M.W. Hugh Stirling 1891-1892
Hugh Stirling
Hugh Stirling was born in London, England, January 16, 1848. When the other members of his family came to this" country Brother Stirling, then but eight years of age, remained until he had received four years more of education and thereafter made Bridgeport his adopted home.
In business he was successively an ornamenter, an officer of the Wheeler, Wilson & Howe Machine Company, and in other manufacturing activities. In St. Paul's Episcopal Church he held office and maintained active interest in its affairs.
Beginning in 1882 as a councilman he was thereafter connected with the city government. At his death May 12, 1931, he was employed in the Public Works Department. From April of -1899 to November, 1901, he was Mayor of Bridgeport. As a mark of respect the flag on the City Hall was at half-mast between the time of his death and his funeral.
On October 10, 1877, Brother Stirling married Anna Eleanor Reid, who, with one daughter, the wife of Mr. B. O. Stegeman of Fairfield, survived him.
Brother Stirling's career in Masonry was a long and honored one. Raised in St. John's Lodge, No.3, September 1, 1869, and served as Master 1875-7, 1881-2.
Exalted in Jerusalem Chapter, No.3, R. A. M., in 1870, and served as High Priest in 1875-6.
Greeted in Jerusalem Council, No. 16, R. & S. M., in 1870, and served as Thrice Illustrious Master in 1874-5.
Knighted in Hamilton Commandery, No.5, K. T., August 11, 1870, was Eminent Commander 1881-3, Prelate from 1887-1911 and Right Eminent Grand Commander of the Grand Commandery, K. T., of Connecticut in 1895.
Became a member of Pyramid Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S., and was Illustrious Potentate 1895-6.
In 1890 and 1891 he was Grand Master of the M. W. Grand Lodge of Connecticut.
Taken to the Bridgeport Hospital for an operation, he passed away there quietly on the morning of May 12, 1931. The services were held Thursday, May 14, in Christ Episcopal Church, Rev. Brother Ernest Judson Craft officiating in the presence of many Masonic and civic friends. R. W. Samuel A. Moyle, Grand Senior Warden, represented the Grand Master. In addition there were present M. W. Andrew J. Hallock, M. W. Leonard J. Nickerson, 1\1. W. Frank L. Wilder, R. W. Carleton W. Tyler, and R. W. Thomas M. Webb. Hamilton Commandery, No.5, K. T., had charge of the committal services.
Brother Stirling served Masonry and his adopted country faithfully and well. His administration as Grand Master was a wise one and his counsel was sought frequently by those who have' succeeded him in the Grand East. He is missed by the many friends who he had in the fraternity and in civic circles.
His picture appears in the Proceedings of 1892 and 1932.
