Our Rich History
Since 1872 — generations of brotherhood, tradition, and service in Ennis, Texas
Founded
Our Founding
Ennis Lodge #369 traces its roots to September 27, 1872, when thirteen Master Masons — all members of Waxahachie Lodge #90 — petitioned the Grand Lodge of Texas for a Dispensation to form a new lodge in the young town of Ennis, on the eastern edge of Ellis County about 35 miles south of Dallas.
The petition was recommended by R.W. John Mattock, District Deputy Grand Master of the Fifth Masonic District, and the Dispensation was signed by Grand Master M.W. Wm. Bramlette. Less than a year later, on June 9, 1873, Ennis Lodge #369 received its Charter from the Grand Lodge of Texas, A.F.&A.M. — the same year the City of Ennis itself was incorporated.
Our Founding Brothers
Ennis Lodge #369 was established by thirteen petitioning brethren, all members of Waxahachie Lodge #90, who sought to bring a Masonic home to the growing community of Ennis.
The Thirteen Petitioners (1872)
- W.C. Wathen
- John B. Adams
- Isiah King
- B.F. Hart
- J.T. Allen
- Frank Templeton
- Mark Latimer
- Joseph Boren
- John A. Harlan
- I.H. Bullard
- T.C. Ashford
- G.T. Allen
- J.M. Robertson
First Officers (1872)
- Worshipful Master — W.C. Wathen
- Senior Warden — Frank Templeton
- Junior Warden — B.F. Hart
- Secretary — T.L. McCarty
- Treasurer — J. Blakey
- Senior Deacon — John Mattock
- Junior Deacon — Joseph Reisman
- Tyler — John Harlan
The new lodge held its first meetings above Blakey & McCarty's grocery store in downtown Ennis.
A photograph of the lodge's membership from around 1879 — among the earliest known images of Ennis Lodge #369 — is preserved by the Ellis County genealogical society.
Milestones & Achievements
1872 - Dispensation Granted
Thirteen Master Masons from Waxahachie Lodge #90 petitioned the Grand Lodge of Texas, and on September 27, 1872, a Dispensation was granted to form Ennis Lodge, signed by Grand Master M.W. Wm. Bramlette.
1873 - Charter Granted
On June 9, 1873, Ennis Lodge #369 received its Charter from the Grand Lodge of Texas, A.F.&A.M., officially establishing the lodge — the same year the City of Ennis was incorporated.
1905 - Lodge Hall Built
A new lodge hall was constructed at 209 N. Dallas Street in historic downtown Ennis, designed by architect and fellow Mason Hix McCanless. The brethren held their first meeting there on November 15, 1907, and the building is now individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
2023 - 150th Anniversary
Ennis Lodge #369 celebrated its sesquicentennial on June 24, 2023, with a special presentation from Grand Master M.W. G. Clay Smith of the Grand Lodge of Texas.
Present Day
Since 1907, members have continually met at 209 N. Dallas Street, where Ennis Lodge #369 remains an active and valued part of the Ennis and Ellis County communities.
Past Worshipful Masters
We honor the long line of brothers who have served as Worshipful Master of Ennis Lodge #369, leading our fraternity with wisdom, strength, and devotion to Masonic principles since 1872.
View the Full List of Past MastersOur Heritage & Traditions
Our Temple
Designed by noted Ennis architect (and fellow Mason) Hix McCanless and completed in 1905, our lodge hall at 209 N. Dallas Street has been home to Ennis Lodge #369 since the brethren's first meeting there on November 15, 1907. The building is individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places as part of historic downtown Ennis.
Community Service
For over a century, our lodge has been committed to charitable work, supporting local families, education, and community improvement projects.
Brotherhood
Generations of Ennis men have found fellowship, friendship, and personal growth within the walls of our lodge, creating lasting bonds that span decades.
Masonic Excellence
Our lodge has maintained a reputation for exemplary ritual work and dedication to the teachings of Freemasonry throughout our history.
Be Part of Our Story
Join us and become part of the continuing legacy of Ennis Lodge #369