Liberty Lodge #48 has a long and storied legacy.  From its beginning, the Lodge has been an integral part of the community often furnishing the local civic and religious organizations with true and faithful leadership.  We are reminded of this by not only the gallery of pictures on our walls but by the legacy of our traditional recognition as a Vanguard Lodge by the Grand Lodge of Texas.  These are outward measures of the devotion of our membership to all mankind.  The confidence demonstrated by the Brethren of Liberty Lodge in selecting me to lead and serve in continuation of these traditions humbles me beyond measure. 

 

I was made a Master Mason a little over 45 years ago.  I was installed as Worshipful Master of Hughes Springs Lodge 40 years ago.  I had no plans of being called upon to preside over a Lodge at this juncture of my Masonic career.  Circumstances beyond our control required an unconventional solution and it flatters me that my Brothers looked to me to be a solution to this unique problem.  I will, as will the other elected and appointed officers of Liberty Lodge, be proud to serve you and look forward to making this a memorable year for Liberty Lodge #48. 

 

In order for Liberty Lodge to retain its status among Masons and remain a light in our community, it needs YOU!  As most of you know, I was an educator for 42 years.  I am living proof that NOTHING can do more to change a life than an education.  I share an ideology with our Brother and former President of the Republic of Texas M.B. Lamar that “education is the guardian genius of Democracy.”  Liberty Lodge was among the first Lodges in the area to provide scholarship funds for students and to recognize local teachers for their accomplishments.  I would like to see us provide more visible support of education making our organization a recognized source for this.  We as Masons are aware of our fraternity’s role in the establishment of public education in Texas.  It is my opinion that this information needs to become common knowledge.  Please carve out some time in your schedule to attend Lodge. We need your ideas and your talents.  Remember, 1st and 3rd Thursdays!

 

Sincerely and Fraternally,

William Neal Thornton

Worshipful Master 2025-2026