The story of Border Lodge No. 672, A.F. & A.M., is inseparable from the early growth of Texarkana. As the city was founded in 1873, many Masons from Rondo Lodge in Arkansas moved west and helped organize Texarkana, AR Lodge No. 341, chartered by the Grand Lodge of Arkansas in 1876.

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     Recognizing the growing number of Masons on the Texas side of town, 22 local brethren sought to establish a Texas-chartered lodge. Their request was granted, and on December 13, 1888, Border Lodge No. 672 received its charter from the Grand Lodge of Texas. Among the founding members were several of the city’s most respected citizens—B.T. Estes, C.C. Burke, Charles Todd, and John E. Anderson—many of whom have streets and schools named in their honor.

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     Despite hardships, including a devastating fire in 1893 that destroyed their original lodge and records, the members pressed on—meeting under the stars near what is now the Texas Viaduct. A Brother even rode horseback to Waxahachie to retrieve a new charter, demonstrating the unwavering commitment to their craft.

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     From humble beginnings, the Lodge steadily grew in influence. It moved several times—from a hall on Pine Street to the Harding Building and eventually to a permanent structure at 314 State Street in 1913. By 1923, with membership flourishing after World War I, the brethren built a grand Masonic Temple at Seventh and Olive Streets, a project led by a committee of prominent Masons and built for $70,000. It served as the Lodge’s home for over 60 years.

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     In 1986, due to aging facilities, Border Lodge began construction on its current home at 918 Westlawn Drive. The new Temple was completed and dedicated in 1987, led by Worshipful Master W.D. Huddleston and a dedicated building committee. The former Temple was sold to East Funeral Home, and the Lodge began a new era.

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 Over the decades, Border Lodge No. 672 has worked in harmony with Masonic bodies such as:

• B.T. Estes Chapter No. 263 (Royal Arch Masons) – Chartered in 1905

• Texarkana Commandery No. 64 (Knights Templar) – Chartered in 1915

• Border Chapter No. 211 (Order of the Eastern Star) – Organized in 1914, with notable member Rose Potter, who served as Worthy Grand Matron of Texas in 1933–1934

 

     The Lodge has celebrated numerous milestones, including its 75th anniversary in 1963, 100th in 1988, and 125th in 2013, each marked by fellowship, public celebration, and visits from Grand Lodge officers and distinguished guests.

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     Today, Border Lodge No. 672 remains a vibrant and active part of the Texarkana community. With a proud legacy of service, moral instruction, and fraternal brotherhood, the Lodge continues to serve as a guiding light—shaping generations of men committed to truth, integrity, and service to others.