I am researching Jacob Z. Davis (1818-1896), a wealthy resident of San Francisco. I was under the impression that, although his ancestors were important factors in the history of the Germantown COB, he himself was not Brethren. However, there was reference in one of the newspaper articles that I've read to Jacob Z. Davis being a "Dunkard." So, now I'm a little unsure. I am sure that he belonged to the Free Masons, and was Grand Chamberlain of the San Francisco chapter. The Brethren Encyclopedia says that it was forbidden to join secret societies such as the Free Masons but goes on to say that there was a lot of debate about this as the memberships in various secret societies proliferated throughout the 1800's. Does anyone know how much of an impediment it would be to belonging to the COB in the 1850-1900 time period if a man were an officer in the Free Masons? Also, I should say that there would be a problem with Davis attending the Church, not only because of his Free Masonry, but also due to the fact that there don't appear to have been churches in Sacramento and San Francisco during his lifetime. Thanks. David Myers ____________________________________________________________ 57 Year Old Mom Looks 27! Mom Reveals $5 Wrinkle Trick That Has Angered Doctors! http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL3141/4e0131ab3d63e62164m07vuc