Waynesboro.  Augusta Co

Va

Genl

     R. E. Lee

Dr Sir,

On Tuesday the 16th of this month, (January) We opened a new Masonic Lodge in this place, and named it Lee Lodge, in honor of yourself, not with the view of raising a monument to your name, or of perpetuating the remembrance of your enviable fame, - for these are enshrined in the heart of a grateful and noble people, but that we, as a Masonic Lodge, might bear the name of one so illustrious, shine with some of the light reflected by the brightness thereof, and emulate his glorious example.

The question is often asked, is Genl Lee a free Mason?  Will you be so kind Genl, as to answer that question for me,

If your are a Mason, and can, by any means spare the time, in any of your passing visits along the V.C. R. R. Stop at Waynesboro and meet with us in our Lodge, I, as the Master of the Lee Lodge, give you a cordial invitation,   Drop me a note, at least a week before hand, apprising me of the time of your visit, so that I may summon the Lodge,  If you are not a Mason, I wish you were,   We would esteem it a high privilege and a great pleasure to meet you in our Lodge, With much esteem, I am your

Obt Servant

Jany 27. 1866

Saml. Kennerly Jr

 

Notation in reverse in General Lee=s handwriting:

27 Jan 66

Saml Kennerly Jr

says a new Masonic

Lodge has been

opened at Waynes-

boro - & called

The Lee Lodge

 

 

Ansd 30 Jan

 

 

Address on letter:

 

Hermitage Va

 Jan 27, 66

 

Genl. R. E. Lee

Lexington Va