Page 133 - PGM Compendium

study and discussion of the Blankenship oration. This engendered intense interest throughout this
Jurisdiction, The result was a volume of Lodge reports containing original but divergent ideas and
suggestions. These indicated a revived interest in the Craft and also increased Lodge attendance.
The self-appraisal was a tonic that stimulated concern for the welfare of the Order. The Grand
Master commented as follows:

"While it cannot be truthfully said that the effort to obtain a close study of the Blankenship oration
was a complete success, it was fruitful; it resulted in many instances of serious thought being given
to our purposes and our effectiveness, by thoughtful Masons, It is my prediction that, while this
work has not been as universally hailed as it was entitled to be, its presence in our archives is a
good thing and succeeding generations will read what was said to us on the occasion of its delivery
and realize that we were thinking at that time about our problems."

Another phase of the Bovingdon term of office emphasized neatness and dispatch. The Grand
Master was unfavorably impressed by the poor condition and appearance of some Masonic
buildings. They did not reflect prosperity or good housekeeping. He therefore issued an appeal for
correction of this condition, asking that photographs of each Masonic meeting place be submitted
to the end that Masonry might present a well-kept outward appearance to the world at large.

This desire for orderliness combined with the Grand Master's courteous dignity reflected his
training in St. John's Lodge No. 9. In this first Seattle Masonic body, the solemnity and precision
of the early days are carefully preserved as a permanent landmark. To these praiseworthy qualities,
Most Worshipful Brother Bovingdon added decorum in the various groups, brevity in procedure,
and a meticulous observance of method and order. Consequently, the constituent Lodges were
given an illustration of how to conduct meetings with dispatch and efficiency. This was particularly
evidenced at the Annual Communication by the masterful manner in which he handled all issues
and motions, controversial or otherwise. Ever courteous and gracious, he demonstrated his ability
as a leader, thoroughly versed in Masonic procedure and a Grand Master par excellence. His
rulings were firm but fair, promoting peace and harmony.

One of the notable accomplishments of the year was bringing to fruition plans for the new
infirmary at the Masonic Home, an improvement that was sorely needed. Ground was broken for
this new facility on June 15, 1965, with Most Worshipful Bovingdon wielding the shovel — the
same shovel used in 1925 to break ground for the Masonic Home of Washington.

As Grand Master, he received many invitations to speak at various functions, including, among
others, the Conference of Grand Masters of Masons, held in Washington, D.C., and The Masonic
Service Association of the United States. The privilege of addressing these distinguished groups
of Masonic leaders is an honor which comes to very few Grand Masters. On a more local matter,
he received and accepted an invitation to speak to the members of the Knights of Columbus of
Spokane. He was well received.

This Past Grand Master possessed a native dignity which should not be misinterpreted for he is a
man of generous impulses, a warm personality with a genuine love for his fellow man. He was
easily approachable and, during his Masonic experience, learned that the Brotherhood of Man is
not an idle phrase. As Grand Master he expressed appreciation of the privilege of meeting and