Stephen Townsend’s Influence on Fayette County Freemasonry

Stephen Townsend, who was introduced in last week’s article, was also deeply involved in Freemasonry, which was rapidly spreading across Texas during the Republic era. In 1847 he became a charter member of Lafayette Masonic Lodge No. 34 in La Grange. It was there that he formed a close association with John Murchison, a fellow Mason whom Stephen greatly respected and would later honor by helping establish a lodge bearing his name. In 1848 Stephen and several others chartered Florida Masonic Lodge No. 46 in Round Top. Stephen served as the Charter Worshipful Master, demonstrating the respect he commanded among his peers. It is believed he played a key role in guiding his brother-in-law Joel Robison through the Masonic degrees. Joel was likely the first Entered Apprentice initiated at Lafayette Lodge No. 34 and later completed his degrees at Florida Lodge No. 46.

Florida Lodge No. 46 as it demised (ceased operating) held its meetings in what is today known as Lulu’s restaurant and hotel located just off the square in Round Top, specifically in what is now the upstairs dining room. The building originally belonged to the Schultze brothers, and records confirm that one of them, Howard Schultze, was also a member of the lodge.

The history of Florida Lodge No. 46 is somewhat unusual. Rather than maintaining a clearly documented list of original charter members, surviving records show a mixture of early charter members and later additions to the lodge roster. Ultimately, the lodge ceased operations in the 1870s as waves of German Lutheran settlers began purchasing land from the original landowners in the region. Many among the new settlers were not supportive of Masonry, and membership gradually declined until the lodge was eventually demised.

Stephen was also instrumental in the founding of Murchison Masonic Lodge No. 80 in Hallettsville. The lodge was named in honor of his friend and fellow Mason John Murchison, who had served as the Chartering Worshipful Master of Lafayette Lodge No. 34. Murchison died tragically from an accidental self-inflicted gunshot wound on July 28, 1849, while traveling to California during the Gold Rush. It is reported that Murchison’s party was the best supplied and organized of any which left Fayette County headed west. Other groups from the area disbanded long before making it to California for lack of supplies and/or infighting. Stephen attended early meetings of the lodge and usually had several Fayette County Masons with him from both Lafayette #34 and Florida #46. In reviewing early minutes and the request for a charter, it is not mentioned why they chose Murchison as the namesake, but it is my belief it was Stephen’s deep friendship and the respect for John’s contributions to early Fayette County Masonry and education.

Footprints Of Fayette

Fayette County is one of the most historic counties in Texas. In this weekly feature from the County Historical Commission, a rotating group of writers looks back at local history.