The Early Years

In early April of 1982, Most Worshipful Grand Master Carlton B. Tucker and Brother James Irby, a member of Egyptian Lodge #44 met and discussed starting a study club for Masonic Work and Instructions in Spanaway, Washington.  The vision was to start a Prince Hall Lodge in that area, because of the fast growth Brother Irby was elated and honored to be chosen for such an important undertaking.  He knew that he would need help, and requested the assistance of Brothers Arthur Davis Jr. and Bernard Lewis, who were also members of Egyptian Lodge #44. 

A Name Is Chosen 

In selecting a name for the Study Club they contacted the family of deceased Past Master Arthur Ury and were granted permission to use his name for the study club and for the Lodge when it was chartered.  That was the beginning of Arthur Ury Study Club for Masonic Instruction.  In less than thirty (30) days there were twelve members attending weekly meetings.  Five of these were Master Masons and seven were profanes and candidates for degrees. 

Trying Times

On May 29, 1982 at the Masonic Temple in Tacoma, WA the candidates for degrees were Initiated, Passed, and Raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason.  Egyptian Lodge #44 was the sponsoring Lodge.  At the 79th Annual Communication of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge F&AM in 1982, a U.D. (under dispensation) Charter was granted.  The Lodge was not successful in securing a meeting place in Spanaway, so meetings were held in the Polish Hall located at 1650 East 30th St, Tacoma, WA on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month.  These were difficult times for the members because the meeting place was just a large empty room and all Masonic paraphernalia had to be transported to and from the hall for each meeting. .

Becoming Official

After several months of meeting there our meeting place was changed to the Prince Hall Masonic Temple at 1702 So. K St. (now MLK Jr. Way).  Through diligence, perseverance and lots of hard work as a Lodge Under Dispensation, Arthur Ury Lodge was granted a Charter and the Number 73 at the 80th Annual Communication held in Spokane, WA in July 1983, the Lodge was consecrated during ceremonies at Fort Lewis, WA.  Since being chartered the has elected sixteen Worshipful Masters and received two by demit.  The Lodge Presently has twenty two members and continues to be active in our community.