Born in Ballymote, County Sligo, Ireland, he graduated from Trinity College, Dublin with a Bachelor of Arts in 1855. He was ordained deacon on July 6, 1856, and priest on July 5, 1857, in the chapel of Farnham Castle. He then served as curate of East Worldham, Hampshire in England, until 1859. In 1859 he left for British Columbia in Canada to serve as missionary, chaplain at the naval station at Esquimalt, rector of St Paul’s Church in Nanaimo, and minister to the gold miners at Cariboo.
In 1870 he moved to the United States and became rector of St James’s Church in San Francisco, and in 1872 Dean of Trinity Cathedral in Omaha. In 1874 he was appointed Missionary Bishop of Northern Texas and retained the seat after the formation of the Episcopal Diocese of Dallas on December 20, 1895. He was consecrated bishop on December 20, 1874, by Bishop Robert Harper Clarkson of Nebraska in Trinity Cathedral, Omaha. He was instrumental in the building of St Matthew’s Cathedral in Dallas, Texas. He also founded St. Mary’s College for women in Dallas.
Past Commanders of the Asylum
SK Dale Eugene Miller – 1949
SK H. Jack Hefner – 1950
SK Edward Copley – 1951
SK Leanard Huffhines – 1952
SK Harry F Blanchard – 1953
SK Claude C Creekmore – 1954
SK E Hastings Ackley – 1955
SK Charlie Elmore Cason, Jr – 1956
SK Douglas Reid – 1957
SK C O White – 1958
SK Lloyd S Kimble – 1959
SK George R Crowdus – 1960
SK Allen J Terrill – 1961
SK Lynn G Stockweather – 1962
SK James Kernon Todd – 1963
SK Gerald Claybrook Bradshaw – 1964
SK Herschel O Smith – 1965
SK Clarence Brown – 1966
SK Ralph Fentress Black – 1967
SK Robert Eldon Barbee – 1968
SK Eli Aguilar – 1969
SK Edd Watkins Crow – 1970
SK Arch D Daugherty – 1971
SK Albert Branch (Bobby) Seay – 1972
SK James Robert Davenport – 1973
SK William Thomas Yearout – 1974
SK Winston Ray Holland – 1975
SK William R Dalon, Jr – 1976
SK Homero Rodriguez – 1977
SK Lyle Lester Cross – 1978
SK Robert Henry Waters – 1979
SK James R Wheeler – 1980
SK Michael Lee Bezusko – 1981
SK Ralph Fentress Black – 1982
SK Lloyd Cullen Mathis – 1983
SK Ronald Dean Park – 1984
SK Alan Matwayne Rowe – 1985
SK Joe Lee Alexander – 1986
SK Mitchell Ray Jones – 1987
SK Brian Craig Ball – 1988
SK Orville Lee O’Neill, Jr – 1989
SK Jerry Nelson Kirby – 1990
SK Frank Everts – 1991
SK Thomas William Snyder – 1992
SK Paul Charles Finninger – 1993
SK Jimm Don Foster – 1994
SK Clarence Joy Laney, Jr – 1995
SK Roy Dean Shipley – 1996
SK Jack Marvin Sullivan – 1997
SK Morris Delone Surratt – 1998
SK Larry Gene Canada – 1999
SK Thomas Bryan Hall, Jr – 2000
SK Terry Don Ivy – 2001
SK John Joseph MacGregor II – 2002
SK Richard Allan Page, Sr – 2003
SK Glenn Keese – 2004
SK Guy Peter Gegues – 2005
SK Brian Craig Ball – 2006
SK Daniel Todd Hill – 2007
SK William Harold Collum, Jr – 2008
SK Justin Cody Bauer – 2009
SK Jere Julian Mansfield – 2010
SK Bradley Scott Billings – 2011
SK Rex Stephen Lewis – 2012
SK Gary Edmund Rock, Jr – 2013
SK Dan Wesley Turner – 2014
SK Nikolaus Konstantin Linder Fehrenbach – 2015
SK Robert Cleere – 2016
SK Miguel Angel Garcia – 2017
SK Michael Taylor Malone – 2018
SK David Murray Baskin – 2019
SK Scott David Stanton – 2020, 2021
SK Richard Lyle Troutte – 2022
SK Todd Polk – 2023
SK Kevin Kerr Morton, Sr – 2024
SK William Barrett Travis – 2025
Affiliated Past Commander
SK David Anderson
Knight Templar Cross of Honor
SK Ronald Dean Park
SK David Anderson
SK Nikolaus Konstantin Linder Fehrenbach
Past Grand Commanders of Texas from Alexander C.Garrett #103
1962 – Henry Jack Hefner
1971 – Dale E. Miller
1980 – Albert (Bobby) Branch Seay
2000 – Jerry Nelson Kirby
2007 – Thomas Wonderful Snyder
2019 – Clarence Joy Laney
2025 – Justin Cody Bauer
Alexander C. Garrett Lodge No. 1216 A.F. & A.M. was granted a charter December 5, l924 and was constituted December 13, 1924. The Royal Arch Chapter was designated Alexander C. Garrett Chapter No. 420 R.A.M. December 6, 1927.
The desire and need for a Council of Royal and Select Masters and a Commandery of Knights Templar, to complete the York Rite of Masonry at Garrett, had long been felt but it was not until 1948 or twenty years after the Chapter had been designated that definite steps were taken to make this dream a reality.
Sir Knights Dale E. Miller and H. Jack Hefner had thought of and discussed the possibility of forming these two needed bodies for months and on the evening of February 27, 1948 ten Sir Knights met and talked at length regarding the need and desirability of the York Rite bodies and the conclusion was reached that the matter should be brought before the Royal Arch Chapter at its next stated convocation. At the next business meeting of the Chapter, the High Priest, H. Jack Hefner presented the idea and the Chapter by unanimous vote declared itself in favor of petitioning for a Council and a Commandery. the proposition was presented to the Lodge at a stated communication and by a unanimous vote granted its permission for the two additional bodies to meet in Garrett Lodge If and when dispensations or charters were granted.
A committee of Knights Templar, composed of H. Jack Hefner, E. High Priest, Dale E. Miller, E. King, Floyd E. Taylor, Wm. L. Martin and Harry E. Blanchard, Past High Priests of the Chapter (Floyd E. Taylor and Harry E. Blanchard also being Past Masters of the Lodge) held a conference with Sir Knight Vance K. Miller, the Right Eminent Grand Commander of the Grand Commandery, Knights Templar of Texas, in his offices, 1916 Main Street, Dallas, Texas. At this meting this Committee made known to the Grand Commander our earnest and sincere desire to have a Commandery of Knights Templar at Garrett and sought his advice in the proper manner of procedure, provided he thought our request was proper. Sir Knight Miller, in his usual genial and courteous manner, heard our plea and prayer and then proceeded to point oat to us the many, many obstacles that would confront us; the great expense involved for robes, furniture, ate., and the untiring efforts, hard work and determination of the officers and members that would be so necessary, not only during the period of organization but in the succeeding years to make a real, vital and worthwhile Commandery of which we, as well as the Grand Commandery, would be proud, especially in Dallas where two Commanderies already existed.
After a lengthy and detailed discussion, the Committee giving Sir Knight Miller the assurance that if given an opportunity we would “carry through”, we were told he would give us his wholehearted support and every assistance in our endeavor.
The Grand Conclave of the Grand Commandery was to be held in Dallas, Texas May 2-5, 1948 and in as much as Sir Knights Dale E. Miller and H. Jack Hefner were officers of Dallas Commandery No. 6 and they with Sir Knights Harry E.
Blanchard, W. Tim Turner and Charles E. Terry being members of the Drill Team, it would be necessary to wait until after the Grand Conclave to present our petition.
On Friday, May 7, necessary forms and instructions were secured from Sir Knight Harry B. Tuer, Right E. Past Grand Commander and the E. Grand Recorder of the Grand Commandery. It was decided by Sir Knights Dale E. Miller and H. Jack Hefner that for many good reasons we should secure the signatures of not more than 25 Sir Knights and these to be, as nearly as possible, inactive Knights in their Commanderies. That same Friday evening the original Committee and a few other Knights assembled in Garrett Lodge. A report was made of the meeting with Sir Knight Vance K. Miller — the petition for a dispensation was read and discussed. The motion by S. K. John W. Taylor that a contribution of $10.00 would be acceptable from the signers of the petition, same being seconded by S. K. Charles E. Terry, carried unanimously.
After quite a discussion the names of Sir Knights Dale E. Miller, Wm. L. Martin and Harry E. Banchard, proposed by Sir Knight H. Jack Hefner, were designated by the group present to be the principal officers named on tha petition.
Those present signed the petition and on the following day Sir Knights Miller and Hefner secured the signatures necessary to complete the 25. A total of $110.00 was donated by signers of the petition, $110.00 of this to accompany petition for charter fee.
The following 25 Sir Knights signed the petition:
1. Paul D. Beckler
2. Harry E. Blanchard
3. Lorenz H. Bohmfalk
4. Ernest H. Buck
5. Alfonso M. Carrillo
6. Thomas A. Clark
7. Martin L, Cowan
8. H. J. “Jack” Hefner
9. Charles P. “Dad” Holmes
10. J. Leon Kelsay
11. Manning L. Kline
12. William L. Martin
13. Dale E. Miller
14. Allis S. Noble
15. Stanley S. “Pete” Parker
16. Jack B. Russell
17. Kenneth E. Stallones
18. Floyd E. Taylor
19. John W. Taylor
20. Tommie E. Taylor
21. Charles E. Terry
22. W. Tim Turner
23. Merle E. Webb
24.. Melvin L. “Jerry” Willows
25. Lyn c. Woods
All of the above named signers were members of Dallas Commandery No. 6, K. T. with the exception of S. K. Tommie E. Taylor who was a member of Tancred Commandery No. 82, K.T.
Before presenting our petition to the Grand Commandery it was necessary to present it to the two Commanderies in Dallas for their approval.
On Wednesday evening May 12, 1948 our petition was presented at a stated conclave of Tancred Commandery No. 82, K. T. for its consideration.
On Thursday evening May 13, 1948 Sir Knights Dale E. Miller and H. Jack Hefner resigned ae officers of Dallas Commandery No. 6, K. T. and presented our petition to this good Commandery= for its consideration,
June 9, 1948 Tancred Commandery, by unanimous vote, approved the petition for this new Commandery and recorded its recommendation. E. Commander Randlett wished us every success and pledged their support and assistance.
June 10, 1948 Dallas Commandery No. 6, K. T. unanimously approved our petition and recorded its recommendation. E. Commander Lawrence A. Sunkel expressed regret in the loss of two fine officers and twenty-two other members NOW and others later in the formation of the Charter membership of the new Commandery but wished us “God Speed” and pledged his personal support and assistance as well as that of Dallas Commandery in every way possible and then entertained a motion by sir Knight Alexander Duncan Fraser, P. C,, that if and when a dispensation for Alexander C. Garrett Commandery was granted that Dallas Commandery No. 6, K. T. present, without cost, to the new Commandery all the robes and equipment not needed by Dallas Commandery. The motion carried unanimously.
This act of kindness and generosity of Dallas Commandery was one of the contributing factors in the granting of the dispensation because it would have been almost impossible for our small group to purchase new robes for the Order of Red Cross and Malta. Our sincere thanks and never ending gratitude to Sir Knight Vance K. Miller; a wonderful engineer.
This date of June 10, 1948 was an important date in the history of A. C. Garrett Lodge as on this evening Brother Charlie E. Cason, Sr. was elected secretary of that fine body succeeding S. K. Paul D. Beckler who had been secretary of the Lodge from its beginning but who had retired due to ill health. Companion Cason had been elected secretary of the A. G. Garrett Chapter a few nights before.
On June I4, 1948, Sir Knights Dale E. Miller, Claud L.. Austin, Sr., James R. Davenport and H. Jack Hefner drove to Stephenville, Texas to witness and assist in the constituting of Stephenville Commandery No. 100, K. T. After these ceremonies were concluded we were invited to the hotel room of the Right E. Grand Commander, Tom J. Melton, where in the presence of Right E. Past Grand Commander, Fred M. Gilbough, Harry B. Tuer and Vance K. Miller Sir Knights Dale E. Miller, Claud L. Austin, Sr., James E. Davenport and H. Jack Hefner, the Grand Commander signed, sealed and delivered the dispensation for Alexander C. Garrett Commandery U. D. with these words, “Jack, I hope I never have occasion to regret this.” Sir Knight Vance K. Miller being in extra fine voice sang a portion of the then popular song, “Signed, Sealed and Delivered.”
Few will ever know the real influence exerted by Past Grand Commanders Gilbough, Miller and Tuer in the granting of our dispensation—let us ever remain grateful to them. Up to this time no city in Texas had more than two Commanderies.
On June I9, 1948 Sir Knights Dale Miller and Jack Hefner went to Dallas Commandery where Sir Knight Jordan R. Reynolds, P. C., turned over the robes, etc., presented to our Commandery. These robes were cleaned, pressed, moisture and moth proofed by Sir Knight Louis Bowen, owner of Chaney Cleaning Co., and who later affiliated with us. This work was done at a figure far less than his cost.
June 23, 1948 our petition for a Council of Royal and Select Masters was presented to Dallas Council No. 18 for Its consideration and recommendation.
July 2, 1948 the first Conclave of Alexander C. Garrett U. D. was held. As an explanation—when the Grand Commander issues a dispensation to work for a new Commandery the Sir Knights of that Commandery are on their own and are not Set to work by the Grand Commander. So it was on this evening that Sir Knight Dale E. Miller, the Commander asked the following Sir Knights to assist in the opening of the first conclave;
Commander Dale E. Miller
Generalissimo Fred M, Gilbough – R.E.P.G.C.
Captain General Vance K. Miller – R.E.P.G.C.
Senor Warden Harry B. Tuer – R.E.P.G.C. & Gr, Recorder
Junior Warden L. A. Sunkel, Commander, Dallas No.6
Prelate Gerald G. Moore – E. P. G. Prelate
Treasurer Jordan R. Reynolds – P. C., Dallas No.6
Recorder H. Jack Hefner
Standard Bearer Alex D. Fraser – P. C., Dallas No. 6
Sword Bearer W. W. McClellan – P. C., Dallas No.6
Warder Robt. E. Simons – Genaralissimo, Tancred No. 82
3rd Guard Luther E. Wilson – P. C., Dallas No. 6
2nd Guard E. Blake Baker – P. C., El Paso No. 18
1st Guard J. Lee Zumwalt – P. C., Denton No. 45
Sentinel W. Tim Turner
20 members and 31 visitors — 51 present
After the preliminary ceremonies, the Commander requested Sir Knight Vance K. Miller to declare the first conclave of Alexander C. Garrett Commandery U. D. opened, which he did. It is worthy of note that the Senior living Past Grand Commander, Sir Knight Gilbough and the Junior Past Grand Commander Sir Knight Vance K. Mlller graced the East with our Commander Dale E. Miller at this opening conclave. The Junior Past Grand Prelate Sir Knight Dean Moore and E. Grand Recorder and Past Grand Commander Tuer also honored us with their presence and assistance. These four outstanding Templars play a most important role in the history of our Commandery.
After the first conclave was declared open the first order of business was the reading of the Special Dispensation authorizing us to work as a Commandery.
The following 14 petitions for the Orders were read and Committees assigned:
Charlie Elmore Cason, Sr.
Joseph L. Smallwood
Hays E. Bassett
Calvin A. Barker
Edward A. Copley
Thomas A. Radcliffe
Charles M. Henry
Robert A. Later
Claude C, Creakmore, Jr.
Rainey A. Westberry, Jr.
Roy C. Daugherty
Massie G. Stafford
Robert F. Keyes
Earl W. McGibboney
The petitions for affiliation of Sir Knights Claud L. Austin, Sr. and Wm. O. Burgess were read and committees assigned.
Motion by S. K. Wm. L. Martin that the $80.00 remaining in the Signers Contribution Fund be turned over to the Commandery General Fund carried unanimously.
Sir Knight Vance K« Miller than presented to the Commandery a sterling silver Service for the Order of Malta consisting of two candle sticks, one taper, one salver and one goblet together with an imported tablecloth and napkins. Sir Knight Gerald G. Moore, Dean of St. Matthew’s Cathedral was asked by Sir Knight Miller to read the beautifully engraved inscription on the goblet or chalice:
In memory of Bishop Alexander C. Garrett, K. T.
Presented to Alexander C. Garrett Commandery U.D.-K.T.
July 2, 1948
By Vance K. Miller, P.G.C.
Dean Moore then gave a most interesting and instructive explanation of the significance of the Malta Service which was greatly appreciated. He also spoke of the wonderful and most useful life of Bishop Garrett both as a servant of God and as a valiant Templar pointing out that as this new body of Templars had assumed his honored name it presented a challenge to ever carry high the banner of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
On July 11, 1948 our hearts were saddened by the passing of Sir Knight Paul D. Beckler one of the Signers of our petition for a Commandery.
At the stated conclave of July 16, the 14 petitioners for the Orders were elected and Sir Knight Claud L. Austin, Sr, was the first to be elected to membership by affiliation. Sir Knight James Richard Davenport, Generalissimo of Dallas Commandery No. 6, K. T. appeared in the center of the asylum, resembling a traveling Salesman, and after being properly recognized read a letter describing the trials and tribulations he had endured in the securing of records. Then presented to the Commandery a fine electric portable record player with volume control, a complete set of records for the Order of Malta aid Order of the Temple and a leather carrying case with lock for records,
During this period many of our Sir Knights were very busy making and obtaining various pieces of furniture and articles necessary to properly confer the Orders. To Mrs. Jack B. Russell, wife of our own Sir Knight Russell, we will always be indebted. She made our Grand Standard, Beauseant, Red Cross and Malta Banners, Triangle Pall and other items.
July 23 – The first Illustrious Order of the Red Cross was conferred upon the class elected. this Order was conferred in a most impressive manner by a team from Dallas Commandery No. 6, K. T. Sir Knight Alex D. Fraser as Sovereign Master.
July 28 – Dallas Council No. 18 R & SM voted favorably on our petition for a Council and the following day the petition was mailed to Companion Roy Worley, the Grand Master. He would not grant a dispensation saying it was too close to the annual assembly in late November.
July 30 – The first Order of Malta was conferred in FULL Form by a team from Tancred Commandery No. 82, K. T. Sir Knight Robert E. Simons as E. Prior. The class was greatly impressed with the beauty and significance of the Order.
Aug. 5 – The first Order of the Temple was conferred upon Knights of Malta:
Charlie E. Cason, Sr.
Roy C. Daugherty
Edward A. Copley
Massie G. Stafford
Earl W. McGibboney
Thomas A. Radcliffe
The Order was conferred by S. K. Harry B. Tuer, R. E. Past Grand Commander and E. Grand Recorder. Charles E. Cason, Sr. was the first to be created a Knight Templar in Garrett Commandery being knighted by S. K. Tuer; Roy C, Daugherty second, being knighted by S. K. Fred M. Gilbough, R. E. P. Grand Commander and Edward A. Copley third and knighted by S. K. Vance K. Miller, R. E. Past Grand Commander.
On August 9 the second Order of the Temple was conferred by S. K. Vance K. Miller, R. E. P. G. Commander on Knights of Malta:
Calvin A. Barker – Knighted by S. K. Vance K. Miller
Robert A. Later – Knighted by S. K. Fred M. Gilbough
Mynor C. Henry – Knighted by S. K. Harry B. Tuer
Robert F. Keyes – Knighted by S. K. James R. Davenport
Claude C. Creekmore, Jr. – Knighted by S. K. Vance K. Miller
August 20 – The Commander, S. K. Dale E. Miller asked S. K. Charlie E. Cason, Sr. to act as Recorder of the Commandery.
August 31 – S. K. James R. Davenport, who had become a member by affiliation, conferred the third Order of the Temple and it is worthy of note that all officers
taking part in the Order were members of Garrett Commandery.
September 3 – The Commander S. K. Dale E. Miller filled all stations by making the following appointments:
James R. Davenport – Senior Warden
H. Jack Hefner – Junior Warden
W. Tim Turner – Prelate
Jack B. Russell – Treasurer
Charlie E. Cason, Sr. – Recorder
Edward A. Copley – Standard Bearer
Joe L. Smallwood – Sword Bearer
J. Robert Ross – Warder
J. Leon Kelsey – 3rd Guard
Lemuel A. Bridewell – 2nd Guard
Calvin A. Barker – 1st Guard
Roy C. Daugherty – Sentinel
Sept. 10 – The Grand Commandery film of official opening, Inspection and review and closing of a constituent Commandery was shown after which the officers had their first rehearsal in tactics under the direction of S. K. W. W, McClellan, P. C. of Dallas No. 6.
Nov. 4 – Garrett Commandery participated for the first time in Memorial Services at the grave of Bishop Alexander C. Garrett, K. T.
Nov. 29 – Sir Knights Dale E. Miller and H. Jack Hefner went to Waco in the interest of Charter for a Council and on this date the Grand Council granted a charter. that evening they both received the Order of High Priesthood.
Dec. 17 – On this evening Alexander C. Garrett Council No, 382 Royal and Select Masters was constituted by V. Ex. Companion Emory Christian, Past Grand Master, and assisted by Ex. Companion H. H. J. Spinks, Deputy Grand Master of the 51st Cryptic District who installed the following officers:
Thrice Ill. Master – James R. Davenport
R. Ill. Deputy Master – H. Jack Hefner
Ill. Prin. Cond. of the Work – Dale E. Miller
Treasurer – Jack B. Russell
Recorder – Charlie E. Cason
Captain of the Guards – Wm. L. Martin
Conductor of the Council – Wm. H. Roome
Stewart – Carl H. Savage
Guard – Roy C. Daugherty
Thus came true our dream and sincere desire to have York Rite Masonry Complete in Garrett Temple.
Dec. 25 – As invited guests of Dallas Commandery No. 6, Garrett Commandery members attended our first Christmas observance as a Commandery.
Jan. 19, 1049 – first stated Assembly of A. C. Garrett Council No. 382 R & SM. the degrees were conferred upon eleven candidates each of the officers filling his respective Station.
February – Dallas and Tancred Commanderies were inspected by S. K. R. B. Cowden but Garrett Commandery was not inspected nor had we been included in the visitation schedule.
March 25 – Charlie E, Cason, jr. received the Order of the Temple being knighted by S. K. Harry S. Tuer, R. E. Past Grand Commander who knighted his father. At the conclusion of this knighting, Sir Knight C. P. “Dad” Holmes presented his own K. T. sword to Sir Knight Cason and admonished the young Knight to “carry on”.
April 15 – Good Friday and last conclave of Alexander C. Garrett Commandery Under Dispensation, This was a most inspirational conclave as we reviewed the work of the Commandery U. D. All business of our Commandery was completed including the reading and adoption of the minutes of this last conclave in order that all records could be up-to-date for presentation to the Grand Commandery Committees later in the month. Sir Knights Dale E. Miller and Hefner were elected representatives to the 96th Annual Conclave of the Grand Commandery K. T. of Texas to be held in city of Beaumont, April 24 – 27, 1949 to present, for inspection, all the records of our Commandery while working under dispensation and make our prayer for a charter.
April 24 – Sir Knights Miller and Hefner went via train to Beaumont and on the following day met with the two interested Committees who examined minutely our records and asked questions and than more questions. It is worthy of note that the members of these committees were high in their praise and compliments for the excellent records prepared and kept by our genial and efficient Recorder Sir Knight Cason, Sr. and for the most outstanding work and accomplishments of Garrett Commandery U. D. In ten months, under dispensation, this Commandery had acquired all the necessary robes, furniture and necessary paraphernalia for the correct and proper conferring of the three Orders; that the Orders were being correctly and effectively conferred by its own members that 56 Sir Knights had been created and that 58 Sir Knights had become members by affiliation making a total membership of 114. The financial statement reflected:
Balance on hand – $2,797.00
Property Valuation – 3,17S.97
April 26 – The Grand Commandery voted unanimously to grant a charter same being styled –
Alexander G. Garrett Commandery No. 103, K. T.
with 114 Charter members whose names appear on the charter. Before leaving Beaumont
a request was made of S. K. R. B. Cowden, the incoming Grand Commander, that Sir Knight Vance K. Killer (the father of Garrett Commandery) be permitted to constitute us. this request was graciously granted.
From this tine until May 20 we were not able to work as we were non-existent until we were constituted.
May 20, Friday afternoon:
R. B. Cowden – R.E. Grand Commander
Thos. M. Bethell – V.E.D. Grand Commander
Claud Cross – E. Grand Generalissimo
Nat Pace – E. Grand Senior Warden
Victor C. Whitfield – E. Grand Junior Warden
Harry B. Tuer – R.E.P.G. Commander and E. Grand Recorder
J. Marvin Pugh – E. Grand Warder
and Right E. Past Grand Commanders
Fred M. Gilbough Vance K. Miller
Tom J. Melton George Haas
Burke Thomason Will J. Rhea
Janes M. Caviness
and many other distinguished visitors together with our own members assembled in the Asylum preparatory to taking part in or witnessing the constituting of Garrett Commandery. At six 0’clock a delicious dinner was served by the ladies of the Eastern Star Chapter under the direction of Miss Edith Pavey, Worthy natron, the decorations were beautiful the Knight Templar emblem being cut out of red, gold and black paper and placed at regular intervals on the white lines cloths on the tables.
At 7:30 o’clock R. E. Grand Commander Cowden addressed the Knights briefly and then requested Sir Knight Vance K. Miller to constitute the Commandery and install Its officers,
The following served in the constituting ceremonies
S.K. Vance K, Miller, R.E.P.G.C. – as R. E. Grand Commander
S.K. Rall B. Cowden, R.E.G. Commander – as V.E.D. Grand Commander
S.K. Fred M. Gilbough, R.E.P.G.C – as E. Grand Generalissimo
S.K. Thos, M, Bethell, V.E.D.G.C. – as E. Grand Captain General
S.K. Laurence A. Sunkel, P.C, Dallas No. 6 – as E. Grand Senior Warden
S.K. Robt. E. Simmons, E.C. Tancred No. 82 – as E. Grand Junior Warden
S.K. Alex D. Fraser, P. C. Dallas No. 6 – as E. Grand Prelate
S.K. Tom J. Melton, R.E.P.G.C – as E. Grand Treasurer
S.K. Harry B. Tuer, R.E.P.G.C – E. Grand Recorder
S.K> Claud Cross, E.G. Generalissimo – as E. Grand Marshall
S.K. Nat Pace, E.G. Sr. Warden – as E.G. Standard Bearer
S.K. Victor Whitfield, E.G. Jr. Warden – as E.G. Sword Bearer
S.K. J. Marvin Pugh – E.G. Warder
S.K. Preston Miller, P.C. Houston No. 85 – as E.G. Capt. of the Guard
After the Commandery was opened by the Grand Officers, the S. Grand Recorder read the charter and the names of 114 charter members of Alexander C. Garrett No. 103 K. T.
Charter Members
Created
Allison, J. R. Sr.
Anderson, Cleo D.
Barker, Calvin A.
Barnes, John H.
Bassett, Hays E.
Beach, 0. E.
Blakeley, Phillip
Bridewell, L.M. Jr.
Bullis, Morris
Cason, Chas. E. Jr.
Cason, Chas. E. Sr.
Chamness, A. L.
Copley, Edw. A.
Cossey, B. B.
Cossey, K. E.
Covington, J. B.
Creekmore, Claude C. Jr.
Crowdus, Wm. L. Sr.
Daugherty, Roy C.
Detweiler, Dr. Jas. E.
Emerson, J. F.
Griffith, Zack
Harris, Sam O.
Henry, C. Mynor
Homer, Richard W.
Huffhines, L. A.
Jones, Ralph A.
Keyes, Robt. F.
Later, Robt. A.
Liggett, Wm. G.
Luttrell, Glen H.
McGibboney, E. W.
Montgomery, M. B.
Oliver, John L.
Osburne, Fred W.
Owens, Elton L. Jr.
Packenius, M. A.
Partridge, T. O.
Pendleton, D. C.
Phillips, John
Pratley, E. E.
Radcliffe, T. A.
Reynolds, Wm. C.
Riffe, J. W.
Ross, J. Robt.
Sharpe, Ed L.
Smallwood, Joe L.
Smith, Cecil L.
Smith, John I.
Stafford, Govan
Steven, D. D.
Truitt, Lenox M.
Westberry, Rainey, Jr.
Westberry, Rainey, Sr.
Williams, Wm. T.
Wisinger, F. B.
Signers
*Beckler, Paul D.
Blanchard, H. E.
Bohmfalk, Lorenz
Buck, E. W.
Carillio, Alfonso
Clark, Thos. A.
Cowan, M. L.
Hefner, H. Jack
Holmes, Chas. P.
Kelsay, J. Leon
Kline, Manning L.
Martin, Wm. L.
Miller, Dale E.
Noble, A. S.
Parker, S. S. “Pete”
Russell, Jack B.
Stallones, K. E.
Taylor, Floyd E.
Taylor, John W.
Taylor, Tommie E.
Terry, Chas. E.
Turner, W. Tim
Webb, Merle E.
Willows, M. L.
Woods, Lyn C.
Other Affiliated
Austin, Claud L. Sr.
Beale, Charles
Beale, Marshal
Biggler, R. N.
Bond, Tom I.
Bowen, Louis
Burgess, Wm. O.
Butler, J. G.
Craft, Walter P.
Crowder, R. M.
Culpepper, C. H.
Davenport, J. R.
Ensor, J. R.
Fritz, E. G.
Griffin, Doyle G.
Hilderbrand, B. N.
Hill, Ewel
House, Dr. Ford
Larson, Neil
Marlowe, John
Marrs, Ed. S.
McNeill, Rex, Jr.
Miller, Wm. H.
Newbill, Geo. A., Jr.
Oster, J. E.
Pappas, Harry
Pearce, R. B. “Tex”
Rineman, Wm. A.
Rudy, Fred,
Savage, Carl H.
Sellingsloh, Ray
Stephenson, Tom F.
Turk, Ralph
Verwaltz, F. B.
Created – 56
Signers – 25
Affiliated – 34
Deaths – 1
Total – 114
*Paul D. Beckler passed away before we were Chartered, consequently, his name does not appear on Charter.
Then followed the election and appointment of officers who were duly installed!
Dale E. Miller – Commander
James R. Davenport – Generalissimo
H. Jack Hefner – Captain General
Edward A. Copley – Senior Warden
Leonard A. Huffhines – Junior Warden
Dr. James E. Detweiler – Prelate
Jack B. Russell – Treasure
Charlie E. Cason, Sr. – Recorder
Harry S. Blanchard – Standard Bearer
Claude C. Creekmore, Jr. – Sword Bearer
Calvin A. Barker – Warder
J. Robert Ross – Third Guard
Charles E. Terry – Second Guard
Lenox Tuitt – First Guard
Roy C. Daugherty – Sentinel
Sir Knight Vance K. Miller was installing Commander, Sir Knight Harry B. Tuer installing Marshall and Sir Knight Alexander D. Fraser installing Prelate.
The bible used by Bishop Garrett in the latter part of his life was used in these ceremonies. The bible, given to Garrett Lodge, is kept in a glass case to preserve it and is only used on special occasions.
Sir Knight Dennis G. Colwell, Potentate of Hella Temple, presented to the Commandery a beautiful altar bible and to this body we are most grateful.
Our Commandery was honored by having present on this auspicious occasion seven line officers and eight Past Grand Commanders of the Grand Commandery Knights Templar of Texas.
May 29 – Garrett Commandery participated to Ascension Services at St. Matthews
Cathedral for the first tine as a Commandery. This custom of attending St. Matthew’s for this service began over 50 years ago when Bishop Alexander C. Garrett, K. T. invited the Knights Templar of Dallas to attend ascension services and continued each year during his life time and has been continued each year since his passing.
June 3 – first stated conclave of A. C. G. Commandery No. 103.
June 17 – By-laws were approved and adopted, The following Sir Knights were elected to Honorary Membership in Garrett Commandery
1. Vance K. Miller
2. Harry B. Tuer
3. Fred M. Gilbough
4. Rall B. Cowden
5. Thomas M. Bethell
6. Claud Cross
7 Nat Pace
8. Victor C. Whitfield
9. J. Marvin Pugh
10. Laurence A. Sunkel
11. Robert E. Simmons
12. Alex D. Fraser
13. Tom J. Melton
14. Rev. Gerald G. Moore
July 15 – Sir Knight Robert E. Simons, Commander of Tancred personally presented to the Commandery ten leather shoulder belts for asylum swords. The Commandery purchased four additional belts to be used in connection with the swords belonging to the Royal Arch Chapter.
September 16 – Officers Jewels distributed to officers. Most of the officers purchased their jewel and presented it to the Commandery.
October 17 – At this stated Conclave, Sir Knight Ernest G. Fritz presented the “cuts” for the various bodies to be used in the printing of the Trestleboard.
November 4 – Memorial Service at Bishop Garrett’s grave. All bodies of Garrett well represented. The Commandery with a good number in uniform formed a Passion Cross remaining in that formation during the entire service. Dean Gerald G. Moore gave a very interesting history of the life of Bishop Garrett both as Bishop of his church and as a Mason.
November 21 – The Grand Commandery of Texas was convened in Special Conclave in the Asylum of Dallas Commandery No. 6, K. T. At this conclave the statutes were changed making the fee for the orders $75.00 instead of $50.00 and optional with the petitioner whether or not he purchases a uniform and effective as of this date.
November 26 – First district School of Instruction of which Garrett is am part was held at Greenville, Texas and Garrett Commandery requested to open De Molay Commandery in full form with Inspection and review which was done in a most excellent manner.
December 2 – S. K. Charles P. “Dad” Holmes presented to the Commandery a beautiful silver Triangle Libation set consisting of a Flagon and 12 cups or goblets. This set was given to him (at his request) by his family as his birthday present and he in turn presented it to the Commandery. This is another expression of the wonderful character of Dad and his love for Templary and especially for Garrett Commandery,
December 16 – Our first election of officers after being chartered was held and on this same evening Sir Knight Vance K. Miller as Commander, S. K. Dale E. Miller as Marshal and S. K. Gerald G, Moore as Prelate instituted the custom of publicly installing the officers of Garrett Commandery with the wives of the officers marching in with them, pinning the Jewel of office on them when installed and being seated with then in their respective stations.
Sir Knight James R, Davenport had resigned his office as Generalissimo prior
to December however a special election was not held.
Commander H. Jack Hefner expressed sincere appreciation to the Miller Boys, two of his closest friends, for their kindness in installing the officers and to Dean Moore for his services as Prelate then formally introduced the Dean who brought a wonderful message regarding the significance of Christmas, Christianity and Templary. The officers wives were presented with corsages and the retiring Commander’s wife, Mrs. Dot Miller, was presented with a bouquet of red roses.
Sir Knight Haden Linebaugh came from Oklahoma City for the installation. He and Sir Knight Hefner received their orders together in Dallas Commandery No. 6.
Sir Knight Dale E. Miller made a wonderful Commander serving from June l4, 1948 to May 20, 1949 Under dispensation and from May 20 to Dec. 16, l949 under Charter, Under his most efficient leadership our Commandery grew from the original 25 to membership of 124. Loved and respected by all is Dale Eugene Miller, Senior
Past Commander of Alexander C. Garrett Commandery No. 103 K. T.
On this evening Sir Knight Ernest G. Fritz presented to the Commandery a beautifully engraved reproduction of our Charter in bronze. Sir Knight Fritz was thanked generously for this wonderful gift as well as the many other articles he had made and presented to the various bodies at Garrett.
December 25 – Garrett Commandery was host to the Sir Knights of Dallas for Christmas observance held in the banquet room of Dallas Commandery No. 6, K. T.
Thus closed our first Templar year as a Chartered Commandery.
Additional history of Alexander C. Garrett Commandery No. 103 K. T. can be found in the links below:
1951
1952
1953
1954
1955
1956
1957
1958
1959
1960
1961