Page 268 - PGM Compendium

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Of
M⸫W⸫ W.W. Witherspoon

1895-1896

Most Worshipful Brother William Wallace Witherspoon was
born in Detroit, Michigan on March 3, 1851. He would travel
to Spokane in 1883, and enter the retail grocery business, but
retired after the great fire of 1889. One of the first brick
buildings in Spokane, and also two frame buildings, were
erected by him; all of which were destroyed in the fire of
1889.

In 1884 he assisted in organizing the first volunteer fire
department of Spokane, and later was chief for two years. In
1892 he became a member of the Board of Public Works, and
in 1899 was appointed Chief of Police. For several years he
discharged the duties of that office in a highly commendable manner. It was said of him by one of
his successors: "He was a fine, square, upright man, a good commissioner, an excellent chief, and
was all man."

He was made a Mason in Ashlar Lodge, No, 91, of Detroit, Michigan. He affiliated with Spokane
Lodge, No, 34, in 1884, and until his death was ever watchful of its interests, and most of the time
a constant attendant at its communications. One of the most genial and genuine of men; his big
heart could almost be heard to beat around the corner before his manly form appeared. His presence
at our Grand Lodge meetings was always hailed with satisfaction by all in attendance; for he was
known and loved by all. He was elected Master in 1885 and from that time on he became interested
in the Annual Communications of the Grand Lodge,

In 1895, he was honored by being elected Grand Master. Following his year as Grand Master, he
rendered efficient service when a member of standing or special committees. At the time of his
death he was a member of the special committee appointed by Most Worshipful James McCormack
to consider the needs of our Masonic Home.

He received the capitular degrees in Spokane Chapter, No, 2; being exalted to the degree of Royal
Arch Mason in August, 1892, For two years he was King, but declined election as High Priest
owing to the pressure of private business.

He was created a Knight Templar in Cataract Commandery, No. 3, July 11th, 1893, and became
Commander in 1896.

In March 1894 he became a member of El Katif Temple, Ancient Arabic Order Nobles of the Mystic
Shrine. In 1891 he was largely instrumental in the organization of Electa Chapter, No. 20, Order
of the Eastern Star, and became its Patron in 1899.