M.W. Horace Goodwin 1846-1847

Horace Goodwin

The next year, according to an almost custom, the office of Grand Master returned to Hartford. Horace Goodwin was born September 11, 1787. He was associated with his brother in the jewelry business where the Connecticut Mutual Building now stands under the firm name of H. and A. Goodwin. Although this continued from 1811 to 1851 and must have been well established, yet he changed in 1852 and sold music. He was married in 1812 to Miss Mary Ramsey and in 1860 to Mrs. Phebe C. Hayman.

Everyone is familiar with the colorful Putnam Phalanx. Brother Goodwin was the originator of this organization and its first Commandant, holding the office for four years. He maintained his interest in it to the end.

Raised in St. John's Lodge No.4 on June 25, 1822, he served as Master during the trying year 1833 when many Lodges were suspending operations. Beginning in 1838 in the Grand Lodge as Grand Junior Warden, he progressed through the chairs until he was elected Grand Master, May 13, 1846. Here he served for two years. From 1850 to 1860 he was called upon to act as Grand Treasurer. It pleased the Grand Chapter of Connecticut, R. A. M., to accept his leadership in 1842-1845, the Grand Council, R. and S. M., to do the same from 1835 to 1837, and the Grand Commandery in 1851 to 1852.

At his death, May 14, 1864, it was said of him that he was of "undeviating integrity, spotless moral character, kindly disposition but inflexible will. As a friend, he was faithful, as a companion genial, witty and sociable; as a citizen, upright and honorable."