Honoring the Legacy of Brother John C. Rauscher: A Pillar of Freemasonry in Astoria, Queens
Astoria, Queens, has long been a vibrant hub of community, culture, and history. Among its most distinguished citizens stands Brother John C. Rauscher, whose life and legacy continue to inspire Freemasons and neighbors alike. As a devoted clergyman, community leader, and proud Freemason, Brother Rauscher’s story is a testament to the values that define both Astoria and the Masonic tradition.
The Early Years: From Flushing to Astoria
Born in Flushing, Long Island, on March 1, 1873, John C. Rauscher’s journey of service began early. He pursued theological studies at Union Theological Seminary in New York City, later earning his Doctorate in Sacred Theology from Temple University in Philadelphia. By 1898, he was already making an impact as the pastor of the First Reformed Church on Remsen Street in Astoria, where he quickly became a respected figure in the community.
A Proud Freemason of Advance Lodge No. 635
Brother Rauscher’s Masonic journey began on November 3, 1908, when he was raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason at Advance Lodge No. 635, alongside Brother George H. Oliver. His commitment to Freemasonry was evident in his active participation and leadership within the lodge.
One of the most memorable moments in Astoria’s Masonic history occurred on November 21, 1915. According to the Brooklyn Eagle, and our Lodge records, Brother Rauscher, serving as Chaplain, marched in a grand procession with fellow Advance Lodge officers. The event, led by the Mecca Temple Marching Band and joined by hundreds of Freemasons and thousands of civilians, celebrated the laying of the cornerstone for the new Advance Masonic Temple.
The procession began at the former Advance Lodge Meeting Hall, located at what is now 44th Drive and 21st Street. It continued to the current site of our Temple on 30th Avenue in Astoria, where Most Worshipful Freifeld, Grand Master of Masons of the State of New York, conducted the Cornerstone Laying Ceremony. The cornerstone remains today as an enduring symbol of fraternity in Queens.
A Life of Service: Ministry and Community Leadership
Brother Rauscher’s influence extended far beyond the lodge. He became pastor of the 12th Street Reformed Church in Brooklyn in 1916 (now the Park Slope Community Church), where he was warmly welcomed by two large congregations. From 1923 to 1945, he led the Second Reformed Church in Hackensack, New Jersey; a historic church renowned for its stunning Tiffany stained glass windows.
The Hackensack Second Reform Church website has a 2016 presentation, by Donald Samick from J & R Lamb Studios , on their beautiful windows. The website also states, "Some of Tiffany's favorite windows are in the Second Reformed Church in Hackensack ,... Tiffany frequently visited there with clients in tow, using the visit to help them select appropriate design for their purposes."
Throughout his career, Dr. Rauscher was a prominent figure in the Presbyterian and Reformed Ministers Association of New York, a senior member of the Alpha Club of Brooklyn, and a regular guest speaker for the Long Island Bible Society.
His community involvement included officiating weddings, leading charitable events, and delivering stirring speeches—especially during wartime.
Patriotism and Public Service
Brother Rauscher’s eloquence and patriotism were widely recognized. 100 years ago, In a 1925 Memorial Day sermon, to veterans of the Spanish-American, Civil and World Wars, he described the United States as the “world’s guide,” emphasizing the nation’s role in leading by example toward peace and righteousness, would make its chief contribution to world betterment. His speeches, recorded in publications like The New York Times, inspired generations and reflected the Masonic ideals of leadership, integrity, and service.
Irony in his 1951 sermon to friend and neighbor, Mrs Edna B. Conklin
The Rev. John C. Rauscher honored his friend and neighbor, Mrs. Edna B. Conklin, at her 1951 memorial service, praising her as a rare and shining light in public life. A pioneering political leader, Mrs. Conklin founded the Bergen County Women’s Republican Club in 1922 and played a vital role in advancing women’s participation in politics, serving on both state and national Republican committees. Her legacy extended beyond politics—she was instrumental in establishing the Bergen County Child Welfare Department, the Children’s Home, and the county’s juvenile and domestic relations court. As president of the Hackensack Hospital Auxiliary and a member of the Old Age Pension Board, she made lasting contributions to social welfare. Rev. Rauscher captured her impact best: “Such persons live forever. Such a life is a great shining light which is seen near and far.”
I should note that I have greatly condensed Dr. Rauscher’s many charitable and civic contributions, as well as the numerous requests he fulfilled as a guest speaker. He began his parochial career in October 1898 and quickly gained recognition for his oratory. After retiring in 1945, he was named preacher emeritus and continued to speak tirelessly throughout the tri-state area until the year before his death in October 1959.
By the time John Rauscher’s father passed away, John’s reputation was so well established that the Brooklyn Eagle ran his father’s death notice under the headline: “Charles (W.) Rauscher, father of Rev. John J. C. Rauscher.”
A Lasting Legacy
Brother John C. Rauscher passed away on October 26, 1959, in Leonia, New Jersey, after a lifetime of service spanning over five decades. His funeral was attended by twelve clergy and a large outpouring from the public where his character was avowed as Noble and Rightous. There was testimony given be several speakers about his presence increasing the size of the congregation, his influence on the younger members of the ministry, his deportment showing he was a man of God, that his dealings with people where honest and fair to all.
Brother John C. Rauscher passed away on October 26, 1959, in Leonia, New Jersey, after nearly sixty years of dedicated service. His funeral was attended by twelve clergy members and a large number of community members, who praised his noble and righteous character. Several speakers testified to his ability to grow the congregation, his positive influence on younger ministers, his exemplary conduct as a man of God, and his honest and fair dealings with everyone. He was laid to rest at Mount Olivet Cemetery.
a testament to the profound impact he had on those around him.
His legacy lives on through the enduring work of Advance Lodge No. 635 and the broader Masonic community in Astoria and beyond. Brother Rauscher’s life reminds us of the power of faith, fraternity, and service to others: values that continue to shape the Freemasons of Astoria, Queens.
Interested in learning more about Freemasonry in Astoria, Queens?
Visit www.astoriamasons.org to explore our history, upcoming events, and how you can become part of this proud tradition.
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