Contents
A Little Simpler ? Unusual Cornerstone Laying
The President's Corner THE FIRST PRAYER IN CONGRESS
The Public Schools And Federal Aid OUR MASONIC HERITAGE
The MacArthur Flag Library Recommended Masonic Reading
American Union Lodge Chicago Chapter Sets An Example
KNIGHTHOOD Communism, A Destructive Power
Why Masonry Supports Rule of Chastity Excavations Show Old Masonic Relics
Published bimonthly at Franklin, Indiana, by
THE PHILALETHES SOCIETY
John Black Vrooman, F.P.S., Editor
Box 402, St. Louis 66, Missouri 63166
OFFICERS
Robert H. Gollmar, F.P.S., President
1221 Oak Street
Baraboo, Wisconsin 53913
William R. Denslow, F.P.S. First Vice President
P.O. Box 529
Trenton, Missouri 64683
Andrew J. White, Jr. M.P.S. Second Vice President
P.O. Box 208
Worthington, Ohio 43085
Carl R. Greisen, F.P.S., Executive Secretary
401 Masonic Temple
Omaha 2, Nebraska 68102
Ronald E. Heaton, F.P.S., Treasurer
728 Haws Avenue
Norristown Pennsylvania 19401
LIVING PAST PRESIDENTS
Lee E. Wells, F.P.S.
Elbert Bede, F.P.S.
Alphonse Cerza, F.P.S. Life
Dr. Charles Gottshall Reigner, F.P.S.
ASSOCIATE EDITORS
Alphonse Cerza, F.P.S. (Life)
237 Millbridge Road
Riverside, Illinois 60546
Bob M. Stowe, M.P.S.
554 Waterman,
St. Louis, Missouri 63112
Volume XX, No. 3
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A GUEST EDITORIAL
by Paul R. Stephens, M.P.S.
I AGREE that all candidates for the degrees in Masonry make a statement that they wish to "improve myself in Masonry." This is in answer to a question and this answer is not of his own framing, but is taught to him by his instructor. This I find no fault with, it should be so, but this does not in any sense suggest that anyone becoming a member of the Craft should become a student of Masonry. It would be an ideal situation if this were so, but it is not, and to think that some day it would be a fact is merely wishful thinking.
A desire for knowledge and understanding of our ancient Craft is shared by all Masons, but many are unable to pursue a course which leads to a search for its deeper inner mysteries. Many must follow through life in their professions which leave them little time for any other work or pastime. Life today and the hard work to become successful in a career takes all of a man's time, be he Mason or profane. This does not mean that such men love Masonry less, but they look for security in life more and being a Mason is a goal reached, because of a favorable opinion conceived of the Institution. I am of the opinion that should all pursue the paths suggested by some, the appeal Masonry has would be entirely different and the Society we refer to as unique and gentle would turn into a bedlam of "go my way or else."
No organization exists that through the ages has had the respect of all. (Even its enemies.) No society has ever admitted to the world that we are all on the level. No society "conciliates true friendship among those who might remain at a perpetual distance." No organization is like Masonry and Masonry is unlike any other.
I enjoy articles which make one think and sometimes cause disagreement, but I feel that Masonic students who launch pet ideas go far afield when they criticize the Mason who does not take a scholarly look at the Institution or who fails to be a constant attendant at Lodge.
Each month I read, "It seems to me," so, sometimes it seems to me, and I will give you a for instance. Figures show that in North American Freemasonry the Craft numbers about four million. Of this great number there are many less than five thousand who regularly read Masonic articles thoroughly. I know many scan Lodge trestle boards, bulletins and Masonic magazines and papers. But who goes into the study seriously as some of our researchers suggest? How many really go in for Masonic Education?
Here's a good question. "Who makes Masonry possible?" Those who are accused of giving only lip service or those of the Masonic scholars who write an article to impress other Masonic writers?
I suggest that Masonic scholars start writing for Masons who are not scholars. State facts, get the dryness out and a little romance in. Follow this suggestion and you may plow and seed a fertile field.
Featured in this issue .....
A LITTLE SIMPLER, A Guest Editorial, by Paul R. Stephens, M.P.S.
CHICAGO PHILALETHES GROUP HAS FINE MEETING
UNUSUAL CORNERSTONE LAYING FOR GREAT RAILROAD BRIDGE
THE PRESIDENT'S CORNER, by Robert H. Gollmar, F.P.S., President, Philalethes Society
FIRST PRAYER IN CONGRESS
THE PUBLIC SCHOOLS AND FEDERAL AID, by William C. Greer
OUR MASONIC HERITAGE, 3. Formation of the First Grand Lodge, by Alphonse Cerza, F.P.S., Life
THE MACARTHUR FLAG LIBRARY, by Mrs. John A. Robb, Jr.
WELCOME TO NEW MEMBERS
RECOMMENDED MASONIC READING, by Alphonse Cerza, F.P.S., Life
EDITOR COMPLETES A CYCLE
THE MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE, by Kenneth F. Curtis, F.P.S.
AMERICAN UNION LODGE, by Dwight W. Robb, M.P.S.
PUBLICITY AND THE SOCIETY, by Kenneth F. Curtis, F.P.S.
CHICAGO CHAPTER SETS AN EXAMPLE, by Alphonse Cerza, F.P.S., Life
KNIGHTHOOD, by Wylie B. Wendt, F.P.S.
COMMUNISM, A DESTRUCTIVE POWER, by Rabbi H. Geffen, F.P.S.
WHY MASONRY SUPPORTS RULE OF CHASTITY by Bliss Kelly, M.P.S.
EXCAVATIONS SHOW OLD MASONIC RELICS
NOTES, QUERIES AND INFORMATION, by Bob M. Stowe, M.P.S.
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Chicago Philalethes Group Has Fine Meeting;
President Gollmar Sparks Enthusiasm For Action
Under the able direction of Alphonse Cerza, F.P.S., Life, President of the Chicago Philalethes group, an enthusiastic and colorful meeting of the Chicago area was held at the Y.M.C.A., 19 South LaSalle Street, in downtown Chicago, on the evening of April 14, 1967. The gathering was honored by the presence of Robert H. Gollmar, F.P.S., President of the Philalethes Society, Alphonse Cerza, F.P.S., Life, a past President, Albert L. Woody, F.P.S., John Black Vrooman, F.P.S., Life, of St. Louis, Editor of the Philalethes magazine, M.W. Brother Clarence P. Schwarz, Past Grand Master of Masons in Illinois, and many other members of the Society and interested Brethren. There was in excess of 35 present for the meeting.
After a fine dinner, there was a fellowship hour, and Brother Cerza called the meeting to order, asking each one present to introduce himself.
Albert L. Woody, F.P.S., made a splendid talk on Masonic Publications, emphasizing the many types of Lodge trestleboards and bulletins, and the large variety of magazines and other Masonic publications which are current everywhere today. He brought with him a variety of these, and emphasized the good points of each, stating that there is a definite need for Lodge publications, and suggesting that this could be incorporated into the activities of the Philalethes Society through some phase of communication through the Philalethes magazine.
Brother Sam Tunnick, a hard working member of the Craft in the Chicago area, continued the discussion on the same topic of Lodge publicity, and gave further illustrations of the usefulness and activity of Lodge public relations, and outlined some ways of cooperation.
Judge Robert H. Gollmar, F.P.S., of Baraboo, Wisconsin, and President of the Philalethes Society, was introduced, and after expressing a warm and enthusiastic appreciation of the activities of the Chicago Philalethes group, stated that he sincerely hoped that many other similar local groups would be organized on the pattern of this very active and highly interesting group.
Brother Gollmar's talk was divided into several different phases in which he discussed the Philalethes Society, its activities, and especially the Masonic Workshop, held in Washington, D.C., each year. Outlined his wish that every locality in which there are a sufficient number of members of the Society, there should be organized an official Philalethes group, meeting as the need arose, having just such a fine dinner-meeting as the one enjoyed here, and giving all Freemasons an opportunity to not only participate in the activities of the Philalethes, but in a double-purpose of give and take, he suggested that in having Masonic discussions and talks, not only would it give each Freemason participating a chance to make his thoughts known, receive assistance in his research, and have the counsel of many devoted and interested Freemasons, but it would likewise give the members of the Society a chance to read his thoughts, when printed in the Philalethes magazine, and thus get a better concept of Freemasonry.
In addition, he said, it is possible, through the page in the magazine, "Notes and Queries," to make personal contact with members who are interested in particular fields of Masonic research, and by that means, have valuable contacts which can, in addition, bring life-long friendship with others with similar interests.
"It is time," he said, "to get back to the business of sitting down and talking Freemasonry and Masonic Fellowship - our most important fundamentals."
Brother Gollmar then talked about "Freemasonry and the Circus," a subject of great interest to him. His father had been for many years active in and acquainted with circus affairs. At Baraboo, Wisconsin, the home of Judge Gollmar, is a Circus Museum and Historical group, which has been gathering all possible data on the development and activities of the circus, and Brother Gollmar's interest in and knowledge of this topic is nation-wide.
Speaking of circus characters and personalities, the speaker mentioned "Buffalo Bill" Cody, General Tom Thumb, who was also a Knight Templar, and others. The personal reminiscences about these famous men was most interesting and instructive, and is a fascinating narrative.
It was stated by the speaker that there were more than one hundred and forty traveling circuses at the peak of their greatest activities and that at this time, he said, there is but a skeleton of such groups, many of them being most active in entertainment for many charitable and similar purposes.
The last phase of Brother Gollmar's talk developed around the thought of how can we, as a Masonic group, create and sustain a greater interest in Freemasonry. This, he stated is not only the aim of our fine Society, but is something that each Freemason must assist in doing.
John Black Vrooman, F.P.S., Life, then spoke about some phases of the publication of the Philalethes magazine. He emphasized the fact that our magazine is zealously seeking new talent and that contributions of articles is eagerly sought. Also emphasized for the material were, interest in general topics of Freemasonry - not specialized and little-known facts of limited value to the general reader, careful assembling of all facts, an interesting, yet simple narrative, and most of all, fields of special Masonic research, which could open the way for greater participation of members.
Because of the great interest of Lodge correspondents, scribes and Masonic editors, he stated, serious consideration should be given to means of providing an interchange of Masonic information, both through the Philalethes magazine, or by short news bulletins, for use of scribes and editors.
Such items not only would give the individual scribes material of interest, but through the interchange, the magazine could have material that will be interesting to all Freemasons. How this can be accomplished is indefinite, said the speaker, but it will be studied, and some plan drawn for extended service. The meeting was closed with prayer by the Rev. William Deutsch, M.P.S.
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Don't Forget To Send Your New Address If You Move
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Unusual Cornerstone Laying For A Great Railroad Bridge
From the Daily QUINCY HERALD, Quincy, Illinois
September 26, 1867
YESTERDAY was a day long to be remembered by the Masonic Fraternity of Illinois and Missouri, as well as by the citizens of Quincy. Early in the morning delegations commenced pouring in from Lodges at Palmyra, Hannibal, and towns along the line of the Hannibal and St. Joseph R.R. in Missouri, as well as from Chicago, Mt. Sterling, Mound Station, Galesburg, La Prairie, Augusta and towns along the lines of roads leading into Quincy, to witness the imposing ceremonies attendant upon laying the cornerstone of the railroad bridge across the Mississippi at this place. The delegations from the different Commanderies of Sir Knights were under the charge of Sir Knight W.E. Owen, and Sir Knight C.W. Mead, General Superintendent of the H. & St. Jo. R.R., officiating as Grand Marshal. The Sir Knights, numbering about 125, met at the Court House at 2 o'clock and preceded by the Quincy Brass Band and an excellent brass band from Hannibal, marched to the Masonic Hall, corner of 4th and Hampshire Street, where they were joined by the Grand Lodge officers and members of the Fraternity from home and abroad, to the number of about four hundred, making it one of the most imposing processions ever seen in our city, who were accompanied by our worthy city officials and invited guests, continued the line of march down Hampshire Street to Front, then up Front Street to the foot of Maine, where the Bridge Company had, through its energetic General Agent, Capt. Flagg, placed at the disposal of the Fraternity the ferry-boat Quincy, and the steamers Huron and Jesse. A short trip and all were landed safely at pier No. 5, of the bridge, already partially crowded with eager ones, who had preceded us, making full 2,500 present in Mississippi midwater, of which there were about 1,000 Masons, to witness the ceremonies attendant upon the greatest work of the kind entered upon along this magnificent stream.
At a quarter past three P.M., the vessels were made fast to the pier and the Sir Knights leading the way, followed by the Master Masons, disembarked on the barge platforms already arranged, and the ceremonies commenced with a brief and beautiful address by Jerome R. Gorin, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois, and an impressive prayer from Grand Chaplain S.S. Hunting. Grand Treasurer H. Dills, then came with articles to deposit as archives in the cornerstone, prefacing the deposit with "by authority of the Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois, I, as Grand Treasurer deposit in this cornerstone of the Quincy Railroad Bridge ...."
During this impressive ceremony the immense audience remained hushed - silent - attentive, at the close of which the Sir Knights at bugle call repaired on board the steamer Quincy, followed by the Master Masons and visitors, and on board their respective boats steamed back again to shore, where the procession was again formed and marched to the depot of the C.B. & Q. Railroad, where Orator Sir Knight, Joseph Robbins, delivered an address, part of which is quoted:
"We meet here on the broad bosom of this beautiful river, to lay the foundation stone of a mighty structure, which is to supply a link in the iron chain that binds together the Atlantic and Pacific slopes of a continent - a structure that is to stand through all coming time, a monument to the sagacity and enterprise of the capitalists of the country in opening a path through this great natural gateway to the mighty West, and giving outlet to the restless energy of a people who build cities in a day, and create an empire in a decade.
"Almost within the memory of some now before me, the placid surface of this upper river was broken only by the canoe of the savage. Today it is alive with the commerce of States whose unified influence can mould the policy of a nation.
"The growing civilization of the Far West, with its rapidly increasing wants, will tolerate no obstacle to increased facility of supply. This broad river which has so long been a barrier, must be so no longer, and this great structure creeps over it like some huge saurian insect, striking its antennae of timber from the forest and stone from the quarry, deep into its hidden bed.
"It is an auspicious occasion that permits the Grand Lodges of Illinois and Missouri to join hands in promoting the work which is to span the natural barrier between these two great States, and big with the promise of that coming hour when the whole people shall know in their hearts no dividing lines, remembering only that theirs is a common lot, a common interest and a common destiny.
"The custom of laying foundation stones of public works with appropriate ceremonies is an ancient one and the performance of these ceremonies by the Grand Master of Masons is perhaps as ancient as the custom itself. It is therefore proper that we should recur briefly to the nature and design of this institution, venerable with antiquity, and having its ramifications in every quarter of the civilized world.
"The highway that leads down to the Present out of the misty Past, is strewn with the crumbling debris of what were intended for permanent institutions by their founders, who had so carefully elaborated them to serve as receptacles for ideas. The error of their protectors was a fundamental one. They attempted to build that which could only grow. Man may build a city, but not a tree. He may plant the seed, and if it contains the living germ and falls in congenial soil, it will grow, taking and appropriating to its own uses from the surrounding earth and air, those elements which are essential to its development, but it is in vain that he chisels out the semblance of a tree and commands it to live.
"History abounds in illustration of the truth of this position. Out of the great central truth that God is, has grown up, as an expression of man's reverential adoration, the institution of the Church, and so long as there exist finite beings to adore an infinite God, so long will the Church - using the word in its large sense - endure. But men have often confounded their own theological dogmas with the essential verities of religion, and from the earliest ages to the present have been projecting institutions for the conservation of their particular opinions. Where are they to-day? Having their foundation in no essential truths, their wrecks lie stranded all along the shores of time.
"Having seen that institutions can only exist as they involve some central truth, or answer some human need, let us turn to Masonry and as certain if we may, what warrant it has for existence.
"The starting point - the Alpha of Masonry - is that God lives and governs the world, at once the Supreme Architect and Universal Father; that all mankind are his children, the objects of his love, and entitled to our consideration as members of the same great family. What wonder then, that in the long weary centuries through which mankind has struggled on toward the goal of a common equality, an institution of which was the central idea, should command the devotion of those who recognize the brotherhood of man as a truth, and felt it as one of the soul's primal needs."
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by Robert H. Gollmar, F.P.S.
THE PHILALETHES SOCIETY contributed its small but important contribution to Masonic Week in Washington. Ours was the first meeting of the week and an overflow crowd listened attentively as the panel discussion took place. I will not attempt to list here the participants; suffice it to say that each paper was carefully prepared and ably delivered.
Presiding for the first time as President, I am deeply grateful to the panel participants, to those who prepared the program, and perhaps most of all, to the members and visitors who attended. Ron Heaton, our able Treasurer, handled the registrations and pointed with pride to the fact that Pennsylvania led those registered.
The Executive Committee met in the afternoon with all officers present. This permitted a full and complete discussion of Society problems and the reaching of necessary conclusions. Past President Al Cerza also met with us and we were grateful for his advice and experience.
I believe that the Philalethes Workshop has firmly established its importance, not only to the Society, but more important, to Masonry as a whole.
* * *
July 4th is a patriotic holiday on which most Americans give little thought to patriotism. As Masons we should be especially proud of those who contributed so much to our national heritage. In these days when Viet Nam, the draft, demonstrations, and other modern problems occupy so much of our time and thought, we need to remember a few patriotic basics.
June 11th is not as well known as July 4th but that is the date on which the committee started the preparation of the document that we know as the Declaration of Independence. The men who sat on this committee, many of them Masons, suffered severely for their courage. When they said: "We pledge our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honour," they meant just that.
Do you remember what this pledge cost them? Five were captured by the British, tortured and died; twelve had their homes ransacked and burned; two lost sons in the Revolutionary Army; one had two sons captured by the British; and nine of the signers fought in the War and died from battle injuries.
These were men of unbelievable patriotism! Consider Thomas Nelson, Jr., of Virginia, who raised two million dollars on his own signature to provision our allies, the French fleet. Nelson paid this debt out of his own property; leaving him penniless. At the Battle of Yorktown, General Cornwallis had his headquarters in Nelson's home. Nelson urged General Washington to fire on his home and it was destroyed.
Consider John Hancock of the flowing signature. He stood outside Boston one night and said: "Burn, Boston, burn, tho' it makes John Hancock a beggar, if the public good requires it."
Or consider John Hart. A few months after he signed the Declaration of Independence his wife lay dying. The British came and he had to flee into the woods, abandoning his wife. His thirteen children also fled for their lives. His property was laid waste and he hid in woods and caves for over a year. When he returned, his wife was dead and his children gone. Nearly 70 years of age, he enlisted as a private. He died shortly after the conclusion of the War. "Our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honour."
If these men who paid such a high price for their signatures on the Declaration of Independence are unremembered today; if no one else in this busy world can pay them honor; let Masons remember them; let Masons honor them. This is a priceless heritage we have.
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Do You Have A Literary Article for
The Philalethes Magazine? Send it to
The Editor
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At the Fitchville, Huron County, Ohio, meeting of the Firelands Historical Society, the following was presented by Mrs. King and read.
"In Thatcher's Military journal under date of December, 1777, is found a note containing the identical 'first prayer in Congress' made by the Rev. Jacob Duche, a gentleman of great eloquence. Here it is, a historical curiosity."
"O, Lord our Heavenly Father, high and mighty King of kings, and Lord of lords, who dost from thy throne behold all the dwellers on earth, reignest with power supreme over all the kingdoms, empires and governments; look down in mercy, we beseech Thee, on these American States, who have fled to Thee from the rod of the oppressor, and thrown themselves on thy gracious protection, desiring to be henceforth dependent only on thee, to thee they have appealed for the righteousness of their cause; do they now look up for that countenance and support which thou alone canst give; take them, therefore heavenly father, under thy nurturing care; give them wisdom in council and valor in the field; defeat the malicious designs of our adversaries; convince them of the unrighteousness of their cause; and if they still persist in their sanguinary purpose, O let the voice of thine own unerring justice sounding in their hearts, constrain them to drop the weapon of war from their unnerved hands in the day of battle! Be thou present, O God of wisdom! and direct the councils of this honorable assembly; enable them to settle things on the best and surest foundations, that the scene of blood may be speedily closed, that order, harmony, and peace may be effectually restored; and truth and justice, and religion, an piety prevail and flourish among the people. Preserve the health of their bodies and the vigor of their minds; shower down on them, and the millions they represent, such temporal blessings as thou sees expedient for them in this world, and crown them with everlasting glory in the world to come. All this we ask in the name and through the merits of Jesus Christ, thy Son, our Savior. Amen."
Punctuation marks, spelling, construction, etc. exactly as it appears in Volume IX page 110. "The Firelands Pioneer." June - 1868. New London, Ohio, Huron County Public Library.
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The Public Schools And Federal Aid
by William C. Greer
Supt., Glasgow Public Schools,
Glasgow, Montana
ALL MASTER MASONS know the legend that during the construction of King Solomon's Temple a Grand Master was murdered and that, with his death, certain knowledge was lost. A search for it was instituted and continues to this day.
What exactly does this knowledge mean to us? Possibly it is an ideal, or a philosophy of life consisting of many facets. One of these facets would certainly be a continuing search for TRUTH. The presenting of the Master Mason degree should not be an end, but a beginning. Each individual member should be constantly in search of what to him is the true meaning of "that which was lost."
One of the cornerstones of Masonry is a strong belief in the American system of Free Public Education. We believe that every individual must be guaranteed equal opportunity to education and that it is his duty to avail himself of the opportunity to the best of his ability. This is the great American ideal.
Public education has become the most important single function of American government on the local, state and national levels. No other nation has dedicated itself to or undertaken an educational program of such magnitude. No other nation has been as successful.
Free public education has its skeptics and its outright opponents. This is as it should be. Every proposition must be examined, and opposition certainly helps to bring out the truth and to develop improvements where needed. However, there are those who for their own purposes would destroy Public Education.
Public Education is a huge and complicated structure. The most complicating factor is that it is dedicated to education for all, each to his needs and each to his ability. This alone is an almost impossible task. In addition, some portions of this structure exist in the steamy swamps of racial hatred and fear. Other portions are in danger of crumbling away in the economic slums and ghettos of the big cities. However, the larger part of the structure is strong and functioning well in an atmosphere of freedom and understanding.
There are many dangers to the structure of Public Education. Chief among these is the widespread failure or inability of the local communities and state governments to provide adequate support for education. This has proven to be an open invitation for the Federal Government to enter the field of education on an evergrowing basis. Perhaps this is necessary. There are many cogent arguments in favor of federal aid to education. At this point, in time, it would seem that the argument is not so much whether or not we have federal aid, as what kind of federal aid we will have.
We now have categorical or fragmented aid programs which cannot be utilized to support or improve the regular offerings of the school. The funds made available under these programs must be used to implement programs entirely separate from and in addition to the existing program of the school. This requires additional staff, additional administration and additional accounting procedures entirely separate from the existing practices. A large part of the funds made available under these federal titles are of necessity used up in administration and accounting from the federal level, through state and local communities.
The large cities are much more able to profit from this approach than are the smaller communities. There is not a community in Montana which would not be able to do better under a program of general federal aid to education.
General federal aid to education would channel funds through the various state departments of public instruction to every public school. The amount would be based on a formula having to do with the number of students and the financial ability of the state and community involved. The state and local community would have to achieve a certain predetermined level of financial support for education before being eligible for federal funds. The federal funds, once received, could be used by the community to improve the educational program in any way it deemed suitable. These funds would be handled through normal accounting channels and the requirements for additional staff and administration could be less than required under the present program of federal aid.
Another factor in the present federal aid laws is the rather obvious effort to circumvent the American tradition of tax support for public schools only. A number of the states are also dabbling in this field. It is not being suggested here that private and parochial schools are bad. Indeed, many of them are exceedingly good at the particular task they are designed to accomplish. Many of these function at a strictly academic level and are quite selective in regard to their admission policies. The public schools, in contrast, must admit everyone and also provide adequate and satisfactory curriculum for all.
Because of their belief in free public education, Masons must oppose the expenditure of tax funds in any way which would help private and parochial schools. The best time to plug a leak in a dam is immediately, else it will soon become a flood. The point is that every tax dollar diverted to ease the way for private and parochial schools makes it that much easier for them to operate. As more and more funds are made available there will be more and more such schools organized. It could become possible for any and every club, lodge, church or political organization to take advantage of such funds and sponsor its own school. Even the Masonic Orders might find this approach suitable to their aims.
The net result would be that gradually a majority of our young people would be enrolled in private or parochial schools. The major cost of operating the public schools has been and still is carried by local property tax. Parents whose children are in private or parochial schools generally do not support tax measures for the financing of public school operations. Failure to finance would cause deterioration of the public school program. As the public school program deteriorates, more and more children will be enrolled in private and parochial schools and the public schools will receive less and less support.
Such a cycle can only end with the public schools in a completely minor and ineffective role or with a complete take-over of education by the Federal Government. One might be as bad as the other. This is the one single valid argument against tax support of private and parochial schools. These institutions have every right to exist and even flourish on their own merits. The American people are going to have to decide whether the present creeping approach to tax support for such institutions - on both state and national level - is to be allowed to continue.
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by Alphonse Cerza, F.P.S., Life
3. THE FORMATION OF THE FIRST GRAND LODGE IN 1717
(Editorial Note: This article is the third in a series to be published this year in commemoration of the 250th Anniversary of the formation of the Grand Lodge of England on June 24, 1717, in London, England.)
Subsequent articles will appear in the following issues:
August: Colonial Freemasonry.
October: Anti-Masonry and The Revival.
December: Freemasonry in the Modern World.
THE HISTORY of modern Freemasonry began when an informal meeting was held by Masons in London in 1716 and it was decided to hold a meeting on St. John's Day, June 24, 1717, to discuss the formation of a Grand Lodge. This meeting was held at the Apple Tree Tavern on Charles Street, Covent Garden. The reason for the move was not to solve any problem of declining membership, but rather the recognition of the need for administrative control of the increasing number of Lodges, establishing formal means of recognition, the holding of formal organizational meetings, and the apparent need of some central control. At the outset the outlook was for a Grand Lodge solely for the London area.
According to previous arrangement, on June 24, 1717, the meeting was held at the Goose and Gridiron AleHouse, and was attended by "some old brothers" and the officers of the Lodges that met at:
1. The Goose and Gridiron AleHouse in St. Paul's Church-Yard;
2. The Crown Ale-House in Parker's-Lane near Drury-Lane;
3. The Apple Tree Tavern in Charles-Street, Covent-Garden;
4. The Rummer and Grapes Tavern in Channel-Row, Westminster.
Unfortunately, the minutes of the meeting (if taken) have not been preserved. There is some evidence that two other Lodges may have been represented at the meeting. The oldest Master Mason presided at the meeting. Anthony Sayer, described as a "Gentleman," was elected Grand Master, and was duly installed. His first official act was to state that the Grand Officers were to meet with him every quarter at the place designated by him.
This was an era of great social activity. Clubs of all kinds were in existence and in 1717 coffee houses were in vogue. For example, in 1700 there were 3,000 coffee houses in London and they were the center of social and political activity. Lodges were convivial organizations, met in taverns and inns, and were known by the name of the place where they met.
At the meeting held on June 24, 1718, George Payne was elected and installed Grand Master. Apparently several old constitutions were brought to this meeting and it was urged that old records and documents relating to the Craft be brought to the Grand Lodge meetings for the purpose of being studied.
At the meeting held on June 24 1719, John Theophilus Desaguliers was elected and installed Grand Master. During his term of office a number of noblemen were made Masons; and though he served as Grand Master for only one year his beneficial influence existed for many years and he was one of the ablest early leaders of the Grand Lodge.
With the election of John, second Duke of Montagu, as Grand Master, in 1721, the Grand Lodge received a great deal of prestige. He was the first of a line of noblemen who were to serve as Grand Masters. At this time Dr. James Anderson was delegated to prepare a Constitution, and the Grand Master appointed a committee of fourteen "learned Brothers" to examine the manuscript and report to the Grand Lodge. The committee made its report in March, 1722, and the book was ordered printed. This election of a nobleman and the publication of the Constitutions (which has become one of the most famous Masonic books) caused the Grand Lodge to assume greater importance. It was about this time that the new organization began to think in terms of supervising the Lodges beyond the city of London. It was not too successful in this effort and struggled on for many years. In the meantime a Grand Lodge was formed in Ireland in 1725; and a Grand Lodge was formed in Scotland in 1736.
The publication of Masonry Dissected, by Prichard, in 1730, which purported to be an expose of the ritual caused some public attention to be attracted to the Craft. And in 1738 the first Papal Bull against the Craft was issued by the Roman Catholic Church.
The first major difficulty encountered by this Grand Lodge of 1717 was in 1751 when a group of Irish Masons, with a membership of 79 persons, formed five Lodges, under the title of "Antients." It appears that the London Lodges had become "aristocratic" in character and certain signs and words were changed to afford an excuse for barring the Irish workmen of the city who were Masons.
The new Lodges were formed for the purpose of preserving the ancient forms, usages, signs, and words; therefore, they acquired the label of "antients" to distinguish these Lodges from the others who were derisively called the "moderns" because of the changes they were making. Five years later Laurence Dermott, the then Grand Secretary, published the Book of Constitutions of this Ancient Grand Lodge, and called it the Ahiman Rezon. By this time the new Grand Lodge had 45 Lodges with a total membership of over 1,000. By 1760 it had 80 Lodges and within the next six years added 62 more Lodges.
The existence of two rival Grand Lodges was not good for the Craft. There was no inter-visitation and no co-operation. It was not until 1813 that the two Grand Lodges met in a Lodge of Reconciliation, settled their differences, and formed the United Grand Lodge of England.
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by Mrs. John A. Robb, Jr.
Vice President, Freedoms Foundation, Valley Forge, Pennsylvania
Of particular interest to readers of The Philalethes is the well-known fact that General MacArthur (1880-1965) was a member of the Masonic Fraternity, and also a Sojourner.
Made a Mason "at sight" by Samuel Hawthorne, Grand Master of The Philippines on January 17, 1936, MacArthur then affiliated with Manila Lodge No. 1, Manila. He was a member of the Shrine, and a Scottish Rite Mason (Southern Jurisdiction), receiving the 32d in Manila in 1936; made KCCH in 1937, an Honorary 33d on December 8, 1937, at the American Embassy, Tokyo, Japan. An outstanding display of some of his Masonic emblems is in the Douglas MacArthur Memorial in Norfolk, Virginia, his burial place.
AMONG the numerous things which many citizens of our country take for granted is the Flag of the United States of America. The familiar banner flying over or near public buildings is often just a spot of color unnoticed by most passersby. If it is missing from its staff on a day when it is not really raining, some may wonder vaguely what the weather forecast was for the day, or if it is flying at half-staff, may try to remember whether the morning news mentioned the death of some public official. How many of us really know the history of our Flag, the meaning of its colors, the rules for its proper display.
A special research project and library named in honor of General Douglas MacArthur is being developed at Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge to bring together all the information available about the Flag of the United States and the customs and ceremonies related to it. By a joint resolution of the Senate and House of Representatives approved June 22, 1942, the existing rules and customs pertaining to the display and use of the Flag were established as the "Flag Code." However, there still remains some ambiguity in some sections of the Flag Code, and one purpose of this project is to study these points in order to be able to interpret them to the public.
In connection with the study of the history of the Flag, the library is collecting authentic flags which have been used at different periods. Before 1912 there was no official design for the placement of the stars in the blue Union, and it is hoped that some of these old flags will be donated to the collection. The oldest flag in the library at the present time is a 24-star flag representing the period between 1822 and 1836.
Replicas of Colonial and Revolutionary Flags add color and interest in the MacArthur Library section of the Foundation's Martha Washington Building. Information is also available on the flags of the individual states, some of which are direct descendants of Colonial flags.
In addition to the study of the Flag, the research project will also encompass other pertinent symbols in our country's history and heritage.
There is symbolism in the various elements of the Great Seal of the United States of America. The face of the Seal is, like the Flag, a familiar emblem, but how many of us could describe it in detail and explain the meaning of the component parts? How many people realize that both the obverse and reverse of the Great Seal are illustrated on the back of the one dollar bill? And how many of those who do know this can translate, however freely, the words "Annuit Coeptis"?
The account of the choice of the bald eagle as the national bird, the stories of the Liberty Bell and Statue of Liberty, and other facts and legends relating to American symbols will be studied and recorded as the project develops.
The space occupied by the MacArthur Research Project and Library was originally provided by the American War Mothers in 1962 when the Martha Washington Building was erected. Of special interest to Masons is the contribution by the National Sojourners which provided the display cases and other furnishings for the Library. An attractive plaque, a duplicate of the one placed by the Sojourners in the Douglas MacArthur Memorial in Norfolk, Virginia, was presented in July 1965, and was rededicated on General MacArthur's birthday, January 27, 1967, by Captain James Buckner, CEC, USN, and other representatives of the National Sojourners.
Additional contributions to this project will go toward an endowment fund for the continuation of the research work and the development of the Library.
Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge was established in 1949 to encourage Americans, especially our young people, to assume the personal responsibilities of good citizenship and to understand the real values of a free economic and political system.
The Foundation utilizes an annual awards program to encourage and stimulate activities that increase understanding and appreciation of the freedoms embodied in our way of life and the responsibilities we must assume as citizens of the United States. Materials which have been selected for award by independent awards juries over the past eighteen years are filed at the Foundation and are available to persons visiting the Foundation's headquarters. The public is welcome to visit the headquarters daily except Sundays between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Other activities of the nonprofit, nonpolitical, nonsectarian Freedoms Foundation include seminars and workshops for teachers, ministers, veterans and service organizations on the principles of freedom, the necessity for preserving these principles, and the threats against them from communism and from the apathy of our own citizens.
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Welcome to New Members
LLOYD M. BRINKMAN, 2543 Rosendale Road, Schenectady, New York 12309
WILLIAM G. MATEER, 206 N. Raynor, Joliet, Illinois 60435
CHARLES W. BRADLEY, 3201 E. Maryland St., Decatur, Illinois 62521
R. KENNETT GIESEKE, Park and Orlando Avenues, Gloucester, New Jersey 08031
RENO A. LEPLEY, 228 E. Hamilton Avenue, State College, Pennsylvania 16801
JOHN A. NEVANPERA, 17 West End Avenue, Newton, New Jersey 07860
ELROY P. WALKER, Cherry Hill, Romulus, New York 14541
JAMES D. GILLIAM, 2602 Fordham Drive, Fayetteville, North Carolina 28304
JOHN B. COTTRELL, JR., 240 Crum Creek Road, Media, Pennsylvania 19063
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BY ALPHONSE CERZA, F.P.S. (Life), Illinois
For many years Paul Blanshard has been studying and writing about the Roman Catholic Church's activities relating to the American Way of Life. He was invited as an observer of Vatican Council II and attended some of the sessions. There is now available Paul Blanshard on Vatican II, in which he appraises Pope John, Pope Paul, and the work of the Council. In this very readable book he takes the various areas that have caused the trouble between the Roman Catholic Church and others which were discussed at the Council and reports the results.
Every American interested in his country should read this book. Liberal Roman Catholics will get a great deal out of the material presented.
Available from Beacon Press, 25 Beacon Street, Boston, Mass., at $5.95 a copy.
* * *
The printed Proceedings of the Seventeenth Annual Midwest Conference on Masonic Education are available. The Conference was held in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on October 13, 14, and 15, 1966. Representatives of twelve Educational Committees attended plus a visitor from Arkansas. A good many important matters were discussed.
Copies of the Proceedings are available at $2.25 a copy from Dr. Dawson Grim, Higley Building, Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
* * *
The 1966 Proceedings of the Missouri Lodge of Research are now available. The volume consists of Volume One of a projected two-volume history of Freemasonry by Brother Henry W. Coil. This work represents the research of a lifetime and will be the first complete history of the Craft published in many years. The books will be sent to the members of the Missouri Lodge of Research as a matter of course.
If you want a copy of this valuable set it is suggested that you send a check for $10 to Brother A. W. Griffith, Secretary, 301 West Fifth Avenue, Fulton, Missouri 65251, with instructions that the money be applied to 1966 and 1967 dues. This will cover the cost of the two volumes and any "bonus" material issued in 1967. The plans for the next few years are such that it would be advisable that membership be continued to be sure this material will be received.
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The story of the Constitutional Convention of 1787 is told in a clear style in Miracle at Philadelphia, by Catherine Dinker Bowen. This 350-page book presents the various struggles of the members, their opposing views, and how compromise brought forth the Great Document. Many of the members were Masons.
Available from Little, Brown & Co., 34 Beacon St., Boston, Mass., at $7.50 a copy.
* * *
The Embattled Wall, by C. Stanley Lowell, is a clothbound book of 162 pages which presents the twenty-year battles of "Protestants and other Americans for the Separation of Church and State." Formed in 1947 when a concerted effort began to secure public money for religious-oriented schools, this group has fought valiantly ever since to preserve the separation of church and state in the United States. The trials, the work, the success, and the persons involved in the struggle are portrayed. The help of the Scottish Rite, S.M.J., is covered.
Available from Americans United, 1633 Massachusetts Avenue, Washington, D.C., at $3.95 a copy.
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The December, 1966, issue of the National Geographic magazine has an interesting article entitled, "Abraham, the Friend of God," by Kenneth MacLeish. The author studied the Bible and then went to Ur, a desolate area, and went over the area travelled by Abraham those many years ago when the idea of one God was taking form. There are many color pictures presented with this moving story linking the old with the new.
Available at $1 a copy from the National Geographic Society, 17th and M Streets, N. W., Washington, D. C.
* * *
Persons who do a great deal of writing or formal speaking will welcome, Modern American Usage, by Wilson Follett. The manuscript for this book was about two-thirds completed when Wilson Follett died. He has spent a lifetime studying language and its use; he spent his retirement years writing this book. It was edited and completed by a group of scholars under the guidance of Jacques Barzun.
This 436-page book is in alphabetical order and presents a lively discussion of modern usage. With wit and subtle jibes the reader will enjoy the sarcasm and the word-illustrations. As a reference book it will serve as a valuable tool. We all know how the term "past master' has been adopted in common conversation. In the book (page 312) it is stated that the use of the term is "ambiguous unless one clearly means the former Master of a Masonic Lodge or incumbent of some other mastership that the person referred to no longer holds."
Available from Hill and Wang, 141 Fifth Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10010, at $7.50 a copy.
* * *
Brother Jean O. Heineman, a Member of the Philalethes Society residing in Oslo, Norway with whom I have corresponded for many years and who is a devoted Masonic student, has written me concerning "Giordano Bruno and the Hermetic Tradition." He advises that this book of 466 pages was published by Routledge and Kegan Paul, of London. The book developes the theme that Giordano Bruno, the martyr, was the link between the Ancient Mysteries and the modern Craft. Brother Heineman expresses the opinion that this is a book worth while considering by Masonic historians.
* * *
About a year ago it was deemed necessary by Brother Luther Smith, Grand Commander of the Scottish Rite, S. M. J., that a study be made of Fundamental Masonic Law. He delegated this project to Dr. James D. Carter, Librarian of the House of the Temple Library, and together the manuscript was completed.
This fine booklet may be secured free, so long as the supply lasts, by writing to Judge Luther Smith, 1733 Sixteenth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C.
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The Years Roll On and He is Still Here; the Editor Completes a Cycle for Freemasonry
It is easy to speak of the March of Time, and it is still less difficult to prevent one from reaching an anniversary if life persists, so it came about that the Editor of the Philalethes, John Black Vrooman, put another notch in his record, and started the second lap towards a half century of activity in the Welfare Program of the Masonic Service Association.
Washington - 1967 - the crossroads of the world, where the leaders of Freemasonry gather, plan and activate for a better world. And at the annual meeting of the Masonic Service Association, John Black Vrooman was singled out, brought to the platform, and in the presence of some of his dearest friends, was given a plaque, or testimonial which certified him as a twenty-five year "member of the team."
The fact that his buddies, "Connie" Hahn, Executive Secretary of the Masonic Service Association, "Bill" Edmunds, Chief Field Agent, and longtime faithful worker and sparkplug of MSA, "Jack" Cunningham, former Executive Secretary, were the three conspirators, did not detract from the joy of the event.
Starting in November 1941, at the Masonic Service Center, the "Home Away From Home" for our Armed Forces, at Rolla, Missouri, he toiled with "Bob" Wright, the other "Rolla Twin," finished the work of World War II, then transferred to Jefferson Barracks Veterans Hospital, near St. Louis, where he served those who had done their magnificent "bit" for their country, and at the erection of the new John J. Cochran Veterans Hospital in St. Louis, took over the work at that place, where, through the splendid co-operation and good will of the Freemasons of the area, there is daily, a rehabilitation and uplift for the hospitalized patients who so badly need the milk of human kindness, not only as Freemasons, but as human beings who merit our understanding, regardless of race, creed or other separation.
More than usual good will and understanding among the Craft of the area, there has been a steady, concerted and fraternal effort to erase heartbreak and loneliness, and for this effort, the Field Agent is most proud and happy. Masonry has not, now, nor will it forget the work that its tenets teach.
Probably the most surprising and interesting event connected with the presentation, was the fact that, at the luncheon that noon, one of the "boys," who had been a visitor and guest at the Masonic Service Center at Rolla, in early 1942, when the war was at its height, Past Grand Master Leonel M. Jensen, of South Dakota, told Bill Edmunds, "I've seen that fellow somewhere, and I wonder where." Then the climax - he had been a G.I. at Fort Leonard Wood, and had frequented the Center many times, being at that time, not a Mason.
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The Membership Committee
by Kenneth F. Curtis, F.P.S.
BRETHREN, each member is an important part of the Membership Committee.
True, we have a committee represented by a few dedicated individuals scattered over the U.S.A. and in some foreign countries. We have never expected them to obtain all the new members each year, so actually the duties of the committee extend to each member.
The strength of the Membership Committee lies in the Society working as a unit. Each one of us must endeavor to add to our total yearly increase.
We know the value of a dollar is not what it was and that prices are climbing. We know there are many reasons why additional expenditures are not accepted favorably by most heads-of-households today, BUT, because of the high cost of living should we stop trying to obtain new members? When a task becomes more difficult - it is then we should give more of ourselves towards attaining the objective.
In a recent issue of The Philalethes you read the words: "GET A MEMBER." In those three words our editor made our problem very clear. Let us get behind this slogan and DO SOMETHING NOW because procrastination will dampen the will.
We really need members and you can assist by obtaining one or more, or by sending your membership chairman a list of prospects.
Just write to:
Kenneth F. Curtis, F.P.S.
2455 Raeford Road
Orlando, Florida 32806
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by Dwight W. Robb, M.P.S.
It appears on February 15, 1776, one month before the British evacuated Boston, and during the period that St. John's Grand Lodge was in recess, R.W. John Rowe, Prov. Grand Master, granted a constitution for American Union Lodge located in Roxbury, Massachusetts, and attached to one of Gen. George Washington's patriot's regiments.
Up to the time American Union Lodge settled in Marietta, Ohio, about 1790 the membership was for the most part comprised of army officers with a few civilians they being doctors and others employed by the regiment, who looked after the procurement of food and other supplies.
It appears the Secretary's records are not complete there being no minutes for 1776, 1777, and 1778, and there are other gaps in 1780 and 1782. No doubt the cause of these lapses was due to the regiment being on the move. However "the minutes extant begin February 15, 1779."
In 1776, the regiment moved to New York, from thence to Reading in Connecticut, then to Nelson's Point, New York, and into winter quarters at Morristown, New Jersey, in 1779. The following spring it moved back to New York after which it moved to Connecticut Huts and finally to West Point, New York. The last meeting at West Point, held on April 23, 1783, the Lodge was closed "to stand closed until the W. Master should call them together." This last meeting was "undoubtedly the last meeting as an Army Lodge," with Wor. Bro. Jonathan Heart presiding.
The early by-laws are summarized as follows: Membership was limited to forty-five "unless enlarged by a majority vote." Apparently no written or printed candidate application was considered necessary, they were proposed orally and the application fee was ten dollars, four dollars paid by the proposer. If one negative ballot appeared in the first, second and third ballot, the candidate was rejected and his fee returned. Usually no degree work was performed at the meeting the candidate was accepted. "Each member paid to the secretary one shilling or one-sixth of a dollar for each attendance at Lodge." The by-laws also provided for healing clandestine Masons, and one made in a traveling Lodge in a city where there was a "regular" Lodge was treated as clandestine. Elections of officers were held each six months at the festivals of Sts. John.
In 1779, while the regiment to which American Union Lodge was attached, was in winter quarters at Morristown, N.J., the Lodge drew up a petition, "directed to the Provincial Grand Masters in all the States, reciting the separation by war from the Grand Lodges of Europe and at the same time lamenting the effects of political disputes and national quarrels." The petition further suggested, that by having a "Grand Master of the Thirteen States of America, checks could be made to prevent irregularities, restore peace and harmony . . . and for the reestablishment of the order on the ancient foundation," etc. It also called for the first meeting to consider the above petition to be held "at Morristown on the first Monday in February 1780."
"The Army lodges responded well to the above mentioned call. The Convention Lodge duly met on February 7, 1780, and the proceedings thereof are reported in the minutes of American Union Lodge in the form of a committee report."
The minutes also stated, "It regretted the distinctions of interest, the political views and national disputes between Great Britain and the United States, not only disturbing the tranquillity of the country but in a peculiar manner affecting the Society by separating them from the Grand Mother Lodge in Europe, disturbing our connections with each other," etc.
The subject of having a Grand Lodge of the United States was discussed for a long time.
George Washington was present at the first meeting of the "Convention Lodge" and there was no doubt in the minds of those present that he would be chosen as Grand Master of the United States, but no such mention was made at that time. It also appears Washington, on two other occasions, had been a visitor at the American Union Lodge.
"The remarkable career of American Union Lodge and its Master Jonathan Heart, did not end with the close of the war." The revival occurred in "far off" Northwest Territory, "which had been the scene of bloody Indian fighting, received its first permanent settlement at Marietta," Ohio, about 1788.
In 1786, two generals, Rufus Putnam and Benjamin Tupper, organized the Ohio Company, a company designed to settle the Northwest Territory, of which the present State of Ohio was then a part.
Rufus Putnam, was made a Mason in 1779, in American Union Lodge while at Nelson's Point, N. Y. The records of the Massachusetts (Independent) Grand Lodge shows that "Wpfll Benja Tupper, Mr Hampshire Lodge" was present at their meeting of June 2, 1785.
"Jonathan Heart accompanied Putnam to the Northwest Territory and carried the old Lodge charter with him." Becoming one of the first settlers of Marietta. "By 1790, there was a group of Freemasons at Marietta, who desiring to form a lodge, petitioned Heart to lend the 'protection' of his Charter." At first Brother Heart hesitated, but recognizing one or two others who had visited American Union Lodge, consented to the revival of the old Lodge that had been dormant since 1783.
The first meeting of the old Lodge at Marietta was held on June 28, 1790, and Heart was elected Master and Putnam and Tupper Wardens. The next business of the Lodge was to send a circular letter to the Grand Lodges of Massachusetts, New York and Pennsylvania "asking recognition with the understanding that the Lodge was under the jurisdiction of Massachusetts," or rather the St. John's Grand Lodge in Boston, that was granted.
The Lodge continued to work after the death of Brother Heart in 1791. About 1803, the Lodge lost their charter by fire and to get a re-issue, they first wrote to the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, that state being the nearest, who refused, but was willing to grant a charter as a Lodge under their jurisdiction. They next applied to the Grand Lodge of Masons in Massachusetts, that was granted, according to the Proceedings for that year. (Vol. II. Mass. 222.)
"Ohio became a State in 1802 and, in 1808, representatives of six Lodges met . . . to form a Grand Lodge, and Genl. Putnam was elected Grand Master." American Union Lodge being one of the above six.
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Publicity and the Society
by Kenneth F. Curtis, F.P.S.
Chairman, Membership Committee
It is believed that we need to develop more publicity for the good of the Society. Publicity is not exactly a word that is used in Masonic circles but in this particular case it appears to be one of the keys to the problem. Any organization like the Philalethes Society needs a steady stream of new members for its existence. The problem is what should be done in order to contact prospects for membership. Now this is where publicity comes into the picture.
What we are really concerned about is the promotion of interest in qualified individuals on the purposes and activities of the Society. There are different ways of accomplishing this end. One is the person-to-person contact. We meet many Masonic Brethren, some become very close friends. We learn in time their likes and dislikes; whether they are interested in the printed word on Masonic subjects or other activities. When we find the qualified one with interest, it is then we should advance information about the Society, bearing in mind to be prepared and able to give detailed information on our purposes and activities.
Another very good contact with our Brethren is in addressing a group. Much can be said on the Society within three minutes. The writer remembers during World War I hearing many three minute talks on the sale of Liberty Bonds and those talks worked, for thousands of bonds were sold. We certainly should tell our Brethren about the Society, someone told us about it, and one good turn deserves another. Be prepared, don't stand up "to sound off" unless you have something to say.
Still another method of letting the other fellow know what we have to offer is through the printed word. A short article, one correct in content, does a world of good in a Masonic publication. Possibly some of the readers of this article are in a position to accomplish just such an act.
We have a fine membership and we want to keep it that way, but in order to do so we must all do our bit towards "passing the word" about the Society. We, as members of the Philalethes Society, have something we like and believe to be good, why not pass some of it on to our Brother Masons? As you read this, you may think of a prospect, by all means take steps to contact him, don't put it off. Positive action is what we need for we want to hold our own and this - we can do with your help.
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Chicago Chapter Sets An Example
by Alphonse Cerza, F.P.S., Life
UNDER THE AUTHORITY of Brother Elbert Bede, then President of the Philalethes Society, the Chicago Chapter of the Society was formed. The members have held meetings at the rate of about twice a year ever since. The project is considered a success for it affords the members an opportunity to get acquainted, have a social visit, secure Masonic information, exchange views on subjects of interest, and the production of manuscripts for use in the magazine. On several occasions the speakers before the meetings have been requested to repeat their talks before Lodges in the Chicago area.
In localities where members of the Society live within a reasonable distance it is recommended that a local Chapter be organized. At these meetings Masons who do not belong to the Philalethes Society should not be barred but rather encouraged to take a part. If any member feels there is a need for such a Chapter in his locality and he is willing to take the lead, the following suggestions are being made.
Examine the list of members and note those who live close enough to make it practical to attend one or two of the meetings to be held each year. Contact these members by phone or by letter and ascertain what co-operation can be expected. You might consider calling an informal dinner session at a restaurant located about the center of where the majority of the members reside. After this first meeting has been held and enough interest is engendered, a letter should be written to the President of the Society reporting what had taken place and suggesting the name of the chairman and of the secretary for the Chapter.
The organization should be kept in as simple a form as possible. No bylaws are necessary and there need not be periodical elections. There should not be more than two meetings a year under ordinary circumstances. Particular attention should be paid to hold meetings when there is no conflict with Lodge meeting nights or other meetings by the appendant bodies. If there is no convenient place to meet, the Chapter can consider suggesting to the Lodges in the area that they be invited to hold their program in connection with a Lodge meeting. The program of the Chapter would consist of one, two or three talks on related subjects with adequate time for a question and answer period by everyone present. In this manner the Chapter will have a place to meet, will give the members a chance to get together, and will be rendering a service to the Lodge by creating interest and attracting the members to come to the meeting.
The programs should be prepared far enough in advance so the subjects can be assigned to members for presentation. One tool that can be of great help to the Chapter is "Masonic Study Groups," published by the Masonic Service Association, 700 Tenth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C., at sixty cents a copy. The talks presented, whenever possible, should be written and sent to the Editor of our magazine for consideration as articles to be published in the magazine.
Notices of meetings should be sent to all the local Lodges, editors of Lodge bulletins, members of the Society, and known Masonic students in the locality. A register of those attending the meetings should be kept for future use in inviting guests. During the discussion period if any suggestion is made that seems valuable, or an unusual topic is brought up, the person making the suggestion or presenting the topic should be encouraged to reduce it to writing and send it to the Editor of our magazine. Applications for membership to the Society should be secured from the Secretary of the Society prior to the meeting and be made available to non-members.
Since the Chapter will be meeting infrequently and the only expense will be the mailing of notices, there will be no need for charging dues. The small amount of money required can be raised by asking the members for a contribution; or you can "pass the hat" at the meetings.
(Editorial comment: Since Brother Cerza has been active in the Chicago Chapter since its inception, anyone having any questions or needing any help should communicate with him.)
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by Wylie B. Wendt, F.P.S.
THE ORDERS conferred in a Commandery of Knights Templar are frequently referred to as Orders of Christian Masonic Knighthood, although there may be redundancy in this expression. If our organization is an Order of Knighthood, and it is, it is certain to be Christian, because real Knighthood always was and always will be a Christian Institution. Our Order is an Order of Chivalry and the ne plus ultra (there is nothing beyond) of York Rite Masonry. The origin of chivalry is involved in great obscurity, and while all Templars may have a general idea concerning it, various writers on the subject usually have an hypothesis and historical background of their own.
Knighthood may be defined as "a military order of honor, or a mark or degree of ancient nobility, or a reward of personal virtue or merit." There are three general classes of knighthood: Religious, military and civil.
Religious Knighthood is applied to those Orders, sometimes military which profess to wear some particular habit, to assist humanity, to serve in hospitals, to propagate the Christian faith, and if military, to bear arms and fight on the field of battle.
Military Knighthood is that of the ancient knights, who acquired it by feat of arms. They are called "miletes" in the old charters (from which we obtain "militia" ) or "equites" in the days of Rome, from which we obtain the word "equestrian," having reference to horsemen, as the ancient knights were always mounted.
Civil Knighthood includes honorary knighthood and social knighthood. Honorary knighthood is that which princes and sovereigns confer on other princes, and social knighthood is conferred upon those who have rendered a service to country or to sovereign, and are not of the nobility.
Chivalric Orders, as a rule, are the emanations of royalty. Exceptions would be the four Orders formed during the Crusades: The Knights Templar, the Knights of Malta, the Teutonic Knights and the Knights of St. Thomas of Acre.
In ancient times, knights were divided into two ranks: Knights Bachelor and Knights Banneret.
The Knight Bachelor was the lower rank, although the most ancient of all, and originally the sole Order of Knighthood. Bachelor was probably derived from the French "bas chevalier," which would indicate that they were held in inferior estimate to those more fortunate knights who had extensive lands and numerous vassals. The grade of Knight Bachelor was conferred by one knight upon another without interference of prince, noble, sovereign or churchman. The duties and privileges approach nearly those of the knight errant and many Knights Bachelor were in fact mere adventurers. These knights offered their services in war to any leader who could pay them, and thus they found in their swords a means of a livelihood. The Knight Bachelor wore a pointed or triangular ensign which was forked by being extended into two points. This ensign was called a pennon, never a banner.
The Knight Banneret was one who possessed a landed estate and who in war furnished a following of at least thirty men- at - arms, who were knights or squires, mounted. Each man-at-arms, besides his attendants on foot, should have a mounted crossbow-man and a horseman armed with bow and ax. The number of horsemen assembled under a banner was at least three hundred men and including a following on foot, might amount to a thousand men. The name was derived from "banneret," a proper banner of oblong shape with square corners.
The Knight Banneret held rank between the Barons, the great land owners, and the Knights Bachelor. Only Barons (Knights Baronets) were supposed to display the square banner. This distinction between the square banner and the oblong banner was not rigidly enforced; because Knights Bachelor were sometimes made Knights Banneret on the field of battle as a reward of their prowess, and the ceremony consisted in the simple action of the sovereign cutting off with his sword the points of their pennons, thus transforming them into square banners.
Out of this institution of chivalry, where Knights Bachelor and Knights Banneret were dubbed and created individually, grew the fraternities, by knights associating themselves into Orders with names. Thus came into being the Military and Religious Orders formed during the Crusades, including our own beloved Order of Knights Templar, which within our Commanderies now include Priories of Knights of Malta.
When or by whom the system of knighthood or the first Order of Chivalry was established is a question which perhaps will never be agreed upon, but there are those who claim that the system is of very ancient origin, and in support of their claim cite Genesis 41:41, 42: "And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, See I have set thee over all the land of Egypt. And Pharaoh took off his ring from his hand, and put it upon Joseph's hand, and arrayed him in vestures of fine linen, and put a gold chain around his neck." This bestowing of a golden chain or a ring does not imply the investment with an order, but is only a testimony of merit. Perhaps this was the beginning of the wearing of the golden chain around the neck now prevalent in Masonic Grand Bodies, or the beginning of the wearing of a ring in certain Masonic bodies.
It is generally conceded that the peculiar home of chivalry was France and England, the initiation of the knight being essentially religious in form, but the outward ceremony seems to have descended from the ancient Germans because the first honor of their youth was to be adorned with the shield and lance by the prince or sovereign, upon which they were considered as members of the state, whereas before, they were considered only a part of the family to which they belonged.
This solemnity strikingly resembles a more recent custom, prevalent in European kingdoms, by which the young nobility of the court are declared by the prince capable of bearing arms, which is done by girding on them a sword, and striking them on the ear. The reason for striking on the ear of a knight, on his creation, is credited to the King of Bohemia, toward William of Holland, the king saying, "Remember that the Saviour of the world was buffeted and scoffed before the high priest." But others affirm that this is done with the view that he may consider this blow as the last, and may never after submit to receive one from any other person.
This seems to be the case from the ceremonial of the Teutonic Order, the third Order founded during the Crusades, in which the Sovereign creating a knight, addressed him thus: "Bear this blow, and never submit to another." The ceremony also has a resemblance to the blow which the Roman slave received on manumission, called "manumissa per vindictam," for at the time the slave was manumitted, he received a blow from the hand of his master, accompanied with these words, "I declare you to be free according to the custom of the Romans."
Sir John Ferne, of the College of Heralds of England, observed that the first knight was Olibion, the son of Asterial, of the line of Japhet, Noah’s son, for says Sir John, "Before he went forth to battle, his father made him a garland of several precious stones (in token of chivalry) with which he gave him his blessing, and then with Japhet's faulchion, which Tubal made before the flood, smote him, Olibion kneeling, lightly nine times on his right shoulder, charging him to keep the nine virtues of chivalry, as follows: (1) You shall hold with the sacrifice of the Great God of Heaven; (2) You shall honor your father and your mother; (3) Be merciful to all people; (4) Do no harm to the poor; (5) Do not turn your back to the enemy; (6) Keep your promise to friend and foe; (7) Keep hospitality, especially to strangers; (8) Uphold the maiden's right; (9) See not the widow wronged.
It is true that in the old Gothic or Saxon, the term Knight appeared to have implied "servant," but it meant the servant of a King; and so did the word "Thane," one of the oldest titles of Saxon nobility. The term "Thane" is affirmed by antiquarians to have a very different meaning than the Latin "servus." A Thane was not a slave but a free servant of high position. He was a servant in the same sense as the Prince of Wales, whose motto was "I serve," (Ich Dien or Thien).
The outward form of Knighthood was probably derived from the Equestrian Order of ancient Rome.
The Saxon word "cniht," from which we get the English "knight," signified at first a youth, then a servant, or one who did domestic service, or one who did military service, or a soldier who did military service, which might either be on foot or horseback, but the French word "Chevalier" and the German "Ritter" both refer to his equestrian character.
Our title "Knight," which is derived from the Saxon, is peculiar to ourselves. In other nations, it is a name given them, derived from horses. As previously mentioned, the Romans called them "Equites" and the French "Chevaliers." The Italians called them "Caballieri," the Germans "Reyters" or "Ritters," the Spaniards "Cavalleros," and the Welch "Marchog," all referring to riding.
A Knight is always said to be "dubbed," not "created," but it means the same thing. The candidate is dubbed a Knight and then created a member of a particular Order of Knighthood or Chivalry. The Order of Knights Templar is often referred to as the Chivalry of the Temple. "Dub" in English and "douber" in French are both said to be derived from the Saxon "dubban," which means to gird. "Dub" in Saxon also signifies a blow.
When the so called "higher degrees" came into prominence on the Continent of Europe around the year 1750, all rites and Masonic systems introduced grades of Knighthood as the final degrees, these grades being considered the highest honors that could be conferred upon a Mason. And so today, in the York Rite of Freemasonry, the Orders of Knighthood are the final grades. They are sometimes referred to as "the accolade." The word, accolade, comes from the Latin, "ad" and "collum," meaning around the neck. The accolade generally means the blow given by the flat of the sword on the neck or the shoulder of the newly created knight.
Upon the organization of the United Grand Lodge of England in 1813 (the first Grand Lodge having been formed in 1717, the oldest Grand Lodge in the world), the following was incorporated in the Articles of Agreement: "Ancient Craft Masonry consists of three degrees and no more: those of Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft and Master Mason, including the Holy Royal Arch. But this Article is not intended to prevent any lodge or chapter from holding a meeting in any of the degrees of Chivalry, according to the constitution of said Orders."
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Communism, A Destructive Power
BY RABBI H. GEFFEN, 32, F.P.S.
Communism, under the mask of high ideals, the annihilation of poverty and inferiority, has also oppressed and persecuted democracy and Freemasonry, liberty and freedom of speech. Communism was the first to blot and crush man.
Under the mask of promoting happiness, Communism caused endless torture, affliction and distress. Communism has absolutely subjected the individual to Bolshevic rank. We know the way of thinking of the Communists:
"We will free man of his economic troubles, and through this we will bring about his undoing, kill his inclination and abilities, and thus we will prepare him to accept that abnormal, strange idea, that it is a precept and a duty to exterminate man, to cause him to suffer, and to die for the betterment of future generations, that it is good for man to be tortured by hunger, cold and illness, and corporal and moral sufferings, with the hope that in the future, maybe, he will obtain satiety, warmth and light."
Even if we will take for granted those ideas, is it possible for us to be rewarded for our sufferings by a feeling of confidence that thus suffering will really bring the economic redemption of the individual and to the entire human race?
No, there is not in existence such security.
Besides this, Communism persecutes religion and destroys the houses of worship, prayers, the high privilege of the soul, the communion with The Great Architect of the Universe, the wireless connection between God and man; desecrates the Holy Bible, the inspired record of God manifested in nature, history and the human soul; the only book where we find surpassing beauty of description of spiritual; where we find the right path for our life journey; where we learn of the purposes of God concerning the human soul; where we find the origin of all morals and ethics. That precious, spiritual treasure the Communists are intending to destroy, to root out.
The Communist government has distinguished itself by its inhumanity, cruelty, wildness, in lowering man's dignity, maltreating and abusing the sanctities of millions of peoples.
By its actions Communism produced and developed bitterness and opposition in the hearts of the masses used to more personal freedom and democracy, and awakened the lust for murder, annihilation, aggression and subjugation in its spheres.
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Why Masonry Supports Rule of Chastity
BY BLISS KELLY, M.P.S. (Okla.)
WHY IS THE "Rule of Chastity" necessary and why does Masonry teach its members that it should be observed?
The answer to that question is as old as Masonry and as important as civilization itself, for it is the foundation upon which all morals are built, all governments are constructed and all progress and society is based.
Philosophers and students of government have expounded the reasons for the rule of chastity for three thousand years. With the "modern" trend to break down that rule by ridicule and arguments of misguided teachers and professors, it must be restated and emphasized for the benefit of the younger generations who are being misinformed.
Masonry teaches, in all of its degrees and lectures that all men should defend and protect women, that men should be faithful to their wives and families, and that their first duty is to their families, and that they should fight valiantly, if necessary, to protect innocent girls and women.
This is not only a rule of religion and morality, but it is a positive rule of economics in any society or culture or government if it is to make progress and exist for any period of time. Why? Let's analyze it for a moment, as ancient and modern wise men have discussed it.
When human beings began to emerge from the stone age and to progress toward civilization, it became necessary that the male should stay with the female in order to protect her and the young, and that the male should assist in the work necessary to properly feed, shelter and train the family. This was the first step from savagery toward a civilized society. Thus, the first unit of civilization was the family composed of one man and one woman with their children, all working, fighting for and protecting each other.
Then, in order to better protect themselves from wild animals as well as hostile enemies, it became necessary to unite into communities, or villages, so as to be able to have the benefit of their combined efforts and skills as well as to afford protection for all. All this was the natural result of the primary concern for the welfare and assistance of the female, but there were fringe benefits for the males as well, in companionship, mutual aid and assistance and progressive advancement of all.
To maintain these villages it was necessary to adopt rules and regulations for the conduct of its members and for the ownership of property. Honesty, fair dealing and other rules were observed. The basic principles of the Ten Commandments evolved from this three thousand years ago, if not longer. The rule of chastity was made so that the female would not be left, like an animal, to feed, clothe, shelter and train the young all alone. Death was the penalty for rape and death of both parties by stoning was prescribed for adultery, according to the laws of Moses.
When communities or villages combined to make cities, and these were confederated to make states, nations finally emerged. All this, however, was built upon one great foundation, stone: The Family. And the family was for the benefit of the husband as well as the wife and children. In order to maintain this family, the rule of chastity and of one man and one woman was established. Sometimes, after wars had depleted the supply of men, polygamy was permitted for a time, but this was never successful because it placed too great a burden upon one man to care for more than one family.
Of course, rules, or laws were made requiring each man to take care of his wife and children so that the community would not be burdened with this. In order that he would be certain that the children born to his wife were his, the rule of chastity was enforced on men as well as women. That rule is the basic stone upon which civilization is built. If progress is to continue, it must be maintained. When communism tried loose rules of imitation marriage and divorce, in recent years, the idea had to be abandoned as destructive of the nation.
It is a tragic truth that in much of this nation this rule of chastity has been discarded by many persons. It is estimated that almost a billion dollars of taxpayers' money is paid each month as "aid to dependent children" who have no fathers to support or protect them. A large number of these children are illegitimate because their mothers (and fathers) have discarded this fundamental rule of chastity. If this trend continues, the question asked by President Lincoln as to whether such a nation can long endure will again be pertinent.
What's the answer? Masonry, along with all other organizations having the welfare of the nation at heart, must work in every way possible to restore the "Rule of Chastity" as the foundation stone for our way of life.
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Excavations Show Old Masonic Relics
With the ancient Israelite sanctuary at Arid, in the mountains west of the Dead Sea, completely uncovered, archaeologists are able to tell us three highly significant things about this edifice.
- It is the only Jewish sanctuary ever to be found in an archaeological dig (the reference here being to the inner part of a temple, not to an ordinary house of prayer, of which several have been unearthed in Israel.)
- The temple was built in three sections - courtyard, outer chamber and inner chamber - according to the design of the Jerusalem Temple erected by King Solomon. There is evidence that it was in use from the time of Solomon (10th century B.C.E.) to the end of the First Temple period some 400 years later.
- The main altar, though built of stone (and not of wood, as called for in the Bible) meets the Biblical specifications of size exactly.
The revelations were made by Dr. Yohanan Aharoni, co-director of the archaeological expedition at Tel Arad, which recently finished its third season of work at the site.
It had been particularly instructive, Dr. Aharoni reported, to find the columns (called "Yachin" and "Boaz" in the Bible) to have been symbolic pillars, not intended as supports for the roof. For years there has been dispute among the scholars as to whether these pillars stood outside the Temple or (as written in the Book of Chronicles) outside the inner chamber. The find at Arad appears to vindicate the account in Chronicles, Dr. Aharoni said.
Also found were the remains of a ritual bath in the outer courtyard and six fragments of pottery inscribed in ancient Hebrew script.
The digging will continue soon.
- Exchange
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Notes, Queries and Information On Items of Masonic Research
BY BOB M. STOWE, M.P.S.
5554 Waterman Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63112
1967 - No. 3
THE NUMBER OF LETTERS CONTAINING QUESTIONS which relate to matters of fact in Masonic history, biography and tradition, justify their treatment in a column apart from other portions of the magazine.
Our readers and members are invited to send such material appropriate for use in this column, especially information concerning research currently under way.
The Editor will assist the Sponsor of this column which is supervised and run by Brother Bob M. Stowe, M.P.S.
It must be noted that this page is for EXCHANGE of information and opinion, and does not pretend to provide the final answer to any query.
211 - Masonic Thesis. (Dec. 1966, April 1967.) Bro. Al Woody, F.P.S., 201 N. Wells Street, Chicago, Illinois 60606, sends notice that the May, 1967, Vol. 9, No. 2 issue of the Illinois Enlightener contains an article titled: "St. Andrew's Lodge and the Boston Tea Party," by John C. Vyn of A.O. Fay Lodge No. 676, A. F. & A. M., Highland Park, Illinois. This paper was written as a thesis by Brother Vyn while working for a Ph.D. in history at the University of Chicago. Brother Vyn had been a Master Mason just one month at the time his paper was written. The purpose of the thesis was to learn the role of St. Andrew's Lodge in the Boston Tea Party.
Brother Vyn states that his humble attempt to analyze the facts and arrive at some conclusions, were to support his fundamental thesis that "St. Andrew's Lodge and its membership formed the leadership of the Boston Tea Party."
The thesis is well presented and backed up by a list of 18 references, many not so easily obtained by the average Masonic student without considerable research and travel. In all, Brother Vyn has brought forth in concise manner and expert presentation, items that this reviewer has not seen in print before. His thesis lends quality to the field of Masonic Research and the Fraternity can be proud of Brother Vyn's early work in the quarries. It makes one wish that all Master Masons of this modern day and age, were required to present a masterpiece.
232 - Masonic Slides. Bro. Alex Horne, M.P.S., 100 Font Boulevard, No. 5-L, San Francisco, California 94132, sends a letter from Bro. Frank Welsh, 7 Woodstock Gardens, Blackpool, England, whose hobby is collecting 35mm slides of Masonic interest which are shown to Lodges occasionally. Brother Welsh is interested in slides on "World-Wide Masonry," Will Rogers, the Masonic Astronauts, Carpenter and Grissom, and items on slides concerning Masonic regalia, Lodge interiors, etc. Brother Welsh will trade slides of Grand Lodges in Europe, or 18th century Masonic prints, or ancient and modern regalia. It is to be noted that this Brother states that he has written many American Freemasons on this subject, and this writer has on his desk three of those letters which were addressed to Bro. Alex Horne, Bro. John Black Vrooman and Bro. Bob M. Stowe, all members of the Philalethes. If any Brother has data on slides for Brother Welsh, please contact him at his above address.
233 - First Speculative Masons. Bro. A. W. Griffith, M.P.S., 301 W. 5th St., Fulton, Missouri 65251, sends a letter from Bro. Leo D. Horn, Box 251, Cochranton. Pa. 16314, who asks two questions. The first one is: "According to ecclesiastical history of the Church of Western Europe, the bishops, priests and monks joined the Mason's guilds that were building cathedrals in their dioceses." If this is correct: "Were they the first Speculative Masons?" The second question: "Why, in Lodges of the Jurisdiction of Pennsylvania, are there officers armed with swords?"
234 - Evidence of First Temple. Bro. Alex Horne, M.P.S., 100 Font Blvd., No. 5-L, San Francisco, California 94132, sends a request to Bro. Robert M. Crawford, M.P.S., Belleaire, Florida, concerning the article on p. 18 of the February, 1967, issue, titled "King Solomon's Temple, Egyptian Style." Brother Horne would like to know where the references can be found concerning Brother Crawford's comments on the bas-reliefs on the wall of the Temple of Karnak in Egypt. Brother Crawford, we need your complete address also.
235 - Inverted Square & Compass. (Feb. 1967, p 20.) Brother Norman C. Dutt, F.P.S., 525 Neilson St., Berkeley, California 94707, writes concerning the inverted Square and Compasses. His references are listed.
Freemason's Guide and Compendium. By Bernard E. Jones.
Plate XXVI - p 416 (Jewels).
Plate XXVII - p 417 (Jewels).
Freemason's Book of the Royal Arch. By Bernard E. Jones. Page 267. (Irish Jewels).
Medals of Freemasons: The museum of the United Grand Lodge of England, has a most remarkable display of jewels and aprons; many so depict the position of the S. & C. as on the tombstone.
(Medal) Lodge St. Charles de la Concorde, Brunswick, Germany. (circa 1771). Obverse: lower left of column, S. & C., up.
(Medal) Lodge King Frederick. Berlin, Germany (1745). Obverse: Compass points at angle of 45 degrees upwards.
(Medal) Medal of the Grand Orient of Belgium, 1832. Compass of column J, points at an angle up.
(Medal) Lodge of the Three Swords, Dresden, Germany, 1817. Square, upwards, points of compass upward.
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SWAP CORNER
FOR NEEDED BOOKS AND
RESEARCH MATERIAL
Readers please carry on all correspondence with individuals in need.
You're on your own!
8 - SWAP CORNER. Brother O. Wes Konering, M.P.S., 9631 Old Bonhome Road, St. Louis, Missouri, wants to trade duplicate Masonic books for small collections of Masonic Monitors and collections of Masonic Bibliographies .