M.W. James Henry Walsh 1896

James Henry Walsh

Born in New York City February 10, 1831, James H. Welsh was educated in the public schools Of that city and became a resident of Danbury in 1854. He apparently never aspired to public office, for we find no record of activity in civic affairs. Outside of Masonry he was connected with the hat industry.

Union Lodge, No. 40, made him a Master Mason in 1863 and chose him to be its Worshipful Master for the years 1868, 1872 and 1873. He was then elected Secretary and remained in this office until his death.

Exalted in Eureka Chapter, No. 23, R. A. M., in 1866 he held the office of High Priest for three years, 1874 through 1876, and Grand High Priest for the year 1882.

Receiving the Cryptic degrees in Wooster Council, No. 28, R. & S. M., in 1873 he was almost immediately (1874) elected Thrice Illustrious Master and held that position for nine years. In 1887 he was Grand Master of the Grand Council.

Knighted in Crusader Commandery, No. 10, K. T., in 1871 he served as Eminent Commander for three years beginning 1878 and was Right Eminent Grand Commander of the Grand Commandery in the year 1883.

In the days when 3 District Deputy was responsible for a whole county Brother Welsh filled this office in Fairfield County, from 1887 through 1889. The next year' saw him appointed Grand Junior Steward. In the 1896 Annual of the Grand Lodge he was elected Grand Master.

Supremely loyal to his home city he did more than any other man to advance Masonic interests in Danbury. His attendance at Masonic gatherings of Union Lodge, No.40, and the Grand Lodge was constant, so much so that in Danbury no such gathering was complete without him. His efficient services on committees of the Grand Lodge show clearly on the records.

His death occurred December 16, 1899, and his picture appears in the Proceedings of 1897 and 1900.