M.W. Richard A. Hodgson Biography 1991
Richard Arnold Hodgson
Our 145th Grand Master was bom in Groton, Connecticut, second son of Ralph and Marcia (Stapelyn) Hodgson. He has an older brother, Charles N. Hodgson. It would seem that his families occupation carried him to the far comers of the country and beyond, as his early education was obtained in Panama, California, South Carolina, and Connecticut. Settled for good in Connecticut, Dick attended the University of Connecticut; received on-the-job training in State Highway Engineering; studied at Mitchel College night school; University of New Haven; sharpened his mechanical and engineering skills with special courses in several Trade Schools; and trained at Aviation Ground School.
In 1950, Dick gave up the bachelor life and took Natalie Macomber as his life's partner. To this union a daughter, Ann, was born in 1957. She is now Mrs. Ann E. Chambers, wife of Brett Chambers.
Dick and "Nan" resided at 118 Wauwecus Hill Road, Bozrah, until recently when they moved to Sun City, Arizona. Richard Hodgson never stopped the education process. His employment shows a steady movement toward improvement. Starting with a Millwork Company, he soon moved to Electric Boat Company as a machinist. A stint in the United States Navy furthered his skill in the machinist trade. After his Navy service, he spent time with the State of Connecticut in Highway Engineering. His next two places of employment added further to his skills; first as a Die Maker at Pratt and Whitney Aircraft, and later as a Tool Maker with Conn Vol Tool Company. At Westerly Tool and Die he moved from Toolmaker to Manager before he left to start his own business. Being confident that his years of experience in all phases of the business would stand him in good stead, he founded "Jewett City Tool and Die" with a Co-Founder. Here he was busy, still producing, and still learning.
His Masonic history began when his petition to Oxoboxo Lodge No. 116 was accepted in 1961. His interest and ability were soon noticed and he found himself in Office from which he progressed through the chairs to become Master in 1970.
Retiring as Master, however, did not end his progress. In 1977 and again in 1978, he was appointed District Deputy of District 8-A and in 1983 he was appointed to the Grand Lodge Line as Grand Junior Steward. On April 10, 1991, his Brethren elevated him to Connecticut Masonry's highest Office, that of Most Worshipful Grand Master of Masons.
His other Masonic Affiliations include: Oweneco Chapter No. 104, O.E.S, Patron in 1972; Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Valley of Norwich; York Rite Masonic Bodies; Palestine Commandery No. 6, Mystic; Mystic Council No. 29, R. & S.M.; and Benevolence Chapter, R.A.M.
He is a member of Sphinx Temple, A.A.O.N.M.S, of Newington, the Bedouin Shrine Club, and the Past Master's Cub. He also belongs to Nemrod Grotto in Norwich, the Past District Deputies Association, Masonic Veteran's Association of Connecticut, the Masonic Club of New London, and the Swords of Bunker Hill.
He is the Grand Representative to the Grand Lodge of Alaska. Other affiliations are: National Rifle Association, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, Sprague Rod and Gun Club, and their Pistol Team. His hobbies include: hunting, fishing, archery, hydroplane racing, and even a stint as coach of the Bozrah Little League Team.
His church affiliation has been the Lee Memorial Methodist, where he was Chairman of the Board of Trustees.
Richard Arnold Hodgson has spent his life being a good citizen; a "neighbor" who has always been ready to lend a hand to those who needed help; and respected member of his community. He epitomizes the man who is a good family man - a good friend - a good Mason. For all these things and for his years of service to the Masonic Fraternity, the Grand Lodge Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Connecticut is pleased to present to Richard Arnold Hodgson
THE PIERPONT EDWARDS MEDAL
IN BRONZE
FOR DISTINGUISHED MASONIC SERVICE
