Norton Moses Past Grand Master

Norton Moses (1823-1908): A Texas Visionary and Masonic Leader

Norton Moses, born on July 28, 1823, in Pulaski County, Georgia, was a truly remarkable figure who left an indelible mark on Texas as a rancher, law enforcement officer, state legislator, and an exceptionally influential Mason. His journey through life culminated in his esteemed service as the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Texas.

Early Life and Texas Roots

Moses first set foot in Texas in January 1846, initially settling in Washington County. He spent some time teaching and furthering his own education. He was married multiple times and was a father to several children. Around 1849, he moved to Georgetown in Williamson County, where he ran a general store before returning to Washington County, eventually settling in Burnet County around 1863.

A Dedicated Public Servant

Moses was a committed public servant, representing Burnet and Lampasas counties in the Texas House of Representatives during the 15th (1876-1879) and 21st (1889-1891) Legislatures. During his legislative tenure, he was known for his diligence, conscientiousness, and the respect he commanded among his peers. He actively participated in various committees, including serving as chair of the Agriculture and Stock Raising committee and the Stock and Stockraising committee. He was also a staunch advocate for Texans, famously fighting against the Texas and Pacific Railroad Company to protect valuable state land.

A Distinguished Masonic Journey

Moses's Masonic career was both extensive and highly distinguished. He became a Master Mason at McLellan Lodge No. 159 in Burton, Texas, on May 5, 1855. He was also a charter member of Robert E. Lee Lodge No. 431 in Strickling, Texas, established in 1875. Beyond the Blue Lodge, he was a Royal Arch Mason in the Lampasas Chapter, a Knight Templar in Colorado Commandry No. 4 in Columbus, Texas, and a member of Ben Hur Temple in Austin.

His leadership within Masonry was evident as he served as Grand High Priest of the Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Texas in 1872 and 1873. He reached the pinnacle of Texas Freemasonry, becoming the Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Texas in 1878. For an incredible 48 years, he was a consistent presence at Grand Masonic Bodies meetings, missing only three. He also served on the Committee on Work of the Grand Chapter for approximately 25 years and was widely regarded as an authority on chapter work. His unwavering dedication to Masonry led him to travel widely, visiting countless lodges and chapters, and personally assisting in conferring degrees upon numerous candidates.

Lasting Masonic Legacy

His impact on Freemasonry endures to this day. Norton Moses Masonic Lodge No. 336, originally chartered in 1871 in Bagdad (now Leander), Williamson County, was named in his honor due to his involvement in its founding. The lodge building, constructed in 1870, also served as a vital community hub, hosting meetings and even a public school, showcasing the Masons' commitment to community development. The lodge later relocated to Leander in 1899 and continues to thrive today.

A Life Well Lived

Norton Moses passed away on May 21, 1908, in Clarendon, Nebraska, while on a journey to visit his sons. His remains were brought back to Texas and laid to rest alongside his wife, Lucy Ann Moses, in the family plot at Strickling burial ground on June 1, 1908. His funeral services, conducted by Robert E. Lee Lodge No. 431 with support from Masons across the state, were a testament to his profound influence. His life stands as a beacon of Masonic principles: unselfish virtue, impeccable character, and a deep love for God and humanity, continuing to inspire Masonic bodies throughout Texas.