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The first meeting in the new building was held on February 27, 1963.
The Cornerstone was laid by the then presiding Grand Master Harry Ostrov on April 20, 1963 and the dedication ceremony during that year. Beacon Lodge #283 granted a 25-year mortgage enabling Hendrick Hudson Lodge to realize its hopes. This Mortgage was paid off in 10 years due to dedicated work of the lodge members, mostly through both private and public dinners and similar functions.
Over the years the membership of the lodge grew steadily to approximate 150 members. During the early
1990's the membership declined to its present number of about 120 members. Many of the newer members are younger and are very active in all activities of the lodge.
At the present time (1999) the lodge is one of 11 lodges in the Dutchess District. Hendrick Hudson Lodge continues to be a very active lodge.
Attendance at meetings is always good and degree rehearsals are well attended making the degree work very
proficient. Activities include conferring of degrees and presenting lecturers for a number of lodges in the Dutchess District and in neighboring districts. The lodge has always been a strong
supporter of the Masonic Brotherhood Fund drive and makes an effort to get a large participation by its members. The yearly Charity Ball is also well supported and each year the lodge is able to make significant
contributions to a number of local community organizations with our portion of the charity ball profits.
The lodge has been active in community affairs. In the 1940's the lodge members presented plays for the
community staged at the local theater with the lodge members even portraying female parts. The lodge annually awards a scholarship to a graduating senior who shows a desire to further his/her education and is in
need of financial assistance; sponsors a Little League team; contributes to local and area charities and fund drives; participates in the Memorial Day parade. Each year the lodge sponsors at least one youth to
the Masonic Camp near Utica, New York.
The members have participated with a marching unit in parades in nearby communities and refreshments are sold at local celebration day events. Our public dinners have a good reputation and are well attended.
Since 1981 lodge members have volunteered at the local hospital to take a refreshment cart around to the rooms each evening to offer snacks and fellowship to the patients.
In 1997 it was decided to implement improvements to the lodge building and grounds. The special
committee spent considerable time with the architect and contractors and their effort was well supported by the brothers of the lodge. 75% of the cost of the project has been contributed or pledged. The lodge
improvements include a building extension to house an office, storage room and an elevator.
The latter has access to the parking lot though an exterior door as well as both levels of the lodge. The electrical service of the lodge was upgraded and new lighting fixtures were installed in the dining area. Lower entry stairs and door have been improved and both parking lots have been paved and lighting standards installed.
The entire Lodge has been upgraded to being Handicapped Accessible.
The lodge has an excellent relationship with the Order of the Eastern Star. The two organizations
support each other's activities.
The ladies prepare and serve dinners for lodge functions, help keep the lodge rooms in good order and generously give financial support to building upkeep and improvements. The Masons assist the ladies at their bazaars and some lodge members are very active in the Eastern Star.
The future of the lodge looks very bright when reflecting upon the very active involvement of the
members in the many activities of the lodge, the eagerness to present accurate ritual work and the giving of assistance and support to newer members.
It is hoped that the Supreme Architect will continued to bless us with good leadership and dedicated members to enable us to have a meaningful influence upon the community and supportive brotherhood among lodge members.
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