William Morgan: Anti-Masons and America's First Third Party

The Disappearance of William Morgan

Of all the characters whom pass through history, William Morgan is far from the most memorable. In fact he is still most commonly forgotten, despite his role in creating one of the most important movements in 19^th century America: the anti-Mason movement. Though short lived, the anti-Mason movement had a profound impact on their time and the ramifications of their actions remain with us to this day.

Destined to become the great martyr of the anti-Masons, William Morgan first spent years trying to become part of the Freemasons. After having spent two years in Canada running a brewery ultimately destroyed by fire, Morgan returned to New York and attempted to sign up with the Batavia Masonic Lodge. His admission was denied ( the exact reasons are unknown, however it is well known that Morgan had a less than perfect character and was most likely not popular among the Batavian Masons).

William Morgan did not give up. The thought of becoming an anti-Mason was far from his mind. He joined up with the Masonic lodge in LeRoy, New York, and received the York Rite Royal Arch degree. When a new lodge was being opened up in Batavia, Morgan's name was on the list of petitioners. The Batavian Masons grew upset at his inclusion, and a new petition was drafted with his name removed.

Furious, William Morgan declared that he would get even with the Freemasons. Joining forces with anti-Mason newspaper publisher David C. Miller, Morgan declared that he was going to publish an anti-Masonic book revealing many of the secret rites of Freemasonry under the title Illustrations of Masonry. Miller was also a rejected member of the Freemasons, unable to advance past the first degree. His bitterness engendered him to take up the anti-Mason cause with Morgan.

The Masons reacted with intense anger against William Morgan and David Miller. A newspaper article denouncing Morgan was published and several attempts were made to burn down Miller's newspaper office, all unsuccessful.