For several years, prior to the Constitution of H. Stanley Goodwin Lodge No. 648, F & A. M., some consideration was given to the formation of a Masonic Lodge in the Borough of South Bethlehem, by some of the members who were affiliated with Bethlehem Lodge No. 283, held at Bethlehem, Pa.

During the early part of the year 1906, Brothers: Frank W. Martenis, Frederick W. Ulrich and Oliver L. Peysert, Past Masters of Bethlehem Lodge No. 283, invited all members of the Fraternity who were interested in the formation of a Masonic Lodge, to attend a temporary meeting to be held

in Brother Martenis' Store which was located on the south side of the Lehigh River. Approximately twenty members of the Craft were present at the first preliminary meeting, when plans were laid for the new lodge.

After many preliminary meetings, and quite some discussion it was unanimously agreed to name the Lodge, "H. STANLEY GOODWIN LODGE" in honor of the first brother of the Fraternity, from this community who had the Honorary 33rd and last degree in Freemasonry conferred upon him, also in recognition of his invaluable services rendered as Burgess of the Borough of South Bethlehem, having faithfully filled that office for a period of eighteen consecutive years.

At one of the preliminary meetings held August 15, 1906, Brothers Oliver Peysert, M. Alton Richards, Samuel T. Harleman, Osman F. Reinhard and Frank W. Martenis were appointed to arrange for a place of meeting and the necessary furniture, clothing, etc., preparatory to the constitution of the said Lodge.