Hickory #345 - Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons
Hickory Lodge was formed on November 12, 1875 by a group of twenty Masons who transferred from Masonic Lodges in Bedford, Richland, Augusta, and Plainwell. George Rizbridger was elected the first presiding officer with the title of Worshipful Master. The official charter was awarded by the Grand Lodge of Michigan on January 24, 1877.
The first meeting place was a small frame building across the road from the present building. It was destroyed many decades ago. In those early years meetings were also held on the second floor of the Blacksmith Shop, now the site of Hickory Corners Fire Department and on the third floor of Williams and Son Grocery Store, now the site of Goldworthy's Service Station.
With those twenty charter members, 563 Masons have proudly signed the original Roll of Membership book and 82 Worshipful Masters have been elected to preside over the Lodge...some several times. The 135 years of the Hickory Masonic Lodge's existence has created a rich heritage that will continue for many decades to come. It will provide an opportunity for qualified men who desire to enrich their lives through the fraternal friendship and morality of Freemasonry.