The Philalethes

December,1956

Volume IX Number 6

Contents

A Message from the President Freemasonry in Free China

Seven Active Members Elected as Fellows Chat and Comment

THE MAN YOU LIKE Doctrine of the Perfect Youth

Elbert Bede Visits Philalethes Groups Our Masonic Contract

The Star of Bethlehem, the Symbol of Christmas The Hamilton Bi-Centennial

The Most Worshipful Grand Master of Masons RECOMMENDED MASONIC READING

Melchizedek Suggested Procedure For Masonic Study

Published bimonthly at

Franklin, Indiana

THE PHILALETHES SOCIETY,

JOHN BLACK VROOMAN, F.P.S.,

Editor

P. O. Box 402, St. Louis, Mo.

ALPHONSE CERZA, President, 130 Akenside Road, Riverside. Illinois.

DR. WILLIAM MOSELEY BROWN, First Vice President, Box 276, Elon College, North Carolina

ELBERT BEDE, Second Vice President, 2316 N. E. 42nd Avenue, Portland 13, Oregon

JOHN BLACK VROOMAN, Executive Sec'y. and Editor, P.O. Box 402, St. Louis, Missouri

DELBERT C. JOHNSON, Treasurer, P. O. Box 332, Rolla, Missouri

PUBLICATION COMMITTEE

A. L. WOODY, F.P.S., 3502 Wesley Avenue, Berwyn, Illinois.

EDWARD J. FRANTA, F.P.S., Langdon, North Dakota.

LAURENCE R. TAYLOR, F.P.S., c/o The Indiana Freemason, Franklin, Indiana

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A Message from the President

by Alphonse Cerza, F.P.S. (Ill.)

WITH THIS ISSUE of our magazine we come to the end of the year 1956. This has been a successful year for the Society. Our net membership has increased, members in a few areas have met to exchange ideas, and the correspondence between members has increased materially. All indications are that the Society will continue to prosper in the years to come. The success of the Society in recent years has been due to the work of all the officers and many members working harmoniously for the benefit of the entire Society.

It has been a long time since the Society has issued The Informant. a pamphlet with a short history about the Society and containing a list of the names and addresses of all the members. This was always of help to the members in finding persons with whom to communicate on matters of mutual interest. It is hoped that we can publish The Informant early next year. Every member is urged to pay his 1957 dues early to insure his name being printed in this booklet.

It is my suggestion that during the next few months the Society have as its slogan "Every Member Get a Member." If we can double our membership in the early part of 1957 your officers and committees can increase the number of pages of the magazine and may be able to publish an additional issue or two. There is also the possibility of being able to publish longer articles. When finances permit, your officers would like to publish a book containing all the "masterpieces" published in the Society's magazine. In order to do this it is necessary for all the Fellows of the Society who have not sent in their "masterpieces" to do so as soon as possible.

The matter of securing new members is a job in which the entire membership must take a part. You can help in many ways. For example. invite the Masonic student, speaker, or writer in your community to join. Or send the names and addresses of prospective members to Brother Ed. Sadowski, 6930 Medill Avenue, Chicago, Illinois. and he will do the rest. By recommending the Society to your Masonic friends you are helping the Society in its growth, you help the new member by making the material of the Society available to him, you help yourself by assuring the increase in the amount of material you will receive from the Society. You might also consider the giving of subscriptions as gifts to your Lodge, a sick Brother, a new Mason, and a Brother to whom you wish to give a gift on a special occasion.

This year it was announced that a Certificate of Literature would be presented to the author of the best article appearing in our magazine in 1956. It is hoped that the committee will make its decision early enough so that the Certificate can be presented early in 1957 and the name of the person receiving it announced in our next issue.

During the past few years the Society has enjoyed success because of the interest taken in its work by many Masons. The officers are grateful to the many members who have worked on the various committees as well as the work and suggestions of many members of the Society. Let us pray that this spirit may continue to exist so that the Society may continue to spread Masonic light throughout the world.

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Freemasonry in Free China

by HUGO V. PRUCHA, M.P.S.

THE M.W.G.M. LOOKED at the eleven men standing before him, half of them Chinese and half of them Americans, and said. "Do you still desire to reactivate Pearl River Lodge No. 3 ?" All eleven men nodded in assent. Thereupon the M.W.G.M. proclaimed his order that the Lodge was to be re-activated and proceeded to put it into effect. He waited while the eleven elected their own officers and then personally installed them into office. And thus was re-born a Masonic Lodge which had suspended all activities because of the vicissitudes of a world-wide war, and which, in its independence of thought and action, could not have co-existence with two separate groups of tyrants, the Japanese and the Communists.

The place was Taipei, Taiwan. The time was January 21, 1956. The occasion was a special meeting of the Grand Lodge of China. There were 50 Masons in attendance, divided almost equally between Chinese and Americans. No other nationality was represented. At first it seemed strange that in Southeast Asia, where there are so many different races and nationalities and religions, only the Chinese and the Americans should be present to witness this bit of freedom in a troubled world. But it makes sense when one considers that only Nationalist China and the United States stand between the Free World and the envelopment of the whole of Asia by the Communists. So it was eminently fitting and proper that only these two peoples should re-activate this Lodge.

The M.W.G.M. was my good friend, T.F. Wei, affectionately known as "Charlie." who had been most kind to me since my arrival in Taiwan. One of the eleven before him was his own cousin, six years his senior, who was elected as Worshipful Master of the reborn Lodge. Another was a loyal and devoted Mason who was becoming a member of Pearl River for the third time. And although the M.W.G.M. because of his official capacity, could not answer his own question, which he had posed to the eleven, he too, was rejoining Pearl River, his Mother Lodge.

Pearl River Lodge has an interesting and varied history. It was originally instituted in the City of Canton on the mainland of China, under a charter from the Grand Lodge of the Philippines, which in turn had received its Masonry from the Grand Lodge of California. The Lodge prospered until the Japanese invasion of the mainland in 1941, when all Lodge activity was suspended. After the Japanese left the mainland in 1945, Pearl River Lodge was once again re-activated. In 1951 when the Communists over-ran the mainland, Lodge activity was again suspended and many of its members left the mainland for other lands. It remained inactive until the memorable occasion described above. Now it looks forward to years of uninterrupted activity and growth in a free country where government officials appreciate that a group of men with a firm belief in the existence of the Supreme Architect of the Universe, cannot destroy, but can only help to build the country and its people. Such is the history of Pearl River Lodge. Imagine, if you can, Orhan Lodge being completely inactive first for a period of three years and a short time later for a period of five years. Imagine, if you can, the many threads of different lives and activities which would be required to be brought together again.

The Grand Lodge of China has had its problems too. It was first organized in 1949 by representatives from six subordinate Lodges, located in the cities of Canton, Nanking, Szechuan, Shanghai and Hangehow, all chartered under the Grand Lodge of the Philippines. With the formation of the Grand Lodge of China each Lodge surrendered the charter which it had received from the Grand Lodge of the Philippines and received a new charter from the Grand Lodge of China. Pearl River Lodge was one of these. In 1951, because of the advances of the Communists, the M.W.G.M. Ordered the suspension of all Grand Lodge and of all subordinate Lodge activity. In 1953 when some of the former members were united once again in Taiwan, activities were resumed. In August, 1953, a charter was granted to Liberty Lodge, U.D., and in February, 1955. Amity Lodge No. 1, formerly of the City of Shanghai was re-activated. Another mainland Lodge is also about to be reactivated. The Grand Lodge of China has been recognized by 26 foreign Grand Jurisdictions.

It would be quite fair to ask, "How can a Lodge operate with only twelve members?" It is not easy. With four of the twelve members residing in Taipei, 180 miles away from the home city of the Lodge, it became even more difficult. The W.M. is one of these and will commute back and forth for each meeting. These twelve are determined that the Lodge will prosper and they have unbounded enthusiasm. They are assisted by the fact that Pearl River Lodge had a part of its assets, about $600, in foreign currency on deposit in a Hongkong bank when it ceased activities in 1951 and these assets are now available to the reactivated Lodge. Another helpful item is that the new Lodge already has 14 petitions. These will provide not only additional men to carry on the activities of the Lodge, but also a little cash. The fees for initiation are $45 and the annual dues are $15.

How did a Mason from the United States feel under these unusual surroundings? He felt right at home. The opening and closing ceremonies, the installation ceremony, the charges to the officers and members, the prayers, and the obligations were all so similar to the ritual which he knew so well that it was almost like listening to his own. The dignity and solemnity of the proceedings, the square corners, the earnestness of the officers were what he remembered of his own Lodge.

The first Masonic church service in Taiwan us as held the following morning in St. John's Episcopal Church. About 80 Masons in full regalia marched into the church and filled half of the pews. The sermon was delivered by the Reverend Ralph A. Ward, the Methodist Bishop of Hongkong and Deputy Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of China. In a most generous gesture, by the church, the morning's offering was equally divided between the building funds of the church and the Grand Lodge. And thus another "first" in the Masonic life of Free China was established.

Masonic life on the Island of Taiwan is simple and uncomplicated, but very busy. The three Lodges are conferring degree work every week. The Square Club and Shrine Club meet every month. The Scottish Rite group is trying to obtain a charter for a Lodge of Perfection. The Lodges have a total membership of about 150 members, but there are many Masons among the foreigners (Americans to you) on the island. There is no Masonic Temple - those on the mainland were lost to the Communists - but funds are now being raised for its construction. Little money is spent on printing or postage. Many notices are delivered personally. Entertainment at dinner is frequent and something from which the host derives the greatest pleasure. The hospitality at dinner is most generous, and is guaranteed to put at least two inches on the waistline of him who is unable to exercise that cardinal virtue of temperance.

Wherever Freemasons are permitted to meet there is always a large measure of freedom in religion, in education, in speech and in the press. These freedoms exist in Free China today. Freemasons everywhere must never forget that these freedoms are acquired only after great struggle, but are frequently lost through inertia and indifference. Freemasons everywhere must remember that the loss of these freedoms by others makes more possible the loss of their own freedoms. If Free China were to fall to the Communists today, all Chinese in Hongkong, Indonesia, Malaya, and even in the Philippines would be compelled, either through business or family ties to Support Communist China. Communism is forever putting forth its tentacles trying to grasp for its cause a piece of ground here, a group of people there, and trade advantages everywhere. Free China has been the main bulwark by which the advancement of Communist China throughout Asia has been prevented. It is therefore a matter of importance to Freemason everywhere that Freemasonry remain in Free China, and that Free China remain free.

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Seven Active Members Elected as Fellows

PRESIDENT ALPHONSE announces, through the Executive Secretary, the election, by ballot, and after nomination by the Committee on Fellows, Harold V. B. Voorhis, F.P.S. (Life) Chairman. of the following seven members of the Philalethes Society, as FELLOWS of the Society:

Dr. MELVIN M. JOHNSON (Massachusetts), RAY BAKER HARRIS (District of Columbia), Captain WILLIAM F. SPAULDING (England), WENDALL K. WALKER, (New York), JAMES R. CASE (Connecticut), McILYAR H. LICHLITER (Massachusetts), and HARRY W. BUNDY (Colorado).

Each of these Brethren has made a distinct contribution to Freemasonry in his own state, and each has done much for the welfare of the Philalethes Society and its aims and purposes. It is with a great deal of pleasure. therefore, that they are welcomed in their new capacity - as leaders of the Masonic students and contributors to Masonic information and progress.

RAY BAKER HARRIS, the Librarian of the Supreme Council, Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite Library, Washington, D.C., is Secretary of his Masonic Lodge, Potomac No. 3, of which he is a Past Master. He is Deputy Grand Master of the Grand Lodge, FAAM, of the District of Columbia, a member of a number of Masonic and allied groups, and one of the outstanding Masonic students of our era. He has his fingers on the pulse of Freemasonry, and available information to those who have need of his services.

Captain WILLIAM F. SPAULDING, a Past Master (twice), and present Secretary of Authors' Lodge No. 3456, London. Eng., is also the able editor of TRANSACTIONS of Authors' Lodge. He is PAGDC of the Grand Lodge, holds high rank in the Royal Arch Chapter, of which he is the Secretary, and has made valuable contributions to the activities of Craft and Capitular Masonry during his service with Authors' Lodge. Not as well-known to American Masons, he has, nevertheless, done much for the Philalethes Society as its Representative in the British Isles. He continues to maintain close contacts with India, Burma, China and the Far East, and is wellinformed on conditions in those countries.

WENDELL K. WALKER is the Librarian and Curator of the Library of the Grand Lodge F&AM of New York, which just recently celebrated its 175th anniversary. It was on this occasion that Brother Walker wrote a very outstanding brochure relative to that event, and made available another like brochure on the Treasures of the Grand Lodge of New York. A student, a soldier, a working Mason and a servant of the Craft, Brother Walker has endeared himself to those who, in time of need, have come to him for assistance in their Masonic research.

JAMES R. CASE, Grand Historian of the Grand Lodge. AF&AM of Connecticut, student of Masonic biography and hard-to-get Masonic history, and researcher after the identity of 18th century Freemasons. A Blue Friar, Honorary Masonic award, holder of the Pierpont Edwards Medal given for special service by the Grand Lodge of Connecticut, and numerous other gifts of distinction for his Masonic activities, Brother Case has done an outstanding job in his survey of the personnel of Freemasonry prior to 1800.

DR. MELVIN M. JOHNSON, Senior Past Grand Master of the Grand Lodge, AF & AM of Massachusetts, and Past Grand Commander of the Supreme Council, Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite, Northern Jurisdiction, is perhaps one of the world's outstanding Masons and leaders. No attempt is made to list his wide activities. Suffice to say that no man has had a wider influence among his Brethren than Dr. Johnson.

McILYAR H. LICHLITER, Prior of the Supreme Council, Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, and editor of News - Letter official publication of the Supreme Council, has been a minister, and now chairman of the Supreme Council Committee on Rituals and Ritualistic Matters. He conducts conferences on ritual and assists the Sovereign Grand Commander in visitations and Inter-Valley conferences and visits. As co-ordinator of the manifold activities of the Supreme Council, he has an important function to perform.

HARRY W. BUNDY, Honorary Past Grand Master, and Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge AF &AM of Colorado, Eminent Prior of Pikes' Peak Priory. Knights of the York Cross of Honour, and much interested in and active in the affairs of the so - called Allied Masonic Groups, meeting in Washington each year. His especial contribution has been in the field of Foreign Recognition of Grand Lodges, in which he has worked diligently. and to which he has made a great amount of necessary information. He has made continued and valuable contributions to The Philalethes magazine, and been responsible for several articles on Masonry in foreign lands which might otherwise have not been available to our readers.

We feel that in the election of these Brethren as Fellows of the Society. Masonry has been given a distinct impetus for greater activity and good. The election has brought the number of Fellows of the Society to thirty-nine, forty (the number of the 40 Immortals of the French Academy) being the maximum that tradition allows.

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Chat and Comment

Fellows and Members - Discussion and comment on Mutual Topics.

- Pfan Mail and Observations -

News, achievements and items of interest about our

Brother WARREN H. SMITH, M.P.S., has been elected and installed Grand Warder of the Grand Commandery Knights Templar of Ohio. Congratulations.

Brothers MILTON T. SONNTAG, M.P.S., and Presdee D. Morgan, M.P.S., were honored at the annual meeting of the Supreme Council. Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite, Northern Jurisdiction, by being crowned with the thirty-third degree. We are sincerely happy for these Brethren.

In Lake Erie Zephyrs, official publication of the Cleveland Scottish Rite bodies, is an interesting story, with pictures, of the meeting at which Brother ELBERT BEDE, F.P.S., was welcomed by the Cleveland Masons. Other members of the Society who took part are shown. We appreciate the fine publicity by the Ohio Brethren.

Brother FRANK H. WILSON, M.P.S. was chairman of the centennial committee which arranged the fine celebration, history and program are shown. We appreciate the fine on the occasion of the hundred-year activities of Wyoming Lodge, MeIrose, Massachusetts. The beautiful brochure and history produced by the Lodge is a valuable souvenier.

Several members of the Society were present at Alton, Illinois, at the reception for Brother FRED O. ELLIS, newly elected Grand Master of the Grand Council, Royal and Select Masters of Illinois, October 20, among them being George Wilbur Bell. M.P.S., Grand Commander of the Grand Commandery, Knights Templar of Illinois, Ralph S. Davis, M.P.S., Grand Marshal of the Grand Council of Illinois, and many others. Among those present on that occasion also, was Mrs. Bonnie Bee Knutz, widow of our late Fellow William H. Knutz. It was a pleasure to see her again.

Brother JAMES S. SCOFIELD, 722 Conkey Street, Hammond, Indiana. asks information from the readers as to the Masonic affiliation of Glenn ("Pop") Warner, Jim Thorpe's football coach. He is making a study of the matter, and needs some assistance. Anyone who has such information should contact Brother Scofield.

Brother WILLIAM A. THAANUM writes - "I was rather astonished to note the authority in the hands of the Grand Master, according to Brother Melvin M. Johnson's and Brother Robert H. Nisbet's statements, but it is very apparent there is a wide difference in authority in those older jurisdictions than in some of the later western ones." Lots of chance for an interchange of information and facts, Brethren.

Brother ALFRED A. NORTHACKER, M.P.S., is chairman of Blood Donor activities for his Lodge (Evangelist No. 600, New York City ), and is doing a fine job at it.

A postcard, dated October 5, 1956, from Brothel FRANCIS J. SCULLY, F.P.S., says: "Greetings from Jerusalem. Arrived yesterday from Cairo. Having most interesting trip." Of course. that was before the situation became so serious in that part of the world. We hope that Brother Scully may jot down for our readers some impressions of his trip.

Another world globe-trotter of recent days, is Brother RAY V. DENSLOW, F.P.S. (Life), who has just returned from a trip to Germany and other foreign countries in the interest of Freemasonry.

Our sincere apology to Brother GILBERT KINMONTH, whose fine article appeared in a recent issue of The Philalethes under the signature of Gilbert Kinmouth. We are indeed sorry that this mistake occurred.

A welcome visitor at several Masonic Lodges in the St. Louis, Missouri, area, in early October, was Brother EARL MERRYMON, M.P.S., who was visiting his brother, George Merrymon, a member of Tuscan Lodge No. 360. Brother Earl Merrymon's home is in Montana.

Brother JAMES FAIRBAIRN SMITH, F.P.S., was the speaker of the evening on the occasion of the recent Brotherhood Dinner Celebration sponsored by the Mt. Clemens (Michigan) Masonic bodies, the Knights of Columbus and B'nai B'rith, for the promotion of understanding among all the people. This is one way to learn to "live together."

Brother GLEN E. RICK, M.P.S., was elected and installed Grand Marshal of the Grand Council Royal and Select Masters of Michigan at its recent convocation. Our congratulations to Brother Rick.

We welcome the newly elected FELLOWS of the Society into our family. It is not out of place to recall that it is the traditional duty of each new Fellow to submit, for publication in The Philalethes, a MASTERPIECE, preferably approximately 1,500 to 2,000 words. The readers will benefit from the work of our Fellows, and we will have a better means of talking over Masonic topics because of our interchange of ideas. We sincerely solicit manuscripts for consideration by the Publication Committee of the Society, and hope our Members will become ACTIVE in the activities of our group.

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THE MAN YOU LIKE

The man you most admire is the type of man you ought to be. He is courteous, adaptable, magnanimous, sympathetic, and tactful.

He favors pleasant aspects of life, and has large common sense. It is well to study this type of man to emulate his example. The fine qualities of kindness, tact, sympathy and courtesy can be cultivated by giving them thoughtful attention

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Doctrine of the Perfect Youth

by RAYMOND H. DRAGAT, M.P.S. (Conn.)

In two parts

THE DOCTRINE of the Perfect Youth is one which has been studied and made a football by Masonic groups for many, many years. As stated in the attached article, the Masonic Service Association has made a minute survey, as have others.

The author, Brother Raymond H. Dragat, is the Secretary of the Committee on Masonic Information of the Grand Lodge of Connecticut, Secretary of his own Lodge, Level No. 137, of Hartford, and Secretary of Philosophic Lodge of Research. He is holder of the Pierpont Edwards Medal for distinguished service, awarded by the Grand Lodge of Connecticut, and has mode a very thorough and exhaustive investigation of the topic of the Doctrine of Perfect Youth. The attached article will be provocative of thought and further investigation.

THE DOCTRINE OF THE PERFECT YOUTH has been claimed to be one of the "Landmarks" of Masonry.

Webster defines a landmark as follows: "Any fixed object that marks a boundary; some prominent feature, as a tree, house or the like, on land that serves as a guide to those on sea in directing a course: hence, some outstanding characteristic that marks an event or causes it to be remembered."

Albert Gallatin Mackey's definition is "In ancient times it was the custom to mark boundaries of lands by means of stone pillars, the removal of which by malicious persons, would be the occasion of much confusion, men having no other guide by which to distinguish the limits of their property. To remove them, therefore, was considered a heinous crime. Ancient Jewish law says, "Thou shalt not remove thy neighbor's landmarks, which they of old time have set in thine inheritance." Hence, those peculiar marks of distinction by which we are separated from the profane world, are called the landmarks of the order.... The first requisite of a custom or rule of action to constitute it a landmark is that it must have existed from time "whereof the memory of man runneth not to the contrary." Its antiquity is an essential element. Another peculiarity of these landmarks of Masonry is that they cannot be repealed.

The first attempt to enumerate the landmarks of Freemasonry or to give them a comprehensible form, was made by Mackey in October 1856 in an article in the American Quarterly Review of Freemasonry, entitled "The Foundations of Masonic Law." This recapitulation set forth twenty-five (25) landmarks.

Number 25 stated that the landmarks could never be changed: that not the slightest modification can be made in them; that as they were received from our predecessors, we are bound by the most solemn obligation of duty to transmit them to our successors.

The various Jurisdictions differ in their approach to the so-called landmarks. Some have no lists at all (i.e. Michigan, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Arkansas, Iowa, Missouri, Rhode Island, Texas, Utah and Washington). Some merely refer to Mackey's list as a guide (i.e. Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Montana and New Hampshire). Others have specifically adopted Mackey's entire list (i.e. Delaware, Georgia, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, South Dakota, Vermont, Wisconsin, Wyoming and District of Columbia). Other Jurisdictions have adopted lists of landmarks which vary in number from seven, in Massachusetts, to 54, in Kentucky.

William H. Drew, formerly Grand Lecturer in the state of New York, in the Freemasons Handbook, published in 1860 states that, "As to bodily conformation - in the ancient Temple every stone was required to be perfect, for a perfect stone was the symbol of Truth," He goes on to say. "In our Mystic Association every Mason represents a stone it that spiritual temple, that house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens, of which King Solomon's Temple was the type. Hence it is required that he (the candidate) should present himself like the perfect stone in the material temple, a perfect man in the spiritual building."

Connecticut's 19th landmark states that, "The Ancient Landmarks are the Supreme Law, and cannot be changed or abrogated."

It is interesting to note that in the Carmick Manuscript (1727) it is stated that among the ancient (ancient) charges was the following admonition set forth by Prince Edwin, "You shall not admit any person to be made free mason who is not able in all manner of degrees, that is to say, he must be free born, of good kindred, noe Bondman and his limbs as a man ought to have: no Meason shall take an apprentice to serve for any less time than seven years without aney Debts or indenting in his Indentures, unless the apprentice be able, of birth free born, and of good kindred, having his limbs and members as he ought to have."

William Drew, in his Freemason's Handbook, sets forth fifteen articles of Ancient Constitutions as adopted in 926 for the government of the Craft. The 5th article states "After observing that the applicant be of lawful parentage, the Master will on no account receive him as an apprentice if he is mutilated: that is to say, his limbs must be quite entire and shapely. It would be a stigma upon the fraternity to initiate a halt or lame man, for a mutilated person, even though a gentlemen, would benefit the society but little. Every inquirer may be informed that Masonry needs strong men, a maimed man has no strength, and declines before his task is done."

Mackey’s 18th landmark is that regarding qualifications of candidates for initiation and states that "certain qualifications" of candidates for initiation are derived from a landmark of the Order. These qualifications are that he shall be a man, unmutilated, free-born and of mature age. That is to say, a woman, a cripple, or a slave, or one born in slavery, is disqualified for initiation into the rites of Masonry. Statutes, it is true, have from time to time, been enacted enforcing or explaining these principles, but the qualifications really arise from the very nature of the Masonic institution, and from its symbolic teachings, and have always existed as landmarks.

In 1953, the Grand Secretary of Kansas stated that "the doctrine of the perfect youth was all right for the operative science, but for us it is a will-o'-the-wisp . . . when our Code was re-written and became effective in 1946, we had modified the rule . . . which will permit men of good hearts and minds to come in with some physical disabilities."

New Jersey similarly states that "By the ancient regulations the physical deformity of an individual operates as a bar to his admission into the Fraternity. But as this regulation was adopted for the government of the Craft at a period when they united the character of operative with that of speculative Masons, this Grand Lodge authorized such a construction of this regulation as that, when the deformity of the candidate who wears an artificial appliance, like an artificial arm or leg, is not such as to prevent him from being instructed in the arts and mysteries of Masonry and does not amount to an inability honestly to acquire the means of subsistence, the admission will not be an infringement upon the ancient landmarks, but will be consistent with the spirit of our Institution."

Vermont, in the 1947 Code of Masonic Laws, Sec. 260 (2), states that "Vermont never adhered to a literal interpretation of the ancient landmark. For over 100 years the settled rule has been, in substance, that ability to earn a livelihood and to learn the mysteries of Masonry, is all that is required, provided the candidate possesses the higher qualifications of a belief in God, of mental worth and the record of a moral and upright life; and that this interpretation of the ancient charges and regulations is not inconsistent with the true spirit of the Masonic Institution, but is in keeping with its sublime teachings." In 1953, the Vermont Code, as revised, sets forth only seven (7) landmarks instead of Mackey's 25, which had been in effect since 1893. No mention is made of the physical qualification of a candidate for initiation.

Tennessee's Code, as amended in 1948 and 1949, provides that ". . . A man may not be initiated, passed or raised whose mental deficiencies or physical disabilities or deformities are such that he is incapable of earning a livelihood, or of learning the art, or of learning and reciting the lectures of Freemasonry." Note: No reference is made to the matter of the candidate's ability to receive and impart by actual demonstration the ritual of Masonry.

On the other hand, Kentucky requires that the candidate "must possess no maim or deformity which will prevent him from being perfectly instructed in the art and mysteries of Freemasonry and in his own person instructing others by exemplification."

Although Mackey's list of landmarks (1860) numbered 25, Connecticut selected only 19 of these for its list of landmarks as adopted in 1867. The 10th landmark states that "Every candidate must be a mean, of lawful age, born of free parents, under no restraint of liberty, and hale and sound. as a man ought to be."

The Connecticut rule. Sec. 903, (adopted 1946) is that "the applicant, with or without artificial aid or substitution of limb or members. must have the ability to understand, explain and exemplify the requirements of our ritual." In some respects this is more rigid than those Jurisdictions which require only that the candidate should have the ability to understand and learn and, in turn, explain the requirements of the ritual to others.

Connecticut, in 1944 and 1945, referred the entire matter of the Perfect Youth Doctrine and the physical qualifications of applicants to a special committee for study and recommendation. In 1946, the committee recommendation was finally presented to and adopted in Grand Lodge session. Pages 82 through 88 of the 1946 Grand Lodge Proceedings contain the "full report, recommendations and suggested amendments to our Regulation on the 10th landmark. Our present Section 903." This report provides a most capable and understandable approach to the entire subject under discussion and is earnestly recommended for reading and study by any and all Freemasons who have a desire to broaden their knowledge of this particular problem and also to gain insight into the liberalizing and ever broadening concept of Freemasonry as a speculative art as distinguished from Freemasonry as an operative science.

END PART I

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Elbert Bede Visits Philalethes Groups

BROTHER ELBERT BEDE, Second Vice President of the Philalethes Society with his charming wife spent most of the month of September on a grand tour of the Mid-West and Eastern Seaboard, visiting relatives and friends, and giving Elbert a chance to become acquainted by personal contact, with the officers and members of the Society.

Speaking for those of us who were in attendance at the meetings at which he appeared his wide variety of information, his choice of material on which to make his brief talks, and his cheerful and delightful personality, made it a distinct pleasure to log his various appearances. Everywhere he was greeted with enthusiasm and his responses were inspiring and factual.

We can only hope to give a few highlights of the Bedes' long trip in this article, but we hope that in so-doing we may impart a little of the vim, pep and inspiration which he left at each place visited. - J.B.V.

A MEETING of the members of the Society in the Chicago area was called on September 13, 1956, to honor Brother Elbert Bede, of Oregon, Second Vice President of the Society, who was in the city on that day. The meeting started with a dinner followed by an informal conference later in the evening.

The following members of the Society were present. Elbert Bede. John B. Vrooman, Milton T. Sonntag, Alphonse Cerza, Albert L. Woody, Robert Cole. Russell C. Slater, Cecil Ellis, James Scofield, Ralph S. Davis, Sam H. Dapin, John Holmes, Ed Sadowski, Louis Blakemore, Joseph E. S. Teal, Franklin C. Wray, and Roscoe H. McIlney.

In the course of the meeting Brother Bede was asked to say a few words. He spoke on "Possible Subjects for Masonic Research." Here are a few of the subjects mentioned by him: "Interpretation of the Scriptures Used in the Ritual," "The Saints John," "Who was Amos," discussion in detail of the history of the various symbols used by the Craft, Solomon's Temple," "The Nine Missing Fellowcrafts," "The Working Tools and Their History," "The Meaning of Masonic Charity," "The Five Points of Fellowship," "3, 5 and 7 Steps," "The Wages of a Fellow Craft," "The Search for the Lost Word," "Music of the Craft."

The talk was enjoyed by all present and the details were most illuminating. The fact that Brother Bede has been an editor of a Masonic magazine for many years, as well as a real student of the Craft made him eminently well qualified to speak on the subject.

Brother Vrooman, Executive Secretary of the Society, gave a short talk in which he described the contents of the forth coming October issue. He also stated that the Society had made great strides in the increase of its membership during the year, and he paid special tribute to the membership committee for its work.

Brother Sonntag, Grand Master of Illinois, briefly explained that there had been some misunderstanding of the poll taken at the Grand Masters' Conference: published reports were that the majority had voted in favor of relaxing the rule of solicitation; he stated that this was an error. The true figures were overwhelmingly in favor of retaining the present rule against solicitation. Brother Sonntag stated that this rule cannot be changed without making Freemasonry something other than what it is: and when you start changes of this kind you are on the way of not having a Masonic organization but something else. He thought that a common sense application of the rule is more in harmony with it than a change of the rule. He expressed chagrin at Masons clamming up when a nonMason shows a natural curiosity about the Craft and explained that we should make it clear to outsiders that we do not issue invitation to men to join; too many are waiting to be asked who are not familiar with our rules. He explained that sometimes the relationship of the parties lends itself to making a suggestion that would be helpful to everyone concerned; he gave the example of a father telling his son that he did not like the way the boy was wasting his time at the corner drugstore and how much better it would be if he were in a position to spend the same time at a Masonic Lodge.

Others present exchanged views on numerous topics. It was a splendid meeting enjoyed by all.

From Cleveland we have the report of Brother Bede's visit from G. Andrew McComb, M.P.S. Andy writes as follows:

"Elbert Bede, a Fellow and Second Vice President of the Philalethes Society, tossing quickly those pungent phrases that have justly earned him the unofficial title of 'Sage of Portland,' was a most welcome visitor to Cleveland the latter part of September.

"Saturday," he continues. " 'Bill Kloss, (M.P.S.) Erie, Pa., came in and drove Elbert and Mrs. Bede around Cleveland. Supper with many guests at Nate’s (Nate Tucker, M.P.S.) and Saydie's house. Sunday a big open house at the Library (Cleveland Masonic Library), with many distinguished guests present, including Herbert J. Martin, P.C. of Council of the Grand Council R&SM of Ohio; William R. Pringle, PGM of Ohio: Ernest C. Kegley, Warren Smith, S. Charles Moss (Montpelier), Keith Porter, Bill Kloss, all members of the Society, Nate Tucker and G. Andrew McComb, directors of the Library, as hosts, and many other Brethren.

"A fine informal discussion took place at the latter meeting, with many taking part. Tuesday following the latter meeting, Brother Phillip H. Coad, F.P.S., with Brother William R. Pringle, PGM. were joint hosts at an informal dinner, preceding a Forums discussion. 'Plural Membership,' and 'Masonic Charity' were the principal topics of discussion, with many other items touched upon during the course of the evening."

Word from the East indicates, by letter from Brother Alfred A. Northacker, M.P.S., Brooklyn, New York, that Brother Bede met with some of the Brethren in that locality. Brother Northacker writes:

"I should like to report that our Second Vice President. Brother Elbert Bede, recently spent a weekend at the home of one of our 'locals,' George H. Harris (M.P.S.), 50 Northern Drive, North Troy, New York. I understand that a wonderful time was had by all who were present on that occasion."

From these various reports, and others that have come to us since the Bedes' invasion of the Midwest and eastern portions of out country, it would seem that he had ample opportunity to meet and greet a large number of the officers and members of the Society. We are particularly happy to have been able to attend one meeting at which he was present.

----o----

Our Masonic Contract

By DUDLEY BUNN, M.P.S., (Okla.)

IN CHIEF JUSTICE Marshall's classic definition, "A contract is an agreement to do, or not to do, a particular thing."

The writer is a business man, not a lawyer. Hence, this article is written from a business man’s viewpoint. It is not intended to be authoritative in regard to every legal technicality as a lawyer would see such technicalities.

As this writer understands it, the essential features of a valid, enforceable contract are these:

1. The agreement must be made between two parties who are legally competent to make a contract.

2. The agreement must be entered into with no deceit nor coercion on the part of either party toward the other.

3. There must be a real "meeting of minds." Or, as one authority puts it. "the two parties must agree to the same thing in the same sense."

4. The purpose of the contract must not be illegal.

5. There must be a consideration, a payment or a promise to pay, both ways. Each party agrees to follow a certain course of action in return for certain definite benefits.

6. There must be two time limits, one for the beginning of the agreed-upon course of action and another for the ending thereof.

7. There must be some penalty, expressed or implied, for nonperformance on the part of either party.

8. Practically always, in each state, certain statutory requirements must be met in order to make the contract valid.

The writer may be missing some technical points, but he believes that these are the essential features. How well does a Masonic obligation meet these requirements?

In regard to the competence of the two parties to make a contract, let us first consider, as the party of the first part, the whole body of Masons everywhere, as represented by the one particular Masonic body giving the obligation. Here we have a group of mature men. millions strong, of good reputation with very minor exceptions, with a history and traditions and Masonic laws extending back for centuries. If such a group of men with such a history is not competent to make a valid contract. then nobody is.

Let us next consider, as the party of the second part, the candidate taking the obligation. He is of legal age, or he would not be there. If the investigating committee has done its work well, he is a sane, dependable man. Again, with possible very rare exceptions, if such a man is not competent to make a valid contract, then nobody is. On the ground of the competence of the two parties, we need have no fear about the validity of a Masonic obligation as a contract.

To be valid, a contract must have been made freely and honestly, with no coercion or deceit. We Masons know that there is not the slightest degree of deceit or coercion in the giving of any Masonic obligation. NonMasons, whom this matter does not concern, will have to take our word for this.

How about the "meeting of minds" which is essential to a contract? So far as we know, all Masonic obligations are couched in clear, unequivocal language. So far as w e know. there are no conflicting clauses among them: and in this, incidentally, we are in much better shape than we are in regard to civil law and to other contracts.

We understand that, in the absence of judicial decisions to the contrary, the language of any contract is supposed to be construed in the "ordinary and usual sense" of the words. Any man coming into Freemasonry is presumed to have enough intelligence and education to understand exactly what the simple language of the Masonic obligations means. We believe that, in all but a few cases, this is more than a presumption: it is an actuality. The contract is valid from this standpoint.

The purpose of a contract must not be illegal. We Masons know, of course, that there is nothing illegal in our purposes. We are not a band of outlaws. To the nonMason, we can only point out that it is highly unlikely that so many millions of men could have been bound together throughout so many centuries for an illegal purpose without such illegal purpose having been discovered by the general public. There are far too many competent and patriotic investigators who are not Freemasons for us ever to have kept hidden any illegal purpose.

For a valid contract, there must be a consideration from each party to the other party. There must be mutual benefit. What does each party, the Masonic body and the candidate, get as the result of the obligation?

The Masonic body gets the talents of the new member, which may be great or small and which may be applied to Masonic purposes to a great or small degree. Only time can determine the value of these things. But these talents and their Masonic application do constitute a definite consideration, whether their value be great or small.

Likewise, the candidate receives the rights and privileges of being a Mason of that particular degree. Again, the value of the consideration must be determined by future events. But the consideration, itself, is definite and certain. The contract is valid from this standpoint.

A valid contract must have definite time limits, a time for performance to begin and a time for it to be completed. Without going into details, we may very well say that the performance prescribed by a Masonic obligation begins immediately and it ends with the death of that individual Mason. The contract is valid from this standpoint.

Now, how about penalties for noncompliance? The constituent Masonic body is always subject to discipline when it violates its contract, by a higher reviewing Masonic body. For example, the actions of a Blue Lodge are always subject to review by the Grand Lodge under whose charter it operates; and this same principle applies to the government of any constituent Masonic body.

The individual Mason w ho violates his obligation is subject, after a fair hearing and appeal, to penalties up to and including expulsion. From the standpoint of penalties for noncompliance. Masonic obligations are valid contracts.

Now we come to the only weak point in the Masonic obligation as a contract. We mentioned that, practically everywhere, a valid contract must meet certain requirements of the civil government. Frankly, a Masonic obligation does not always meet these statutory requirements. For example, under the statute of frauds, most contracts which require performance extending over many years must be in writing. There are exceptions, such as the marriage contract; but the writer understands that this is the general rule.

So, because of the necessary secrecy and other technical factors, a Masonic obligation cannot be enforced as a contract in an ordinary court of law. It can, however, be enforced by the Masonic body having jurisdiction, sitting as a court of Masonic law. From the Ancient Landmarks to the latest approved decision of a Grand Master, Masonic law is voluminous, detailed and (on the whole) consistent.

In taking his Masonic obligations, each individual Mason accepts this whole body of Masonic law as part of his contract. So far as this writer knows, no part of this Masonic law is secret. It can be enforced only by a Masonic body having competent jurisdiction, with penalties ranging up only to expulsion. It cannot be enforced arbitrarily by any individual, however high his Masonic rank or office. So far as this writer knows, we have no infallible nor unquestionable autocrats in any part or section of Freemasonry.

So we see that, except for the single fact that the decision of a Masonic body acting as a Masonic court under Masonic law cannot be appealed to the civil courts, a Masonic obligation is a valid contract having all the essentials of a valid contract.

It has always been this writer's view that a Masonic obligation, or any contract, either means exactly what it says or it doesn't mean anything at all. We believe that every Masonic obligation means exactly what it says. For therein lies our strength, and our protection.

----o----

The Star of Bethlehem, the Symbol of Christmas

By JOHN BLACK VROOMAN, F.P.S.

Casting about for some new interpretation to be given to a Christmas message, I received a letter in the mail - a voice from the past so to speak, which posed a most interesting question, and one about which little has been written.

WHAT IS THE RECORD IN HlSTORY OF THE ACTUAL EXISTENCE OF THE STAR OF BETHLEHEM?

The letter to which I refer was written in 1909, to General John C. Black, a member of Olive Branch Lodge No. 38. AF&AM. Danville Illinois and Grand Orator of the Grand Lodge AF&AM of Illinois in 1891 and again in 1895. But the personal fact that he was my maternal grandfather, and a devoted Mason made the contents of this letter, and its purpose of greater interest to me.

We have all of us, taken for granted, and without verification or elaboration the fact that when the Wise Men were guided to the birthplace of our Savior, that THE STAR (otherwise unidentified) was their guide and beacon.

General Black was interested to determine if possible, if such a STAR ever existed, and if it had ever been numbered among the celestial bodies known to astronomers ancient or modern.

Here then is the letter in question with the personal notation of a BELIEVING AND REVERENT MASON, who added, in a postscript what I now think is the COMPLETE ANSWER to the place that the STAR OF BETHLEHEM has in history in religious thought, and, finally, in the hearts of men:

Seal of the

DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY

Bureau of Equipment

U.S. NAVAL OBSERVATORY

Nautical Almanac Office

Washington, D.C.

October 30, 1909

My Dear Sir:

Please excuse my delay in answering your telephone inquiry of the other day. It has been due to the fact that I have not been able to find any satisfactory references concerning the STAR OF BETHLEHEM, which was the subject of your inquiry. In fact, the Star of Bethlehem mentioned in the Bible is not described there in such a way that it is possible to connect it with any heavenly body known to science. It may have been a comet, one of the planets when usually bright, or a temporary star such as occur once or twice a century.

The fullest reference to the subject which I can find is in the last chapter of the book of E.W. Maunder, a well-known english astronomer entitled "Astronomy of the Bible," published by T. Sealy Clark & Co., of London (1908), pages 393 to 400. But in my judgement the matter contained on those pages would not justify your buying or even taking the trouble to obtain it from a library.

I regret my inability to give you a more satisfactory answer, but the so-called STAR OF BETHLEHEM must be regarded as merely as object of popular interest due to its association with the birth of Jesus Christ. As stated above, it has no interest from a scientific standpoint for the reason that the information given in the Bible is so meager that the star cannot be identified with any known heavenly body.

Very Respectfully

(Signed) MILTON UPDEGRAFF

General John C. Black

Civil Service Commission

Washington, D.C.

From a practical point of view, and by diligent investigation, it was found that there is not, nor has there been an actual STAR OF BETHLEHEM but wait - as in all phases of Masonry, there is a SYMBOLIC and hidden meaning which escapes casual reading. Listen to the comment, made in his own handwriting with pen and ink, on the back of the old letter here quoted:

November 2nd 1909 - Dear Helene: (his daughter. Mrs. Helene Black Abbot - Mrs. Stephen Abbot) - This is all that the Observatory force of the Navy Department can furnish on the subject of THE STAR OF BETHLEHEM.

Then he adds these inspiring words, which sum up the whole subject of the place of the Star of Bethlehem as an historical or actual fact:

ITS CIRCUIT IS IN THE HEARTS OF MEN, NOT ON THE CHARTS OF SCIENCE. BUT ITS SHINING IS CLEAR, AND FOREVER AND FOREVER.

- Father.

The Good Book says that "God is a Spirit." In like manner, we observe the Spirit of Christmas, and in it, the symbol of Light concentrated in the Star of Bethlehem. Why quibble about technicalities and physical attributes? The Spirit of Christmas is that of worship and self-appraisal: the taking of inventory and the planning of activities.

There is a quotation from a Frenchman of whom I'd never heard until a friend typed it for me some time ago - it expresses better than I can, that for which Masonry lives, works and idealizes:

For what end to live, to work, and to give of One's best?

In the name of the Past and the Future: in the name of the Parent and his

Children: in the name of the LINK that One forms in the Chain - to assure Continuity, to transmit that which One has received: to impart, to improve, to cultivate, and to ENRICH.

It is THAT, perhaps, which is

OUR reason for EXISTENCE.

The Spirit of Christmas, of the Star of Bethlehem, of Service in Masonry, is to forget the everyday affairs, and to so bring sacrifice and service to the needs of others, that our Christmas will have a new meaning.

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR.

----o----

Welcome to New Members

Since the last issue of the magazine, the following Masons have become members of the Society. whom we welcome to our companionship:

Irvin A . Uphoff, 211 South 19th Street. Belleville, Illinois.

Dewey H. Wollstein, 311 East Fourth Street, Rome, Georgia.

H. Melville Richards, 2337 Marshall Way, Sacramento, California.

Irving Hoffman, 240 West Main Street. Norristown, Pa

Dr. Russell C. Slater, LaSalle Theater Building, LaSalle, Illinois.

Clyde B. Westbrook, 315 South Main Street, San Antonio 5, Texas.

loran V. Beard, 301 North 5th Avenue, Maywood, Illinois.

Morris E. Barrington, Route 5. Barnes Road, Winston - Salem. North Carolina.

Dee A. Strickland, 2016 Island Drive, Monroe, Louisiana.

E. Barney Crosby, 55 Rice Street, Daly City, California.

Charles F. Adams, P. O. Box 159. Aurora, Nebraska.

Edward A. Burritt, 1851 South St. Paul St., Denver 10, Colorado.

Wilmer E. Bresee, 160 East Street, Oneonta, New York.

Peter D. Matheson, 155 Willow Road, Elmhurst, Illinois.

J. Ford Pollock, Jr., Washington Valley Road, Morristown, R.D., New Jersey.

Fred Dolan, 901 South Mercer Ave., Bloomington. Illinois.

----o----

BACK COPIES OF THE PHILALETHES MAGAZINE ARE NEEDED BY EDITOR.

All readers of The Philalethes magazine are urged to look in their basement for back copies of the magazine, which are sorely needed by the Editor. Especially do we need the early issues (February, April and June), both for 1955 and for 1956.

We have had an unusual number of requests for back issues, and, having sent those in our possession, now have but VERY FEW COPIES left, aside from our permanent file, which we will not decimate.

If you have back copies, we will appreciate your sending them to us for the use of interested Brethren.

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THESE ARE YOUR REPRESENTATIVES

In the United States

Arizona - James R. Malott, Box 351, Globe.

Arkansas - Dr. Francis J. Scully, Medical Arts Bldg., Hot Springs.

California - Victor L. Jones, 226 E. Alameda Ave., Burbank.

Colorado - Edward E. Hedblom. 1770 Sherman Ave., Denver 5.

Connecticut - Robert H. Nisbet, South Kent.

Delaware - Chester R. Jones, Masonic Temple, Wilmington.

Dist. of Columbia - Carl H. Claudy, 700 - 10th St., N.W., Washington, D. C.

Florida - William James Walker, 1877 Truman Avenue, Jacksonville

Georgia - William B. Schwartz, P.O. Box 1123, Atlanta.

Idaho - Clyde Rush, Box 1677, Boise

Illinois - Ralph S. Davis, 315 Wisconsin Ave., Oak Park.

Indiana - James Scofield, 722 Conkey Street. Hammond.

Iowa - Realff Ottesen, 910 Davenport Bank Bldg., Davenport.

Kansas - Floran A. Rodgers, P.O. Box 707, Wichita 1.

Kentucky - Wvile B. Wendt 2346 Emerson Ave. Louisville.

Louisiana - Lee Harris, P. O. Box 404, Alexandria.

Maine - Thomas B. Anderton, 287 Long Beach Avenue, York Beach.

Maryland - Charles G. Reigner, 4035 Belle Ave. Baltimore.

Massachusetts - Frank H. Wilson, 27 Bevelly St. Melrose 76.

Michigan - James Fairbairn Smith, New Masonic Temple

Minnesota - William E. Pool, 207 Van Brunt St., Mankato.

Mississippi - Rev. Allen Cabaniss, University, Miss.

Missouri - Herbert A. Gast, 9743 Tesson Ferry Road, St. Louis.

Montana - Frank E. Van Denmark, Cut Bank.

Nebraska - Harold H. Thom, 2315 Ogden Ave., Omaha.

Nevada - Harry H. Leavitt, Box 1, Gardenville.

New Hampshire - Nick A. Karagianis, 17 Warren St. Concord

New Jersey - Norman I. Morris, 330 Mount Prospect, Newark 4.

New Mexico - John C. Kost, Jr., Roswell.

New York - Alfred A. Northacker, 1055 New York Ave., Brooklyn 3.

North Carolina - Frederick W.E. Cullingford, 2027 Central Ave., Charlotte.

North Dakota - Edward. J. Franta. Langdon.

Ohio - G.A. McComb, 3615 Euclid Ave., Cleveland.

Oklahoma - Dr. John C. Hubbard, 1501 N.E. 11th St., Oklahoma City.

Oregon - Victor E. Vieira, P. O. Box 51, Grants Pass.

Pennsylvania - William J. Paterson, Masonic Temple, Broad and Filbert Streets, Philadelphia

Rhode Island - Frank H. WiIson, 27 Beverly St., Beverly 76, Mass.

South Dakota - E.F. Strain, Sioux Falls.

Tennessee - Charles A. Rond, 3200 Cowden Ave., Memphis.

Utah - Stuart Dobbs, 812 David Eccles Bldg.,

Virginia - A. Douglas Smith, Jrt., 1320 Amherst Avenue, Richmond

Washington - Robert B. Anderson, 1325 N. 167th St. Seattle

West Virginia - Edwin E. Greener, 4069 Cambronne St., Pittsburgh. Pa.

Wisconsin - Walter H. Braun, 2327 N. Holton St., Milwaukee.

Wyoming - Charles C. Lindsay. 500 W. 31st St., Cheyenne.

Other Countries

At-Large - Norman C. Dutt, 525 Nelson St. Berkeley, California.

Austria - Albin Schwab, 19 Sieveringerstrasse, Vienna

Argentina - Alcibiades Lappas, 1381 Santa Fe. R. 40, Buenos Aires, Argentina

Central Canada - Sam Harris, High Prairie Alberta.

Chile - Sergio G. Parody, Ave. B. O'Higgins, Santiago

Denmark - Svend F. Jacobsen. 2 Vilvordevej Charlottenlund

England - Captain William F. Scalding, "Aylmerton," 123 The Chine, Grange Park London, N. 21, England.

Finland - V.W. Granberg, 16 Albert Street, Helsingfors

French West Africa - Harry B. DePriest Boite Postale N 227, Dakar, (Senegal)

Greece - J.W. Burness c/o A.P.E. Co., 4 Koral St., Athens

Holland - Dr. E. van der Vlugt, 23 a Lange Voorhout, The Hague.

Mexico - William M. Coddington P.O. Box 111 Edinburg, Texas.

New Zealand - Dr. Ross Hepburn, 5 Ham Road Riccarton. Christchurch, N.W. 3

Philippines - Antonio Gonzales, 140 Gunao Manila.

Scotland - Georgo Prentice, 10 Roman Drive Motherwell Road , Bellshill, Lanarkshire.

South Africa - James Stephen Dunn P.O. Box 111, Kimberley.

Sweden - Carl A. Friman, Box 5058, Gothenburg

West Canada - L. Healey, 1138 Nelson St., Vancouver 5, B.C.

----o----

The Hamilton Bi-Centennial

(A Masterpiece)

by JAMES R. CASE, F.P.S., (Conn.)

JANUARY 11, 1957, is the 200th anniversary of the birth of Alexander Hamilton, a great American.

Born in the British West Indies, a student at King's College, now Columbia University, a soldier of the Revolution, "principal and most confidential aide of Washington," legislator in the Congress of the Confederation, ardent Federalist, essayist and first Secretary of the Treasury, lawyer and politician in New York City, he had the unenviable distinction of being shot to death by a Vice President of the United States.

He will be extolled by Masonic writers during this anniversary year, as his name was eagerly seized a half century ago by a writer who made him a Freemason, "sight unseen." And the error has been compounded and so dignified by repetition, that now it will be difficult to refute, because so many want to believe it.

The minutes of American Union, the famous traveling Lodge held in the Connecticut Line regiments of the Continental army, include many distinguished names of both members and visitors, among others that of Hamilton. The present-day American Union Lodge (1) at Marietta, Ohio, has many of the original records in its archives.

A study of "Freemasonry in Morristown in the Revolutionary War" was made by Edmund D. Halsey many years ago, and published in 1900 as Appendix A to the Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of New Jersey. The author, Halsey, who apparently was not himself a Freemason, categorically stated it was Alexander Hamilton who visited American Union Lodge on December 27, 1779, and March 6, 1780.

Sidney Hayden, in his book Washington and His Masonic Compeers, first published in 1866, makes no mention of Hamilton. This book has been remarkably free from criticism concerning either error or omission. It is generally accepted as authentic as far as it goes, and omission of the name of Alexander Hamilton, of course, does not prove or disprove anything.

Since the appearance of the Halsey story, the identification of Alexander Hamilton as a Freemason has been made a matter of record in many articles and publications. The 1946 edition of Mackey's Revised Encyclopedia of Freemasonry goes so far as to state that it was Alexander who was present at Morristown, "identified because the only one of that name then holding a commission in the army." This broad statement can readily be refuted by reference to Heitmann's Register of Continental Officers where no less than twenty-two Hamiltons are listed. The DAR Ancestral Register contains at least forty Hamiltons and SAR records have mere than twice as many. The Hamiltons were extensively patriotic.

William Coleman. editor of the New York Post and a close friend, printed a "Collection of the Facts and Documents Relating to the Death of Alexander Hamilton" just a short time after the sad event which followed the duel with Aaron Burr July 11, 1804. Hamilton had opposed Burr for the presidency in 1800 and for the governor's chair in 1804, and political differences had developed to such a point they could not be otherwise resolved. The burial was conducted by the Society of the Cincinnati, of which Hamilton was the president general, and other societies attending included those of Saint Andrew, Tammany, the Mechanics and the Mariners. No mention is made of the Freemasons. It is inconceivable that a man of such prominence as Alexander Hamilton could have been a member of the Fraternity, and not have been accorded the last sad rites due a distinguished Brother, but such apparently was the case.

Hamilton himself wrote voluminously and much of his correspondence, as well as his "Federalist Papers" and many political essays have been printed. The indexes do not reveal a single mention of Freemasonry, nor does the text give any clue to his possible attachment to the Fraternity. Yet consider the many references and direct testimony which Washington left in his writings.

Who, then, was the Hamilton who visited American Union Lodges? At the December meeting Washington himself was a visitor, and alongside him are listed Captain Caleb Gibbs, who commanded his Life Guard, and Thomas Kinney, joint proprietor with Jeremiah Bruen of the Arnold Tavern where the meeting was held. Hamilton was far away, listed among the Brethren from Pennsylvania. At the March meeting Washington did not attend, but Hamilton is listed between James Bruff of Baltimore and Charles Graham of New York.

Among the manuscripts known as the Otho Holland Williams Papers in the Collections of the Maryland Historical Society in Baltimore are several of Masonic interest, but in connection with our subject, the following "Delegation of Authority" was uncovered:

The Subscribers, Antient, Free and Accepted Masons serving in the Military Lines of the States of Maryland and Delaware, Do hereby nominate and appoint our Worthy Brother Mordecai Gist, Past Master Mason, for the State of Maryland, and our Worthy Brother Otho Holland Williams, Master Mason of the State for Delaware to appear in Convention of Masons in Morris Town on Monday the seventh Day of February Instant, and Represent us the Brethren of the aforesaid States. To take into consideration the Present Condition of our Lodges, and to prepare an Humble Address to the several Grand Masters Presiding in each of the respective States Beseeching them to adopt and pursue the most necessary and effective measures for procuring an Appointment of a Right Worshipful Grand Master to Preside over all the lodges of The United States of America and to recommend such a mode for obtaining the same as to them. Our said Representatives in Convention shall seem Eligible. In Testimony whereof we have hereunto put our name this fifth day of the second Month Anno Mundi 5780.

John Willson MM

Lodge No. 18 Delaware

Walker Muse W.M.

Lodge No. 16 Maryland

J. Bruff MM

7th Maryland

T. B. Hugou MM

11th Pensila. Lodge

Elijah Skillington MM

Lodge No. 18 Delaware

Edw. Dyer MM

State Maryland

John Lynch, Maryland

- Lodge No. 6

John Hamilton, Maryland

Archd Anderson MM

Lodge No. 5 Delaware

Of the names represented by the above signers, Bruff and Hamilton were listed at the December 27, 1779, meeting at Morristown. At the March 6, 1780, "Convention Lodge" all of the signers except Dyer and Lynch are among those listed.

Lacking any evidence whatsoever that Alexander Hamilton was a Freemason any such claim can hardly be based solely on the Morristown listing of his last name alone. But from the facts cited above it can be safely deduced that the one who was at Morristown was none other than John Hamilton (1749-1795), a Lieutenant in the 1st Maryland Regiment, member of Lodge No. 6 in Maryland, and later a member of Military Lodge No. 29, AYM, both chartered under Pennsylvania.

By due trial, strict examination, and legal Masonic information, as well as the application of good research working tools that dig deep, we may be able to clear up other misrepresentations. No blame however, can rest upon those whose great names have earned them posthumous - and fictitious - Masonic honors. But enthusiasm should never excuse a substitution for the facts.

----o----

The Most Worshipful Grand Master of Masons

By WILLIAM A. THAANUM, M.P.S., (Montana)

THE "CHAT AND COMMENT" section of the October Philalethes quotes letters from Brother Melvin M. Johnson of Massachusetts and Brother Robert N. Nisbet of Connecticut in regard to the article "Masonic Honor and Rank." These deserve further consideration. Brother Johnson refers to subject matter going into considerable length regarding the Most Worshipful Grand Master's duties, powers and authority, which appeared in the Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts some years ago. Since it is not possible for all the readers of The Philalethes to obtain a copy of these Proceedings, it would be very instructive and interesting if Brother Johnson's presentation were made available to them either by a series of instalments giving the entire article, or in a compact digest carefully compiled to cover all the salient features in one issue. Knowing the high esteem in which Brother Johnson is held in all Masonic bodies, the great service he has rendered the Craft in the many high offices he has held, and the experience and wisdom so manifest in the honors his Brethren have bestowed upon him, this article should be one of exceptional value to the readers of this magazine.

The original newspaper item that promoted the writings of the article Masonic Honor and Rank," ascribed to a Mason, who was not the Most Worshipful Grand Master, the title of "highest ranking Mason in his State." There is a very general impression among outsiders and, it is feared. also among the majority of Masons themselves, that the "advanced degrees" bring to their members an advance in rank, and that there is an office in one of the Rites which is the "highest" in Masonry. Those of us, who have passed through the initiation ceremonies of both the Scottish and the York Rite, and have also perhaps been honored by invitation to membership in selected groups, know that there is truly no rank in Masonry and that the farther we travel on the path to light, the more we respect Freemasonry's landmark of "meeting upon the level." However, there can be no valid argument to contest the authority of the Most Worshipful Grand Master and the acknowledgment of such authority by all Master Masons in his Jurisdiction. His power is only circumscribed by the Code of Masonic Law in effect in his Jurisdiction. Each Grand Jurisdiction of Ancient Craft Freemasonry is supreme within its own territory but the code of laws governing are by no means uniform and what may be the authority of the Most Worshipful Grand Master in one may not lawfully be assumed by the corresponding officer in another.

In contrast to the statement that the Most Worshipful Grand Master has the authority to suspend the Sovereign Grand Master of the Southern Jurisdiction and to the assertion that the Most Worshipful Grand Master may enter any meeting of any Masonic body and "expel from Masonry every man present," some Grand Jurisdictions protect the membership from arbitrary use of authority by requiring that a Masonic trial be held before a member can be expelled, suspended or even reprimanded.

In such instances, the code of laws governing the bringing of charges, the trial procedure and the right of appeal, are a safeguard to protect the member from an unjust or biased verdict. He is presumed innocent until a trial determines otherwise and the only infringement of his rights pending a trial is that he is deprived of all privileges except that of visiting his own Lodge and voting therein, except on matters connected with the trial. In these Grand Jurisdictions the final decision on an appeal is by the Grand Lodge and not by the Grand Master.

It is true that upon conviction of a crime of moral turpitude or resulting in a sentence of death or imprisonment in a state penitentiary, the member of a Lodge shall be deemed suspended from all rights and privileges of Masonry but it is not necessary for the Grand Master to exercise his authority to make this effective such as was cited in the case of the Sovereign Grand Master.

Again, in some Grand Jurisdictions, the Most Worshipful Grand Master would not attempt, nor would he be permitted, to attend any tyled meeting of any Masonic body of which he was not a member.

Also, any decision the Grand Master may make, or any action he relay take, is subject to review by the Grand Lodge, and may be reversed, if it is so determined by the vote of its members. Here again, in any discussion involving Masonic relations, the structure of its organization, the powers and duties of officers, and every other conceivable matter connected with the operations of Freemasonry, we find in our code of laws the very essence of the finest thinking of the Masonic leaders of the past. What is wise and for the best interests of the Craft prevails, either by reason of custom and tradition or because the problem has been squarely met and decided according to the best rules of equity and justice in conformity with the high standard of ethics established to govern the conduct of every Mason.

That it is necessary to provide for disciplinary action must be recognized as a result of the frailty of man and his failure to keep his passions and prejudices within due bounds, but it is correspondingly wise to temper authority with discretion in dealing with one, who was accepted only after a thorough investigation at the time of his admission. The structure of present day Freemasonry is quite complex. and while it begins with, and rests upon the premise of, membership in the Ancient Craft Lodge, it has expanded far beyond the activities of that body.

So when we seek to confine ourselves only to the rank of Master Mason, we restrict our viewpoint and see but only a very small portion of the very stately edifice that has been added to the original structure. It must certainly be acknowledged that without the privilege of continuing further along the path to light after the third degree, we would be without the opportunity to explore the great teachings of the Rites and our knowledge of the lessons of Freemasonry would be greatly abridged and without full comprehension.

The average Lodge draws its attendance and support in its work very largely from those who have progressed into either the Scottish or York Rite, or both. While we owe our membership in any Masonic body to the acceptance of our first petition to a Lodge, our privileges and rights become more extensive as we progress and surely we are thereby the more concerned against any violation of custom or usage that would render us subject to the discipline of the members of that body. in which we must maintain good standing in order to enjoy the benefits of the closer fellowship in the Scottish and York Rite bodies.

As a final tribute to the Most Worshipful Grand Master, who has in his charge the welfare of every Lodge and every Mason in his Jurisdiction, it is sincerely hoped that in carrying out his official duties he may find pleasure in them. and that where it is necessary to overcome obstacles encountered in his path by reason of unpleasant and distasteful problems requiring his decision, in his determined course of action may he find the approval and commendation of his Brethren. May peace and harmony always prevail.

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