TODAY IN MASONIC HISTORY
The Death of MWB Prince Hall
December 4, 1807
On December 4, 1807, Most Worshipful Brother Prince Hall, the first African American known to have received the Masonic degrees in America, died.
A tribute monument was erected in Copp’s Hill (North End of Boston, Massachusetts) on June 24, 1835, in his name next to his grave marker. The inscription reads: “Here lies ye body of Prince Hall, first Grand Master of the colored Grand Lodge in Mass. Died Dec. 7, 1807.” According to biographer David Gray, newspaper accounts showed that Hall died on December 4 and was buried three days later. His wife, Sylvia (Zilpha) Ward Hall, was the executrix of his estate, which amounted to $47.22, and there was no realty.
Prince Hall’s Gravesite
Coop’s Hill
North End of Boston, MA
Coop’s Hill
North End of Boston, MA
Prince Hall Portrait
Anderson Gallery – BSU
Anderson Gallery – BSU
Prince Hall’s Gravestone
*Note: The headstone should read December 4, but it actually lists the interment date
*Note: The headstone should read December 4, but it actually lists the interment date
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