The Vermont state Anti-Masonic convention had followed…

The Vermont state Anti-Masonic convention had followed the Pennsylvania party’s lead on February 14, 1836, nominating Harrison.

Because national Anti-Masonic leaders are unable to obtain assurance from Harrison that he is not a Mason, they call a national convention, which is held in Philadelphia on May 4, 1836.

The convention is divisive, but a majority of the delegates are able to restate the purpose of the party as strictly anti-masonry and to officially state that the party is not sponsoring a national ticket for the presidential election of 1836.

Although Harrison will not win election, Anti-Masonic leaders will hail his strength throughout the North because the party had been the first to officially place his name in contention.