History of Ancient York Lodge No. 89

In response to a petition filed by ten Masons from the Nashua area, Rising Sun Lodge No. 39, Nashua and Benevolent Lodge No. 7, Milford consented to the formation of a new Masonic Lodge in Nashua. The Grand Lodge of New Hampshire granted dispensation for the Lodge in May, 1870 and Ancient York Lodge No. 89 held its first stated meeting on June 8th, 1870 in the Masonic Hall then located in the Nutt's Building. A charter was granted a the Annual Communication of Grand Lodge in May, 1871 and on June 30th, 1871, Most Worshipful Grand Master John R. Holbrook installed the first elected officers of Ancient York Lodge. The first stated meeting of the newly chartered Lodge was held on the 4th of July, 1871 with twenty-five charter members present.

Ancient York Lodge can boast of the accomplishments of many of its members who came from a wide range of backgrounds and occupations. Since many of the original members worked for the railroad, in its early days Ancient York Lodge was referred to as the "Railroad Lodge.” Over the years, the membership has included Mayors of Nashua, an Alderman, a State Senator, District Deputy Grand Masters and Lecturers and other officers of the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire and other State Masonic Bodies.