First Posted: 1/15/2009

The Red Springs Masonic lodge was the scene of the gathering of three districts of NC Masons on January 31, 2008. There were 26 lodges representing districts 17, 18, and 21, with about 113 people in attendance.
After a dinner consisting of spaghetti, salad, bread, and dessert, two local men were honored for 50 years of masonic service.
Mr. Branson Earl Townsend, Sr. of Red Springs and Mr. Jimmy Shaw of Rex were honored with Veteran’s Emblem certificates presented by The Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free, and Accepted Masons of NC. They were given in recognition of fifty years as Master Masons.
Both Masons are members of local Lodge 501 in Red Springs.
Grand Master David Cash of Kannapolis made the presentation to the honorees. Each Mason also received a pin signifying their years of service.
Mr. Townsend was married to the late Annie Lou Quick Townsend of Red Springs.
Mr. Shaw is married to Daphine Shaw of Rex.