STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, COLORADO
The formation of a lodge at Steamboat Springs was a difficult job, disappointing to some, but also proof of the advisability of being on firm ground before commencing such an enterprise.
In May, 1901, a dispensation was refused partly because there were 37 known Master Masons in Steamboat Springs and only 10 signed the petition. On November 20, 1901, M.W. Bro. Kennedy granted a dispensation to 16 Master Masons to form Bear River Lodge U.D. This dispensation was continued for another year at the annual Grand Lodge communication held in September, 1902. However, in 1903, the dispensation was discontinued because of irregularities in the records and lack of harmony in the lodge.
M.W. Bro. James R. Killian granted another dispensation on January 7, 1904. This was for 15 Master Masons to form Elk Mountain Lodge U.D. From then until September the lodge held 31 regular communications and kept their records in such form as to be approved by the Committee on Returns and Work. A charter was then granted on September 21, 1904 by M.W. Bro. James to 31 charter members of the lodge. This number had increased to 160 on November 30, 1960.
The lodge was constituted on October 3, 1904 by W.B. William J. Breckel, Senior Grand Steward, acting in place of M.W. Bro. James.
