February,1950
Contents
A TREE - MASONICALLY PLANTED FREEMASONRY OVERSEAS AND DOWN UNDER
NOT ALL IS HIDDEN OUR BROTHER ON THE COVER
How I Became An Interpreter and Translator A WORD FROM THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
First Vice-President's Message: Second Vice-President’s Message:
Secretary-Treasurer's Message: Books Received
VALLEY FORGE Financial Statement For 1949
The Birth of Kentucky's Grand Lodge In Memoriam
By Charles D. Bornwasser, Secretary, Paul M. Schneidau Lodge No. 391,
F. & A. M., New Orleans, Louisiana
(Introductory Note. - Four good Freemasons in Louisiana became involved in securing all of the following data, and to them we are indebted for their efforts and cooperation. Companion Freeman A. Ballard, Secretary of Orleans Delta Chapter No. 1, R.A.M., and who will be the next Grand High Priest of the Grand Chapter of Louisiana, R.A.M., took the lead and made the picture. He solicited the aid of another prominent Mason one active in the York and the Scottish Rites, Brother Henry J. Nieman, who contacted the Secretary of Paul M. Schneidau Lodge No. 391, F. & A.M., Brother Charles D. Bornwasser, who searched the records back to 1932 and wrote this "story," and, last but not least, Brother Lee W. Harris, Sr., Past Grand High Priest and Grand Secretary, the Grand Chapter of Louisiana, R.A.M., who handled all of the correspondence. - The Editor.)
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IN FEBRUARY, 1932, all over the United States of America, programs were in progress to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the birth of our venerated brother, George Washington.
In New Orleans, Louisiana, the observation was carried out extensively, and probably one of the most unique programs involved, was designated by Paul M. Schneidau Lodge No. 391, F. & A.M., through its officers and membership.
This lodge decided to plant a live oak tree and mark it with a suitable bronze tablet. Obtaining a sturdy young oak was perhaps the simplest part of the eventual ceremony; getting the proper and suitable spot was the most difficult, not to mention the making of the necessary arrangements.
Finally, on Sunday morning, February 28, 1932, the officers and members of Paul M. Schneidau Lodge No. 391, F. & A.M., met by previous arrangement and permission on the beautiful campus of Tulane University and, along with the brethren of Square and Compass Club of this University, a live oak tree was planted with simple but impressive ceremonies. With nature at her best for the occasion, the Worshipful Master of the Lodge formally dedicated the tree to the Glory of God and as a living monument to the Father of our Country. Each brother present symbolically assisted in the planting of the tree through the use of miniature trowels. Too, Old Glory floated in the breeze of that pleasant morning.
Years later, after the tree had grown to quite a size, the building program of Tulane University included a landscaped mall and the tree was "in danger." However, to the credit of Tulane University, they communicated with the Lodge and offered another site for the tree, along with permission not only to move it but to employ a tree surgeon and gardener to supervise it. The Lodge was only too happy to cooperate, and so a second ceremony was held and the tree was replanted on the campus fronting the gymnasium and where it is passed daily by thousands of students and many civilians. This time, a concrete base was laid, and into its top was permanently inserted a bronze tablet, whose raised letters, flanked on each side by a Square and Compass, read:
A TREE
DEDICATED TO THE GLORY OF GOD
AND PLANTED
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 1932
BY
PAUL M. SCHNEIDAU LODGE NO. 391, F. & A.M.
IN CONJUNCTION WITH
TULANE SQUARE OF SQUARE AND COMPASS
TO COMMEMORATE
THE BI-CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY OF THE
BIRTH OF OUR ILLUSTRIOUS BROTHER
GEORGE WASHINGTON
Chas. D. Bornwasser
Secretary
Channing Stowell
Worshipful Master
Today, in 1950, the Tree has grown into a magnificent oak, lifting its leafy arms in prayer.
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The original warrant of Robert Burns Lodge No. 25 was dated January 1, 1753. The present warrant (now known as charter) under which the Lodge works was granted July 10, 1810. It has, despite its title, always been an English Lodge, although in its early days the Scotch element was prominent in its membership.
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Freemasonry, today as in the past, by virtue of its principles and history, is utterly committed to the principle of freedom of thought, and the right of man to seek everywhere and in every way for the truth by which no man is injured, but by which we have the only basis for freedom and faith.
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FREEMASONRY OVERSEAS AND DOWN UNDER
By Charles E. Holmes, F.P.S., Montreal, Quebec, Canada
ONE OF the most valuable contributions to "The Philalethes" was the late Brother Leo Fischer's news reports on what is happening in Masonic circles throughout the world. Better than any argument it brought home to us the fact that Freemasonry is truly universal in scope and influence. We must rely on our Brethren in Foreign countries to supply us with items for this column, if it is to continue its useful task. Correspondence may be sent to us in any language, but preferably in English, French, Italian, Spanish, or Esperanto.
The Philippines - Quite a sensation has been caused in the Philippine Islands by the discovery that the letter of denunciation to Masonry written before the death of Past Grand Master Manuel Quezon is a forgery. The victory of church authorities was short-lived since it is now manifest the so-called renunciation of Quezon is not authentic and one of the high dignitaries of the Philippine Church, Bishop Applepay, has given up his cassock and joined the ranks of Freemasonry.
Austria - Recent information indicates the revival of Freemasonry in Austria and that the government authorities there have recognized the Grand Lodge of Vienna with jurisdiction over all Austria. The Grand Master elected is Dr. Karl Doppler, 8-65 Lammgasse-12, Vienna VIII, Austria.
South America - The Grand Commander of the Supreme Council, Thirty-Third Degree, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, has visited A.A. Scottish Rite bodies in Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina. In Uruguay and Argentina, Freemasonry is apparently "regular," but in Brazil it is dominated by a Grand Orient body.
Sweden - In this country the Craft is headed by the King and only Christians are admitted to membership. The principal activity of late seems to have been the raising by Masons of a fund of 75,000 kronen as a gift to the Grand Master on the occasion of his 90th birthday.
France - Masons in Paris have established an office of Masonic information, located at No. 7, rue Saulnier, where Masons can apply for information of any kind. This idea was fostered by the late Jean Roumilhac, M.P.S., who was killed last summer in a motor accident. Brother Arthur Legrand is the secretary of the new office.
A Masonic Club has been established at Neuilly, one of the finer suburbs of Paris, by the Grande Loge Nationale et Reguliere, the "regular" Masonic body which has been making considerable progress in France. The Provincial Grand Master, holding his mandate from the United Grand Lodge of England, is V. Worshipful Brother Hargreaves, who is the manager of the Paris office of Thomas Cook & Sons, the travel agency.
Germany - Six hundred German Masons, whose organization was so violently persecuted by Hitler, met at Frankfult (Main) for the first public gathering in more than sixteen years. About seven hundred guests watched in silence as delegates joined hands in a circle in Frankfurt's historic St. Paul's cathedral and sang that old Masonic hymn: "Brother, Give Me Thy Hand," by Brother Wolfgang Mozart. Of the 70,000 Masons that existed in Germany in pre-Hitler days, only 6,700 are now members of the Craft.
China - The Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of China held its first annual Communication on October 7, 1949. Present were delegates representing Amity Lodge No. 1; Nanking No. 2; Pearl River No. 3; Szechuen No. 4; West Lake No. 5, and Sun No. 6. a full attendance of the China jurisdiction in Shanghai, plus some fifty odd visitors from other constitutions. This in contrast to the two Massachusetts Lodges in Peking and Tientsin, which took an "indefinite recess." Grand Master David W. K. Au (M.P.S.) and all of his officers, were reselected for the ensuing Masonic year, with the exception of Brother Alfred S. Lee, Grand Secretary, now a permanent resident of San Francisco, California. Brother Henry H. Y. Lin, formerly the president of Shanghai Baptist University, succeeding Brother Lee.
Italy - The Grand Orient of Italy, a reorganization of Italian Masonry, has been quite active. During Mussolini's reign Masonry was driven underground and so remained for twenty years. Many of the leaders were slain or exiled, yet the new Grand Lodge claims to have four hundred constituent lodges and some 15,000 members. The Grand Orient of Italy has applied for recognition to several American Grand bodies.
Greece - The Grand Lodge of Greece has on its roster of officers some of the most distinguished names despite the absence of those who lost their lives during the occupation. The new Grand body has been recognized by several Grand bodies on this side of the Atlantic.
Czechoslovakia - When Hitler invaded Czechoslovakia in March, 1939, there were from 3,000 to 4,000 Masons in that country. As happened in France and Belgium, the invaders had been provided with lists of Masons by the Catholic clergy. Thanks to this information they could quickly seize the persons of these adepts of Hiram and send them to the firing squad or concentration camp. The Temples were soon converted into shops. 31% of the Masons were shot or tortured to death; 13% were liquidated at Dachau or Buchenwald's gas chambers; 16% escaped with minor injuries.
Yugoslavia - Exactly the same occurred in this country as in Czechoslovakia. Brother Douchan Tomitsch, M.P.S., now in exile in Paris, has published a series of five booklets, each profusely illustrated with actual photographs, showing how the Roman Catholic hierarchy collaborated with the Nazis in fighting against Masonry. Reading these booklets may throw a new and different light on the retaliatory measures taken by the Governments in the Balkan countries.
Masonry Goes Modern - Radio is being used by the Grand Lodge of New York to tell publicly what it is doing for the good of humanity. I wonder if New York realizes it may not be as modern as it thinks it is. For the last three years the Grand Orient of France and the Grande Lodge of France (S.R.) have cooperated in broadcasting a weekly program over the Eiffel Tower station. The Paris program, which covers all of France, is on the air every Sunday morning.
Flashes - In English lodges as well as in the French and Scottish Rites the altar stands in front of the Master, in the East, not in the center of the Lodge.... In Halifax, N.S., there is a regular Masonic Lodge for Negroes. New Jersey also has an exclusively Negro regular Lodge. . . The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania adopted in 1797 the Irish ritual and has made only minor changes since then. . . . Masonic emblems are never worn on coat lapels or as watch charms in European countries.... In Iceland, where the Danish ritual is in use, months must elapse between degrees, it being deemed a neopyte needs months to master the symbolism of the degree he has been through.... In Holland an applicant’s petition for the Masonic degrees is held eighteen months before he is initiated, during which period he is closely examined in all ways as to his worthiness.... In Germany, in pre-Hitler days, Freemasonry functioned as a religious unit, and there were separate lodges for jews and Christian groups.
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By Gabriel Ruscitti, M.P.S.
Berkeley, California
FREEMASONRY is a beautiful system of morals veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols. This explains why it is also a progressive science necessitating continual and persistent study, available to the earnest through the process of further degrees and the relentless study of Masonic literature.
According to some of the brethren, the fact that each degree the candidate takes is shrouded in mystery, is attributable to the disconcerting situation existing in some of the lodges. Members who stop attending meetings because they do not get much out of the degrees. The utter lack of knowledge on the part of others as to the "objective" of Freemasonry. The attitude of some that the Lodge is a social club. They have no time for serious thought, and definitely are not seeking further light. The responsibility for this situation, however, cannot be rightly blamed on the hidden mysteries of the degrees. No member or officer of a Symbolic Lodge, if sincere and of normal intelligence, can escape observing some of the thought provoking and inspirational "discernible light" emanating from our beautiful and rich ritual, if he listens with an attentive ear and has an open mind.
The majority of newly-made Masons have neither the time nor aptitude to probe into the hidden mysteries of Freemasonry or study its history. This is for the "scholar" with the ability and natural desire together with the time necessary to grapple with this undertaking requiring a great deal of research. One offering the rather difficult task of disentangling fact from fiction, often yielding only interesting glimpses of the past, most of them factually fragmentary and, therefore, of a controversial nature. However, the fact remains, not all is hidden in our degrees and ritual. Many of the truths are discernable to the seekers This being the case, the "objective" of Freemasonry and some of its lessons, should be obvious to the candidate after attaining the three Symbolic Degrees and attending regularly.
One does not have to know all about the ramification of the railroad industry, for example, in order to get on a train and arrive at a certain destination. All that is necessary is knowledge of the obvious facts and the simple directions. The right train, at the right depot and at the right time.
So it is with Freemasonry. We need not know aII of its hidden mysteries in order to reach its objective or understand what it is. The degrees and our ritual reveal much to enrichen our lives. We have the simple, intelligible directions of the five points of fellowship to guide us. Last, but not least, the Charges clearly indicate what we are to do.
Only the disinterested and mentally lethargic would deny this incontrovertible fact.
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Brother Maurice G. Clayton was born in Bath County, Kentucky, October 10, 1900, of early pioneer families, of French and English descent, who had come into the Kentucky territory from the Colonies. In 1905 he moved to Long Beach, California, and attended the public schools of that city.
In 1920 he became interested in the millwork business and, in 1932, he was married to Emma Schwedler. There are two children, Barbara and Harold, and he now has his home in Huntington Park, California.
Our Brother entered the field of journalism in 1937 when the late Brother Charles A. Brown founded the "Masonic News." Upon the death of Brother Brown, in 1946, Mrs. Marguerite Pray purchased this paper from the estate, and Brother Clayton assumed the post of Editor. Since then, the "Masonic News" has grown from an 8-page monthly to a 20-page semi-monthly publication. All members of the staff are members of the Masonic Fraternity or its affiliated Bodies. Mrs. Clayton is a regular news feature contributor.
The Masonic News is the official publication of the Grand Court, Order of Amaranth (California), and the Supreme Pyramid, Ancient Egyptian Order of Sciots.
Besides his editorial duties, Brother Clayton continues his interest in the millwork business, being associated with John W. Koehl & Son, manufacturers and jobbers in Los Angeles, California.
Our Brother saw the light by which Masons work in Palos Verdes Lodge No. 389, F. & A.M., Long Beach, California, being raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason on February 1, 1925. He also is a member of Huntington Park Chapter No. 127, R.A.M., Huntington Park; Pasadena Commandery No. 31, K.T., Pasadena; Al Malaikah Temple, A.A.O.N.M.S., Los Angeles; Los Nietos Valley (California) Shrine Club, and the Ancient Egyptian Order of Sciots No. 43, Long Beach, California, now holding the office of Supreme Mohar in this organization.
Brother Clayton was elected to membership in the Philalethes Society on March 1, 1947, and we are happy, indeed, to present his portrait on the cover page of this issue of "Philalethes."
L.E.W.
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Humanity Lodge No. 406, F. & A.M., of Lyons, N. Y., is the proud possessor of a gavel and a block made from the original keel of the United States frigate "Constitution." The keel of this ship was laid in 1794, during the Presidency of George Washington .
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Wherever Lodges are composed of men who are held in Freemasonry by love of its philosophies and traditions, the demand is being made for greater knowledge and better light.
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How I Became An Interpreter and Translator
Personal Reminiscences of the late Leo Fischer, F.P.S.
MORE THAN one of my old friends has suggested that I give some account of how I became proficient in various foreign languages and was thus able to render special services during the various wars, 1899 to 1945.
I was born at Voitersreuth, Austria, on the frontier between Bohemia and Saxony, in 1875, and received my schooling in German, with French and English as foreign languages, in the intermediate and higher schools. Being especially interested in the study of languages, I gave considerable attention to them and did a lot of reading in them outside of school, though they did not come easy to me.
After graduation from High School in Germany, I developed a bad case of itching feet, coupled with an ardent desire to travel and finally become a citizen of the United States. I, therefore, left a position with the government railroad of Saxony after a year or so, and at the age of nineteen I secretly crossed the German frontier and went to Omaha, Nebraska, where I soon landed a clerkship. But the Middle West soon seemed rather quiet to me, and in the next year I began to wander again, through New Mexico, Texas, and the Indian Territory. I had studied quite a bit of Spanish beforehand and, in 1896, I made a trip to Spain and South America and from there returned 'before the mast' to the United States, picking up considerable Spanish and French on my travels.
It happened that I was back in Nebraska when our war with Spain broke out, and quite naturally I enlisted in the Army. My regiment saw half a year's service in Chickamauga Park and Ft. Omaha, and a day after receiving my discharge I received my United States citizenship. When Aguinaldo started his insurrection, I re-enlisted for service in the Philippines, and sailed for Manila in October, 1899, as quartermaster-sergeant of Company "G" of the 32nd Infantry, United States Volunteers. But again I found that languages are apt to bring one not only promotion but a lot of extra work. My regiment was for over a year active in Bataan and Pampanga, and I studied day and night, mostly by the light of a coconut oil lamp, to acquire the Malay-Polynesian dialects spoken by the common tao in the fields and forests of Bataan. Besides my military duties, I had to do a lot of scouting, interpreting, translating of intercepted letters and military correspondence, examining of prisoners, etc. I was considered one of the most useful men in the Company. When, in January, 1901, the regiment was getting ready to return to the United States, my reputation had reached headquarters in Manila, and I was ordered to report there for muster-out and appointment as interpreter and translator at the office of the secretary to the Military Governor of the Islands. This was soon made a civil service position and, on July 4, 1901, I changed 'bosses," to my great regret, from Major General Arthur MacArthur to William H. Taft. My duties now consisted in translating documents and correspondence, interpreting between the civil governor and the Spanish -speaking native officials and men of importance, etc. Besides I had to do the interpreting at the sessions of the governor's cabinet and public speeches, and do considerable confidential work. I was for years the Governor's ante-room man. But as competent linguists developed amongst the trust-worthy natives, my work changed. I handled largely scientific and legal papers, bills and laws, etc., and finally the foreign diplomatic correspondence and important papers. The government practically compelled me to add Italian and Dutch to my list of languages, and after a few years I acquired a good translating knowledge of Portuguese. French had become like a mothertongue to me. The Philippine Government finally appointed me as official chief translator of the government, and for half a year, in 1918, I served as captain of infantry in the Philippine Division.
In 1938, when practically every American in the Service had left the Philippine Civil Service, and my family in the United States urged me to come home, I applied for my retirement, which was granted very reluctantly. I was credited with 37 years of service and granted a liberal retirement allowance, and took up my residence in Long Beach, California.
A few days after the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor, I applied for active service in the United States Army in which I still held the reserve rank of Major in the Military Intelligence Division; but the Adjutant General in Washington turned me down, because I had passed the age limit, and offered me instead a position as examiner in the newly-established censorship service. I passed the War Department and civil service examinations in Dutch, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, and Afrikaans, and worked exceedingly hard at my new position until August, 1945, when my office was closed. I was retired by the United States Government with a substantial pension.
Hard and constant work more than any special ability, and a natural fondness for the study of languages, were at the bottom of my success in my chosen profession, in the exercise of which I have had great help and encouragement from many of my old comrades in the old 32nd Infantry, especially Lieutenant Henry K. Love ("G"), who was my life-long friend and the finest American I have ever known.
(Note: This is the last manuscript by our late, beloved Brother, which we are able to publish. So Mote It Be! - The Editor.)
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Primitive men in Mexico and Yucatan, as early as ca. 1600 B.C., made use of symbols similar to those employed in Freemasonry.
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The peculiar characters cut upon the rocks in the tombs of the Egyptians are hieroglyphics. For many centuries they stood as the mute unknown secrets of ages past and gone.
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A WORD FROM THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
January, 1950
TO THE MEMBERSHIP OF "THE PHILALETHES SOCIETY"
President's Message:
NINETEEN Hundred and Forty-nine, with its failures and successes, its joys and heartaches, its good will, is now but a memory. Our thoughts and our deeds have bean recorded on the scroll of the past, and you or I are powerless to change what has been written. The unsullied page of the future lies before us, what shall be recorded thereon ? Let us plan to be of greater service to our fellow men, to the Craft at large, to enlighten the mind, to labor at building a Temple of universal brotherhood, and to provide leadership and inspiration to the end that our activities may take a rightful place in our lives.
Belonging to any organization involves a certain amount of self-sacrifice. There is an unwritten agreement that we must share and share alike. One man's problem is everyone's problem. In short, if within the Philalethes Society there is not a genuine feeling of fellowship and mutual concern, the teamwork of our organization will suffer. Everyone depends on "you," and "you" depend on everyone else. In football language, all are expected to help 'carry the ball.’
Splendid support has been received, on the whole, during 1949, from the Masonic Press and our membership, and I would like at this time to express my sincere appreciation for their cooperation and generous donation of time. We made considerable progress by an increase in membership, here and abroad as well as a greater distribution of our year book, "The lnformant," and our review, "The Philalethes." Seventy Freemasons saw fit to affiliate with us, with the Dominion of Canada leading with sixteen; Arizona with eleven; California nine; Michigan seven; Oregon and New Jersey, three each; Ohio, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, Illinois, and Oklahoma, two each; Virginia, Texas, Nevada, New York, Missouri, Kansas, Chile, South Africa, England, Holland, and Finland, one each.
Death came, as it must to all of us, to: Brothers Fred B. Leyns, F.P.S., Grand Rapids, Michigan; William Charles Rapp, F.P.S., Los Angeles, California; Leo Fischer, F.P.S., Lemon Grove, California; Conrad N. Price, M.P.S., Portland, Oregon; Daniel L. Miller, M.P.S., Providence, Rhode Island; Frank Dean Pendleton, M.P.S., Burbank, California; Walter Joseph Young, M.P.S., Los Angeles, California; Jean Roumilhac, M.P.S., Marseilles, France, and Arthur John Kaglund, M.P.S., Croydon, New South Wales, Australia.
We take this means of thanking all members for the many messages of condolence received upon the death of our beloved Brother Leo Fischer, and we sincerely appreciate the reprinting on the part of the Masonic Press, here and abroad, of our "In Memoriam" literature.
It is a great satisfaction to look back upon the accomplishments of the lives of our departed brethren, and yet there is also a deep regret that it was not their destiny to carry on for a longer period. Personally, I can look back on many fruitful working periods in the Masonic quarries that we all enjoyed. When the bell tolls for anyone who has had a genuine interest in Freemasonry and has worked for its well-being, I think the bell tolls for the loss that is the loss of all.
Brother Fischer's share of the work will now have to be borne by another, and we take pleasure in announcing the appointment of Brother Charles Ernest Holmes, F.P.S., 294 St. Catherine Street West, Montreal 18 (Quebec), Canada, as the Second Vice-President, and a member of the Executive Committee, of the Philalethes Society.
To fill the vacancies caused by the death of Brothers Charles Clyde Hunt, F.P.S., Dr. Ernest Crutcher, F.P.S., and Sam B. Cantey, Jr., F.P.S., the Society bestowed the honor of FELLOW upon Brothers Charles E. Holmes, of Montreal, Canada; Edward E;. Hedblom, of Denver, Colorado, and James Raymond Malott, of Globe, Arizona, respectively.
Due to conditions beyond our control, only three executive meetings were held during 1949, but interoffice communications have been frequent. During April, Brother Allister J. McKowen and I made an official visit to San Diego, California, where we met with our members, Brothers James K. Remick and William Ernest Lyon, to discuss Society matters and pay a visit to Brother Leo Fischer, who, at that time was a patient at the La Mesa Community Hospital.
We have been successful in providing greater quality of content for our official review, "The Philalethes," which presents Masonic Light and Truth in its direct application - more Light to those who seek it, and Truth as to accurate reporting. In consequence, hundreds of extra copies have been distributed.
Very few complete sets of Volume 1 (8 issues), and Volume 2 (6 issues), of "Philalethes," remain in stock and these are now collectors items. We shall have them suitably bound, as well as a quantity of complete sets of Volumes 3 and 4. The net cost per bound volume will be quoted upon request. However, a number of loose-leaf sets of Volumes 3 and 4 remain on hand, which may be purchased at $3.00 each.
Volume 5 began with the January, 1950, issue, and a number of outstanding literary contributions have been set for publication. We always welcome additional articles from our members on Masonic history; traditions; old minutes; landmarks; philosophy; working tools; famous Masons; rare documents, etc., etc.
In May we published 700 copies of our twelve-page year book, "The Informant," which tells the story of our Society since its inception, enlightens one on our purposes, includes our membership roster, corrected to May 1, 1949, and gives details of and excerpts from "The Philalethes."
While many Freemasons, here and abroad, are now in possession of our year book, we wonder if they can visualize the warm relationship, Masonic and otherwise, now held between our members, or the "feel" of belonging and taking part in study and research that can only come from membership in the Philalethes Society !
To increase the volume of Masonic information and make membership in our Society more desirable, we intend to launch in the near future a four-page supplement, tentatively titled: "Miscellania" to contain a mixture of writings on various Masonic subjects. It is our hope that this endeavor will receive wholehearted approval and be the means of providing greater service to our membership.
Plans are developing for the greatest of all National Shrine Conventions to be held in Los Angeles on June 19, 20, 21, 22, and 23, 1950, honoring Imperial Potentate Harold Lloyd. Among the members of the more than 150 Temples throughout the United States, Canada, and Hawaiian Islands, intending to take part in this convention, are quite a number of Philalethes Society members, and, of course, we shall look forward with pleasure to meeting and greeting them in Los Angeles in June.
Our 1950 budget, based on current cost, estimated to be approximately $1,750, must meet the expenses for sundry items, including the continued publication of "Philalethes," the 1950 edition of "The Informant," separate releases, leaflets, and the new supplement, mentioned above.
Correspondence with brethren in foreign countries is conducted by Brothers Lee Edwin Wells, Charles E. Holmes, and myself. We are fortunate to have within our membership a number of brethren who translate from the Spanish, Portuguese, French, Dutch, and Italian. We are still in search, however, for an erudite brother able to translate from the German, and if one of our readers can assist us, I wish that he would make this fact known.
Our Secretary-Treasurer, Brother Allister J. McKowen, F.P.S., reports on the financial standing of our Society and presents a detailed statement of income and disbursements during 1949.
We now turn to the future on the things which it holds for our Society. There is something irresistibly fascinating about the future. Though we dwell in the present, we are forever looking ahead, being drawn on by some strange compulsion, like the ocean which responds to the lure of the tides. It is only as we discover new horizons and lay our plans for future tasks, that we remain vitally alive of the possibilities that lay ahead. And, in exploring these possibilities, we realize more and more the amount of work that is necessary to make the Philalethes Society a greater living factor throughout the world. Ours is an intellectual and moral enterprise and we inculcate that ethics are fundamental laws of life.
Get Freemasons everywhere interested in our aims and they will become our working members. They'll stick ! Those who kindle enthusiasm in our work will have the greatest success in building up the Philalethes Society. Enthusiasm, after all, is the genius of sincerity and truth accomplishes no victories without it.
WALTER A. QUINCKE, F.P.S.
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First Vice-President's Message:
THE MAIN events of the year 1949 have been amply covered by the report of Brother Quincke. This has been a good year for the Society in many respects, though in others we have not been so fortunate.
The passing of Brother Fischer was a hard blow to the Executive Committee in particular and the Philalethes Society in general. However, we managed to keep in touch with our members overseas and abreast of Masonic news from foreign lands. We were obliged to "farm out" some translations and have had to make decisions without the shrewd and excellent advice of our departed brother. After long and careful consideration, the Committee appointed Brother Charles E. Holmes, of Canada, as the Second Vice-President, to succeed the late Brother Leo Fischer.
The passing of Brother Jean Roumilhac, in France, had serious effects on the establishment of a French Section of our Society. However, steps are now being taken to at least partially repair the damage and we are again hopeful that our report next year will definitely announce an active organization among our French brethren.
We feel that our official review, "Philalethes," has grown in stature in 1949. The articles and features were of a scholarly nature, and more worthy of the consideration of serious Masonic students. We also tried to increase our reviews of new Masonic publications, fairly and without bias, to give our members some idea of the contents and worth of these volumes before adding them to their personal libraries. We shall continue this service during 1950, covering domestic and foreign publications, including old and rare Masonic books or those on allied subjects. Personally, I would be grateful to receive your comments on the book review column.
And, upon entering another year, we are confident that it will bring increased stature to the Philalethes Society so that it may the better serve you in bringing increased Masonic Light and news.
LEE EDWIN WELLS, F.P.S
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Second Vice-President’s Message:
WHEN, SOMETIME in July, President Quincke asked me to help him handle a part of the work that heretofore had been executed for the Society by Brother Leo Fischer, F.P.S., I little thought that I would be called upon to succeed our erudite Brother as the Second Vice-President, but I am confident that with the help of our corresponding members throughout the world, I will be able to carry on. It is quite important that "The Philalethes" continues to be the point of contact for all who have received the Hiramic initiation, regardless of creed, race, or place of residence.
Freemasonry, which in many European countries was suppressed under dictatorships or had to go underground during the periods of oppression, Phoenix - like is now arising from the ashes of its temples, stronger than ever, and the terrible price our European Brethren had to pay has made our Craft all the more precious to those who now seek shelter from troublous times within the portals of our sanctuaries. New and stronger Grand Bodies have been launched in Germany, Austria, Italy; while bodies that had to go underground, such as in France and Belgium, are emerging from their lamentable experience.
In the words of the late President William Howard Taft: "There is something about Freemasonry that is at the basis of all our feeling with respect to the possibilities of greater love between nations," - and we, of the Philalethes Society, keeping in touch with one another, have a better opportunity than most to realize this truth, that, by virtue of the universality of Masonic thought, the entire human race can be elevated for the common good of all.
One of the greatest advantages I, personally, have derived from membership in the Philalethes Society, is the Masonic friendships I've made with Brethren in far distant lands; and I do not mean mere pen acquaintances, but real, deep-down-in-the-heart friendships. While oceans separate us we have shared the same Masonic teachings and philosophy, and this has given us what is probably the greatest of Masonic blessings: "Tolerance." We are not bound by the chains of edicts and dogmas, but by the dictates of conscience. We are made more conscious of our duties toward our neighbors, and all humanity, though the whirlpools of hate, as an aftermath of two World Wars perhaps, abound around us. So, while we argue on what is called the complicated problem of peace, Freemasonry, to us at least, is a ray of sunshine in a world of darkness.
I do not know of a better way to link the forces of good, disseminated throughout the world in the Temples of Freemasonry, than by a membership in the Philalethes Society. Let us, then, do our part to bring into our Society the thinkers, students, writers, and leaders of Masonic thought, no matter where they live !
CHARLES ERNEST HOLMES, F.P.S.
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Secretary-Treasurer's Message:
THANKS to the impulse given our work by the officers much has been accomplished in 1949. More, however, remains to be done, and we prefer to dwell upon the latter, as the past can help us only by showing where the work can and should be strengthened.
Looking ahead a few years, we feel confident that the international membership of our Society can grow to several thousand Freemasons. In dollars and cents this would mean quite an increase in revenue per annum for Masonic research and publishing, as well as "permanency" pertaining to official headquarters. The time will come, and soon, when our business can no longer be conducted by our leaders from their individual homes, and larger quarters, to include a library and reading room, publication and mailing departments, become a "must."
By virtue of sound management, our finances are in excellent condition, and dues for 1950, payable in advance at par in Los Angeles, California, remain as they have always been, $3.00 per member. Donations, to help our 1950 budget, while voluntary, will be welcomed. All remittances should be made payable to The Philalethes Society, and sent to: 274 South Burlington Ave., Los Angeles 4, California.
Not being endowed, our work is entirely dependent upon the prompt payment of dues, the sale of extra copies (or volumes) of "Philalethes," and voluntary donations - large or small though they may be.
The summary on page 9 presents our income and disbursements for the fiscal year ending December 31, 1949.
ALLISTER J. McKOWEN, F.P.S.
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"Negro Masonry In The United States," by Harold Van Buren Voorhis, F.P.S. (Henry Emmerson, New York City, 1949).
"Building Tomorrow's World," A Sermon, by the Rev. G. Bromley Oxnam (The Supreme Council, 33rd, A.A. Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction U.S.A.)
"Masonic Information Please," by Alphonse Cerza (Alphonse Cerza, 1441 N. Lockwood Ave; Chicago 51, Illinois).
"The Degrees of Masonry," by Charles G. Reigner, F.P.S. (The B Square Fellowship, Baltimore, Md.)
"The Sack Of A Temple," by George S. Knocker; (The Masonic Record; 38, Great Queen St; London, W.C. 2; England).
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George Washington, facing in the direction of his enemy, kneeling on his left knee, his right leg forming the angle of a square, praying to God for strength and guidance ! Directly behind him is a group of trees, and beyond these a horse, a campfire and some soldiers.
Philadelphia, occupied during the winter of 1777-1778 by the British, was the capital of the colonies; and General Howe, the British Commander, defeated Washington at the battle of Brandywine, using a far superior force. It was fought so hard that it took the British fifteen days to gain thirty miles.
Washington with a little band of 3,000 patriots retired to a small valley named Valley Forge, where they built log cabins for shelter, shot game and foraged for food. Cold and starving they spent a terrible winter.
Washington who could have gone home to his plantation chose to remain and suffer with his men. Historians tells us that the name Valley Forge for years afterwards was spoken of only in awed tones and never without shudder.
We thank God for George Washington, Master Mason and the Father of our Country, and his little band of patriots who did these noble things for us more than one hundred and seventy years ago. Tradition informs us that at the most vital moments Washington's orders were: "Let only Americans stand guard." That is what has come down to us, but it is more than likely it was: "Put only Freemasons on guard."
That faint but distinct sound I hear seems to be an echo of those orders resounding through the dim distant past: "Let Freemasons Stand Guard . . . Masons Stand Guard . . . Stand Guard . . . Guard."
W. A. Q.
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The plumb-line is the test of values. Twenty-four centuries before Speculative Freemasonry was born, the shepherd Amos, who taught during the reign of Jereboam II of the Kingdom Israel, held aloft the plumb-line whose symbolic meaning was the same then, as it is today, the standard of rectitude, justice, uprightness, and true manhood. As such it is one of the most impressive symbols of Freemasonry and stands pre-eminent in the Degree of Fellow Craft; the symbol by which the value of the material interests of life must be gauged and by which the use of man's intelligence must be tried. The symbolism is so plain, that it does not need any profound philosophy to unfold it, neither is it necessary to search for it along geometrical lines. It stands clear, simple and profound. It matters not whether Freemasonry toils, as a day laborer, in the clay grounds between Succoth and Zeredetha, or stands as the exponent of the liberal arts and sciences. There is but one standard for King or subject, rich or poor, educated or ignorant. The plumb-line of moral rectitude must be applied to every walk in life.
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INCOME
Bank Balance, January 1, 1949 $ 108.61
Entrance Fees from New Members 130.00
Dues from Membership. 782.72
Subscriptions to "The Philalethes". 149.10
Sale of Extra Copies of "The Philalethes" 150.49
Donations 240.65
Total $1,561.57
DISBURSEMENTS
Postage and Express $ 219.94
Cuts 163.98
Stationery and Supplies 70.65
Paper and Printing "The Philalethes" (8 issues)
and "The Informant" (700 copies) 721.84
Miscellaneous 14.12
Bank Balance, December 31, 1949 371.04
Total $ 1,561.57
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The Birth of Kentucky's Grand Lodge
William Murray, First Grand Master
By Albert C. Hanson, P.G.M.; M.P.S.; Fort Thomas, Kentucky
KENTUCKY, from its first entrance into history, has been a land of romance, of story and of song. Its first explorers and gallant pioneers, Daniel Boone, Simon Kenton, Logan Floyd, George Rogers Clark, and scores of others of their manly kind in stately tread, have cleared the way for those who were to come after them, thus giving the then wilderness of the west its proud place in the sisterhood of states, a place so unique and distinctive as to set Kentucky apart from all other States, and to make her sons claim the whole broad commonwealth and no small section thereof as their own. A traveling Kentuckian, when asked of a fellow traveler whence he came, will reply: "I am a Kentuckian." Ask an Ohio man whence he comes and he is from Cincinnati; an Illinois man is from Chicago, but a Kentuckian is from Kentucky and I honor him for it. The whole Commonwealth is his, which is as it should be. Patriotism knows no narrow boundary lines.
A learned judge charging the grand inquest of his court, enthused by his love for his state and his appreciation of the manly valor and love of justice always exhibited by her sons, declared: "Kentuckians are an imperial race. They love justice because it is justice, and detest vice and wrong-doing because they are abhorrent to their sense of right and justice."
So it was with William Murray, first Grand Master of Masons of Kentucky, who was elected October 16, 1800, in Masons' Hall at Lexington, Kentucky. and immediately installed.
Prior to the formation of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky, a preliminary convention was held at Lexington September 8, 1800, at which time there were present three representatives from Lexington Lodge No. 25; three from Paris Lodge No. 35; two from Georgetown Lodge No. 46, and six from Frankfort, Hiram Lodge U. D., of Shelbyville. James Morrison, "being the oldest Past Master present, was requested to take the chair."
Col. James Morrison was a Revolutionary soldier, a self-made man of strong sense, a gentleman of the old school; liberal minded, with a talent for making rnoney, which he used well. He was a personal friend of General Jackson, and was said to be "somewhat Jacksonian himself." He was one of the founders and managers of the Kentucky Bible Society which, in 1817, became Auxiliary of the American Bible Society. He bequeathed $20,000 to found a professorship in Transylvania University and $40,000 to erect an edifice for its use, to be called "Morrison College," in whose Chapel Henry Clay, who afterwards became Grand Master, partook of his first communion. James Morrison became the second Grand Master of Kentucky.
A Master Masons Lodge was opened in "due form." The Masters of Lodges produced their charters and credentials. How nicely exact and careful they were that everything should be well and lawfully done. It was agreed:
That in voting for officers, each Lodge have one vote and Past Masters, not representatives, one vote.
That the Ahiman Rezon of Virginia be observed as far as practicable, in electing officers.
William Murray, Past Master (Lodge No. 57, of Virginia, now No. 4 of Kentucky) was elected Grand Master and immediately installed. The Grand Master "waived his right" to appoint his deputy, and Alexander Macgregor was elected Deputy Grand Master. He was also installed immediately. Simon Adams was Grand Senior Warden, Cary L. Clarke, Grand Junior Warden, and both were installed. James Russell was elected Grand Secretary; John A. Seitz, Grand Treasurer; Thomas Hughes, Grand Senior Deacon; Nathaniel Williams, Grand Junior Deacon; Sam Shepherd, Grand Pursuivant; John Bobbs, Grand Tyler, and they were severally installed.
Our much esteemed Most Worshipful Brother William Murray was a bachelor, a very eminent lawyer, Attorney-General of the State, a man among men, of great foresight, force of character and excellent sense, who had the courage to stand alone in support of his convictions. While serving as representative of Franklin County, at the time the resolutions of 1798 passed the legislature, William Murray opposed them, holding that "the authority to determine that a law is void is lodged with the judiciary." He led the debate and recorded singly his vote against their passage. He confined himself mainly to the asserted right on the part of a state to nullify an act of Congress, taking the same view that Daniel Webster took, more than a third of a century later, in his reply to Robert Y. Hayne in that most famous of all debates in the United States Senate. William Murray was a bold and eloquent man; his contemporaries never spoke of him but in terms of unqualified admiration. He was probably the most accomplished scholar among all the eminent men of Kentucky at that day, a lawyer of strength equal to conflicts with George Nicholas, John Breckenridge, and Henry Clay, and in the rare gift of eloquence he surprised them.
When the Kentucky legislature called the convention of 1798-99, by a constitutional majority to revise the old constitution, Governor Garrard, who had succeeded Shelby, in his address to the legislature, denounced the acts recently passed by Congress, commonly known as the alien and sedition laws. This session was rendered memorable by the passage of resolutions declaratory of the powers of the general government, and the rights and privileges of the States.
During the session a series of resolutions, drawn up by Mr. Jefferson, were presented by John Breckinridge. The only member who spoke against them and steadily voted, generally alone, was William Murray. These resolutions in substance declare "That the Constitution of the United States is a compact between the several states (as States), each sovereign to that compact. That in other compacts between equal sovereigns, who have no common judge, each party has the right to interpret the compact for itself, and is bound by no interpretation but its own. That the general government has no final right in any of its branches, to interpret the extent of its own powers. That these powers are limited within certain prescribed bounds and that all acts of the general government not warranted by its powers, may properly be nullified by a state, within its own boundaries."
The resolution clearly expressed the political views of Mr. Jefferson at the time, and as containing not merely the germ, but the fully developed doctrine of nullification, which has since been so heartily and strongly denounced by Kentucky and almost every other State of the Union. The resolutions were approved by Governor Garrard, and thus fastened upon Kentucky the mark of nullification, until the session of 1832, when the true doctrine such as William Murray advocated, was strongly proclaimed.
The Kentucky Resolutions of 1798, however, are still quoted today in the United States Congress and are recognized by some as political classic, perhaps because Virginia, the mother of States and Statesmen had taken the first begotten of the republic by the tender hand and said "well done." What fear had young Kentucky, when Virginia with her wise statesmen and glorious memories, was with her?
Virginia was with her still, when at the formation of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky the following address was presented to the Grand Lodge of Virginia by William Murray, first Grand Master of Kentucky, which he is believed to have written:
Most Worshipful Sir and Brother:
"A meeting of the Deputies from five Lodges, regularly established in Kentucky, has been held at Lexington, and adopted the resolutions which you will find inclosed.
"In adopting this measure we have been actuated by a wish to promote the welfare of the Craft. It can not be new to, or unconsidered by, the Grand Lodge of Virginia, that the Lodges in this country under their jurisdiction labor under many inconveniences.
"In the first place we suppose the charity fund an important object in our institution. The benefit of this fund can not be extended to any brother or his family here.
"It must also be observed that the lodges in this state can not conveniently be represented in the Grand Lodge of Virginia by their Masters and Wardens; and that the appointment of other representatives is subject to great difficulties from causes which are evident. The distance and unavoidable accidents have frequently prevented the lodges in Kentucky from being represented in the Grand Lodge.
"Another inconvenience (not the least important with regard to Masonry) is, that we can not expect the presence either of the Grand Master or visitors, who may be appointed to inspect our work, and feel that it is regularly conducted.
"Part of an independent Commonwealth, we need not refer to precedents to authorize this measure; these precedents must be familiar to the Grand Lodge of Virginia.
"While, however, we deem this measure necessary, we have yet determined that the usual contributions to the Grand Lodge of Virginia shall be paid up till the period of our separation to discharge in every respect our duty to our parent lodge, we trust that it will credit the motives which lead us to separate.
"Notwithstanding the separation, we will never forget that we are materials of the same Temple, nor cease to attach ourselves to our brethren of Virginia, however remote we may be, from their part of the Great Superstructure. No disgust, no disrespect to the Grand Lodge of Virginia, has induced us to adopt this measure; necessity and the welfare of the Craft command it.
"We shall at every opportunity be happy to communicate through our Grand Lodge with your Grand Lodge, and assure you we are."
Your Friends and Brothers
One year after the forming of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky, Thomas Jefferson became President of the United States, thus came into the political arena the Democratic party. Kentucky was admitted to the Union and the new State, Virginia first-born, was the first star of the west to cast its-splendor upon the flag of the Union.
Aaron Burr, Vice-President of the United States, became involved in a conspiracy, had fought and killed Hamilton, one of his best friends, in a duel, because of political differences.
William Murray, Attorney General of Kentucky, prosecuted inquiry as to the conspiracy of Burr, opposing Henry Clay and John Allen (Burr's Council), both of whom afterwards became Grand Masters, also.
Our much esteemed Right Worshipful Past Grand Master having endeared himself in the arts of men and Masons everywhere in his civic, political and fraternal life emigrated to Natchez, Mississippi, in 1803, and died there August 9, 1805. And, thus closes the life of one of God's noblemen and Kentucky's first Grand Master of Masons.
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While serving in the United States Army in the Philippines I ran across a pamphlet giving a description of a secret society among the natives, called "The Katapunans." Since becoming a Mason I have thought about it and see some similarity in some things to Masonry. One of our men, captured by the natives, was treated well when they learned that he was a Mason. Could I have some information on this secret society through the columns of "The Philalethes?" - W.A.L., California
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The Philalethes - February, 1950; Volume 5, Number 2. - Walter A. Quincke F.P.S., Editor. - The official publication of The Philalethes Society; 274 South Burlington Ave.; Los Angeles 4, California, where all communications should be directed. Publication schedule: Eight (8) issues per year or volume: January; February; March; May (April-May); July (June-July); September (August-September); November (October-November) , and December. No advertising in any form is solicited or accepted. When requesting a change of address, please give the old as well as the new addresses, and include your postal zone number, if you have such. Annual subscription, in the U.S.A., $3.00; elsewhere, $4.00, payable in advance, at par at Los Angeles. - The columns of "Philalethes" are reserved for the literary contributions of the members of the Philalethes Society, and the material is selected for its quality and timeliness rather than upon name. All published articles, however, express the ideas and opinions of their contributors only, and in no way need they be the opinion of the Society. Member-Editors of Craft magazines, here and abroad, are privileged to reprint, in part or in full, any articles first published in "Philalethes," but are expected to give due credit to its source. - The Society’s current year book, "The Informant," tells the story since its inception and enlightens one on our aims. A copy will be mailed free of charge to any Freemason requesting the same and giving the name, number, and location of the Symbolic Lodge in which he holds membership.
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Eternal rest grant him, O God, and may Light perpetual shine upon him.
ARTHUR JOHN KAGLUND, M.P.S.
On October 7, 1949, Freemasonry in New South Wales suffered a serious loss in the passing of Brother Arthur John Kaglund, P.G.J.W.; U.G.L.; P.Dep. G.M., G.L. of M.M.M.; P.G.H., Supreme Grand Chapter, R.A.M.; P.G.P.C.W., Royal and Select Masters; 31st Degree, A. & A. Rite, England; P.O. Sub Prior, United Orders of the Temple and Hospital; P.G. Swd. Bearer, Red Cross of Constantine; P.G.S., Order of the Secret Monitor; P.G.D., Allied Masonic Degrees; Fellow of the Grand College of Rites, U.S.A., and a Member, since 1946, of the Philalethes Society.
He was responsible for the establishment in New South Wales of three Orders: the Red Cross of Constantine; the Order of the Secret Monitor, and the Allied Masonic Degrees, and under his guidance all three have flourished.
On the foundations laid by him, Masonic structures will be built and flourish, and be Temples of Wisdom where Masonic Light and instruction will be available to those who seek and prove worthy of attainment.
Witness was born to the esteem, respect and affection in which he was held by the number who attended the last rites. St. John's Church at Ashfield was filled and, at the service, conducted there by the Rev. L. N. Sutton, reference was made by the Rector to the welfare work carried out by our Brother. The Masonic Service was conducted by M. W. Brother F. S. McDowell, Grand Master. Every order of Freemasonry in New South Wales was represented, of which Brother Kaglund, 64 years of age, was a member.
(signed) ALLISTER J. McKOWEN
Secretary
"The Philalethes Society"
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Anderson s Constitutions, by H. L. Haywood, F.P.S. (Iowa Grand Lodge Bulletin, November, 1949).
How Scotch Is The Scottish Rite, by McIlyar H. Lichliter (News Letter, December, 1949).
Rock That Abides, (Short Talk Bulletin, December, 1949).
The Schism of 1747-1760, Dr. Manningham (Masonic Review, October, 1949).
Elias Ashmole (The Masonic Record, November, 1949).
Canadian Masonry Banned by R.C. Church in 1850 Only, by Fra Carolus ("Masonic Light," October, 1949).
An Interpretation of the Working Tools, by Sydney A. Walker, DDGM-15 (Oregon Mason, December, 1949) .