Lodge History

P.G. Porter Lodge #142, Free and Accepted Masons, operates under the jurisdiction of The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons, State of Illinois. The lodge was named in memory of Most Worshipful Grand Master Powers G. Porter of the Kansas Jurisdiction, who, in July 1973, passed into that undiscovered land from whose bourne no traveler returns. His dedication to Masonry and his unwavering commitment to its principles were unparalleled.

In July 1973, P.G. Porter Lodge #142 applied to the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Illinois for dispensation to form and operate as a lodge. The dispensation was granted, and on October 9, 1974, the lodge received its charter from the esteemed Most Worshipful Grand Master Rufus Starks 33° of Illinois, officially empowering it to function.

The lodge has significantly influenced the U.S. Military and Scott Air Force Base community. Among its ranks are ministers of local churches, Scout Masters, military officers, Little League baseball and football coaches, varsity baseball and basketball coaches and players, academic scholars, and dedicated men always ready to assist those in need. This organization functions independently and is not affiliated in any official capacity with the federal government. It operates as a self-sustaining entity under AFI 34-223.

Notable Members

P.G. Porter Lodge #142 has been honored to include among its members distinguished individuals such as:

General Daniel "Chappie" James Jr. (4-Star), USAF

Brigadier General David M. Hall, USAF

Right Worshipful Earl D. Scott, Past Grand Master (H), Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Illinois

Numerous Senior Military Enlisted Officers (E7-E9)

Additionally, the lodge is proud of its leadership, which includes:

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

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

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

Community Contributions

Since its inception, P.G. Porter Lodge #142 has awarded more than 100 educational scholarships to high school seniors and college students, totaling over $90,000. The lodge is actively involved in the Scott Air Force Base community, spearheading numerous charitable initiatives, including:

The Illinois Child Identification Program

Support for underprivileged families

Back-to-school supply drives

Holiday food donations

These programs are made possible through fundraising efforts and charitable donations from the community.

Nonprofit Status & Donations

On October 11, 2011, the Internal Revenue Service granted P.G. Porter Lodge #142 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit status. Contributions to P.G. Porter Lodge #142 are deductible under section 170 of the tax code, ensuring the continuation of its charitable mission.

There is no minimum donation amount. However, contributions of $250 or more are tax-deductible, and donors will receive a written acknowledgment detailing the cash amount and description of any contributed property.

To make a donation, you may do so via Cash App $PGPorterLodge142 or make money order/checks payable to:

P.G. Porter Lodge No. 142

P.O. Box 25036

Scott Air Force Base, IL 62225