Masonic Celebration (1852)
On the 24th of June, the Masonic Fraternity had a grand rally at Shelbyville, on the occasion of the anniversary of St. John the Baptist. It is estimated that there were between three and four hundred members present, and a much larger number would have attended but for the inclement weather. They, together with a large collection of citizens generally, were highly entertained with an address of J.W. CARTER Esq., of Winchester, and James M. DAVIDSON, Esq., of our town in their usual and happy style.
Source: Fayetteville Observer (Fayetteville, TN); 1 Jul 1852. Available online at Chronicling America: Historic American Newspapers.