The story of the Masonic Home of Delaware begins in 1895 with the concern for “a number of brethren well advanced in years, to whom fortune has not been kind…..in that stage of life when they should, in the language of our beautiful ritual, be enjoying the happy reflections consequent upon a well spent life.” Grand Master Virginius V. Harrison felt that something should be done that they might have a “home to pass the few years that may be allotted to them in peace and comfort.”
While much thought and consideration was given to the idea, nothing much was done until 1910, when a collection was taken up, amounting to $3.60. Three dollars were dutifully deposited in a special account; the remaining seven nickels and twenty-five pennies were framed. They are still on display in the Home, a reminder that it was the Officers and Past Masters of Lafayette Lodge # 14 who first started the ball rolling.
Several lodges quickly joined in the project. The property known as Highfield, with its old mansion and 12 acres on Lancaster Pike, Wilmington, Delaware was purchased in 1911. The house was altered, repaired and furnished by several Masonic bodies. On October 2, 1912, the Home was dedicated. Four men and four women were the guests for the first three years and a Ladies Visiting Committee came by from time to time and reported its findings and recommendations.
In 1920 the remains of Gunning Bedford, Jr., the first Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Delaware, were moved from the First Presbyterian Church cemetery to the grounds of the Masonic Home, along with the monument which has become a landmark. In 1948, Sussex Cottage was built with money raised by the lodges in Sussex County. In 1983 the Allmond Complex was added. The Masonic Home of Delaware stands as a visible tribute to every Mason in Delaware.
An ingredient unique to the Delaware Masonic Home is the sincere compassion, concern and understanding enjoyed by residents. It comes from the Brotherly Love inherent in the Masonic doctrine reflecting the true concern of one individual for another. Because it exists, every Mason knows that should the need arise...there is a place to spend his Retirement Years in comfort and dignity. Because Masonic Home exists, every Mason in Delaware can walk a “little taller” as he moves through life. Because the Home is operated and controlled by Masons, it has always provided the ultimate in care needed by its residents.
(Top Photo of Highfield in 1919, Bottom Photo some of the early residents)
