March 21, 1762:  “The Right Worshipful Jeremy Gridley, Esq. Provincial Grand Master of the Ancient and Honorable Society of Free and Accepted Mason in North America, Sendeth Greeting.  Whereas, Application hath been made unto us by several Brethren of the Ancient and Honorable Society of  Free and Accepted Masons, now residing in Hartford, aforesaid.  That we would be pleased to constitute them into a regular Lodge that Masonry may increase and flourish in these parts:
Now Know Ye That we have nominated, Ordained, Constituted and Appointed Our Right Worshipful and well beloved Brother, Mr. John Townley to be the first Master of the Lodge… and further that they do annually keep, or cause to be kept, the Feast of St. John the Baptist, and dine together on that day or near that day, as shall be judged most convenient…” Hence was born St. John’s Lodge No. 4.

(More to come)