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Sent: Thursday, November 12, 2009 4:44 PM Subject: African American Secret Society Hello Alexandra Jones, I am responding to your inquiry on the H-Net Discussion List on Maryland History and Cultural seeking information on the Grand Ancient Order of Sons and Daughters, Brothers and Sisters of Moses Lodges in Maryland. I have been researching African American life and communities in Baltimore County for the past 15 or so years, and I have run across a lodge very similar to the one you are inquiring about. In 2005 I interviewed a Rev. Moses Lewis Gwynn, who was born in the Glen Arm/Long Green area of Baltimore County in 1916 (he is now deceased). In his interview he mentioned the existence of an African American lodge that sounds like the one you are seeking. Here is what he said about the lodge: "In the old days, the community came together, in January 1872, the men and women of Asbury UM Church formed a benevolent organization called the Union of Brothers and Sisters of Fords Asbury with one of its purpose was to help Black families with their burial expenses. and to ameliorate the conditions of the poor. The Lodge was incorporated in 1879. At that time it was known as the Grand Council of the Union of Brothers and Sisters of Ford’s Asbury." Would this be one of the Lodges you are searching for? If so, I know of two others in another county that borders Baltimore County. This lodge is still standing, is in very good condition. I can send you a photo of it. I will go through my books to see if there are any other similar lodges in Baltimore County. I have researched and published eight books on African American life and communities in Baltimore County. My web site is www.louisdiggs.com. Louis S. Diggs
 Humanities & Social Sciences Online 
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