History

	Bethel Lodge #319 Garner, Iowa Chartered 1873

Stated Meetings are held on the 2nd Monday of each month (except January & February) at 7:00pm.
A free meal is normally available to visitors & prospects at 6:00pm.

A Brief History...

     Bethel was Chartered in 1873 as the 1st lodge in Hancock County (named after Bro. John Hancock of Revolutionary War fame). Garner, at the jct. of US Hwy's #18 & 69 is the County Seat and largest city (2940).

     The present Lodge Hall was built in 1916 as a 2 story Lodge Hall with rental properties below - the entire building is owned by the Lodge and was refurbished, inside & out, in the last 5 years. It is handicap accessible via a chairlift.

     Darius Lodge of nearby Britt consolidated with us in 1999 with the heritage of having had Gov. John Hammill as a member (Iowa's 3nd longest serving governor).

     We once had Eastern Star, a York Rite chapter, Rainbow Girls & DeMolay. The latter 2 groups are still represented though with 10 local youth as members of the 2 groups in Mason City.

     Many of the founding fathers of Garner & Hancock Couhty were members and all records are available. The 1899 Courthouse cornerstone was donated by Bethel Lodge. Visitors are always welcome!

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