Reformer to former to plaintiff

Dan Barry: WELLSBURG, W.Va.

On the first and third Monday of every month — except in summer months when only one Monday will do — in an old building on a downtown street wanting for bustle, the Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Wellsburg Lodge No. 2 meet. Members only, and only men.

Theirs is not to be confused with other fraternal organizations on other quiet streets. The Loyal Order of Moose Lodge No. 1564, say, whose ham loaf and D.J. nights and fish fry and karaoke nights might be of concern to the local rescue squad. No, the fun-loving Moose should never be confused with the secret-loving Masons.

For more than 20 years, among the most faithful Masons here in Wellsburg was Frank J. Haas: administrative law judge, active Presbyterian, Mensa member, single. He would come down the hill from his house, walk through the lodge's doors and instantly become Past Master of Lodge No. 2, Past Grand Master of Masons of the State of West Virginia, Brother Haas.