[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 116 (Monday, July 15, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E732]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF JOHN C. ELLIS LODGE NO. 17 BASED 
                          IN DECATUR, ILLINOIS

                                  _____
                                 

                          HON. NIKKI BUDZINSKI

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 15, 2024

  Ms. BUDZINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 150th 
anniversary of John C. Ellis Lodge No. 17 based in Decatur, Illinois. 
John C. Ellis lodge, a part of Prince Hall Freemasonry, is the oldest 
active fraternal organization in the State of Illinois. Since Decatur 
Lodge No. 17 was founded on July 18, 1874 they have worked to promote 
service to their community and mankind.
  In 1966, Decatur Lodge No. 17 voted to change its name to John C. 
Ellis Lodge No. 17 after Dr. John C. Ellis, who was a member and one of 
the longest serving Grand Masters in Illinois history. Dr. Ellis was 
also the first African American medical doctor in Decatur, Illinois and 
dedicated his life to serving his community in Central Illinois.
  A century and a half after its founding, John C. Ellis Lodge No. 17 
is still dedicated to perpetual improvement in their community. They 
work together to reach the principles of brotherly love, fellowship, 
and service. I want to thank the generations of Decatur-area residents 
who have made up John C. Ellis Lodge No. 17 for their dedication to 
serving Central Illinois and their commitment to bettering their 
community.

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