How We Got Our Name
For the distinctively Masonic name that the Lodge bears we are indebted to the suggestion of Bro. Joel E. Whitney. At the preliminary meeting of the charter members this brother was present as a visitor. He was well versed in Masonic lore and procedure, and aided to a great extent by his counsel and advice in the organization of the Lodge. Bro. Whitney was a member of Ancient Landmark Lodge of Portland, Maine. When the question of naming the new Lodge was under discussion, and the brethren were at a loss to find a title that would be satisfactory to all, Bro. Whitney came to the rescue by suggesting the name of his own Lodge. The suggestion met with instant and unanimous approval of the brethren and thus was the first peculiarly Masonic name entered on the roll of Minnesota Lodges.
Although Bro. Whitney took a keen interest in the new Lodge he never affiliated with it. Deafness rendered him incapable of participating in, or deriving any enjoyment from Lodge meetings. He was for several years associated with Bro. Combs in the 'book and stationery business. He was the second daguerreian artist in the city and his pictures of St. Paul had considerable influence in advertising the advantages and promoting the interests of the city.
Bro. Whitney's father was also a Mason and his funeral was the first Masonic observance of the kind ever held in Minnesota.
