Lodge History

History of P.G. Porter Lodge No. 142
A Vision Born at Scott Air Force Base

In 1973, several Prince Hall Masons stationed at Scott Air Force Base saw more than a military installation—they saw a community in need of Brotherhood, service, and Masonic light.

Arriving through military assignments and transfers from various jurisdictions, these dedicated military Brothers brought with them a deep commitment to the principles of Prince Hall Freemasonry. Though they came from different backgrounds and regions of the country, they shared a common vision: to establish a Lodge that would promote fellowship, provide Masonic education, support charitable service, and strengthen the presence of Prince Hall Freemasonry within the Scott Air Force Base community.

What they soon discovered was that no Prince Hall Affiliated Lodge existed to serve the military community at Scott Air Force Base. Rather than accept the absence of Masonic fellowship and opportunity, these Brothers embraced the challenge and envisioned something greater. They believed military members and their families would benefit from a Lodge that provided:

  • Fraternal fellowship and mutual support

  • Masonic education and personal development

  • Community service and charitable outreach

  • Leadership opportunities and mentorship

  • A lasting connection to the principles and traditions of Prince Hall Freemasonry

With determination and a shared sense of purpose, these Brothers set out to establish what would become P.G. Porter Lodge No. 142.

Throughout history, Freemasonry has accompanied soldiers, sailors, airmen, and veterans wherever duty called them. Military Masons have long recognized the value of Brotherhood, moral instruction, education, leadership, and service, often establishing Lodges to meet the needs of their fellow service members and communities.

The founders of P.G. Porter Lodge No. 142 carried that same vision to Scott Air Force Base. Through their dedication, perseverance, and commitment to the principles of Prince Hall Freemasonry, they laid a foundation that has endured for more than fifty years and continues to inspire fellowship, charitable service, and Masonic excellence today.

With determination and a shared sense of purpose, these Brothers set out to establish what would become P.G. Porter Lodge No. 142.

Establishment of the Lodge

In July 1973, the founders petitioned the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Illinois for a Dispensation to organize and operate a Masonic Lodge at Scott Air Force Base. The request was approved, and the Lodge was granted a Dispensation authorizing it to begin its work.

On October 9, 1974, Most Worshipful Grand Master Rufus Starks issued the Lodge's Charter, officially constituting P.G. Porter Lodge No. 142 as a regular and recognized Lodge within the jurisdiction of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Illinois.

The Lodge was named in honor and memory of Most Worshipful Grand Master Powers G. Porter served as Grand Master of the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Kansas from 1947 until his passing in July 1973, providing more than twenty-six years of distinguished leadership and service to Prince Hall Freemasonry.

Today, P.G. Porter Lodge No. 142 stands as a testament to military leadership, perseverance, faith, and brotherhood and continues to operate under the jurisdiction of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge Free and Accepted Masons of the State of Illinois.

Early Pioneers of P.G. Porter Lodge No. 142

We proudly honor Brothers Ernest Scott, James McKeithen, Edward Moore, and eight fellow Prince Hall Masons, all of whom served as members of the United States Armed Forces, whose vision, sacrifice, and dedication helped establish P.G. Porter Lodge No. 142 and expand the presence of Prince Hall Freemasonry within the Scott Air Force Base community.

Together, these military Brothers laid the foundation for a legacy of fellowship, mentorship, charity, and service that continues today through Masonic education, scholarship programs, community outreach, and charitable initiatives throughout the Scott Air Force Base area and surrounding communities.

These men were more than founders—they were builders of hope, fellowship, mentorship, charity, and service. Their legacy continues to guide and inspire the work of the Lodge today.

Community Impact and Service

Since its Charter was granted in 1974, P.G. Porter Lodge No. 142 has remained dedicated to the principles of service, charity, and community engagement. Through educational scholarships, charitable giving, mentorship, and outreach programs, the Lodge continues to make a positive impact throughout the Scott Air Force Base community and surrounding areas.

P.G. Porter Lodge No. 142 has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to education, charity, and community service. Through its educational initiatives, the Lodge has awarded more than 125 scholarships to high school seniors and college students, providing over $120,000 in financial assistance to help students pursue their academic and career goals.

Beyond scholarship support, the Lodge remains actively engaged in charitable and community outreach efforts, including participation in the Illinois Child Identification Program, assistance to underprivileged families, back-to-school supply drives, and holiday food donation programs.

These initiatives reflect the Lodge's enduring commitment to the principles of Prince Hall Freemasonry and are made possible through fundraising efforts, volunteer service, and the generous support of community partners, sponsors, and donors.

"Distinguished Members & Masonic Leadership"

P.G. Porter Lodge No. 142 takes pride in members who have served in prominent leadership positions throughout Prince Hall Masonry and its affiliated bodies.

Among those who have distinguished themselves through exceptional leadership and service are:

  • Most Worshipful Glenn N. Ruffin, 33°, Past Grand Master, Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, District of Columbia, former member of P.G. Porter Lodge No. 142

  • Right Worshipful Earl D. Scott, 33°, Honorary Past Grand Master and Past Grand Junior Warden, Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Illinois

  • Right Worshipful Samuel E. Hurd Sr., 33°, Past Grand Auditor and Past District Deputy Grand Master, Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Illinois

  • Brother Daniel "Chappie" James Jr., USAF, Four-Star General

  • Brother David M. Hall, USAF, Brigadier General

  • Marcus D. James Sr., 33°, Sovereign Grand Inspector General Overseer of Works, Orient of the District of Columbia, former member of P.G. Porter Lodge No. 142

  • Brother William S. Brooks III, Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Prince Hall Grand Chapter, Holy Royal Arch Masons, State of Illinois; Right Eminent Grand Commander, Prince Hall Grand Commandery, Knights Templar

  • Brother Jerry Abner, Illustrious Grand Thrice Illustrious Master, Prince Hall Grand Council, Royal and Select Masters, State of Illinois; Worthy Grand Patron, Eureka Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star

  • Brother T. J. Collins, Imperial Deputy of the Desert of Illinois, Ancient Egyptian Arabic Order Nobles of the Mystic Shrine of North and South America, Inc.

Continuing the Legacy

More than fifty years after receiving its Charter, P.G. Porter Lodge No. 142 continues to uphold the timeless principles of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth.

The vision and dedication of its founders endure through educational scholarships, charitable outreach, leadership development, Masonic education, and service to Scott Air Force Base and the surrounding communities.

As we honor the legacy of those who came before us, we remain committed to preserving their ideals, strengthening our communities, and ensuring that the light of Prince Hall Freemasonry continues to shine for future generations.

Their legacy is our foundation. Their vision remains our guide.