Masons and Knights Templar honor Sam Owens

A man from California history, Sam Owens, is honored by California Masonic Lodge 183 and Prince of Peace Commandry 29 of Knights Templar, Jefferson City. Owens was active in both organizations.
A man from California history, Sam Owens, is honored by California Masonic Lodge 183 and Prince of Peace Commandry 29 of Knights Templar, Jefferson City. Owens was active in both organizations.

Members of California Masonic Lodge 183 and Knights Templar gathered at the marker of Samuel Owens in the California Masonic Cemetery following the Memorial Day Service.

Owens, who was born in 1835 and died in 1882, is credited with revitalizing the California Masonic Lodge in the 1870s after it had shut down for awhile in the 1860s. He also was a commander of the Prince of Peace Commandry 29, Jefferson City.

The historic figure, at times appearing larger than life, managed to cram a lot of activity into his 47 years. He was a Past Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Missouri in 1872, Grand High Priest of the Royal Arch Masons in 1881 as well as a member of the Scottish Rite Masons and Emminent Commander of Prince of Peace Commandry 29 of the Knights Templar, Jefferson City, in 1878.

It is believed Owens Street in California is named after him.

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