February,1951
Contents
THE CLASSIFICATION OF MASONIC LITERATURE THE PHILALETHES SOCIETY NEWS
A WORD FROM THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE First Vice-President's Message
Second Vice-President's Message Secretary-Treasurer's Message
Financial Statement for 1950 SHERWOOD VINCENT WESTLAKE, M.P.S.
LEARN MORE FROM MASONRY Losses Suffered By German Freemasonry
FREEMASONRY IN FOREIGN LANDS Dormit in Pace
THE CLASSIFICATION OF MASONIC LITERATURE
By Alphonse Cerza, M.P.S., Chicago, Illinois
ONE WHO has a few books has no need for a system of classification. But the student who constantly augments his library will eventually find a real need for a system of classification, which not only provides for clear thinking and logical arrangement, but will make his library a better working tool. The placing of hundreds of volumes on shelves without some sort of system diminishes their value and tends to create many disappointing experiences. Nothing is more discouraging to the student than the desire for information on a particular subject and to face a shelf containing many books placed thereon without order or system which makes him feel like looking for the proverbial needle in a haystack.
A library that is not too large can, of course, be arranged in alphabetical order according to the authors' names. Or they can be filed according to general subject, i.e., all the history books on one shelf, all the biographical ones on another shelf, etc. But in the larger libraries, especially those used by many readers, experience has shown that a classification according to subject-matter is best. Proper classification also has its place in the smaller library because it makes the desired material readily accessible to the student in search of specific material. One who has taken the time to acquire a system for a library can quickly view all the books on the subject, determine which he desires to read, select them wisely and begin working on the material at once. This selectivity cannot be attained when the books are arranged on the shelves according to the authors' names; even if a card index is used, the card, by necessity, gives little information about the volume. In a large library consulted by many people daily, the card index system is the most practical method because all readers cannot be permitted to handle the books on the shelves or wander through the many floors and aisles of a library.
A good system of classification should have the following characteristics:
1. Inclusiveness and enough flexibility to receive new subjects easily.
2. Logical arrangement of main subjects.
3. Divisions and subdivisions created by a logical process.
4. Terminology that is truly descriptive.
6. An adequate index.
We cannot here consider the entire subject of library classification as it would serve no useful purpose; furthermore, there are many books on the subject that are available.
The subject will be discussed here under the following headings: (1) Some general library classifications now in use; (2) A discussion of some classifications of Masonic books, and (3) A suggested classification for the average Masonic library.
Some General Library Classification
The most generally used library classification is known as the Dewey Decimal System, and it was first suggested in 1876, but has been expanded and improved since then. This system seems to meet most of the necessary requirements for a good classification, has stood the test of time and a wide use in large libraries. It is based upon the printed material being grouped into ten main classes, which are further divided by going from the general to the more specific classification, with each further subdivision divided into ten groups. The initial general classification (or general subjects) consists of the following numbers and subjects:
000 General Works
100 Philosophy
200 Religion
300 Sociology
400 Philology
500 Natural Sciences
600 Natural Arts
700 Fine Arts
800 Literature
900 History
Under this classification system Freemasonry is given only one number; consequently, a library consisting of many Masonic books cannot use this system without expansion or modification. (This will be discussed in detail later.) The subject "Freemasonry" under the Dewey Decimal System falls under the third general classification: "Sociology." The number 360 is assigned to "Associations - Institutions," and number 366 is given to the subject "Secret Societies." The subject "Freemasonry" is given number 366.1. The classification just described in outline form is as follows:
300 Sociology
360 Associations - Institutions
366 Secret Societies
366.1 Freemasonry
The numbers and subject headings between the above matters have been omitted. A glance at this outline shows the logical arrangement of the subject-matter, and having been listed from the general to the specific. Once you have the Dewey number at your command you can find in a library using this system every book on the subject of Freemasonry within a few minutes. A library with several thousand Masonic books listed under number 366.1 will be impractical because the student would be required to go over each card in order to select the material on the subject of his choice, therefore a further subdividing of the subject is apparent. In a library with only few books the one number is adequate, however.
The Cutter Expansive Classification System was first published in 1891. The term "expansive" is misleading because while the system is readily adjustable to increasing size, the grouping of subjects is limited since the letters of the alphabet are used. Primarily the system is used to classify "books" rather than "subject-matter,' or "knowledge," as in the Dewey system. One additional feature of the Cutter System is this: books are also classified by authors' names, and each author is given a number. Librarians using this system classify the authors as well as the books. Letters being used instead of numbers for further subdivisions, and the system goes from the general subject-matter to the specific topic. Two cards are employed to have an adequate classification of the book and its author.
The Library of Congress Classification System is probably the most complete. It follows the Cutter system in its main outline, but has been expanded to a point where it has lost the Cutter features. This system has been the result of years of expansion and change and it is not as much a logical arrangement as a practical one. Most of the subjects are classified by specialists in their particular fields. Many large libraries follow this system because the printed cards, issued at nominal cost by the Library of Congress, contain a general description of each book.
There is much detailed material available giving explanations and facts regarding the above systems, but our description will suffice for our purpose.
Some Classification of Masonic Books
In the year 1908 the Grand Lodge, A.F. & A.M., of North Dakota, published a pamphlet by Frank J. Thompson, a Past Grand Master, entitled: A System of Card Membership Record for Masonic Bodies and a Scheme of Classification for Masonic Books." In the second part of this booklet the author discusses the Dewey Decimal Classification briefly and concludes that one number, 366.1, is not adequate for a Masonic library. Using the Dewey system, however, he expanded it for use in a Masonic library by retaining the Dewey number but adding further subdivisions for the Dewey headings. The general subjects are classified as follows:
366.1
000 General Works
010 Bibliography. List of Secret Societies
020
030 Cyclopedias. Lexicons
100 Philosophy
Legends. Morals and Dogma
200 Religion
210 Monitors (general), no particular Masonic bodies
211 Monitors, Blue Lodges
300 Sociology
310 Negro Masonry
320 Spurious or Clandestine Masonry
400 Philosophy
410 Symbolism, direct or collateral
500 Natural Sciences
520 Calendars. Almanacs
600 Useful Arts
Buildings, architectural and constructional
700 Fine Arts
710 Descriptions
800 Literature
810 Poetry
820 Drama
900 History
910 Geography and Travels Observations on matters Masonic. Guides
This is not the complete outline presented by the author but gives all the main headings and one or more subdivisions under each for the purpose of illustration. As far as I have been able to ascertain this system of classification has been found inadequate and it is not now in use anywhere. The present librarian of the North Dakota Masonic Library, Miss Clara A. Richards, has been working on her own system and expects to have it completed in the near future.
The most famous system of classification of Masonic books is that devised by the late William L. Boyden, Librarian of the Supreme Council, Thirty-Third Degree, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Southern Jurisdiction of the United States of America, 1893-1939. This system gives the letter M before the subject heading to indicate that it is a Masonic book. Here are the main classes of Brother Boyden’s system:
M100 General Works
M10 History and Philosophy
M20 Custom and Paraphernalia
M30 Jurisprudence
M40 Charity and Education
M50 Art and Architecture
M60 Literature and Music
M70 Societies admitting only Masons
M80 Woman in Masonry
M90 Negro Freemasonry
This classification to some degree has been adopted by some Masonic libraries.
The booklet entitled: "Masonic Libraries," issued (1937) by The Masonic Service Association of the United States, Washington, D.C., mentions on page 21 that the Massachusetts Grand Lodge Library was working on a classification known as the Steele-Davis-Tatsch system, but a recent inquiry failed to disclose any such system having been completed or put into use. It seems that the list that was being prepared at the time (1937) was merely an alphabetical arrangement of subjects that should appear in a Masonic library.
The Grand Lodge Library, at Cedar Rapids, Iowa, considered one of the largest Masonic libraries in the world, has its books classified under a modified Dewey system. The letter M is used to distinguish the book in the library that are Masonic. The main classifications are as follows:
M000 General Works
M100 Education. Charity
M200 Rituals. Degrees. Ceremonies.
M300 Anti-Masonry. Negro Masonry. Spurious Masonry. Women and Masonry.
M400 Philosophy. Symbolism. Religion. Ethics.
M500 Law and Jurisprudence
M600 Societies. Conventions. Congresses
M700 Architecture
M800 Literature
M900 History
These general classifications are further subdivided into divisions becoming more and more specific.
Inquiry at this time causes me to conclude that there is general dissatisfaction with the existing classification of Masonic literature. And, like the weather, everybody talks about it but feels that nothing can be done about it. This defeatist attitude should be dispelled and members of the Craft should join hands, so to speak, to the end of devising an adequate and workable system.
A Suggested Classification
While much that has been said above can have little application to the Lodge library of only a few volumes or to the average Masonic student with a handful of books, it is readily apparent that some sort of classification system will be necessary eventually if additions are made to the library at regular intervals. This is particularly true of printed material other than books, i.e., clippings, booklets, and special magazine articles. It is also heartbreaking to remember reading an article or short item on a particular subject and not remember where it was placed for further reference!
The following classification is suggested for a modest library:
M000 General Works
M100 History
M200 Philosophy
M300 Religion
M400 Jurisprudence
M500 Symbolism
M600 Rituals and Ceremonies
M700 Literature and Music
M800 Masonic Societies and appendant bodies
M900 Miscellaneous
M901 Negro Masonry
M902 Women and Masonry
M903 Anti-Masonry
It is submitted that the above classification meets all the general requirements namely: Inclusiveness; Flexibility with regard to making additions of new subjects; Logical arrangement, plus further subdivision (s), and Terminology as truly descriptive.
Let us now consider one of the above titles. In a library with few books on Masonic literature and Music, M700 will be adequate as a classification. As books are added it will be necessary to re-arrange the particular classification, to wit:
M700 Literature and Music
M701 Literature - general
M710 Music - general
When many additional books are received under this group it may be necessary to make further divisions. For example:
M700 Literature and Music
M701 Literature - general
M702 Poetry
M703 Essays
M704 Plays
M710 Music - general
M711 Ceremonial
More subdivisions suggest themselves as the library expands.
A major problem is presented when one desires to keep booklets and clippings. As much informative and valuable material is found in various small pamphlets, in newspapers and magazine articles, it is imperative to have some system for keeping these items for future use or reference. If such pamphlets are of the same format and on the same subject, the solution is to bind them into one volume. It can then be classified as a book. When this process is not practical, because of the number of the items, their lack of uniformity as to size or subject-matter, they must be treated as separate items and so classified. It is best to place them in some sort of binding, properly indexed.
Clippings present no problem if the same system of classification is used. The matter of storing them is something else, of course. It is suggested, however, that clippings are placed in large filing envelopes, each envelope having the subject-matter written thereon. Naturally, these filing envelopes can be rearranged or subdivided should the need require it.
Conclusion
The foregoing is a very meager discussion of a rather large subject. It is readily apparent to one who has collected a large library of books, clippings and pamphlets, or has had occasion to consult a large library in another locality, that some sort of orderly classification is essential if the material is to offer real value. It is hoped that readers of "The Philalethes" can voice further suggestions on this subject to the end that from the collective expressions may emerge a workable classification of Masonic literature.
Bibliography
"A. L. A. Books and Pamphlets," issued by the American Library Association, 50 E. Huron Street, Chicago, Illinois. (A catalog of available material on libraries.)
"Classification of the Literature of Freemasonry and Related Societies," by William L. Boyden. (Sold at one dollar by the Supreme Council, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Southern Masonic Jurisdiction, 1735 Sixteenth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C.)
"Introduction to Cataloguing and Classification of Books," by Margaret Mann. (Second Edition, 1948.)
"Masonic Libraries," issued by the Masonic Service Association, 700 Tenth Street Northwest, Washington, D.C. (Issued in 1937, price fifty cents. It gives the result of a questionnaire sent to each Grand Lodge in the United States for information on their libraries.)
"How to Organize a Library,'' by Zana K. Miller. (Supplied by Remington Rand, Inc., New York City 10, N. Y., at no charge.)
"A System of Card Membership Records for Masonic Bodies and a Scheme of Classification for Masonic Books," by Frank J. Thompson. (Published in 1908 by the Grand Lodge, A.F. & A.M., of the State of North Dakota.)
"Guide to the Cataloguing of the Serial Publications of Societies and Institutions," by Harriett Wheeler, which includes a statement by George M. Churchill on Masonic books. (Issued by the Superintendent of Documents, Washington 26, D.C., at 26 cents per copy. )
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New Members
Norman C. Dutt; Berkeley, California (Recommended by Gabriel Ruscitti, M.P.S.)
J. Curtis Hines; Santa Monica, California (Recommended by Harold H. Kinney, M.P.S.)
Jerome B. Rosen; Los Angeles, California (Recommended by Walter A. Quincke, F.P.S.)
Arthur L. Simcox; Chicoutimi, Canada (Recommended by Charles E. Holmes, F.P.S.)
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The Philalethes - February, 1961; Volume 6, Number 2. - Walter A. Quincke, F.P.S., Editor. The official publication of The Philalethes Society, 274 South Burlington Avenue, 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 solicited or accepted. - When requesting a change of address, give the old as well as the new addresses, including your postal zone number, if you have such. Annual subscription, in the U.S.A., $3.00; elsewhere, $4.00, payable in advance. The columns of "The Philalethes" are reserved for the literary contributions of the Fellows and Members of the 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.
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Books and Pamphlets Received
"Collectanea," Volume 4, Part 3, 1950; Ritual of The Martinist Order, translated from the French by John Black Vrooman, F.P.S. Published by The Grand College of Rites of the United States of America.
"Proceedings" (1960) of the 160th Annual Communication, The Grand Lodge, F. & A. M., of New Jersey.
"Annals" (1949), Volume 3, Part 4, Grand Council of The Allied Masonic Degrees of the United States of America.
"Heroldo," Volume 15. October, 1960; Universal League of Freemasons; The Hague, Holland.
"Die Kette," November, and December, 1960; Vereinigte Grossloge in Berlin, Germany.
"Alpina," December, 1960. Official monthly publication, Grand Lodge ALPINA, Geneva, Switzerland.
"California Masonic Centennial," 1850-1960; Grand Lodge of California, F. & A.M., October 9-13, 1960; San Francisco. California.
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A WORD FROM THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
TO THE MEMBERSHIP OF "THE PHILALETHES SOCIETY"
President's Message:
PROGRESSIVE organizations find it profitable to take annual inventory -modernity requires it, steady progress depends on it, and sound judgment demands it. At inventory time, tried and tested ideas are retained, fresh plans are devised, while shop-worn views are discarded.
The Philalethes Society has grown year by year, but it still requires additional members not only to replace those who have entered the Eternal Grand Lodge, but to broaden its scope of usefulness and inculcate principles which will continue to appeal to brethren of noble mind. Any Society, whether it be local or international, exists because of more than one person. The one person may induce the spark to keep the machinery in motion, but the interaction of many make it what it should be.
The following figures illustrate our growth since inception:
1928 40
1935 87
1940 91
1945 94
1950 306
There is a constant need for leadership. To help carry forward the ideals which have been invoked for our activities, we are depending largely on the interlacing work of our Executive Committee, with our Fellows acting in an advisory capacity. However, the best public relations effort is in the hands of our general membership. If you inform your Masonic friends about the aims and purposes of The Philalethes Society, the famous Masons who were Fellows and what they have accomplished for the benefit of Freemasonry and Masonic Research, you may be surprised how many members of your Lodge will want to support and share in our activities.
While there are many Masons in foreign countries, worthy and well qualified to apply for membership in The Philalethes Society yet without the ability to remit in U.S.A. dollar funds, the Executive Committee has worked out a plan under which they can affiliate with us without undue hardship to themselves. Brother Charles E. Holmes, F.P.S., as the chairman of this plan, tells you all about it in his own message.
The library of our Society is growing and we hope to enlarge it from year to year. At present we own 63 volumes and this has been made possible through the generosity of some brethren who gave donations of books. An effort is now being made to obtain as many of the writings of our "departed" Fellows as may be possible, for example: "American Union Lodge of Marietta," by Charles S. Plumb; "Indian Masonry," by Robert C. Wright; Transactions of "The Masonic Study Society," of London, of which Sir Frederick Pollock was President; copies or volumes of the "Freemasons' Chronicle," formerly edited by A. W. Morgan; "Secret Traditions in Freemasonry,'' by Arthur Edward Waite; "North American Indian Lodges and Rites," by Herbert I. Callon; copies or volumes of "The Authors' Lodge Transactions," edited by Albert F. Calvert, of London; works by Rudyard Kipling, etc., etc. Donations of some of the foregoing volumes, new or used, as well as others of merit, will be deeply appreciated.
The Supreme Grand Master has seen fit to usher the following members into that Unseen Sanctuary where someday we hope to meet them again and enjoy their inspirational companionship:
Walter Joseph Young
Arthur John Kaglund
Sherman Spencer Smiley
Douchan Tomitch
Carl Abram Middaugh
David Parker Reese
Harry Preston Francis
Lee Arnold Richmond
J. Guthrie Ludlam
William Furman King
N.W.J. Haydon
As announced in the columns of "The Philalethes," only one member was elevated to Fellow in 1950 - Brother Dr. Ross Hepburn, of Christchurch, New Zealand. This proves that an election for a Fellowship is not lightly conferred. A Brother must have been and still be active in Freemasonry in general and The Philalethes Society in particular to merit consideration and, if elected, he becomes a member of the inner circle of the Society which contributes to its continuance. Brother Hepburn is doing his utmost to introduce The Philalethes Society into New Zealand, Australia, and Tasmania, and will supply us with Masonic news from these jurisdictions.
There has been considerable correspondence in regard to By-Laws or Regulations, and the propriety of "Masterpieces."
Other than the Eligibility for Membership requirements, fees, dues, aims, purposes, and administration of The Philalethes Society, as published in "The Informant," we have no By-Laws, because we deem them irrelevant at the present time. We have no aspiration for a large membership and this we shall limit among the most qualified Masons in their respective jurisdictions. Fellows and Members do not consider any personal benefits they may derive from their membership in our Society, excepting the association with others who are striving to diffuse Masonic light and truth. For this we do not need By-Laws or Regulations.
It has been a tradition since our inception that "Masterpieces" are, for obvious reasons, something apart from the run of ordinary articles submitted to us for publication in our official literature. They must remain therefore the exclusive property of the Society and are not subject for re-printing, even in a condensed form, by any Craft paper, here or abroad.
Your communications expressing personal satisfaction and complimenting us on the material published in "The Philalethes," and "Miscellanea," are appreciated. Many of our articles and quotations have been reprinted by well-known Craft magazines, including "The Indiana Freemason," edited by Laurence R. Taylor, M.P.S.; "Oregon Mason," Elbert Bede, F.P.S., Editor; "Oklahoma Mason," Ralph S. Brown, M.P.S., Editor; "Masonic Light" (Canada), Charles E. Holmes, F.P.S., Editor; "The Masonic World" (Michigan), J. Fairbairn Smith, F.P.S., Editor; "New Zealand Craftsman"; "Die Drei Lichter" (Germany); "South African Masonic World and Journal," William Moister, F.P.S., Editor; "Los Angeles Scottish Rite Bulletin," Reynold E. Blight, F.P.S., Editor; "La Chaine d'Union," (France), Edmond C. Gloton M.P.S., Editor; "The Cable-Tow" (Philippines), Dr. Mauro Baradi, M.P.S., Editor; "Le Symbolisme" (France), Marius Lepage, F.P.S., Editor; "Algemeen Maconniek Tijdschrift" (Holland), J. G. Slothouwer, M.P.S., Editor; and "Masonic Historiology," Allister J. McKowen, F.P.S., Editor-Publisher.
Volume VI, of "The Philalethes," began with the January, 1951, issue, and a renewed declaration of policy seems in order.
We believe it should be said that "The Philalethes" does not offer special rates or premiums, and is not in search of mass-patronage or power. Only a limited quantity of each issue is published and over-print copies are not sent helter-skelter through the mails accompanied by subscription blanks. If our readers are impressed with the published material and, in consequence, favor us with gift subscriptions and renewals, such action insures firmer Masonic relationship for all concerned.
The editors are not infallible or do not try to appear so. They are Masonic students and have their own interests, prepossessions, and prejudices. It is not possible to publish everything we receive and we must select what is of general interest. Controversial matter, Masonic "fantasy" or fiction is frowned upon. No advertising in any form is solicited or accepted. Book reviews are reported in all fairness. If a book has little value, we either say so or prefer not to waste space in reviewing it.
As has been said before, the magazine belongs to the members of the Society and it is at their service, within the limitations of space, as a medium of publishing their papers on elementary or advanced subject-matters, and in respect to all this our sole policy is to be impartial. No guarantees can be made for the "immediate" release of any article, no matter how valuable, because the publication schedule is worked out months ahead of issue. We insist, however, that after accepting articles and spending valuable time on editing them, the same articles are not submitted elsewhere because their respective authors seem impatient to see them in print.
Bound Volumes of "The Philalethes" may be ordered at the following rates, subject to availability:
Volume 1 (8 issues) $10.00 each
Volume 2 (6 issues) 8.00 each
Volume 3 (8 issues) 6.00 each
Volume 4 (8 issues) 5.00 each
Advance orders are now accepted for bound sets of Volume 5, at $5.00 each.
No separate issues of Volumes 1 and 2 are available. Back issues of Volumes 3, 4, and 6, are sold at seventy-five (75) cents per copy, postpaid. Unbound and complete sets of Volumes 3, 4, and 5 (8 issues, each), are available for a limited time at $3.00 each, postpaid. Remittance, made payable in favor of The Philalethes Society, to accompany all orders, at par at Los Angeles.
It cannot be emphasized too strongly that "The Philalethes" is invaluable for Libraries, Masonic or otherwise, Masonic Study Clubs, Lecturers, Students, and for general reference purposes.
The Philalethes "Index," covering Volumes 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, has been published and a copy will be mailed free of charge to any Freemason interested in same.
We published two issues of "Miscellanea" - April and November - which found ready acceptance. With your cooperation we hope to improve this new feature or augment the number of issues per year, providing we are not limited by restrictions due to our National Emergency, in force since December 16, 1950.
Because ample stocks were on hand of the 1949 edition of "The Informant," a 1950 edition was not published. The 1951 edition, however, is now in print and should reach you simultaneous with this issue of "The Philalethes."
The condition of The Philalethes Society from a financial aspect is good. The message of our Secretary-Treasurer, Brother Allister J. McKowen, includes a financial statement for 1960. Our Vice-Presidents, Brothers Lee Edwin Wells, and Charles Ernest Holmes, enlighten you further on our work.
During 1950 it was my privilege to meet many of our members; men of local and national importance, and leaders in business spheres and fraternal groups. Whenever you are in or near Los Angeles, you are cordially invited to phone DUnkirk 7-3679, or meet us at 274 South Burlington Avenue for a "shop-talk" or social visit.
1951 now calls us to rededicate ourselves in the service of Masonry and rise to the needs of the hour; to help strengthen the chain of union between Freemasons of the different countries and Masonic Jurisdictions; to attract intelligent Masons to The Philalethes Society and imbue them with a love for Masonic knowledge; to embrace Faith in our V.S.L. Hope for the future, and Love for one and another as the fundamentals of true brotherhood and as basic things that make life worth living; to commission Freemasons everywhere to qualify as "living stones" of society and contribute toward its betterment.
There are only twenty-six letters in the English alphabet, and they are capable of an infinite variety of arrangement. Yet things may be said and done this year that may decide the destiny of the world for a thousand years. By the same token, the minutes and hours that await us in the coming months offer almost limitless opportunities. A year from now they will be gone; but the way we have used them will be forever stamped upon the Tablets of Eternity, and the effect of even the simplest or smallest deed will reverberate down through the years.
Just as sure as there is a Divine power controlling and directing all things, so will Freemasonry emerge from the present anxious hours better and nobler because of its labors for the Craft, our country and humanity.
WALTER A. QUINCKE, F.P.S.
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First Vice-President's Message
THIS IS BEING written at a critical moment in the nation's and the world's history, and a grave moment for all Freemasons everywhere. At a time when the Chinese Communists have taken the world to the very brink of another holocaust, there is room only for profound thought. I think of the Greater and Lesser Lights that have steadily been extinguished over the past three decades; I think of the recently formed Grand Lodge of China, born so bravely just two years ago.
Perhaps by the time this is in print and you are reading it, the crisis may have passed. But the great menace will be with us, even so. We must soberly look back and evaluate our Fraternity and ourselves. We must honestly weigh the value of our ideals and of our fraternity and squarely face the part we have played in it.
Are we "pin" Masons ? Do we reel that we can face persecution, perhaps death, as so many of our brethren have done before, for the basic ideas and ideals of our Fraternity? Or will we abandon it, since - to us - it was only another social aspect of our lives?
Some three years ago, I tried very hard in a speech delivered to a Lodge at Oxnard, California, to point ahead to this very problem that seems so close upon us now. I begged that new members, and old as well, be given a thorough grounding in the traditions and history of our Craft, that they may learn something more of its Symbols. Otherwise, we weaken ourselves; we may have many members but few followers, many "pin" wearers, but few living stones that have made our Fraternity great. I am afraid that my warning fell on deaf ears.
However, over the country, there has been a healthy though slow growth in this very direction. Many Grand Lodges and local Lodges have come to see that the conferring of Degrees and memory work are not enough. Reports coming to The Philalethes Society of the increase in Masonic Study Clubs and Lodge activities are encouraging.
During the past year as a part of our Society's service to its members we have tried to bring to your attention several books worthy of your time and study. We have also, though seldom in the Book Review column of "The Philalethes", tried to eliminate those publications that were, at worst, unsound from the viewpoint of history and research, or fined with "fantasy." There were those, too, that were merely a "rehash" of many other writers, both good and bad. Some of these are worthy as elementary texts, but many more of them are hardly worth the time of reading. Some of the former we have already reviewed and will continue to endorse. The second kind needs no further consideration.
A series of letters exchanged with Brother Edmond C. Gloton, M.P.S., of Paris, France, brought out very clearly that there is little understanding by Continental Masons of the American system and way of thought. Nor does the American Mason fully understand his European brother. As a first step, an article on "American Freemasonry" was written by me and appeared in "La Chaine d'Union," of Paris. It has since been translated into the Dutch and was published by our contemporary, "Algemeen Maconniek Tydschzrift," edited by Brother Jacques G. Slothouwer, M.P.S., Voorschoten, Holland. We are hopeful that some European brother will reciprocate with an article explaining his Masonry to us.
To each of you I extend my thanks and that of The Philalethes Society for your support during the past years. With your continued good will, no matter how small it may seem to you, we will enlarge our scope and become a vital factor in welding a truly world-wide fraternity, worthy of our loyalty, our love and our utmost effort.
LEE EDWIN WELLS. F.P.S.
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Second Vice-President's Message
THE RESPONSE to my appeal to our foreign members for Masonic news in their respective countries has been surprisingly great. Not only from continental Europe, but from practically every Masonic jurisdiction the whole world over have come the most interesting letters telling about Freemasonry in those far-away countries, proving (if I needed proof to convince me) that Freemasonry is universal. As a result our problem is not finding items to fill the space allotted to me for my column "Freemasonry in Foreign Lands," but boiling down my 'copy' so as not to extend beyond reasonable bounds. Speaking for myself and the Society, I express sincere thanks to all who have so generously responded, and will appreciate of course your continued co-operation.
In view of the fact that in these troubled times many of the members of The Philalethes Society live in countries where there are restrictions imposed on the export of currency, we have seriously studied the problem of keeping them in the fold, without their having to accumulate a debt or violate the laws of their respective countries.
The Executive Committee has therefore tentatively decided to accept in payment of any indebtedness due the Society, books or booklets for or against Freemasonry, whether they deal with Philosophy, Ritualism, or any other phase of the Craft irrespective of the language in which they have been printed. This documentation will either be added to our own Reference Library or sold to our members. Books, pamphlets, etc., may be new or used - in fact, we would prefer second hand books, if in good condition, particularly in the older editions.
We leave to our foreign brethren the responsibility of fixing their own valuation of the books they intend to send us, since we do not propose to follow the stock exchange valuation of the American dollar.
This is a generous offer, since the administrative expenses of our Society, like everything else on this side of the Atlantic, have skyrocketed to the point where we find it difficult to make both ends meet. This plan should facilitate the problem of maintaining membership for our foreign colleagues until economic conditions will no longer interfere with nor adversely affect the universal character of our Craft.
The plan is not available to members living in the Dominion of Canada, Hawaii, the Philippines, or the Republic of Panama, and it shall not affect foreign members, new or old, who have financial connections in the United States of America, or can remit by postal or express money orders, or in form of draft on an American Bank.
CHARLES ERNEST HOLMES, F.P.S.
* * *
THE FINANCIAL condition of The Philalethes Society during the year 1950, in comparison to previous years, was good, notwithstanding a decline of income during the last quarter period. My report gives the funds received from and the requisitions presented by President Quincke, over whose desk flows all the income of the Society.
While there were eleven deaths and six members failed to answer our roll call, we elected forty-seven new members. We sold some bound volumes and quite a number of extra copies of "The Philalethes," and it is hoped that our members will continue to help increase our income by the purchase of additional bound volumes and extra copies.
Notwithstanding the gradual rise in the cost of everything dues for 1951 remain at three (3) dollars per member. Let us assist the work by paying promptly, as this will permit better budgeting for the year as well as allowing a clean-up of the chore of recording and mailing dues cards.
I've said this before and will say it again: If there are any members in a position to make substantial donations during 1951, kindly come forward and make it known. You have had plenty of evidence that sound judgment is the keynote of this administration and all funds are expended wisely, to better serve you.
The beginning of a new year is always a good time to check up on ourselves. Let us go forward, then, with a firm resolve that 1951 will bring us nearer to our goal.
Income
Bank Balance, January 1, 1950 $ 371.04
Entrance Fees from New Members 94.00
Dues from Membership 765.00
Subscriptions to "The Philalethes" 104.10
Sale of Bound Volumes and Extra
Copies of "The Philalethes" 205.90
Donations 235.91
Total $1,776.96
Disbursements
Postage and Express $ 272.44
Cuts 164.16
Office Supplies and Stationery 88.24
Paper and Printing "The Philalethes"
(8 issues) 671.00
Paper and Printing "The Index"
(500 copies) 58.00
Paper and Printing "Miscellanea"
(2 issues) 58.00
Binding Volumes 1, 2, 3, and 485.90
Miscellaneous 34.77
Bank Balance, December 31, 1950 343.44
Total $1,776.96
ALLISTER J. McKOWEN. F.P.S.
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Accolade
As the librarian of the Oakland Bodies; Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Oakland, California, I consider "The Philalethes" one of the most worth-while publication which has come to my attention. - David R. Lane
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SHERWOOD VINCENT WESTLAKE, M.P.S.
BROTHER WESTLAKE was born at Winthrop, Massachusetts August 16, 1896. He comes from a long line of New England worthies and numbers among his forbears Jonathan Belcher, the first native-born American Colonist to be made a Mason (in London in 1704), and Arthur Edward Waite, the distinguished Masonic scholar and Fellow of The Philalethes Society.
His father was an officer in the United States Army. He was a Mason, affiliated with a number of Masonic Bodies.
Our Brother was a student in various schools and was graduated from the Portland (Maine) High School, in 1916, and from Pratt Institute (Brooklyn, New York) in 1918. He started his career in the United States Navy and then became associated with the General Electric Company at Lynn, Massachusetts. In 1920 he removed to Newark, New Jersey, and became associated with the Westinghouse Electric & Manufacturing Company, where he attained the position of Construction Progress Engineer. For the past thirteen years he has been connected with the Public Service Electric & Gas Company as Engineering Accountant.
Brother Westlake was married in 1918 to the former Ina May Trott, and from this union came two children - Philip Radcliffe Westlake and Mrs. Shirley Elaine Westlake Buell.
Our Brother has done a considerable amount of writing for publication, both in the field of technical engineering and on religious and philosophical subjects. He is a member of the Universalist Church and has served as a member of the Board of Directors of the Essex County, New Jersey, Council of Churches.
In Freemasonry Brother Westlake found an outlet for his interests and ability. He was made a Mason in St. John's Lodge No. 1, F. & A. M., Newark, New Jersey, in 1924, served the Lodge for ten years as Chaplain and for seven years as Editor of the Lodge Trestle Board.
In 1949 he was exalted in Harmony Chapter No. 9, Royal Arch Masons, Newark, and is currently serving the Chapter as Chaplain and as Editor of its Trestle Board.
His other Masonic affiliations include membership in Zerubbabel Council No. 16, Royal and Select Masters; Grand Master's Council "A," Allied Masonic Degrees; New Ark Council No. 25, U. D., A.M.D., which he is serving us Secretary; New Jersey College, Societas Rosicruciana in Civitatibus Foederatis (Masonic Rosicrucian); Grand College of Rites of the United States of America; Order of the Bath of the United States of America; Correspondence Circle, Quatuor Coronati Lodge No. 2076, London, England, and Public Service Square Club, of which he is Secretary. He was elected to membership in The Philalethes Society on January 31, 1949.
Brother Westlake has given many addresses on Masonic subjects in his own Lodge and Chapter and in other Lodges and Chapters. Like all sincere Masons, he is constantly seeking more Light in Masonry that he may build aright the Temple of the Soul.
Charles G. Reigner, F.P.S.
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By V. M. BURROWS, M.P.S.
Long Beach, California
YOU CANNOT altogether determine what shall be put before your mind in the course of a day; but it is part of every person's business in life to determine what shall stay in his mind, and to decide that only that shall stay which makes his life advance definitely to something larger and finer.
Every man has a kingdom. Your kingdom is your own inner being, the kingdom of mind and soul. You can fill that kingdom with thoughts and emotions which fight with one another and with your finer self, or with thoughts and emotions which work together for the fulfillment of your greater possibilities.
One of the first lessons taught in the First Degree of Masonry is that you should learn to subdue your passions and improve yourself in Masonry.
The person who wants for his inner companion a self that has poise and strength and loveliness and adventurous aspiration and spiritual potency cultivates the habit of communing with bigness and strength. He keeps under his hand some book that stimulates the mind and soul to greatness, and feeds himself upon it daily. He takes pains to put himself in the way of emotions that are liberating and greatening, and invites them to take up their abode within him. He develops strong desire for greatness of the inner man, and makes that desire for bigness of soul the passion of his life. He makes growth, and still more growth, the desire of his heart as long as he lives. He unites himself with the creative Soul of the Universe, and with that Soul he pursues an onward way.
The Mason who is thus directing his life will get a new inspiration and learn a new interpretation of symbolism each time that he attends his Iodge or witnesses the conferring of a degree. The oldest teaching of philosophy is "Seek and Ye shall find."
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January 18 was Benjamin Franklin's birthday. His scheme of-life is rarely Published; however, it is interesting:
"To endeavor to speak truth in every instance, to give nobody expectations that are not likely to be fulfilled, to aim at sincerity in every word and deed.
"To apply myself industriously to whatever business I take in hand, and not divert my mind from my business by any foolish project of growing suddenly rich; for industry and patience are the surest means of plenty.
"I resolve to speak ill of no man, not even in a matter of truth, but rather by some means excuse the fault that I hear charged upon others, and, upon proper occasions, speak all the good I know of everybody."
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The mission of Freemasonry is love, sympathy, benevolence, and justice. and these qualities of mind and heart should ever be finding expression in the life of every Mason. - Cliffe West.
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The Losses Suffered By German Freemasonry In Eastern Europe
By Dr. Gottlieb Imhof, M.P.S., in "Alpine," September-October, 1950, Switzerland
(Translated from the German by Frank H. Reinsch, M.P.S., Los Angeles, California)
FREEDOM OF the spirit and tolerance of the opinions of others which it engenders have always been hated by absolutist regimes and, consequently, political as well as ecclesiastical despots have tried to suppress them. When the totalitarian systems arose in the twentieth century, which in many respects might be called the century of eclipse, Freemasons far and wide were subjected to persecution. In Nazi Germany the lights in the temples were extinguished, and in all the states occupied by the Germans, Freemasonry was brutally suppressed. When at last the millennial dream was over, the brethren could once again contact each other, collect their scattered working tools, and begin the restoration of Masonic activity in the cities destroyed by the war. In spite of tremendous difficulties, this work was successful, and as much as a year ago, the United Grand Lodge of Germany was established in aviation with members of the formerly existing German Grand Lodges, except those of the Grand Lodge of Germany, Christian Order, in Berlin (Grosse Landesloge von Deutschland, Christlicher Orden). This amalgamation marks the fulfillment of the dream which German Masons have cherished for a century and it can not be over-estimated.
Now, that a year has passed, while German Masons joyfully recall this event, they also grieve over the severe losses which Freemasonry has suffered in the East, in all the areas which are now under Russian domination. Our Contemporary, "Die Drei Lichter" (The Three Lights), published in its May, 1960, number a tabulation of the Lodges in eastern Germany which have gone from labor to refreshment, dedicating that issue to them in reverence for their great past. When we visualize how far west the Russian occupation extends, we will understand the pain which the German brethren feel, for many of the 214 Lodges closed in the Russian zone are old and highly respected. Nine of them were established during the first half of the eighteenth century: "Zu den drei Schwestern," in Dresden (1738); "Minerva," in Leipzig (1741); "Charlotte zu den drei Nelken," in Meiningen (1741); "Archimedes zu den drei Reissbrettern," in Altenburg (1742); "Zu den drei Degen," in Halle (a.S.) (1743); "Zu den drein Kronen " in Koenigsberg (1746); "Karl August zu den drei Rosen," in Jena (1746); "Zu den drei Hammern," in Halberstadt (1746); and "Zu den drei Hammern," in Naumburg (1749). Thirty-two Lodges date from the second half of the eighteenth century.
Arranged according to states, we present the following picture:
Lodges
East Prussia, Danzig, etc. 21
Pommerania and Mecklenburg 20
Silesia 31
Brandenburg 33
Saxony 49
Saxony-Anhalt 37
Thurinzia 23
Total 214
Among these is "Amalia" Lodge, in Weimar, in which Johann Wolfgang von Goethe saw the light of Freemasonry.
Aside from the aforementioned Lodges, there are 106 localities where Masonic Clubs or Groups existed. We must not forget the following which ceased to labor:
German Lodges in Czechoslovakia 22
German Lodges in Poland 14
Total 36
All told, therefore, 250 German-speaking Masonic Lodges fell victim to the totalitarian system.
In Luebeck, moreover, "Zum Fuellhorn" Lodge is no longer working.
We should not close this brief survey, however, without recalling to mind the words of the famous Protestant pastor Johann Heinrich Draeske, spoken in Luebeck in the year 1809: "They can indeed destroy this temple, but not the structure of our hearts. They can prevent our meeting together, but not our unity of spirit. They can keep us from calling ourselves Masons, but not from being Masons. l greet Thee, Temple of Masonry! When all else lies in chains, Thou art the only sanctuary upon the desolated earth."
So Mote It Be!
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It is an undoubted truth that the less one has to do, the less time one finds to do it in. One yawns, one procrastinates, one con do it when one will, and therefore one seldom does it at all; whereas, those who hove a great deal of business must buckle to it; and they always find time enough to do it.
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By CHARLES E. HOLMES, F.P.S.
Montreal, Canada
Argentina - President Peron's subsidized press has been printing violent attacks against Masonry which "uses the Lodges under the Grand Orient of the United States" (sin) to foster plots against Peron, claiming that these Lodges under the "Grand Orient of the United States" were controlled by Wall Street!
It is queer how fascist arguments are similar to those of communists when it come to combating Masonry. The Grand Orient does dominate Argentina Masonry, but the Grand Orient is of continental European inspiration and there are only two or three Lodges under its auspices on the whole North American continent, none of these big enough to influence the interest of 'Wall Street', especially since the membership of these Lodges includes mostly foreign-born Masons!
Germany - The Prince Hall Grand Lodge of New Jersey has dispensated a Lodge at Kitzingen, to be known as "Sojourner Overseas," and be composed of Prince Hall Masons in the various American Prince Hall jurisdictions, and of course, new initiates. This group was originally a Masonic Club but decided to do regular Masonic labor, so became a full-fledged Lodge on June 23, 1950. It meets in Masonic Hall, a G.Y.A. (German Youth Association) Building in Kitzingen. Its very first act after being instituted was to donate 150 Deutsche Marks (about $37.70) to the G.Y.A. center to send ten under-privileged German children to a summer camp, a gesture which was greatly appreciated.
Sweden - King Gustav V, of Sweden, who died recently has been succeeded as hereditary head of Freemasonry in Sweden by Crown Prince Gustav Adolf. It is a long established to addition that the Sovereign of the Swedish realm is exofficio Grand Master of Sweden, while the Crown Prince is his Deputy - and thus the new King (Gustav VI) is now the Grand Master of Masonry.
China - From Hong Kong comes the news that the Communistic government of China has officially recognized International Freemasonry as an authorized body in the Republic. This is lather surprising when we know the attitude adopted by Moscow towards our Craft .... going so far as to forbid members of the Communist party from becoming members of the Order in those countries where the Russian ideology does not dominate. We shall await developments with the greatest curiosity.
Australia - Following the usual practice of holding one of the Grand Lodge Communications each year on the Goldfields, the August Communication was held in the Masonic Temple, Kalgoorlie, Western Australia, on August 17, 1950, at which the M. W. Grand Master, Dr. J. S. Battye, occupied the Throne. being supported in the East by the deputy Grand Master, R. W. Brother J. A. Ellis, R. W. Brother W. C. Harris, P.D.G.M., and a large number of Grand Officers, present and past, several of whom made the long journey from the coast for the occasion.
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Each day Is an opportunity to make the most of life.
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Oh Light that followest all my way,
I yield my flickering torch to Thee
My heart restores its borrowed ray,
That in thy sunshines glow
Its day may brighter, fairer be.
WILLIAM FURMAN KING, M.P.S.
Brother Wm. Furman King, born at Savannah, Georgia, July 1, 1893, died suddenly on November 7, 1950. Funeral services were conducted at the Sippe Mortuary, the Rev. Leroy G. Cleverdon Ph.D. of the First Baptist Church, officiating, with interment at the Bonaventure Cemetery. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Louise Jennings King; three daughters, Frances King, Leila King, and Mrs. William T. Sullivan, Jr.; one grandchild; a brother, Edwin D. King, and two uncles, J. Reed Sweat, and Allan Sweat.
Our Brother was prominently identified with fraternal and veterans affairs. He saw the Light of Masonry July 12, 1918, in Solomon's Lodge No. 1, F. & A. M., Savannah, Georgia, and served as its Worshipful Master. He was a Past Grand lIl. Master of the Grand Council, R. & S. M., of Georgia; Past High Priest of Georgia Chapter No. 3, R.A.M.; Past Commander of Palestine Commandery No. 7, K.T.; an honorary member of Brunswick Chapter No. 66 A.A.M.; a Thirty-Second Degree Mason in Richard T. Nunn Consistory; Past Grand King of the Grand Chapter R.A.M. of Georgia; Chief Rabban of Alee Temple A.A.O.N.M.S.; Treasurer for Georgia Chapter No. 3 R.A.M. and Georgia Council No. 2 R. & S.M. and a charter member of the Masonic Research Lodge of Savannah Georgia. He was elected to membership in The Philalethes Society in 1946 upon the recommendation of Rabbi Hirsh Geffen F.P.S.
Brother King was also a member of Savannah Aerie No. 330 Fraternal Order of Eagles; a Past Senior Counselor of Savannah Council No. 336 United Commercial Travelers; an active member of the Board of Directors of the aera Council of the Boy Scouts of America and a past president of the Savannah Rifle Association.
A veteran of World War I Brother King was a member of the 61 st Battalion Coast Artillery and served in France as a lieutenant with the 4th French Mortar Battalion.
During World War II and since the outbreak of hostilities in Korea he served as chairman of Savannah draft boards as well as chairman of the Selective Service Board.
William Furman King was one of Savannah's best-known citizens. He devoted most of his life to the real estate business becoming associated with A. F. King & Co. established by his father. He was a former city alderman and at the time of his death he served as secretary to the commissioner of the city police department.
(signed) ALLISTER J. McKOWEN
Secretary
"The Philalethes Society"
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The above is a photographic reproduction of the features of George Washington carved out of rock by Sculptor Gutzon Borglum on the face of Mount Rushmore in the Black HiIIs of South Dakota.
WHAT would Washington do or say today? The question is often asked. It can never be answered precisely. In accepting the presidency, Washington minimized his talents, saying he was "without that competency of political skill, abilities and inclination which are necessary to manage the helm."
But he did make a pledge to the American people.
"Integrity and firmness are all I can promise. These be the voyage Iong or short, shall never forsake me, although I may be deserted by all men."
INTEGRITY and firmness were all he promised, but these were enough to pull the young Republic through in those frail, uncertain, tenuous years.
North Carolina had not yet ratified the Constitution, Rhode lsland declared it never would, when Washington was inaugurated.
Vermont was even then trying to negotiate separate recognition at London.
It needed Washington’s firmness and integrity to make the foundations of the Republic solid, on which to build a permanent and lasting Democracy.
IN THE past few years passages from the Farewell Address have been much quoted. Two sentences stand out: " 'Tis our true and settled policy to steer clear of permanent alliances with any portion of the foreign world." "Taking care always to keep ourselves by suitable establishments, on a respectable defensive posture, we may safely trust to temporary alliances for extraordinary emergencies."
What would Washington do today? We may dispute the words he left us, and over their application today. But we can be certain that today, as in the early days of the Republic, Washington would give us the same pledge: "Integrity and firmness are all I can promise. These, be the voyage Iong or short, shall never forsake me, although I may be deserted by all men. ''