M.W. James Elbert Brinckerhoff 1934

James Elbert Brinckerhoff

Most Worshipful Brother James Elbert Brinckerhoff, Grand Master of Masons in Connecticut for the year 1934, died in New Canaan, Connecticut, on September 4, 1958.

He was born in New Canaan on March 16, 1883. Following his education in the public schools of New Canaan and Stamford, he prepared for college in the Wyckoff Preparatory School and graduated from Yale Law School, class of 1904, with the degree of Bachelor of Law. He thereupon was admitted to the Connecticut Bar and entered into the practice of law in Stamford. During his long career as a lawyer, he gained recognition as an authority in real estate and probate law. He also found time to serve as Deputy Judge of the Stamford City Court from 1915 to 1927 and as Judge from 1927 to 1929.

He was married on November 16, 1908 to Marion B. Rae, of New Canaan, who survives him, together with three sons, Elbert Rae Brinckerhoff, Richard L. Brinckerhoff, Robert B. Brinckerhoff, and a daughter, Eleanor H. Brinckerhoff.

He was raised in Union Lodge No.5, A.F. & A.M. of Stamford on October 8, 1913, and served as its Worshipful Master in 1919. In 1934 he served as Grand Master of Masons in Connecticut. In 1943 he was presented with the Pierpont Edwards Medal for distinguished Masonic service.

He was exalted in Rittenhouse Chapter No. 11, R.A.M., greeted in Washington Council No.6, R. & S.M., and knighted in Stamford Commmandery No. 12, K.T., all in Stamford. He received .the Scottish Rite degrees in the Valley of Bridgeport and took an active part in many of their degrees. He was also a member of Pyramid Temple, A.A.O.N.M.S., in Bridgeport, and for many years served as Orator.

He was a true friend, considerate of the feelings of others, a courteous gentleman and kindly by nature. As a man and citizen, he was devoted to his family, loyal to his country, and deeply interested in the humane and beneficent work of the Masonic Fraternity. He was held in high esteem by his many friends and fellow members and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

"Farewell, dear voyageur-'twill not be long.
Your work is done - now may peace rest with thee.
Your kindly thoughts and deeds - they will live on.
There is no death - there's immortality."