A Comprehensive History of Brainerd Lodge No. 736, F&AM
Chartered January 30, 1930 — serving the Brainerd community of Chattanooga through brotherhood, moral development, charity, and community service.
This page presents a documented chronological account of Brainerd Lodge No. 736’s history through early 2026, drawing from Masonic records, news reports, and contemporary sources compiled in the Lodge history narrative.
Founding and Early Years (1929–1950s)
The inception of Brainerd Lodge No. 736 dates to 1929, amid the onset of the Great Depression. Initiated by founders R. H. Liner and W. C. Rogers, the Lodge operated under a special dispensation from the Grand Lodge of Tennessee for a 12-month probationary period. This dispensation allowed the group to conduct Masonic work and demonstrate viability before full recognition.
On January 30, 1930, the Grand Lodge granted the official charter, formalizing the Lodge’s status within the statewide Masonic framework (established in 1813).
Charter Officers (January 30, 1930)
- Worshipful Master
- W. J. Stockburger
- Senior Warden
- R. H. Liner
- Junior Warden
- W. B. Stockburger
- Treasurer
- O. B. Burns
- Secretary
- W. A. Lerch
- Chaplain
- S. L. Byrd
- Senior Deacon
- W. R. Brown
- Junior Deacon
- W. C. Rogers
- Senior Steward
- W. H. Liner
- Junior Steward
- R. M. Ward
- Tiler
- C. R. Austin
Early activities focused on ritual work, member education, and local philanthropy—aligning with the Grand Lodge’s emphasis on ethical growth and community support. Annual returns submitted to the Grand Lodge of Tennessee (preserved in archival documents spanning 1800–1971) confirm the Lodge’s active status in Chattanooga during these formative decades, though specific membership numbers and detailed minutes from this era remain limited in public records.
The Lodge’s establishment reflected broader Masonic expansion in Tennessee, contributing to a network of over 700 lodges by the mid-20th century.
Building and Facilities
The Lodge’s primary meeting hall at 2417 Jenkins Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421 was dedicated in 1986, as marked by its cornerstone. This facility served not only Brainerd Lodge, but also the affiliated Order of the Eastern Star, Sunnyside Chapter No. 359, providing space for rituals, meetings, and community events. The first two degrees conferred in this Jenkins Road location were two of our Past Masters, Daryl Isham and Donny Holman.
Prior to 1986, the Lodge met in the upper floor of 119 1/2 Brainerd Road. The bottom floor was a dance studion run by the mother of our Past Master Mike Sarratore.
The building represented a symbol of stability until its destruction in 2020. Post-disaster, the Lodge has operated from the Scottish Rite building on Hickory Valley Road while planning reconstruction.
Key Events and Challenges
Throughout its history, Brainerd Lodge has hosted numerous Masonic rituals, installations, and charitable events. Notable milestones include the Lodge’s 90th anniversary in 2020, commemorated with limited-edition W.R. Case trapper knives incorporating bricks from the damaged hall.
In 2009, the Lodge garnered attention when Jim Byrd—age 84 and a 61-year Mason—was installed as Worshipful Master, highlighting the enduring dedication of its members.
Surviving Disaster: The Easter Sunday Tornado (April 12, 2020)
A defining challenge occurred on Easter Sunday, April 12, 2020, when an EF-3 tornado with winds up to 145 mph devastated the East Brainerd area. The storm damaged approximately 150 structures in Chattanooga, including the complete compromise of the Lodge hall. Deemed structurally unsafe, the building was slated for demolition and replacement. No fatalities occurred among members, and most artifacts, furnishings, and records were salvaged and stored. Recovery efforts included the “Bricks for Building Brainerd #736” campaign and support from regional Masonic bodies. Click here for a more in-depth look at our post-tornado recovery story, written by Patrick Shipley, Past Master and Chaplain at the time of the tornado.
Recent events demonstrate resilience: in February 2025, the Lodge hosted the “Great Bowls of Fire” charity chili cookoff benefiting the Tennessee Baptist Children’s Home, with Chattanooga Police Chief John Chambers, Hamilton County Sherriff Autin Garrett, Chattanooga Fire Battalion Chief Carlos Hampton, and Channel 12 Reporter Amelia Greer serving as judges. Sherriff Garrett is a member of Brainerd Lodge.
Notable Members and Community Involvement
Brainerd Lodge has attracted dedicated individuals who contributed to Masonry and Chattanooga’s civic life. The following names reflect a portion of those noted for service and broader community ties:
- Jim Byrd (1925–?): Installed as Worshipful Master in 2009 at age 84, after 61 years in Masonry.
- Charles Richard Samuel Sr. (d. 2009): Past president of the Exchange Club and Gideon; active in Scottish Rite and Shrine.
- Herman Leon Werndli (d. 2015): Involved in camping associations.
- Robert “Bob” Edward Nolan (d. 2016): Alhambra Shrine Divan member; Miracle League board member.
- Lawrence William O’Rear (1945–2026): Retired from EPB; member of Alhambra Shrine and Pine Ridge Baptist Church.
- Gregory “Greg” Leon Smith (d. 2024): Past Master of Chattanooga Lodge No. 199; ham radio operator.
- Harold Lebron Madaris (d. 2025): Alhambra Shrine member.
- Gardner Byron Scott (d. 2025): York Rite member.
- Leon Hudson (d. ?): Longtime member.
- David Pelfrey (1951–2023): Shriner at Alhambra Temple.
- Clarence Holland (d. 2015): Retired from Southern Railway; longtime member.
- Elmer David (d. ?): Retired from media; member.
These members exemplify affiliations with Scottish Rite, Shrine, and local organizations—underscoring Brainerd Lodge’s connections to the wider Chattanooga community.
Legacy and Ongoing Role
Contact
Email: brainerd736@gmail.com
Phone: (423) 645-5145
Source note: Page content compiled from the Lodge history narrative document, updated through early 2026.