TEXAS. The introduction of Masonry into Texas began by dis pensation from John H. Holland, Grand Master of Louisiana, under the name of Holland Lodge,Dec.17, 1835, at Brazoria. Soon after hostili ties broke out between Mexico and Texas, when the Lodge was obliged to close its operations. Brazoria was abandoned; Gen.Urrea, commander of the Mexican forces, entered the city and took possession of the books, jewels, and everything be longing to the Lodge. Meanwhile the Grand Lodge of Louisiana had issued a charter for Holland Lodge No. 3G, and the Lodge was reopened in Oct., 1837, at the city of Houston. Soon after two other lodges, with charters from the Grand Lodge of Louisiana, were established in Texas —Milam, at Nacogdoches, and McFarlane, at San Augustine. Delegates from these, and from Holland Lodge, met in convention . at Houston. in the winter of 1837-8,
and the Grand Lodge of the repub. lic was formed. By advice and direction of this body, the three subordinate lodges transferred their allegiance from Louisiana to their own Grand Lodge, surrendered their charters to Louisiana, and received others from Texas. Anson Jones was elected the first Grand Master. Such is the brief sketch of the first establishment of Free masonry in Texas. It was founded, like our political institutions, amid the stern concomitants of adversity and war; but its foundations were laid broad and deep, and upon them has been raised a superstruc ture of strength and beauty, sym metrical in its proportions and vast in its dimensions, and which will continue as a beacon to guide and cheer worthy Masons on their jour ney of life.