Contents
It Seems To Me
Tennessee Valley Chapter
Plaque for the USS Arizona
250th Anniversary
of Freemasonry in Italy
New York City Evacuated
The Big Parade of 1783
What Masonry Means to Me
Rise and Development
of Freemasonry in Australia
New York City MASONRY
1776 - 1783
Books of Interest to Masons
Jerry Marsengill, FPS Editor
2714 Park Place
Des Moines, IA 50312
Alphonse Cerza, FPS, Life, Assoc. Editor
237 Millbridge Road
Riverside, IL 60546
John Black Vrooman, FPS, Life
P.O. Box 402 Editor Emeritus
St. Louis, MO 63166
OFFICERS
Bruce H. Hunt, F.P.S. President
P.O.Box 188
Kirksville, Missouri 63501
Allen E. Roberts, FPS, 1st Vice President
Drawer 70, 1-A South Holly Ave
Highland Springs, VA 23075
John R. Nocas, FPS, 2nd Vice President
P O. Box 2366
Inglewood, CA 90305
S. Brent Morris FPS Executive Secretary
5088 Lake Circle West
Columbia, MD 21044
John Mauk Hilliard, FPS Treasurer
30 - 70 48th St. Apt. 3-G
Astoria, New York 11103
Ronald E. Heaton F.P.S. Treasurer Emeritus
728 Haws Avenue
Norristown, Pennsylvania 19401
LIVING PAST PRESIDENTS
Philalethes Society
Lee E. Wells
Alphonse Cerza, FPS (Life)
Judge Robert H. Gollmar, FPS
William R. Denslow, FPS
Robert V. Osborne, FPS
Eugene S Hopp, FPS
Dwight L Smith, FPS
Robert L Dillard Jr., FPS
EXECUTIVE SECRETARY EMERITUS
Carl R. Griesen, FPS
CONTENTS
It Seems to Me
Tennessee Valley Chapter Holds Summer Meeting
Plaque for the USS Arizona
Philalethes Editor Speaks to 250th Anniversary of Freemasonry in Italy
New York City Evacuated
The Big Parade of 1783
What Masonry Means to Me
The Rise and Development of Freemasonry in Australia
New York City Masonry
Al Cerza Reviews Books of Interest to Masons
Through Masonic Windows
On the Cover:
The cover this month pictures the George Washington lodge room in the George Washington Memorial. This lodge room, used for special meetings of Alexandria-Washington Lodge No. 22 is probably the closest thing to a Masonic shrine in the United States. On the wall behind the Master s chair hangs the Williams portrait of George Washington .
The picture is used by permission of Marvin E. Fowler, Secretary-Treasurer of the George Washington Masonic Memorial Association
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by John Black Vrooman, FPS
THAT with the fall season of activities well under way, that is a propitious time for the Philalethes Society to assume its well-earned place of leadership in which Freemasons who seek more Light can be given that Light by Freemasons who have Light to impart .
At the annual meeting of the Society in Washington last February the officers took several very important steps by which this can be accomplished. First, our Constitution and By-Laws, now extremely old, for the best interests of the Society, are in the process of revision and are being brought up to date. This is very important, for our Constitution governs our actions and must be modernized.
In addition, the Certificate of Literature, an award made to individual members for the best article printed in the Philalethes magazine each year, has been given careful thought, and a set of rules or conditions under which the Certificate shall be given has been drawn up, with an additional prize or bonus of a cash award to be given for special attainment or endeavor.
The Society has been unfortunate during the past year in losing a number of Fellows of the Society by death, but equally as fortunate in the selection by the officers of a number of new Fellows to follow in their footsteps.
One of the original requirements of a member who was named a Fellow, was that he must submit a Masterpiece for publication in the Philalethes magazine. The time has now come for a survey of the Fellows past and present, as to the particular article which was designated. It will be the task of the Society to find out from each Fellow in good standing, that article which shall be his Masterpiece.
As Editor Emeritus, I have been delighted to receive, from local chapters of the Society, many of the papers that have been presented, but fear that too often, the Secretary has sent this material to me and not to Jerry Marsengill, our Editor, who will then print them in the Philalethes magazine. All of our members should pass them along to all other members.
We have enjoyed more than fifty years of activity and our numbers are growing rapidly, but let us not forget that numbers are not as important as quality and the use of devoted members who will make added contributions to our activities.
I am particularly happy to report that several members have recently taken advantage of my offer to answer their questions on any topic of Masonry that they care to submit to me. As my health permits, I shall continue to carry on this delightful job.
JOHN BLACK VROOMAN, FPS
Editor Emeritus
The Philalethes Magazine
P.O. Box 402
St. Louis, Missouri 63166
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Tennessee Valley Chapter Holds Summer Meeting
The Tennessee Valley Chapter, Philalethes Society (TVCPS), held its summer meeting on August 21 at the Texas Cattle Company in Huntsville. The meeting opened at 6 p.m. with grace said by Past President John Dodd, Past Grand Secretary for the Grand Lodge of Alabama. We were pleased to have 13 members and 3 visitors present. Our visitors included Bro. Andy Eubanks of Saltillo MS, a member of Burleson Lodge No. 143 in Vina and Mt. Pleasant Lodge No. 33 in Washington DC; Bro. Joe Illes, a member of More Light Lodge No. 874, Germany and Solar Lodge No 921, Huntsville; and Bro. Bernie Belcher, Worshipful Master of Apollo Lodge No. 921, Huntsville.
After the meal was finished, our President, Bro. James Gossett, Grand Historian, called the meeting to order and asked our steward to introduce our guests. We then had our first two presentations: Bro. Gordon Hallmark of Lunar Lodge No. 918 read his most recent poem, "The Word", and Past President George Marshall, Past Master of Solar Lodge, presented his paper, "What Constitutes a Good Masonic Officer". After a hearty discussion of Bro. Marshall's paper, we disposed of our business for the evening.
Our First Vice President, Bro. Dr. Dan Box of Athens Lodge No. 16, announced that the fifth Monday was reserved by Athens Lodge as an "eatin' meetin"' and that the TVCPS was invited to provide speakers for their next fifth Monday, August 29. After a brief discussion to determine who would be available for that meeting, we unanimously voted to participate. Subsequently, seven TVCPS members did attend the Athens Lodge Family Night, with Brother Hallmark presenting his original poem, "Masonry", and Brother Jerry Burfitt of Apollo Lodge presenting his paper, "Why America Needs Masons". The brethren report that they thoroughly enjoyed the food and fellowship that Athens Lodge graciously extended to them, and that they hope to return for a similar program in the future. This activity is a first for the TVCPS, although it has been one of the aims of our Chapter to do so since our founding in 1976. Individual speakers have been presenting such papers from the beginning, but this is the first time the Chapter has attended a meeting as a group.
Other business of interest included the decision to plan a ladies' night similar to one the Chapter had in 1981 for some night in February. Also, the Chapter voted to send a letter to the Philalethes Society requesting clarification of legislation concerning Chapters which was passed six months ago, but of which the Chapter only recently learned. The amendment conflicts with our TVCPS by-laws and constitution, which were approved by the Grand Lodge of Alabama as part of the process of obtaining our Chapter Warrant from the Grand Lodge. It is unfortunate that the Chapter only learned of the Society action in an offhand manner rather than being involved in the decision-making process. The membership empowered the Board of Directors to take appropriate action once an amplification of the new Society Amendment is received.
The Chapter welcomed two new members into the TVCPS rolls: Bro. Joe Illes and Bro. John Anderson of Solar Lodge petitioned for and were elected to membership.
Finally, the feature paper of the evening was presented. Last year the TVCPS created the distinction, "Scholar" to honor the more outstanding researchers in the Chapter. One such award may be made each year. To complete the requirements for the award, the recipient must present an original long paper, his "Masterpiece". The first Scholar named by the Chapter is Past President Thomas Craig, Past Master of Appolo Lodge. His paper was entitled, "Freemasonry and Religion: Another Look". The paper was well received and after another hearty discussion, the Chapter closed with prayer by Bro. Box Our next meeting will be at a local Lodge in December. Anyone wishing to attend, or who would like information on a program similar to the one presented at Athens Lodge, is invited to write or call our President, Bro James Grossett, 3603 Sparkman Dr . Huntsville, 35810 (205) 859-3075, or our Secretary-Treasurer, Bro. Craig, 1000 Lexington St., Huntsville 35801 (205) 539-3379.
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by Bruce H. Hunt, FPS, President
On July 9, 1983, a most unusual ceremony was conducted at Pearl Harbor, Honolulu, Hawaii. A bronze plaque measuring approximately twelve inches by twelve inches and weighing almost twelve pounds was placed with full Masonic ceremonies in the museum of the USS Arizona. The ceremony was conducted in the name of the General Grand Council of Cryptic Masons, International.
Plans for the plaque ceremony had been in the making for some two years, and finally its approval was obtained. The size of the plaque and wording thereon were approved before an order was authorized for its manufacture. It should be noted that the National Park Service has a policy that only a national or international organisation may be considered for eligibility to place a plaque in the USS Arizona Memorial Museum. It is also of interest that this is the only Masonic plaque to be admitted to the museum. Including this one, only thirty-six plaques have been accepted for display.
This is neither the time nor the place to attempt an historical account of the air raid on Pearl Harbor by Japanese war planes on the morning of December 7, 1941, when the USS Arizona along with other ships of the United States Navy were sunk or damaged. A picture of the bronze plaque is on the following page.
The following filled stations for the ceremony:
Homer A. Cundiff - Master of Ceremonies
Bruce H. Hunt - Acting General Grand Master
Robert C. Kong - Acting Deputy General Grand Master
H. George Conger - Acting General Grand P.C.W.
John Johnston - Acting General Grand Captain of Guard
Dale Gardner - Acting General Grand Chaplain
Raymond Y.S. Wong - Acting General Grand Treasurer
Daniel Y.S. Pang - Acting General Grand Recorder
James Y.S. Chinn - Acting General Grand Marshal
Harry L. Maynard, M.W. Grand Master of Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of California
John Martini, Supv. Park Ranger, Receives Plaque for National Park Service
David N . E. Kaohelaulii Closing Benediction in Hawaiian
The ceremony was begun promptly at 10:00 a.m. and was concluded in less than thirty minutes, but its purpose and meaning were great and its effect will be far reaching The importance of the ceremony was enhanced by the presence of M.W. Brother Harry L. Maynard, Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Grand Lodge F. & A.M. of California and several of his Grand Officers. Among those accompanying the Grand Master were: R.W. Brother Jack W. Joe, Jr., Grand Marshal, R.W. Brother William K. McKee, Jr., District Inspector of District 384, and R.W. Brother Oswald J.B. Lau, District Inspector of District 385. Several Worshipful Masters and officers of Lodges in Honolulu were present for the ceremony. The General Grand Council is deeply indebted to Most Worshipful Grand Master Harry L. Maynard for his sincere interest and strong support on this most unusual and outstanding occasion.
The plaque ceremony used on this occasion is as follows:
Plaque Ceremony
Acting General Grand Master: Companions and Friends, we are assembled on this occasion to celebrate the formal placing of a bronze plaque. We represent The General Grand Council of Cryptic Masons International, a small segment of the millions of Masons from many lands, who are taught to be quiet and peaceful citizens, faithful to their God and true to their country.
The plaque has been struck as a lasting tribute to the memory of the hundreds of brave Americans, some being Masons, who lost their lives on December 7, 1941. The plaque contains a facsimile of the USS Arizona Memorial, the great seal of the General Grand Council, and the following wording:
"In memory of the more than 2,400 brave Americans who lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor. December 7, 1941. ALOHA. Pearl Harbor Honolulu, Hawaii. James D. Penley, Jr., General Grand Master, 1981-84. The General Grand Council, Cryptic Masons, International.
The first lesson we learn in Masonry is that all works, great or small, begun or finished, should be attended by invoking the blessing of the Supreme Architect of the Universe upon the work in which we are engaged. I, therefore, request silence and invite all to unite with the General Grand Chaplain in an address to the Throne of Grace. Companion General Grand Chaplain invoke the Divine Favour.
General Grand Chaplain: Supreme Architect of the Universe, by whose Almighty word all things are made, and without whose blessing the Craftsmen labor in vain, we beseech Thee to be among us at this time, and to bless the work in which we are engaged. Graciously bestow upon us, wisdom in all our doings, strength of mind to do that which is right and just, and may the ceremony in which we are engaged redound to the honor and glory of thy Holy Name. Amen.
General Grand Master: In accordance with a time honored custom, we will now inspect the plaque, and symbolically try it with the tools of our ancient craft, the Plumb, the Square and the Level. Companion General Grand Marshal, you will present the working tools to the proper General Grand Officers. (presents Square to DGGM; Level to the GGPCW; Plumb to GGCG)
General Grand Master: Right Puissant Deputy General Grand Master, what is the proper implement of your office?
Deputy General Grand Master: The Square.
General Grand Master: What are its moral and Masonic uses?
Deputy General Grand Master: To square our actions by the Square of Virtue and prove our work.
General Grand Master: Apply the implement of your office to that portion of the plaque that should be square. and make report
(All officers apply tools as directed.)
Deputy General Grand Master: Most Puissant General Grand Master I find the plaque to be square. The craftsmen have performed their duty.
General Grand Master: Right Puissant General Grand Principal Conductor of the Work, what is the proper Masonic implement of your office?
General Grand P.C.W.: The Level.
General Grand Master: What are its moral and Masonic uses?
General Grand P.C.W.: Morally it teaches Equality, and we use it to lay horizontals.
General Grand Master: Apply the tool of your office to that portion of the plaque that should be level and make report.
General Grand P.C.W.: I find the plaque to be level the Craftsmen have faithfully performed their duty.
General Grand Master: Right Puissant General Grand Captain of the Guard, what is the proper Masonic implement of your office?
General Grand Captain Guard: The Plumb.
General Grand Master: What are its moral and Masonic uses?
General Grand Captain Guard: Morally it teaches rectitude of conduct, and we use it to try perpendiculars.
General Grand Master: Apply the implement of your office to that portion of the plaque that should be plumb and make report.
General Grand Captain Guard: Most Puissant General Grand Master, I find the plaque to be plumb, the craftsmen have performed their duty.
General Grand Master: The plaque has been tested by the proper implements of our Craft. I find that the Craftsmen have faithfully and skillfully performed their duty, and I do declare the plaque to be well formed, Square, Level and Plumb. and correctly placed to withstand the test of time.
May the all bounteous Author of nature bless and prosper the people of this place. May they have an abundance of the necessities, conveniences and comforts of life. Long preserve this plaque from decay, and grant to all of us a plentiful supply of the corn of nourishment, the wine of refreshment and the oil of joy. Amen.
General Grand Master: Men and Companions here assembled, be it known unto you that we be a lawful part of the Great Fraternity of Freemasons. true and faithful to the laws of our country, and engaged by solemn obligations, to be serviceable to all men, and to love God, the Great Architect of the Universe. All of our acts are lawful and honorable and not repugnant to the laws of God or man.
The work which we perpetuate was entrusted to the Masons of ancient times, and having been faithfully transmitted to us. it is our duty to convey them unimpaired to the latest posterity. Unless our Craft were worthy and our calling honorable, we would not have existed for so many centuries, nor would we have been honored with the patronage of so many illustrious men in all ages, who have shown themselves ready to promote our interest, and defend us against all adversaries.
We sincerely hope and trust that this plaque which we have placed today will play some small part in promoting harmony and brotherly love among men of all nations, creeds, religious convictions and ethic backgrounds, until time shall be no more.
General Grand Master: Right Puissant General Grand Marshal, you will make the proclamation.
General Grand Marshal: I proclaim this plaque to be placed in ample and ancient form, according to the traditions and customs of our Ancient Craft.
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Philalethes Editor Speaks To 250th Anniversary of Freemasonry in Italy
Early in January of 1983 I was awakened at 6:00 a.m. by an excited wife. Since I normally work until 1:00 a.m or 2:00 a.m., six is a little earlier than my usual time of arising. Betty informed me that someone was on the telephone who claimed to be calling from Italy.
When I answered the telephone the caller advised me he was Dr. Michelle Moramarco, coordinator for the 250th Anniversary celebration of Freemasonry in Italy and, at the request of the Grand Master of the Grand Orient and the President of the Orient of Tuscany, was inviting me to be one of the speakers at the Anniversary. Naturally I asked, Why me? Mike informed me that they were acquainted with my writing and my editing and had decided that I was the one Freemason they wanted from the United States. He further informed me that they would have a number of other speakers from all over the Masonic world including C.N. Batham, Secretary of Quatuor Coronati Lodge No. 2076 of London.
He further advised me that the Grand Orient would pay all expenses including transportation. After some conversation, slightly hampered by his Italian and my midwestern accent, I advised him I would be honored to accept the invitation for June 24 and 25. He advised that the Grand Orient would handle transportation and reservations for me and that I should get a passport and be prepared to go when the time arrived.
The passport was the only hard part of the trip. When I applied for it, I found that, although my birth had been recorded locally, no record had ever been filed with the state of Iowa. The officer advised me that, if I could find someone who was present at my birth, they would accept an affidavit. I asked if my mother would serve. The officer inquired if she was still living and I advised him that she claimed to be. I finally got the passport and by that time the tickets had arrived from Italy.
The trip was great. Since Florence, where the conference was being held, has no airport, it was necessary for me to fly into Rome and lay over for 12 hours for a plane to Pisa. This gave me time to see the Vatican and the Colosseum as well as getting in some other sightseeing. My plane was two hours late into Pisa but two Italian brethren were on hand to take me the 80 kilometers into Florence. Mike was waiting up for me at 11:30 p.m., together with Brother Ed Stolper from the Netherlands. Since they had to be at the conference early the next morning they asked me if I could find the Palazzo dei Congressi on my own. I assured them that I could. This is not the first time I have ever made a foolish statement. Fortunately the Italian people, not only the Masons but the general population, are courteous and helpful as well as gracious to strangers. Some people here had told me that everyone in Italy spoke English. Apparently I got in contact with those who didn't. One of the young policemen, though I spoke no Italian and he no English, read the card which showed where I was going and walked me four blocks and pointed to the Palazzo. I was pleased and thrilled all of the time I was there by the common courtesy which the Italians take for granted and which we seldom see in this country. Everyone seemed to want to be helpful.
When I arrived at the Palazzo, I found that it was being picketed by the Communists. I was stopped and one of the young men began to give me a long speech in Italian. Since I didn't understand a single word, he called another young Communist over. The second one spoke excellent English and gave me a long talk on what was wrong with Masonry in general and Italian Masonry in particular. He ended by asking me if I would want the Masons to take over the government of the United States. Since I was a stranger in the country, I played it cool and didn't tell him that I couldn't think of anything better for the government. He advised me that I shouldn't go into the palazzo. I thanked him and went on in to see guards, armed with submachine guns, around the perimeter. I had seen these carabini at DaVinci International in Rome with the submachine guns and the guard dogs but hadn't any idea that they would be guarding a Masonic meeting.
Approximately 1500 people were on hand for the conference which was conducted in five languages; Italian, English, French, German and Spanish with simultaneous translations into all languages.
We each turned our speeches in to the translators so they would have a chance to read it over in our language before it became necessary for them to translate while we were talking.
The first session of the Conference began at 10:00 a.m. on June 24. We broke for lunch at 12:30 p.m. The conference resumed at 4:00 p.m. I was the fourth speaker for the second session. I followed W. Brother C.N. Batham of England who spoke on early English Freemasonry. My topic was a comparison of European and American Freemasonry. I was interrupted four times by applause and once by a standing ovation. Many of the speakers were not members of the Masonic fraternity and spoke on the place of Freemasonry in public life in Italy today. Michelle Moramarco spoke on Freemasonry and religion in Italy while the M.W. Grand Master, Armando Corona spoke on the future of Masonry in Italy. With the translation I was able to follow all of the speeches in English. The conference adjourned for the first day at 8:00 p.m. At 10:00 p.m. we were the guests of the Grand Master at an intimate dinner (only 90 persons). I had the privilege of talking with both M.W. Brother Corona and the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge Alpina of Switzerland, M.W. Brother Alain Marti. Both of the Grand Masters gave me their permission to found chapters of the Philalethes Society in their respective countries.
The final banquet which they referred to as a gala took place on Saturday evening in the old fortress just outside of Florence. We saw an exhibition of the instruments of torture used by the inquisition and were entertained in the courtyard of the fortress by a group of tumblers and jounglers dressed in 14th century costume. Both Cyril Batham and I were invited to sit at the president's table for this seven course dinner which occupied some three hours, I had the opportunity to talk for nearly two hours with Brother Batham, a Masonic experience I will long remember. I felt highly honored and privileged to be allowed to speak with these brethren who have endured so many hardships and have had so much trouble keeping the light of Freemasonry burning in Italy for the past 250 years.
It was a masonic experience which I will remember always.
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Article Number LXIX
by Alphonse Cerza FPS (Life), Illinois
One of a Continuing Series of Articles
New York City was one of the first places to be taken by the British when they assaulted the area in July 1776, and General William Howe was in control by the end of October. The place was a strategic location, an important commercial center, was easily accessible by water, and hopefully could be used as a wedge to cut all communications between the southern and northern colonies. Because of its important position it was also the place in the colonies to be evacuated by the British.
For all practical purposes, the War was over with the surrender of Cornwallis, at Yorktown, on October 19, 1781. But the determination of George III to continue the fighting as well as the unstable political conditions in England at that time created a situation which required Washington to maintain his army in readiness in the event that the fighting started again. In the background in the minds of the colonists was the fear that England, France, and Spain might negotiate a peace that would be disadvantageous to the colonists in spite of the agreement of France that it would not sign a peace treaty without the concurrence of the colonists. No serious fighting took place after the surrender at Yorktown, but the British, strongly entrenched in New York, were not inclined to leave for the time being. They were undoubtedly governed by the same air of caution as the colonists. On March 4, 1782 Parliament resolved that Britain would no longer continue the War. This news reached the colonies in May and indicated to them that the War was in fact approaching an end, but distrust did not disappear from either side. The long and detailed peace negotiations prolonged the situation for some time. In the early part of 1783 the details of the Peace Treaty were finalised and a general armistice was proclaimed. But Great Britain was still trying to persuade the colonies to return to the fold. The Treaty of Peace was finally signed on September 3, 1783.
In accordance with the armistice, and it appearing that peace would come soon, on April 19, 1783, Washington formally ordered all hostilities towards Great Britain to end. Later Washington was notified that General Guy Carleton and the British would leave New York City on November 25th. Washington arrived with his officers at the military camp on the Hudson and it was decided that the Commander-in-Chief issue a formal farewell to his troops and that the officers make a reply.
On November 25 approached the City of New York with his officers and Governor Clinton. It was a cold day and he must have been depressed as he approached the city and saw that all trees had been cut down. There were no autumn leaves to greet him along the way. All wood had vanished in the area since the British Army had confiscated everything to erect quarters for the men, and wood had been taken as fuel to keep the men warm during the winter months the years before. It was a naked countryside and the houses in the city itself were to present a sad state of destruction and disrepair.
The Continental Army stopped at a barrier located at Bowery and Third Avenue. There was a short delay, and then a cannon shot was heard indicating that the British had embarked. Washington passed the barrier and went to Bull's Head Tavern to await news of the establishment of order in the city by his troops. The Americans encountered trouble in raising the American flag at Fort George because the British had knocked off the cleats from the pole, cut the Hallyards, and greased the pole. But new cleats were found and someone was able to climb the pole to raise the flag while some of the enemy watched from boats in the harbor. After the flag was raised thirteen cannon shots marked the taking possession by the colonists. Washington made a triumphal march through the city. The citizens cheered the marchers amid the devastated building with broken windows and general disrepair. It should have been a happy occasion, but Washington was sorely troubled. His men for months had been bored with months of inaction plus the dissatisfaction because they had not been paid their past wages.
For several days there were dinners, congratulatory celebrations. and fireworks to mark the leaving of the British and the end of the War in a tangible form while the British fleet was still anchored in the outer harbor. The British were gone by December 1.
On December 4, at noon, at Fraunces Tavern, Washington met with his officers to bid them farewell. It was a small group of three Major Generals, one Brigadier General, and a few other officers. Food was laid out for the men. Washington tried to eat but was not able to do so as he was deeply moved by the occasion. He filled a glass of wine and motioned that the decanters go around. With a shaking hand he filled a glass and stood with trembling lips. After all glasses had been filled he raised his glass, and in a choking voice said, "With a heart full of love and gratitude, I now take leave of you. I most devoutly wish that your latter days may be prosperous and happy as your former ones have been glorious and honorable." They all drank in silence. He then stated in a choked voice, "I cannot come to each of you, but shall feel obliged if each of you will come and take me by the hand."
General Know * was the nearest person to him. Washington was in tears and unable to speak as he grasped the hands of each of them. After having embraced each officer in the room, Washington walked out of the room. He walked to the water front with von Steuben and several aides. They entered a barge which was to take them to New Jersey on his trip to Annapolis.
* Identified as Freemason
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Article No. LXX
One of a Continuing Series of Articles
by James R. Case, FPS
Six months after Yorktown, with negotiations for a Treaty of Peace under way, Sir Guy Carleton came to New York City as Commander-in-chief of British forces in America.
Wilmington, North Carolina had been evacuated in January 1782, Savannah was to be abandoned in July, and finally Charleston, South Carolina was to be cleared in September. The British and Hessian armed forces were to be concentrated in New York City, and hundreds of self-exiled loyalists gathered there before departure for some future place of refuge or residence.
Bringing all the troops together compounded the problems which had afflicted the city since August 1776, when the British first moved in. Transports were limited as Britain was fully occupied with the conquest of India, delaying evacuation. Idle soldiery in crowded quarters can make mischief.
Carleton had to ease restrictions on traffic into and out of the city in order to obtain essential food and fuel. Departure of the military was not too difficult to organize, but the city was now harboring thousands of loyalists who must somehow or other be protected, which meant getting them out of the city and into the royal domain.
The Treaty of Peace became effective in January 1783 with signature of preliminary articles, a general armistice was declared, and Cessation of Hostilities announced February 4th. Frantic efforts were made during the next few months to move the troops and Tories out of the city, but the process was exasperatingly slow.
The transfer of control was to be no easy matter. Many former residents had filtered back into the city. "returning exiles.'' Departing loyalists, "exiles in waiting" had often made forced sales of their effects. which were astounding bargains for knowing speculators who could grab them. The non-combatants who in great numbers had always followed the British army, had increased enormously and now were to be obliged to save their own skins. Attics and cellars sheltered not a few deserters in hiding. The situation of hundreds of women and children who would surely be abandoned was pitiable. Those who did quit the city carried off everything they could in the limited space available. Many left behind planned to recoup their fortune by selective pillage and looting. if the opportunity offered.
On November 21st the British retired from upper Manhattan and Long Island. Step by step. pickets of the Continental Light Infantry kept on the heels of the British rear-guard. The army provost detachments yielded to civil defense the block wardens. constables and night watchmen.
The final transfer of all British units to Staten Island was to take place on November 25th. Control now became a responsibility of the civil authorities, although a few Continentals were to be kept in the city for this occasion and policing the city initially.
The ceremonial march in was military but not exactly a triumphal entry. Major General Henry Knox * was in overall command. Mounted police, the light dragoons, were in the lead with light infantry as Military Police followed closely. They fanned out into every street and alley to prevent looting. An artillery detachment under Captain John Doughty * rumbled along with the Battery their objective, while searching the parade route for booby traps. A combat ready battalion under Lieutenant Colonel William Hull * moved in next, with a brigade of Massachusetts Continentals under Brigiadier Henry Jackson * which was to compose the temporary garrison, and reserve for possible emergency.
General George Washington * deferred to Governor George Clinton, who was accompanied by his suite under escort of a troop of Westchester Light Horse led by Captain Samuel Delavan *. General Washington with his staff and Life Guard followed. Dozens of army officers who had waited or come back for this day came along with field music, the fifes shrilling joyfully and the drums making a jubilant rattle. Finally the citizenry. those on horseback marshalled in ranks of eight, followed by the rabble on foot.
The actual transition had been carefully planned and was carried out on schedule. Law and order was efficiently re-established and there had been little lawlessness. Normalcy was months away before all damage could be restored.
New York City has seen many parades during the last 200 years but none more historic than this one of November 25, 1783.
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by Lawrence J. Hammed, MPS
Masonry, or Freemasonry is the name of the largest and oldest fraternal organisation in the world. Its full title is Ancient Free and Accepted Masons. Freemasonry today is termed SPECULATIVE because of its concentrated emphasis on the moral philosophy which has come to be its foundation. Masonry does not profess to be a religion, even though it is religious in character. More elaborate definitions can be found in the handouts which my sons distributed before the meeting. It aims to promote brotherhood and foster morality among its members. Masonry aims to make good men better (in his home, his work, his religion, etc.). Better in the broad sense of the word - "doing for others." Service to his brothers, and service to all mankind. Our aim or goal is "The Brotherhood of Man, under the Fatherhood of God."
Many of you in the audience are what we Masons call "profane" or uninitated. I would like to take a few minutes to further enlighten you concerning Masonry. I have had so many rewarding experiences the last 5 1/2 years as a Mason, that I would be remiss if I didn't convey my inner most feelings this most happy evening.
I joined the Masons 5 1/2 years ago because I admired the Masons I had known (many since I was a small boy). Next I wanted to belong to the Craft that had on its rolls George Washington and 13 other Presidents of the United States; besides numerous other great men in history and today (e.g., Ben Franklin, Henry Ford, Kipling, Lindberg, Gen. Pershing, Lafayette, Mozart, Kings of England and Sweden, several astronauts), and many others who you will find listed in the "Freemasonry" pamphlet which was also handed out.
It seemed to me a mark of distinction to be a Mason, and to be a member of an organisation which expresses belief in the Universal God, Freedom, Education, and Brotherhood. A lodge is a living, breathing organisation, especially Service City, because it is made up of vibrant men (many of you have seen this evening - I need not belabor the point).
Perhaps my chief reason for being a Mason is the sense of belonging. It is wonderful to know that I have over 180,000 brothers in New York State and no matter where I go in the United States or abroad I will find over 6,000,000 more Masons. The good fellowship which is kindled and kept burning by a wonderful spirit of fraternalism alone is an attraction. We are not exclusive, we are remarkably democratic. When a man joins a lodge he is not a doctor, a judge, a subway repairman, he is a Mason. We are a working order, cooperating closely with the local communities (as was seen earlier tonight with the presentations made by the Service City Foundation). We sponsor youth movements, particularly the DeMolay, Triangle Girls and local boys clubs, the Shrine burn renters and you will see us at parades.
Two vital themes are woven throughout the pattern of Freemasonry - BUILDING, and the SEARCH for LIGHT. By the latter is meant the Quest for Knowledge and understanding of the meaning of life and man's role in it's unfolding drama: by the former, the molding of character which will fit the individual for the responsibilities which force him in his worldly pursuits, and which will make him a better man and citizen.
Masonry is fundamentally an educational organisation. It has provided me and others with the opportunity for study, leadership and training.
Writings pertaining to the craft have guided me into many fascinating fields with which it has been historically related - the arts, history, literature, mathematics, religion, as well as science. Regardless of the scope of an individuals scholastic background, Masonry can add more to his fund of knowledge and round out his education with that cultural embellishment which is so frequently neglected in the average school curriculum. Further, it has for its purpose the teaching to men of the elements of life that are worthwhile and the relationships in which men should stand to one another. We are composed of men of good will, of the highest character and reputation.
A Mason does not have to be, or have been, a Master of his lodge (as I am so fortunate) to achieve in his own life the beautiful Masonic ideal of "Service." it is not necessary that he have been District deputy (leader of individual districts) or have held any other office in Grand Lodge. It is enough for him to attain this high and exalted station that he have a heart that beats with love of his fellowman, and that he attain perfect happiness when opportunity comes to him to serve. The ideals and teachings of Masonry involve a life of service for in no other way can the world be made better, safer, and happier. We can "live in the house by the side of the road" and lend a helping hand. To see good in all men, and not to be scornful or cynical. To share jobs with those who smile, and to share the sorrows of those who weep.
Masonry means nothing less than all these things to me. It is a symbol of that which is best.
Finally, many of you may have heard of our Ritual. While it is undoubtedly true that at times "other forms of interest or entertainment" are desirable and possibly a necessity, it is in the degree work of Ritual that the true font of Freemasonry is to be found. The Ritual is to be memorized and repeated, albeit, with utmost proficiency in the opening and closing of lodge and in the initiating, passing and raising of candidates. But it has vastly more to offer. Here is set out the Grand Design of Freemasonry. Here is set out Truth and the Light that we seek. Here is found the Work that all Freemasons must engage in, that they may receive the wages so often spoken in the Fraternity. While there are unquestionably many clear cut and direct admonitions in the Ritual, there is much more that is hidden or implied (veiled in Allegory) and which is only revealed by quiet reflection.
Our ritual can sum up, far more eloquently than I can, that which I have been trying to say. I quote from one of our lectures, the three principal tenets of our profession which are Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth.
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The Rise and Development of Freemasonry in Australia
WITH A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE VARIOUS STATES)
Part One of a Three Part Series
by E.R. Castle MPS
The first vestiges of Freemasonry in Australia appears to date from 1797, about 9/10 years after the establishment of the first settlement in Sydney, New South Wales in 1788. It could be said, then, that Freemasonry has been in existence in Australia for nearly 200 years. Much of the early Freemasonry in Australia, and, for that matter in many British Colonies has been pioneered by travelling Lodges, either within Regimental Lodges, or Sea Lodges in H M. Naval vessels. History tells us that in 1770 Capt. James Cook with his party landed at Botany Bay in New South Wales, but it was not until 1788 that it was proclaimed a Colony. In the early days of Freemasonry, Lodges were established either under the English, Irish or Scottish Constitutions. As the number of Lodges increased in the various constitutions, so came the erection of Provincial or District Grand Lodges working under the authority of the parent body. After a period of years. the desire for the establishment of sovereign Grand Lodges became the main talking point, and steps were taken to implement this event.
Over a period of 37 years, that is from 1884 to 1921, a sovereign Grand Lodge had been established in each State of the Commonwealth. The following is a record of their formations:
South Australia, 1884.
New South Wales, 1888.
Victoria, 1889.
Tasmania, 1890.
Western Australia, 1900.
Queensland, 1921.
Geographically, the areas of the States are in the following order: Western Australia, Queensland, South Australia, New South Wales, Victoria. Tasmania. Population-wise: New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia and Tasmania. The Northern Territory. apart at Darwin has a small population. Masonic lodges in the Territory come under the control of the Grand Lodge of South Australia.
When a new Grand Lodge was to be erected in a former State or Territory, which had been previously working under either the English, Irish or Scottish Constitutions, a condition was stipulated by those parent Grand Lodges, that, any individual Lodge in the said State or Territory, which wished to remain under its parent constitution was to be free to do so, and that no pressure was to be brought to bear on it by the new Grand Lodge to transfer its allegiance. This agreement has been ratified by most Grand Lodges where the situation has existed thus.
A classic example of this, is to be found in Western Australia. where there are two District Grand Lodges working under the Grand Lodge of Scotland, one odd Lodge working under England and also the sovereign Grand Lodge of Western Australia. Another such example exists in New Zealand. where are Lodges under England, Scotland, Ireland and the sovereign Grand Lodge of New Zealand, all working in harmony and brotherly co-existence with each other. In the other States of Australia will be found odd Lodges still working under their parent constitution.
Although harmony exists now in the various States, the early days of transition were marked with difficulties. frustration and to some extent hostility between the differing views of action. It is man's gift of being able to think for himself, and those thoughts are often expressed and implemented in many different wave but, nevertheless unity and harmony have triumphed and Freemasonry now forms an essential part of the lives of many thousands of Australians.
Although as already stated. Captain Cook and his party were the first Englishmen to land on Australian soil. they were predated as early as 1601 by Portuguese navigators, while in 1606 a Dutch ship 'Duyphen' had sighted these shores. However the navigator to whom South Australia must be most indebted is Capt . Matthew Flinders, who in 1802, in H.M.S. Investigator, discovered the whole southern coastline of this subsequent State of South Australia. From Fowler's Bay on the West, (including St. Vincent's and Spencer Gulfs and Kangaroo Island) to Encounter Bay on the East, which last mentioned place was so-named on the fact, that it was here that he met the French explorer Nicholas Baudin, on April 8th, 1802. South Australia was also discovered in 1830 from an easterly direction by Capt. Charles Sturt, one of Australia's most illustrious explorers, who, by his adventurous boat voyage down the Murrumbidgee and Murray Rivers, disclosed to the world, the great river system of this continent .
Moves to establish South Australia as a State were mooted as early as 1831, but no definite moves were made until 1834. In that year it was decided that the land be sold at no less than 12/-, and no more than 1.0.0 pounds per acre. The idea behind this being the investor would receive a return for his capital, and willing labourers would be given free passage to the place, and security of work guaranteed. This idea proved a boom, a veritable paradise in the years that followed, the passing of the Reform Bill in 1832. Work for the labouring classes had become exceedingly scarce. To make a practical test of the scheme, a Bill to 'erect South Australia into a British Province' was passed through the House of Commons. and strange to say was in danger of being thrown out by the House of Lords, the opposition being overcome by the Duke of Wellington
The point he raised, and which carried the day, was not the philanthropic part of the scheme, or the desirability of improving the conditions of the people, but the necessity of settlement from a military standpoint. A question of Imperial Defense was a different matter, and one in which the 'Conqueror of Waterloo' was paramount. Hearing from his lips the possibility of a French Colony being established on the coast of South Australia, called by Baudin 'Terre Napoleon', and that the want of a British population was a menace to our overseas possessions, the Bill was passed. In appreciation of his efforts in this matter, it was decided to call the capital of this new State 'Wellington' but King William IV, requested that it should be named 'Adelaide' after the Queen which request was complied with.
The Duke, further proposed that his companion-in-arms, Colonel Light, be appointed as Surveyor-General to the new State. Colonel Light being well known for the value of his opinions, which had been proved in his selection of camps during the Peninsula War.
The South Australian Act having been passed, a Board of Commissioners was set, up with offices in London, charged with the management and control of the Lands and Emigration Department. At the end of 1834 there was a change of Government, and every member of the Board of Commissioners resigned except Colonel Torrens. In May of 1835 new Commissioners were appointed, Colonel Torrens being appointed Chairman. Among the new members were Mr. George Fife Angas and Mr. Rowland Hill, the latter was Secretary. Rowland Hill is also celebrated for introducing the Penny Post. The region to be settled and developed, was little known to the British public, and it did not receive the support it was hoped would be forthcoming. It was only due to the determination and energies of George Fife Angas, that the undertaking did not fall through or was indefinitely postponed.
The model upon which Angas based his ideas was that of William Penn, who founded the American State of Pennsylvania. The fundamental ideals of Angas was to help men help themselves, under a religious conviction of moral responsibility.
In January 1836, the South Australian Company was formed to undertake the erection of wharves, warehouses and dwelling-houses, and let the same to colonists, to improve and cultivate country land, lay out farms, start the wool industry, and establish banks.
George Angas was elected Chairman of the Company, and in consequence had to resign as a Board Commissioner. The services of Mr. Gouger as secretary were most valuable in working the ideas into practical shape.
Among the directors of the Company, were Raikes Currie, Charles Hindley, John Pirie, John Rundle and Henry Waymouth, the names of which men adorn the streets of Adelaide, and are perpetuated to posterity.
A proviso that no person convicted in any court of justice in England or Ireland go at once to the State, marked the venture as a new departure in emigration. In this connection, Coleridge writes in 1834, the year of his death: "Colonisation is an imperial duty of Great Britain, God seems to hold out His finger to us over the sea. But it must be a coloniation of hope, not has happened of despair."
Colonel Light, who had been appointed Surveyor-General arrived in the 'Rapid' at Nepean Bay-Kangaroo Island, on August 9th, 1836, where the first settlement had been effected by the pioneer settlers under the South Australian Company.
Other members of the Company, including Mr. Gouger arrived in the October of the same year aboard the Cygnet.
In the way of surveying the country and fixing the site, nothing could be decided upon, until Colonel Light's arrival. On reaching his destination, he set to work. Kangaroo Island, as a suitable place for settlement, was condemned. Port Lincoln could not be recommended, but much was to be said in the favour of Holdfast Bay. Colonel Light, after exploring the neighbourhood, selected the banks of the Torrens River in the fertile plain at the foot of the beautiful Mt. Lofty Ranges, as the site of the future city of Adelaide. There was a good deal of controversy as to the wisdom of the choice, on account of it being seven miles from the coast. But the Colonel, with whom the whole responsibility lay, was unable to change his opinion. Now nearly 150 years later, the truth of Light's remark, that posterity would ratify his choice, has been proved, the general opinion being that the City of Adelaide could not be moved an inch in any direction. A fine statue of the Colonel, who died in 1839 stands in the centre of the City, and testifies to the honour in which the founder of the City of Adelaide, is held there.
It was on December 28th, 1836, that Capt. John Hindmarsh, the first Governor, landed at Glenelg, from H.M.S. Buffalo.
It is interesting to note, that the 'Rapid' was 160 tons, the 'Cygnet' 230 tons and the 'Buffalo' 650 tons. The voyage from England took anything from three to six months.
Let us now look at the early years of Freemasonry in South Australia.
During the first decade, 1834/44, only one Lodge was warranted and this was consecrated in London on October 22, 1834. This Lodge known as the Lodge of Friendship. EC. originally numbered 613, later became No. 423. Thus for the first decade, Freemasonry was entirely under the English Constitution.
During the 2nd decade, 1844/54, six further Lodges were warranted, five under England and one under Scotland. During the third decade, a great amount of development took place. Ten more Craft Lodges - six English, four Irish. Provincial Grand Lodges were set up, under both England and Ireland. During this same period two English Royal Arch Chapters and an English Mark Lodge was formed. Ireland, also established both a Mark Lodge and Royal Arch Chapter. A Preceptory of Knight Templars - The Percy No. 57 was also constituted likewise an English Rose Croix Chapter.
During the fourth decade, 1864/74, progress continued, seven more Lodges brought into existence, four English and three Irish. During the last decade before the Union, 1874/84 a record of fourteen more Lodges were warranted - six English, five Scottish and three Irish. So in the space of 50 years, 38 Lodges were warranted, only 33 were existent at the time of the establishment of the Grand Lodge of South Australia on 17th April, 1884. Of these, 30 Lodges signed the Declaration.
It is interesting to note that the former Scottish Lodge, Concordia No. 672, worked in German language and that the English Percy Preceptory is the only Preceptory in the whole of Australia to work the old English Baldwyn KT Ritual.
Let us examine some of the early history of the South Australian Lodge of Friendship. No. 613, the premier lodge of the premier constitution of Australia. Unlike any other Lodge Warrant issued to an Australian Lodge, it bears an endorsement, which is quoted, as follows a little later.
The South Australian Lodge of Friendship, No. 613, (EC) was formally consecrated on the 22nd, October, 1834. The location being the Adelphi Chambers, 7, John Street. London.
The second
instalment of this
article will follow in
the December issue.
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New York City MASONRY 1776 - 1783
Article No. LXXI
One of a Continuing Series of Articles
by James R. Case, FPS
As combat readiness was no longer maintained, and was succeeded by the humdrum of garrison duty, salvage operations, and ultimate withdrawal from New York City, British and Hessian officers with time on their hands, increased their activity in the regimental lodges.
Many residents who had been trapped in the city when the British took over, had to accommodate themselves to the rigors of occupation by the enemy and find some way to continue to exist. They had been made compulsory, perhaps not always reluctant 'neutrals'. The structure of municipal administration was maintained to a degree, small business and services were continued, now under British patronage. There were many Masons among those remaining in the city to protect their interests, or simply because they had waited too long and could not make their escape into the country.
Before the Revolution, all the lodges in New York stemmed from the Grand Lodge at London, Sir John Johnson of up-state Johnstown being the last Provincial Grand Master, with Dr. Peter Middleton in New York City his Deputy.
When New York fell into the hands of the British in August 1776, it became general headquarters, the base of command and supply, and so continued throughout the war. Old St. Johns Lodge was divided, Master William Tapp taking the charter with him when he entered the Continental army, while the loyalist members who remained in the city, just carried on regardless. They were enheartened by the fellowship of Lodge No. 169. which came in with troop reinforcements in December 1776.
Patriots in Independent Royal Arch Lodge took their charter into the service with them. The charter of King David's Lodge went to Newport, Rhode Island when the Master, Moses Michael Hayes removed there in December 1780. Most of the other smaller lodges went dark, simply disintegrating, but Solomon's Lodge and Zion Lodge seem to have persisted for some time.
Several of the British regiments, as they arrived, brought lodges within their fold, most of them working under Irish or Ancient charters. With the death of Dr. Middleton in January 1781, the way was cleared so that the military lodges, and two held among civilians, felt free to move towards obtaining authority for a Grand Lodge from their superiors. They applied to the Grand Lodge of England of which Atholl was then Grand Master. Practically all modern working had been superseded by the ancient system by that time.
This charter for a Grand Lodge was dated September 5, 1781 and invoked at a convention on December 5, 1782 when the Reverend Dr. William Walter was chosen and installed Grand Master. At the St. Johns Day observance in June following the sermon was preached by Reverend Dr. Samuel Seabury. Minutes of meeting after meeting record that some office-holder had "gone to Halifax" and a sucessor appointed. When evacuation of the last units was imminent, it was considerately decided that the Grand Warrant would be left with the city brethren succeeding as Grand Officers, rather than be taken away by any one of those lodges departing for uncertain destinations. Meanwhile, a relief fund had been raised to be administered by the Grand Stewards who had many demands to meet from the army 'widows' and children left behind.
On September 19, 1783, Dr. Walter himself announced he was soon to sail for Halifax, and the duties of Grand Master descended on the then Deputy William Cock, a Notary, lawyer, and Registrar in the Court of Chancery. About two months later the last of the army had left the city.
On February 4, 1784 Cock resigned his chair in the Grand East and was succeeded by Robert R. Livingston, a great name in the annals of American and Masonic history. He was installed by proxy, reselected and held office for the next 17 years.
When traffic in and out of the city was relaxed, more and more Americans went in for personal, business or official errands. The ardent Masons among them soon made contact among those conversant with attached degrees. We can trace many who obtained the Royal Arch and some 'order' of knighthood as side degrees in the military lodges which came out of Ireland. An early convention of lodges in Connecticut sent an emissary down to the city to ascertain the 'most eligible mode' of obtaining authority to form a grand lodge, but apparently did not find the New York advice acceptable. Six years later they discovered their inherent right to form their own and did so.
After the war, members of old St. Johns Lodge came back into the city. A merger with the few who had remained behind was harmoniously effected and work continued. Members of Independent Royal Arch Lodge carried on while in the army and came back relatively intact. Unfortunately their minutes did not come back with them, but we know they had disseminated knowledge of Royal Arch Masonry, as evidenced by extant certificates.
With trade and travel back to normal, and with war veterans returning to their home communities, New York Masonry enjoyed a great expansion in number of lodges, not only up along the Hudson river, but back into more remote settlements in favorable locations.
The Atholl Charter of 1782 was still valid as a basic document, but at a meeting on August 27, 1788 it was reported that the seal of the Grand Lodge had been altered, or corrected, by substituting the word 'state,' for 'provincial,' thus validating a change that had taken place five years before without fanfare.
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Al Cerza Reviews Books of Interest to Masons
In 1977 there was published a book with the title "Messages for a Mission," being a collection of literary items of outstanding merit written by Brother Henry C. Clausen, Grand Commander of the Scottish Rite, Southern Jurisdiction, The book received such a warm reception that it was decided to publish a second volume of messages which have appeared in the New Age Magazine since that time by the same author. This new volume is called "Beyond the Ordinary," and has an appropriate subtitle "Toward a Better, Wiser. and Happier World" because it contains a fine blend of informational, patriotic. and inspirational articles. The lessons presented are intended to cause Masons to make individual contributions to make this a better world in which to live.
The material in this book is arranged under ten headings, beautifully illustrated with many colored pictures, and . appearing here and there throughout the volume are forty-two Sermonettes, being brief important and eloquent statements giving the reader something to ponder over and think about over a period of time. This book can serve a useful purpose in supplying basic facts to one preparing programs for Flag Day, Constitution Day, Public School Week. and other patriotic holidays. It is the kind of book that has so much meat that it cannot be read in one sitting but can be enjoyed over a period of time by absorbing small parts at a time.
Available at $7.00 a copy (a real bargain for a cloth-bound book), from the Supreme Council, 33d, 1733 Sixteenth St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009.
"Masons and Masonry,'' edited by George Draffen of Newington, is a new book with the sub-title "Selected Articles from the Grand Lodge of Scotland Year Books 1953-72." Fourteen items are reproduced and have the following titles: Masonic Initiation; The Installed Master; The Dukes of Atholl and Freemasonry; Robert Burns; The Cable Tow; Basic Principles of Masonic Symbolism, Some Notes on the Mark Degree; Freemasonry in Scotland in 1717; Rudyard Kipling - Freemason; Sir Walter Scott - Freemason; Lodge Mother Kilwinning No. 0; A Missing Grand Master Mason, Our Ritual; A Study In Its Development; and On Ritual.
Our readers will be interested in knowing that the item entitled "Basic Principles of Masonic Symbolism," was written by Dr. Charles G. Reigner, who served as President of the Philalethes Society in the years 1964, 1965, and 1966. He departed this life on June 10, 1982, after a long illness at an advanced age.
Available at $14.25 a copy, from the Macoy Masonic Publishing Co., 3011 Dumbarton Road, Richmond, Va. 23228.
The Masonic Service Association, 8120 Fenton Street, Silver Spring, Maryland 20910 recently published the following items:
A revised Digest of "Masonic Questions Answered by the Courts." Available at $2.25 a copy.
"Allied Masonic Groups and Rites." First published in 1956, and later revised in 1978, this item is now up-dated and revised. It has been very popular over the years. Available at $2.00 a copy.
The passing of Harold V.B. Voorhis, F.P.S., on May 23, 1983, at the age of eighty-nine years, brings to mind that he was an able and active worker in the literary quarries of the Craft for many years. The following books written by him are still available from Macoy Masonic Publishing Co., 3011 Dumbarton Road, Richmond, Va. 23228:
Facts for Freemasons. $9.50 plus post age.
The Story of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry. $5.00 plus postage.
The Order of the Red Cross of Constantine. $4.25 plus postage.
The postage rate is $1.50 for the first book, and twenty-five cents for each additional book.
The Thirty-Second Annual Midwest Conference on Masonic Education was held at Wichita, Kansas in May, 1982 The printed Proceedings of this Conference contain the following papers: The Vital Parts. being an analysis of the basic elements of Freemasonry: Freemasonry A Mission with a Purpose; Masonic Books Into the Mason's Home; Grand Lodge Officers and Masonic Education; Growth and the Grotto; and The Masonic Education Fair.
A few of the printed Proceedings are still available at $9.00 a copy, from Dr. Dawson E. Grim, Secretary, 4300 E Avenue, Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52402.
In recent years the Southern California Research Lodge has published four volumes of Papers prepared by the members of the lodge on interesting Masonic subjects. Each volume contains a variety of material suitable for preparing Masonic talks. facts of interest to lodge officers, and short items that are useful for Masonic editors. The papers cover Masonic history, symbolism, law, and other subjects.
These volumes are available from Ralph A. Herbold, Box 6587, Buena Park, Cal. 90622 at the following prices: Volume 1 and 2 combined. $12.00. Volume 3, $12.00. Volume 4, $8.00.
A number of members have written me inquiring when the volume would be available covering a complete discussion of the Prince Hall Organization. These members apparently missed the review of the book entitled "A Documentary of Prince Hall and Other Fraternal Orders" which was the 1982 volume published by the Missouri Lodge of Research, and was reviewed on page 20 of our February, 1983 issue. This volume is a complete coverage of the subject, reviews and presents all available evidence, and presents the opinions and views of three outstanding Masonic scholars. Persons interested in learning about this subject in the light of the latest research cannot be without this book.
Available at $10.00 a copy from the Missouri Lodge of Research, P.O. Box 480, Fulton, Mo. 65251.
The 1982 book published by the Masonic Book Club was late in being issued and reached the members in early 1983. It contains a facsimile of a Masonic Almanac as well as an AntiMasonic Almanac, plus an excellent detailed commentary by Plez A. Transou, a Past Master of the Texas Lodge of Research. The 1983 volume of the Club, now on the press, is a facsimile of Melvin M. Johnson's "Beginnings of Freemasonry in America", which has been out-of-print for many years.
Information about these two books and about the Masonic Book Club may be secured by writing to the Secretary, Michael S. Weer, P.O. Box 1563, Bloomington, Ill. 61701.
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by Allen E. Roberts, FPS
A reported Masonic meeting of the Byrd Expedition in the Antarctic DID take place. However, there are several corrections that must be made in the reports that have been circulating for years. There was actually no "First Antarctic Lodge No. 777, N.Z.C." A group of Freemasons decided to hold an informal meeting about the Jacob Ruppert. A name was selected for an imaginary Lodge, along with a number, and because "Little America" was close to New Zealand, it was decided to place it under "New Zealand Constitution." The "N Z.C." was soon dropped, but the rest remained in the report. But, a Masonic meeting was held on February 5, 1935. "Bro. Byrd and others on the ice were invited to be present and attended," wrote the late Dr. Ross Hepburn of Christchurch. He also reported: "The lodge was opened on the First Degree and Bro. Mitchell gave a lecture on the First Tracing Board. The lodge was then closed (never to meet again) and most of the evening was spent in the refectory where experiences and reminiscences were exchanged." Much of his information was furnished by a Bro. Sissions who had acted as the senior warden. A full account will be found in the New Zealand Freemason.
The Phylaxis Society. composed of Prince Hall Masons, patterned after The Philalethes Society, celebrated its Tenth Anniversary in March. It has come a long way since it was first conceived by its only President, Joseph A. Walkes, Jr. It prides itself on its Masonic educational programs and continuing work to educate its members plus all Prince Hall Masons who care to participate. In its latest edition of The Phylaxis (similar to The Philalethes) there is reproduced a paper presented by Morris Miller, PH Grand Master of Minnesota. It's entitled "A Profile of Leadership" and was presented at a regional conference of PH Grand Masters and Masons. He offered 12 "Morris' Truisms" on good leadership at the conclusion of his excellent paper. Space won't permit their inclusion here, but beginning in February, I'll be writing a series on Masonic leadership for The Philalethes. Because Morris thinks as I do, I'll be covering his "truisms" at some length. But, here's a teaser: "He (a good leader) is an optimist, he must believe that dreams can come true. While others see things as they are and ask why? The leader dreams of things that are not, and asks - why not?"
Computers are in! Everywhere we turn we're finding them. They aren't just for business any more. I've had one for 16 months. Got it mainly for word processing, hoping to be able to increase my output. Had my doubts for a long time. Now I don't use a typewriter anymore; my stuff goes into the word processor, then to the printer. Computer clubs are booming. Computer bulletin boards are located all over the country - and world. Has the time arrived for the Freemasons of the country to begin linking their computers, through modems, all over the country? Is it time to consider a Masonic bulletin board? Or several of them? Will some computer expert (or experts), of which I'm not one, volunteer to share his (their) expertise with us novices? Or should Freemasonry ignore this tremendous technological breakthrough as it has so many others?
Pennsylvania's Grand Master has taken another far-reaching step. He has declared a moratorium on physical requirements for petitioners to Pennsylvania Lodges. He has asked that the Ahiman Rezon be amended at the December Quarterly Communication of the Grand Lodge. The Pennsylvania Freemason notes: "By his actions, the Grand Master has effectively healed all previous rejections attributed to physical defect." All others may now petition. Pennsylvania Freemason is truly becoming "more visible ' as the Grand Master planned.
The Grand Lodge of Ohio, and its Grand Secretary, are certainly keeping up with the latest technology. The Grand lodge office has an "800" number! Robert Hinshaw reports he's hearing from lodges that rarely ever contacted his office before the toll free number was installed. Mistakes are now corrected before they happen. The Freemasons of Ohio have always been generous in their charitable efforts. And they have been again. The Grand Secretary's Bulletin reports a two year-old Toronto girl suffering from a rare skin disease will be treated. The 31 Lodges of the 24th District raised $7,325.18 to send her to West Germany for specialised treatment. That's "Brotherhood in action!"
''Hazing" has been commonplace in certain college fraternities. The Ohio legislature has enacted a tough law on the subject of hazing. During the work of the Virginia Craftsmen at Marietta, Ohio, early in the morning of July 4, the Grand Master Senior Warden, Richard M. Wilson, sat beside me. He was impressed with the decorum used by the Craftsmen in exemplifying the Master Mason degree. He asked if this was normal in Virginia. I assured him it's supposed to be. He then told me about the "hazing" law that could prove troublesome in Ohio. Personally, I feel this should be no problem anywhere in Freemasonry. However, we know there are those who haven't, and never will, learn the lessons taught in Masonry. These are the men the officers of our Lodges should keep off the ritual teams. It's really as simple as that.
Incidentally, or perhaps not so incidentally, the Freemasons and Knights of Columbus of Marietta joined together for an Independence Day banquet on the evening of July 4th. It was a beautiful sight to see the uniformed Knights Templar and the Knights of Columbus marching together as they presented the flag of the United States. At the conclusion of the banquet I spoke on "1783-1983," comparing George Washington's Farewell address as President with what has transpired since he stepped down.
SNPD! - Suspended for Non-payment of Dues is a problem in many jurisdictions. Some Grand lodges and other Grand bodies are trying to eliminate this by adopting life-time payment plans. The Philalethes Society has such a plan. Other organisations have had them for years. Where they have been adopted, they appear to be working. It seems these plans are good for the individual and the organisation. It would appear they are worth considering everywhere. And we note more and more Grand Lodges are doing that.
Two Philalethes chapters, in Houston, Texas, and Richmond, Virginia, have legally complied with the laws of the Society. They are the only Chapters to receive charters. A reminder: others now active must comply with the Bylaws of the Society by December 31, 1983, if they are to continue to operate legally.