‘Next February in Alexandria’

    

Courtesy GWMNM

I’m still working on several editions of The Magpie Mason to recap the terrific conference last weekend at the George Washington Masonic National Memorial, and I am reminded of the next big event there next February. In fact, registration is open now for the cornerstone re-dedication on February 20, just one of several celebratory happenings in commemoration of the Memorial’s centenary.

Courtesy GWMNM

Click here to see the itinerary.

There will be meetings and tours Friday through Sunday, and your lodge (if you plan ahead) may hold a tiled meeting in one of the Memorial’s lodge rooms! On Monday the 20th, there will be a parade and the cornerstone re-dedication.

Mention of this parade during the events of last week caught my attention. Generally, I am not a parade marcher, but that’s in terms of, say, a Masonic contingent in a St. Patrick’s Day parade or other civic display. This will be Freemasons only on the march like it’s 1740s Dublin or something! For some reason that’s different to my mind, so I believe I will don my new apron (blue borders with rounded flap and edges) and a Past Master jewel (TKS!).

We had a procession from Fredericksburg Lodge to a historical site in town last Friday when some clod in a passing car shouted we Masons are going to hell. The sight of this procession will give them something to howl about!

From the publicity:

All grand lodges, lodges, Masonic groups, and Freemasons in amity with the Grand Lodge of Virginia may participate in the Parade from historic Old Town Alexandria up to the Memorial’s beautiful grounds. The Parade will step off at 1 p.m. The Re-dedication Ceremony will take place at 3 p.m. All individuals attending the events of February 20 should register here. Those who register and attend will receive a special poster celebrating the event.

The Memorial’s traditional Washington’s Birthday Gala will be held on Wednesday, February 22. This elegant formal event, as always, will include a reception in Memorial Hall, entertainment in the Theater, and a Gala Banquet in Grand Masonic Hall.

Click here to read more about the events planned. And seriously, get your lodge or chapter or whatever to book a lodge room for a meeting. And petition the Grand Architect for favorable weather!