MOUNT KISCO, N.Y. — Huguenot Lodge No. 46, Free and Accepted Masons, one of Westchester County’s oldest civic institutions, will commemorate its 230th anniversary by honoring Westchester County Executive Kenneth Jenkins and the Friends of the Ward House Inc.
The honors will be presented at the lodge’s 230th Anniversary Gala on Saturday, Sept. 19, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Mount Kisco Masonic Hall, 11 Carpenter Ave.
To commemorate the milestone, Huguenot Lodge No. 46 has established the Jonathan Ward Heritage Award. The annual award will recognize individuals and organizations whose vision, leadership, public service and stewardship have made enduring contributions to the history, heritage and quality of life of Westchester County.
The award is named for Jonathan Ward, a son of noted Westchester patriot Stephen Ward and a founding member of Huguenot Lodge No. 46. Jonathan Ward served as Westchester County sheriff, a New York state senator and a member of the U.S. House of Representatives. His service to Freemasonry and the people of Westchester County embodies the principles the award is intended to recognize.
“For 230 years, Huguenot Lodge No. 46 has quietly served Westchester County through the principles of Freemasonry and a commitment to community,” said Lee Justo, master of Huguenot Lodge No. 46 and deputy grand historian emeritus of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York. “The Jonathan Ward Heritage Award will ensure that each year we recognize individuals and organizations whose service has enriched our county and whose legacy deserves to be celebrated. We are honored to present the inaugural awards to County Executive Kenneth Jenkins and the Friends of the Ward House.”
“It is a privilege to be recognized by Huguenot Lodge No. 46 during this historic milestone,” Jenkins said. “Westchester’s history belongs to all of us, and preserving places like the Ward House helps ensure future generations understand the people and events that shaped our county and our nation. I am grateful for this recognition and applaud everyone whose commitment keeps our history alive.”
“The Friends of the Ward House is deeply honored to receive the inaugural Jonathan Ward Heritage Award as Huguenot Lodge No. 46 celebrates its remarkable 230th anniversary,” said Sal Provenzano, president and chair of the Friends of the Ward House. “Receiving this recognition during the 250th anniversary of our nation’s independence makes it especially meaningful. We are proud to help preserve Jonathan Ward’s legacy and grateful for Huguenot Lodge’s longstanding friendship and commitment to protecting our shared history.”
Jenkins will receive the inaugural award in recognition of his distinguished career in public service and commitment to preserving Westchester County’s history while strengthening its communities. Among his accomplishments, Jenkins played a key leadership role in helping secure the future of the historic Ward House. British troops razed the original house during the Revolutionary War, and Jonathan Ward rebuilt it in the 1790s. Jenkins’ actions helped ensure that one of the county’s most significant colonial landmarks will continue to educate and inspire future generations.
The Friends of the Ward House will receive the award in recognition of its years of volunteer leadership and dedication to preserving one of Westchester County’s most treasured historic landmarks. Through advocacy, fundraising and education, the nonprofit organization has helped ensure that the Ward House remains a lasting reminder of the county’s colonial heritage.
Justo will lead the anniversary program and award presentations. His service as deputy grand historian emeritus reflects his longstanding commitment to preserving the history and traditions of Freemasonry throughout New York.
Proceeds from the gala will support the establishment of the Huguenot Lodge Historical Society, a new 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to preserving, documenting and sharing the history of Huguenot Lodge No. 46, one of New York state’s oldest continuously operating Masonic lodges.
Founded in 1796 as Westchester Lodge No. 46, Huguenot Lodge has been intertwined with the history of Westchester County and the nation for more than two centuries. Its members have included Revolutionary War patriots, elected officials, judges, military officers, business leaders and civic figures whose leadership helped shape the region and the country.
The Historical Society will preserve the lodge’s archives, artifacts, photographs, regalia and historical records. It will also develop educational programs, public exhibits, publications and digital resources highlighting the contributions of Huguenot Lodge and Freemasonry to Westchester County’s history.
Tickets for the gala are $150. For reservations or additional information, visit Huguenot46.com or email leejusto@mail.com.
Article courtesy of Huguenot Lodge No. 46
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