Lodge History

During the 1904 sawmill boom in Humble, TX, a group of African American men, DM Davis, James Warren, AG Cresswell, JS Jenson, Wm Renfro, James Austin, H. Reese, Willis Clow, Ed Gooden, R. Banks, decided to organize a Colored Masonic Lodge. The men petition for a Warrant from the MW Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Texas.  On July 21, 1904, MW John McKinney, Grand Master, granted the Warrant in the vicinity of Humble, County of Harris of Texas or within five miles for the said brothers to work. The lodge was named Safe Council No. 157, until March 22, 2001. Where it was renamed to James E. Carter No 157 in tribute to the Lodge 22nd Worshipful Master, who was tragically killed in a car accident.

 In the early years the Lodge had been meeting in Bordersville, TX a predominantly African American community near Humble,TX. Bordersville was the best place for the Lodge, due to the segregation and discrimination that was displayed during that time period. Today the Lodge is continuing with the Legacy of those 12 African American men back in 1904, with providing relief, assistance, and aid for disadvantage communities. In addition we are providing Education scholarships to underprivileged students throughout Harris County.