Founded in 1736, the Lodge of St. John No. 1 in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, predates the United States itself, having been established under the Grand Lodge of England. Its early members were prominent men in colonial Portsmouth, including sea captains, merchants, and civic leaders.
The lodge’s dedication to St. John the Evangelist was no coincidence. Traditionally celebrated near the winter solstice on December 27, this saint symbolized introspection, wisdom, and the triumph of spiritual light during darkness.
One of the lodge’s most famous stories occurred during the harsh winter of 1776, at the height of the American Revolution. Portsmouth was a key maritime city, supplying much-needed ships and resources to the revolutionary cause. Many of the lodge’s brethren were active in the effort, either as local militia leaders or as captains in the fledgling American Navy.
In December of that year, with the war’s outcome uncertain and morale low, the lodge held its annual Feast of St. John the Evangelist. Despite the bitter cold and the threat of British retaliation, the brethren gathered secretly, lighting candles and offering prayers for guidance and strength. The Worshipful Master of the lodge, Captain John Langdon, gave a stirring address:
The gathering was said to have renewed the spirits of the attendees, many of whom would go on to achieve remarkable feats in the Revolution. Langdon became a prominent patriot, serving as a delegate to the Continental Congress and later as a governor of New Hampshire.
An enduring part of the lodge’s lore is the “Solstice Candle,” which is said to have burned during that fateful winter meeting. According to tradition, the brethren placed a single candle in the East, symbolizing the return of light and hope. It was lit from the altar flame and carefully tended throughout the night.
The story goes that during subsequent winters, when members faced personal or collective challenges, they would light a candle in the East during their meetings, evoking the same spirit of perseverance and unity. This practice became a cherished tradition, symbolizing the lodge’s enduring commitment to the principles of Freemasonry.
To this day, the Lodge of St. John No. 1 honours the winter solstice and St. John the Evangelist with a special meeting and ceremony. The brethren reflect on their forebears’ resilience, the balance of light and darkness, and the timeless lessons of Freemasonry.
