John Leighton Tuttle
John Leighton Tuttle (1774-1813) - Sixth Master of Corinthian Lodge[edit]
Overview[edit]
The Honorable John Leighton Tuttle, born on February 10, 1774, in Littleton, Massachusetts, served as the sixth Master of Corinthian Lodge, leading the Lodge in 1807 and 1808. Tuttle was known for his dedication to public service, holding various civic and military positions throughout his life.
Early Life and Education[edit]
John Leighton Tuttle was the eldest of thirteen children, with seven brothers and six sisters. Initially placed by his father in a store in Littleton, Tuttle preferred academic pursuits and was allowed to prepare for college. He attended New Ipswich Academy, completing his studies under Reverend Mr. Willard in Boxborough. Tuttle graduated from Harvard College in 1796, then studied law with Hon. Timothy Bigelow of Groton and completed his training under Hon. Simeon Strong of Amherst. He established his first law office in Westmoreland, New Hampshire, before moving to Concord, Massachusetts, in 1800, where he made his permanent home.
Masonic Contributions and Leadership[edit]
John Tuttle was admitted to Corinthian Lodge on February 15, 1802, and served in multiple leadership roles: Secretary in 1803, Junior Warden in 1805, Senior Warden in 1806, and Master in 1807 and 1808. His contributions helped solidify the Lodge's early operations and maintain its guiding principles.
Public Service and Professional Career[edit]
Tuttle was active in civic affairs, serving as a member of the Massachusetts State Senate from 1808 to 1813. He succeeded Deacon William Parkman as Postmaster of Concord, a role he held from January 1, 1811, to February 14, 1814. Tuttle also served as the County Treasurer from 1810 to 1813 but resigned both posts upon being commissioned as Lieutenant Colonel Commandant of the 9th Regiment of Continental Infantry. Additionally, he was one of the first Trustees of the Congregational Ministerial Fund, incorporated on February 27, 1813.
Death and Legacy[edit]
John Leighton Tuttle passed away on July 23, 1813, in Watertown, New York, near Sackett’s Harbor. At the time of his death, he possessed a substantial sum of government funds, which became the center of a legal dispute. Hon. Samuel Hoar, his administrator, defended a suit brought by the United States to recover the funds, arguing that Tuttle had been robbed and murdered by his host, Mrs. Whittlesey. The court ruled in favor of Tuttle’s estate on those grounds.