Metal round disc with profile image of male, facing left. "THADDEUS STEVENS" in raised letters above profile; Laurel wreath under profile. Attached to ribbon 1930.025.001. Metal rectangular bar attached to top of ribbon; bar reads "LANCASTER, PA." Alice Malone, local artist, is credited with the design of the medal image.
Note: The ribbon and medal were given to LCHS by two different donors and then placed together. See 1930.025.001. The medal commemorates the Prince Hall Mason conclave held in Lancaster. Information on the Prince Hall Masons can be found in the notes section.
Despite Stevens’ opposition to Freemasonry, the Prince Hall Masons felt a special connection to Stevens. Prince Hall, founder of this branch of Freemasonry, was an abolitionist and leader in the free Black community of eighteenth century Boston. Those who assembled in Lancaster for this particular Grand Conclave assembled, in part, to honor Stevens’ contributions to combating racism and promoting social justice.
An article that appeared in the Intelligencer Journal on Saturday, August 30, 1930 provided an important clue as to why this Grand Conclave chose to honor Stevens. The article included the subheading “Installation of New Officials Marks End of Convention Here” and contained the following text:
John Washington, of Philadelphia, was elected right eminent grand commander of the grand commandery, Knights Templar of Pennsylvania, Prince Hall affiliation, at the annual election of officers that featured the closing of the 98th annual conclave in this city on Friday.
About 250 persons, including Sir Knights and members of the Ladies’ auxiliary, participated in the parade during the afternoon. Stopping at Shreiner’s cemetery, West Chestnut and Mulberry streets, the officers placed two floral wreaths on the grave of Thaddeus Stevens.
Today, the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, consists of three subordinate lodges; an Eastern Region based in Philadelphia, a Central Region based in Harrisburg, and a Western Region based in Pittsburgh.
