Primus Hall
Most Worshipful Prince Hall
Grand Lodge of New York
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About
Prince Hall
On March 6, 1775, Prince Hall and fourteen of his companions were initiated into Irish Lodge #441 in Boston, marking a significant milestone in the history of Freemasonry. At that time, there were fourteen military lodges in and around Boston, representing English, Scottish, and Irish traditions, with Lodge #441 belonging to the Irish contingent. Established on July 4, 1765, Lodge #441 operated within the 38th Regiment of Foot (1st Battalion South Staffordshire). When the military lodge departed Boston during the Revolutionary War, Prince Hall and his brethren sought recognition from England. In 1783, they were granted limited authority to meet as a lodge, conduct processions on Saint John’s Day, and perform Masonic funerals, though they were not authorized to confer degrees or perform other Masonic work.
In 1784, the group applied to the Grand Lodge of England for a formal charter, which was granted, establishing African Lodge #459. This lodge became the cornerstone of Prince Hall Freemasonry, which has since grown to become the oldest and largest predominantly African-American Masonic fraternity in the United States, with over 300,000 initiated members. Prince Hall’s advocacy for equality and justice is reflected in his work and writings. He once said, “My brethren, let us not be cast down under these and many other abuses we at present are laboring under…but let us cheerfully do all in our power to help ourselves.” This quote encapsulates Hall’s commitment to perseverance and self-empowerment, values that have guided Prince Hall Freemasonry in its centuries-long mission of fraternity, community service, and the pursuit of social justice.
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Worshipful Master Nathaniel Higgins

Welcome, to Primus Hall Lodge! We are honored to have you join us on this meaningful journey of personal growth, fellowship, and service to humanity. As you step into this tradition of brotherhood, you become part of a time-honored legacy dedicated to the values of integrity, charity, and mutual respect. Here, you will find support and guidance as you learn, grow, and develop both within the Lodge and in your daily life. Our brotherhood is built on the strength of its members, and we are eager to share in your experiences, insights, and contributions as you walk this path with us. May your time with us be fulfilling, enriching, and full of opportunity to serve both your fellow brothers and the world beyond our walls. Welcome, Brothers, and we look forward to the journey ahead!

It is not what we eat, but what we digest … that makes us strong.
It is not what we earn, but what we save … that makes us rich.
It is not what we read, but what we remember … that makes us learned.
It is not what we profess, but what we practice … that makes us Masons!

Faith – Hope – Charity

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Humble Beginnings

It starts with a vision…

On Monday, the 16th of September 2024, a historic moment for Prince Hall Freemasonry in the state of New York was marked at the Pelham Masonic Lodge located at 241 City Island Avenue, City Island-Bronx, NY, as Primus Hall Lodge UD held its inaugural meeting under the jurisdiction of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of New York. With this meeting, Primus Hall Lodge UD officially begins its journey as a member of the Third Masonic District, bringing new light and fresh energy to the timeless traditions of Prince Hall Freemasonry.

The new lodge will be under the care and guidance of Right Worshipful Kirby Mack 32° (64), District Deputy Grand Master of the Third Masonic District and a Past Master of Progressive Lodge No. 64. Known for his wisdom and dedication, Right Worshipful Mack has been instrumental in guiding the newly formed lodge through its early stages, ensuring that it remains true to the core tenets of Prince Hall Masonry. “This is a proud moment not only for the brethren of Primus Hall Lodge UD but for all of us in the Third Masonic District,”* said Right Worshipful Mack. *”The brothers of Primus Hall Lodge UD have answered the call to form something greater than themselves, and their dedication to the Craft is evident in their commitment to serve their lodge, district, and community.”

The brave brothers who have come together to form Primus Hall Lodge UD are:
– **Worshipful Master**: Nathaniel Higgins
– **Senior Warden**: Patrick Powell
– **Junior Warden**: Maurice Baker
– **Secretary**: Donald Thomas Jr.
– **Treasurer**: Gabriel Mitchell
– **Trustee**: Keith B. Bryant Sr.
– **Chaplain**: Michael N.F. Queen
– **Senior Deacon**: Marquis T. Woods
– **Junior Deacon**: Andrew King
– **Marshall**: Alden King
– **Sean Porter**
– **Dwinell Bedard**

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Primus Committees

Everything about Primus

Masonic Education

The Masonic Education Committee shall be charged with developing, codifying and presenting educational and mentoring programs for Entered Apprentices, Fellowcrafts and Master Masons of the Lodge with respect to the lessons and symbols of the Three Degrees of Masonry, as well as Masonic law and protocol. It shall be a primary responsibility of the Masonic Education Committee to ensure that Candidates attain proficiency in each Degree before advancement.

Gabriel Mitchell (Chairman)
Keith B. Bryant Sr.
Michael N.F. Queen
Nathaniel Higgins

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee shall assess the financial condition of the Lodge and make recommendations designed to ensure the continued financial health and stability of Primus Hall Lodge #(TBD) and will be determined by the Trustee Committee.

1.) The Senior Warden shall be the Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee.

2.) The Ways and Means Committee shall submit in writing at the Stated Communication in the month of November, the Committee’s Annual Dues Recommendation setting forth the Committee’s recommended percentage increase(s) to Lodge Dues for the following year. The Annual Dues Recommendation shall set forth the following:

i.) The annualized non-seasonally adjusted New York Consumer Price Index (the “CPI”) as most recently published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics; or, should the CPI not be published, a suitable substitute measure of inflation.

ii.) The Ways and Means Committee’s summary of the present and future financial needs of Primus Hall Lodge #(TBD), including but not limited to:

a.) increases in the regular expenses of the Lodge such as room rental charges and compensation of Lodge personnel;

b.) projected expenses in connection with the ongoing needs and/or projected works and activities of the Lodge, both long-term and short-term, including the projected works and activities of the Lodge for the following year;

c.) the balance and status of the Lodge’s Operating Funds; and

d.) the balance and status of the Trustee’s Fund.

e.) The Ways and Means Committee’s proposed percentage increase(s) to Lodge Dues for the following year; said proposal to consist of an equal percentage increase for all Dues Classes or different percentage increases for the Senior Member, Non-Resident Member, Regular Member Dues Classes, provided that the recommended increase for any and all Dues Classes shall not be less than CPI.

3.) The Ways and Means Committee shall submit in writing at the December Stated Communication the Committee’s Budget Guideline, setting forth the Lodge’s projected regular debits for the ensuing year of the Master-elect’s term of office, including but not limited to rental fees, personnel, collation expenses, transfers to the Trustees’ Fund, the Grand Lodge per capita assessment, charitable donations, and sundry expenses, and allocating a discretionary budget for the Master-elect’s programming for the ensuing year.

Patrick Powell (Chairman)
Gabriel Mitchell
Marquis T. Woods

Wives, Children, Widows, & Orphans

Wives, Children,Widows, & Orphans The Committee for Wives, Widows, Children, and Orphans is committed to offering compassionate support, resources, and advocacy for the families of our Brothers affected by their absence, whether on earth or beyond. Our goal is to empower wives, children, orphans, and widows through emotional and financial assistance while fostering a strong sense of community rooted in Primus Hall Lodge’s shared values.

Michael N.F. Queen (Chairman)
Don Thomas
Sean Porter
Reese Baker
Marquis T. Woods
Nathaniel Higgins

Sick and Distress

Reese Baker (Chairman)
Patrick Powell
Gabriel Mitchell
Nathaniel Higgins
Don Thomas

Audit and Budget

Keith B. Bryant Sr. (Chairman)
Sean Porter
Andrew King
Michael N.F. Queen

Bylaws

Bylaws Committee shall protect the integrity of Primus Hall Lodge’s foundational vision while fostering growth for years to come. By preserving and enhancing our bylaws, we honor the vision of our forebears and secure the continuity of their legacy for future generations, safeguarding the traditions and values that have defined Freemasons for centuries.

Don Thomas (Chairman)
Gabriel Mitchell
Michael N.F. Queen
Keith B. Bryant Sr.
Nathaniel Higgins

Investigations

The Investigations Committee  is dedicated to upholding the values of integrity, brotherhood, and discernment within our Brotherhood. Our mission is to conduct thorough and respectful investigations of potential members to ensure that they embody the principles of Masonic ideals and contribute or have the potential to positively effect change in our community. We are committed to fostering a transparent and fair process, respecting the dignity of all individuals involved while safeguarding the traditions and standards of our Masonic Body. Through careful evaluation and consideration, we aim to strengthen our brotherhood and uphold the noble values that define Masonry.

Alden King (Chairman)
Don Thomas
Reese Baker
Keith B. Bryant Sr.

Education and Scholarship

Andrew King (Chairman)
Marquis T. Woods
Alden King
Nathaniel Higgins

Primus Club

The Primus Club shall support   Primus Hall Lodge, by creating  lasting, positive change through specific programs, initiatives and services. We will foster collaboration, innovation, and compassion to transform lives and strengthen communities for future generations to come.

Marquis T. Woods (Chairman)
Nathaniel Higgins,
Michael N.F. Queen,
Patrick Powell, Don Thomas, Gabriel Mitchell

Funeral

Gabriel Mitchell (Chairman)
Patrick Powell,
Reese Baker,
Nathaniel Higgins,
Michael N.F. Queen

Trustee

The Trustee Committee shall be composed of chartering members

PM Nathaniel Higgins
PM Donald Thomas
PM Gabriel Mitchell
PM Michael N.F. Queen

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Special Thanks

The formation of Primus Hall Lodge UD is a testament to the vision and foresight of the M.W. Rev. Dr. Darren M. Morton, Ed.D. 33°, our 60th Grand Master, whose leadership has brought this lodge to fruition. His tireless dedication to Prince Hall Freemasonry’s growth in New York inspires both new and seasoned Masons. Special acknowledgment is also due to his predecessor, M.W. Past Grand Master Gregory R. Smith, Jr. 33°, who played an instrumental role in laying the groundwork for this momentous achievement. Their combined approach and commitment to expanding the influence and service of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of New York played a pivotal role in establishing Primus Hall Lodge UD. Their dedication to advancing the principles of brotherhood, service, and charity has been instrumental in ensuring that this new lodge was formed with strong foundations.

The establishment of the lodge was met with excitement and warmth from the New York Prince Hall Masonic family. “We are proud to welcome Primus Hall Lodge UD into our fold,” said Grand Master Morton. “The brothers of this lodge exemplify the values of Prince Hall Freemasonry, and I do not doubt that they will continue to labor with diligence, humility, and devotion.”

As Primus Hall Lodge UD embarks on its journey, the lodge carries with it the support and encouragement of the entire Prince Hall family. The future is bright for this new lodge, and its impact within the Masonic community and beyond is already eagerly anticipated. In this moment of celebration, we extend heartfelt thanks to M.W. Rev. Dr. Darren M. Morton, Ed.D. 33°, for his visionary leadership and welcome Primus Hall Lodge UD into the Prince Hall family of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of New York.

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We’d like to hear from you.

“A Lodge is not held together with steel bands, but by the silken ties of brotherhood”

646-883-3626

The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge Of New York

Worshipful Master
Nathaniel Higgins

Secretary
Don Thomas

City Island, NY

241 City Island Ave
Bronx, New York
10464

Primus Hall Lodge UD

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