nominated the lodge for the marker, provided a brief history of the organization and acknowledged individuals who shaped its story, including Rev. William R. Carson, Bishop Abraham Grant, Rev. Claude W. Black Jr., Honorary Past Grand Master William E. Woods, and others.
“From this day forward, every person who passes by the Masonic Temple will know that San Antonio Lodge No. 1 is a place where good men became better, relief was given to those in need, lifelong friendships were formed, and the principles of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth were put into action,” said Worshipful Master Shevin Ravnel. “This building has witnessed their work, their fellowship, and their dedication. And now this marker will serve as a permanent reminder that their labor mattered, and that the work continues.”
Following the ceremony, guests were invited inside the Masonic Temple to view the lodge setup and enjoy refreshments.
A 19th Century Foundation
The lodge’s history dates back to March 1873, when San Antonio Lodge No. 22 was established under the jurisdiction of the King Solomon Grand Lodge of Kansas. Rev. William R. Carson, pastor of St. James African Methodist Episcopal Church and District Deputy Grand Master for the Western District of Texas under the Kansas Jurisdiction, relocated to San Antonio in November 1872 and played a key role in establishing and strengthening early lodges throughout Texas.
On August 20, 1875, representatives of three Prince Hall lodges met in Brenham to form The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge, Free and Accepted Ancient York Masons of the State of Texas. San Antonio Lodge No. 22 was re-chartered as San Antonio Lodge No. 1 on May 10, 1876.
Today, San Antonio Lodge No. 1 remains one of six Prince Hall Affiliated Lodges within the 19th Masonic District. The lodge holds membership meetings on the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 7 p.m.
For more information about San Antonio Lodge No. 1 and its Sesquicentennial Anniversary events, visit www.sanantoniolodge1.org.
