Williams Grand Lodge

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Terry Alexander and 119 co-sponsors

Ceremonial resolution recognizing Williams Grand Lodge Inc.’s 100th anniversary and outlining its history, growth, and community contributions in South Carolina.

Introduced and adopted

Summary of Bill H 5661 (2025-2026) – South Carolina

Purpose and Intent

A House of Representatives resolution recognizing and honoring Williams Grand Lodge Inc. on its 100th anniversary.

Acknowledges the organization’s historical origins, growth, and century of service to the State, including its religious, fraternal, social, charitable, and educational activities.

Conveys congratulations to current leadership (Grand Master Tommy Frazier and Grand Matron Sister Constance Ferguson) and requests that a copy of the resolution be presented to them.

Key Provisions and Changes

The bill is a ceremonial resolution rather than substantive statutory changes.

It documents the historical formation and evolution of Williams Grand Lodge and its affiliated lodges, chapters, and auxiliaries (including White Rose No. 1, St. John No. 2, Williams Grand Lodge, Williams Grand Chapter Order of Eastern Star, and related female auxiliaries).

It notes milestones such as:

Founding meeting in 1925 and organizational chartering efforts in 1926.
Incorporation and formal charter date in January 1927.
Establishment of auxiliary groups (Order of the Eastern Star and sister chapters).
Growth through additional lodges, chapters, and auxiliaries across the state.
Notable programs and events (e.g., annual recognition events later becoming the Pearlie L. Walker Memorial Scholarship Banquet, scholarship funding started by 2013).
Facility improvements and expansion efforts (grand lodge building, office space, parking improvements) and organizational developments (Masters & Wardens' Council, Brotherhood of Grand Lodges of South Carolina).

Emphasizes that Williams Grand Lodge funds activities through quarterly dues from subordinate lodges and chapters and holds two meetings annually.

Who or What Is Affected

Primarily individuals and organizations within the Williams Grand Lodge and its affiliated lodges, chapters, and auxiliaries (e.g., White Rose Lodge No. 1, St. John Lodge No. 2, Queen Victoria Chapter No. 2, and related appendant bodies).

The broader South Carolina Masonic-related organizations and the communities they serve, through ongoing charitable, educational, and religious community engagement.

The bill does not enact new regulatory or funding mechanisms; it commemorates and honors the organization's centennial.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

Status: Introduced and adopted on May 6, 2026.

Type: House Resolution (a ceremonial recognition rather than a law with enforceable provisions).

Next steps: As a resolution, it serves to recognize the organization publicly and does not impose new duties or require implementation by state agencies.

Notable Details

The resolution is co-sponsored by a broad slate of representatives, reflecting cross-member support.

Acknowledges leadership and requests transmission of the resolution to Grand Master Tommy Frazier and Grand Matron Constance Ferguson.

Bottom Line

This bill formally commemorates Williams Grand Lodge Inc.’s 100th anniversary, outlines a concise history of its formation, growth, and community activities, and publicly honors its contributions to the State of South Carolina. It is ceremonial in nature and does not create new laws or fiscal obligations.