‘Masonic cornerstone at Washington Square’

    

Magpie file photo

It’s had quite a history these first 130 years of its existence, but it was on this date in 1890 when Grand Master John W. Vrooman laid the cornerstone of what then was called the Washington Memorial Arch in the traditional Masonic ceremony.

Today, the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation calls it the Washington Square Arch, as it stands at the principal entrance of Washington Square Park at the foot of Fifth Avenue in Greenwich Village. That entire quad, spanning slightly less than ten acres, has an amazing past that is integral to the city’s story, but this edition of The Magpie Mason concerns that cornerstone dedication 135 years ago today.

The Craft was well represented that day, but this event was not a Masonic project. For all the obvious reasons—from the Order’s prominence in city life in 1890, to the singular appropriateness of the Masonic cornerstone-laying ceremony, our Grand Lodge leadership was key to this celebration. But first, some necessary backstory:

There had been a predecessor arch almost on the same site the previous year. New York City would not neglect the centennial anniversary of George Washington’s first inauguration as President of the United States. As you know, that axial moment in world history happened at Wall Street on April 30, 1789. As its hundredth anniversary approached, an effort was made in the Washington Square neighborhood to organize a team to raise funds, hire an architect, and erect an arch as part of the commemoration. This was to be a temporary structure; it was built of wood with a plaster skin, had garlands and laurels rendered in papier maché, and was painted an ivory white. Its design, by none other than Stanford White, was in keeping with similar architecture Washington knew in his lifetime.

On its top stood a ten-foot statue of Washington, also of wood, that dated to 1792 and had been situated at the Battery. This arch did not loom over the northern edge of the Square as does the marble arch we’re remembering now. This one stretched across Fifth Avenue about a hundred feet north of the Square. Figure its piers stood at about today’s 2 Fifth Avenue on the west side, and at Glucksman Ireland House across the street.

The arch stood 71 feet high (including that statue) and 51 feet wide. At night, it was illuminated by hundreds of Thomas Edison’s incandescent lights. Having walked that block a few thousand times, I imagine that nighttime sight was aptly spectacular for Gilded Age New York. Let me just trace the parade route to illustrate the great significance of the dedication of this early arch (and this will impress everyone who knows Manhattan):

Departing from Wall Street, up Broadway to Waverley Place, across Waverley to Fifth Avenue, and then up to Fifty-Ninth Street! And then back!

Google Maps

Google Maps says the one-way trip runs 6.4 miles and is a two-and-a-half hour walk. It would be out of the question today. It’d screw up half of Manhattan. And the whole project got done in less than two months, which also would be impossible today. But enough on this very temporary arch hardly anyone knows about.

The permanent arch with the amazing life story we know today was prompted by the first one’s success. A $100,000 budget for creating the Washington Memorial Arch was set, and when the first $60,000 was in hand, the work commenced. Ground-breaking was April 30, 1890—the first anniversary of the Washington Inauguration’s centenary. May 30, which was Decoration Day (today’s Memorial Day), was the time for the cornerstone-laying.

Thus far, I have been borrowing from The History of the Washington Arch in Washington Square, New York, published in 1896 by the Committee on Erection of Washington Arch at Washington Square, but now I quote it directly:

Imposing ceremonies attended the laying of the cornerstone on Decoration Day: May 30, 1890.

The National Guard of the City of New York, commanded by General Fitzgerald, marched between the stands which had been erected. A vast concourse of citizens surrounded the spot. Henry G. Marquand, chairman of the committee, acted as Master of Ceremonies. Bishop Henry C. Potter opened the exercises by prayer. Following this, a hymn, especially written for the occasion by Robert Underwood Johnson, was sung by the Oratorio and other singing societies, in all 200 voices led by Frank H. Damrosch.

Addresses were made by Henry G. Marquand and Waldo Hutchins, representing the Park Commission, and the chorus sang patriotic airs. The oration was then delivered by George William Curtis who concluded it with a quotation from Washington’s Address delivered in the Constitutional Convention: “Let us raise a standard to which the wise and the honest can repair. The event is in the hands of God.” These words, at Mr. Curtis’ suggestion, have been inscribed on the large panel of the attic on the south front of the Arch.

The actual ceremonies of laying the cornerstone were then conducted in accordance with the Masonic ritual by the Grand Lodge. The Rev. Robert Collyer, Grand Chaplain, used in the service the Bible on which Washington took his oath of office, and from it read the chapters of Genesis which, as he explained, had been read at Washington’s inauguration.

From Grand Lodge’s 1890 Proceedings.

A copper box containing coins, medals, newspapers, and articles relating to the Arch and the committee was deposited in a receptacle provided for it. The architect Stanford White offered the plumb, level, and square for testing the stone which was then partially lowered. Grand Master John W. Vrooman, with a silver trowel presented to him by the committee, laid the mortar above the receptacle, and the stone was then lowered into its place.

After the stone had been tested and pronounced truly laid, prayer was made by Grand Chaplain Collyer and an address delivered by Grand Master Vrooman.

This concluded the ceremonies which were witnessed from a stand erected by the committee by a number of distinguished persons including President Cleveland (then ex-President) and Mrs. Cleveland, Mr. and Mrs. Charles S. Fairchild, William E. Dodge, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Watson Gilder, Mr. and Mrs. Edward Cooper, Lispenard Stewart, John Jacob Astor Jr., Charles H. Russell, Mr. and Mrs. Frank S. Witherbee, Augustus St. Gaudens, Eugene Kelly, Mr. and Mrs. Butler Duncan, Theodore W. Myers, Samuel D. Babcock, Daniel Huntington, Donald McNaughton, Bishop Henry C. Potter and Mrs. Potter, Charles S. Smith, William L. Strong, John A. King, Rutherford Stuyvesant, Mr. and Mrs. Frederick G. Lee, and many others.

Several months were spent after the cornerstone had been laid in the perfecting of the final designs for the superstructure of the Arch in the preparation of specifications and in tests of marbles submitted from different quarries. The marble finally selected was from the Tuckahoe Quarry in Westchester County.

Watch this two-minute video from the Chancellor Robert R. Livingston Masonic Library of the Grand Lodge of New York to get a look at that silver trowel.

More details about the cornerstone ceremony, quoted from The History of the Washington Arch book: 

The Masonic Ceremony

At the close of Mr Curtis’ address, the direction of the further ceremonies was turned over by Chairman Marquand to John W. Vrooman, Grand Master of Masons in the State of New York, who formally proclaimed that the cornerstone of the Arch would then and there be laid in accordance with the ancient rites of Masonry. Mr. Marquand thereupon presented the Grand Master with a beautiful silver trowel suitably inscribed.

The following officers of the Grand Lodge then took their places around the stone: John W. Vrooman, Grand Master; William Sherer, Deputy Grand Master; F.A. Burnham, Senior Grand Warden; E.B. Harper, Junior Grand Warden; John J. Gorman, Grand Treasurer; E.M.L. Ehlers, Grand Secretary; F.W. Morris, Senior Grand Deacon; Edward B. Price, Junior Grand Deacon; William W. Wallace, Grand Sword Bearer; John G. Janeway, Grand Standard Bearer; and William C. Prescott, Grand Marshal.

The Rev. Robert Collyer, Grand Chaplain, then arose in the speakers box and, lifting into plain sight of the multitude a large open book, explained that he held in his hand the Bible upon which George Washington took the oath of office as the first President of the United States. The book was then, and is now, the property of St John’s Lodge of Masons in this city. It was upon this page, said the white haired clergyman, glancing down upon the open book that Washington is said to have placed his hand while taking that historic oath. It contains portions of the forty-ninth and fiftieth chapters of the Book of Genesis. Dr. Collyer read a few verses from those chapters and then uttered a brief prayer.

The Masonic ritual proceeded. The small copper box, with its collection of medals and coins and the records of the event commemorated, stood ready to be deposited in the heart of the great granite block. Grand Treasurer Gorman announced the contents of the copper box to be deposited in the stone as follows:

• the St. Gaudens Washington Centennial medal bearing the date May 30, 1889

• a souvenir of the Washington Centennial celebration of 1889 with designs by Blashfield and Low

• a catalogue of the Centennial Loan Exhibition 1889 with portraits and relics

• a souvenir of the Committee on States of the Centennial celebration

• invitations, tickets, and circulars of the various committees on the Centennial celebration of 1889

• silver, nickel, and copper United States coins of 1889

• a United States silver coin of 1799

• a souvenir of the Centennial Judiciary banquet 1889

• a copy of the Constitution of the Society of the Sons of the Revolution

• a copy of the Constitution of the St. Nicholas Club

• the directory of the New York Board of Education

• a list of the officers of the Grand Lodge F and AМ of the State of New York

• a subscription blank for the Washington Memorial Arch

• newspapers of New York of the mornings of April 27th and 29th 1889; and May 29th and 30th 1890

• the personal card of William Rhinelander Stewart, the leading promoter of the Arch project

• the cards of the reporters present

• a silver dollar sent by Vice President Morton

The Grand Treasurer further stated that one coin, a silver dollar, and the autographs of President Harrison and Vice President Morton, contributed by a lady, had been received after the box was sealed and therefore would be placed in the aperture beneath the box.

The usual test was then applied; the box was inserted in the aperture provided for it; and the heavy stone was lowered into its bed of mortar. The impressive test and consecration of the cornerstone followed.

Stanford White, the designer and architect of the Memorial Arch, handed to Grand Master Vrooman the implements of his Craft: the square, the level, and the plumb. Each implement was applied to the stone by the proper officer of the Grand Lodge and the stone was reported to be of proper form.

The golden horn was then produced and Deputy Grand Master Sherer poured upon the imbedded stone a bit of ground corn emblematic of goodness and plenty. Wine and oil from the silver chalices were next poured upon the stone to symbolize joy and peace.

The formal surrendering of the stock into the keeping of the architect ended the ceremonies.

And what about that address delivered by The Most Worshipful John W. Vrooman, Grand Master of Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of New York? For that speech, we’ll turn to Grand Lodge’s 1890 Proceedings. The 109th Annual Communication was opened June 3, only a few days after the celebration at Washington Square.

Address by the Grand Master.

John W. Vrooman

Among these illustrious patrons, the revered and honored name of WASHINGTON appears upon the page of history as the ideal man and Mason. I will briefly refer to him as a member of our Fraternity, leaving his civil and military career to the distinguished orators of the day. 

Official records inform us that WASHINGTON was made a Mason in Fredericksburg Lodge, No. 4, on the 4th day of November 1752, at the “mature age” of twenty years, while serving as an adjutant-general in the British Army. He was chosen some years after Worshipful Master of Alexandria Lodge, No. 22, receiving his commission from Grand Master EDMUND RANDOLPH, Governor of Virginia.

The active military life of WASHINGTON as commander-in-chief seemed to inspire active Masonic labor. He encouraged military lodges, and frequently participated in their work. It was upon one of these occasions that he made General LAFAYETTE a Freemason. The Grand Lodge of Virginia in the early days of its organization elected WASHINGTON as its Grand Master; not being eligible at the time, he was compelled to decline the honor.

If time would permit, we would gladly recall his unceasing love and loyalty to the Craft, as evidenced by his Masonic visitations, letters, and addresses.

On the 18th day of September 1793, GEORGE WASHINGTON, President of the United States, acting as Grand Master, laid, with appropriate Masonic ceremonies, the cornerstone of the Capitol of this great Republic.

On the 4th day of July 1848, the Grand Master of Masons of the District of Columbia laid the cornerstone of that mighty monument at Washington which is the wonder and admiration of a civilized world, and on the 21st day of February 1885, it was dedicated by the Grand Master of that jurisdiction, in presence of the President and Congress of the United States. It is, therefore, most fitting that the cornerstone of this Washington Memorial Arch should be laid with Masonic ceremonies, thus following a long line of precedents, and affording the Fraternity an opportunity to once more give public evidence of their loving remembrance of a distinguished brother, and of their “loyalty to the government in which they live.”

The ceremony before us—the erection of this monumental arch as an enduring token of the lasting memory of an appreciative and affectionate people—vividly recalls the wonderful Centennial celebration of a year ago, which made this occasion possible.

The Masonic Brotherhood of the Empire State was deeply interested in that great demonstration—doubly interested because the central figures in that historic inauguration were in the forefront of our beloved Institution, and among the most talented and illustrious men and Masons of that or any other age.

There stood GEORGE WASHINGTON, the pride of his countrymen, the beloved of his brethren, awaiting the oath of office. Then appeared ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON, the Grand Master of Masons in the State of New York, who, as Chancellor of this State, administered the oath of office to WASHINGTON. Most Worshipful BRO. LIVINGSTON was one of the ablest statesmen and jurists this country ever produced, and our honored Grand Master for sixteen years.

A valuable aid in furthering the success of that inauguration day was JACOB MORTON, Chief of Staff, who was at the time Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of New York. Most Worshipful BRO. MORTON, a brave and accomplished military officer during the Revolution, held the office of Grand Master for five years. Standing there as witnesses to the impressive inauguration of the first President were many of the signers of the immortal Declaration of Independence. Do you wonder that the Declaration proclaimed Freedom when you consider the great fact that fifty-two of the fifty-six signers were Freemasons?

A worthy successor to the honors of the Brethren just mentioned was found in the person of DE WITT CLINTON, one of the renowned governors of this State, who held the office of Grand Master for fourteen years. During the War of 1812, DE WITT CLINTON, Grand Master of Masons, convened a Grand Lodge of Emergency on the first day of September 1814 in this city, for the sole purpose of volunteering for government duty, and the Brethren under his leadership were assigned by the Committee of Defense for receiving the services of the Craft on the fortifications at Brooklyn, pursuant to resolution, and they diligently labored through the day. One week later they again volunteered their services on the fortifications erecting on Brooklyn Heights, and more especially there as one of the forts had, in honor of the Craft, been called Fort Masonic.

The history of Freemasonry in this State is therefore coeval with the history of our National Government. Then, as now, Freemasons obeyed the teachings “to be true to your government and just to your country, yielding obedience to the laws which afford your protection.”

The wise and patriotic administration of Grand Master CLINTON was followed by DANIEL D. TOMPKINS, governor of this State, Vice-President of the United States, and also the honored Grand Master of Masons for several years.

These and other eminent Craftsmen, leaders in civil as well as Masonic affairs, inspired confidence in the plan and purpose of our Institution, elevated its character, developing its growth and usefulness to such an extent that at the present time it commands the respect and admiration of all mankind.

Permit me, in passing, to make brief allusion to another matter of historic interest. The Holy Bible borne today in the Grand Lodge procession, and now before you, is the property of St. John’s Lodge, No. 1, A.Y.M., of the city of New York, and has been jealously guarded by that noble band of brethren for more than one hundred years. Upon this sacred volume, GEORGE WASHINGTON took the oath of office as first President of this nation. It is a part of our unwritten history that as the moment approached for the oath to be administered, no Bible was at hand, nor could one be secured in the building. Chancellor ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON, as Grand Master, knew that every Masonic lodge-room contained a copy of the Holy Scriptures. He remembered that the Chief of Staff, JACOB MORTON, was Worshipful Master of St. John’s Lodge, No. 1, and that the lodge-room was nearby. A word to MORTON; a hastening to the lodge-room; a return with the Holy Bible; and without seeming delay the oath was taken. Thank God that the Great Light in Masonry must always have honorable place in every lodge-room!

One more brief allusion to a matter of similar interest. This medallion, accompanied by an autograph letter (the property of the Grand Lodge of New York), is said to possess the best likeness of WASHINGTON now in existence; it also contains a lock of his hair, and was presented by him, in June 1783, to Major BILLINGS, a member of his staff. At that time Major BILLINGS was Worshipful Master of a lodge located at or near Newburgh, and had frequently received General WASHINGTON as a visitor.

A gavel, which I hoped to use upon this eventful occasion, but an unforeseen circumstance has prevented, was expressly prepared for presentation to WASHINGTON, used by him as President, and also as acting Grand Master of Masons in laying the cornerstone of the Capitol of the United States. After the ceremonies, he presented it to Potomac Lodge, No. 9, F.&A.M., District of Columbia, and it has been carefully guarded by that lodge as a precious treasure since that time. It was used by the Grand Master in laying the cornerstone of the great monument at Washington; also at the laying of the cornerstone and dedication of the equestrian statue of Washington at the National Capital. It was likewise used at the laying of the cornerstone of the Yorktown Monument, and upon many other occasions in laying the cornerstones of public buildings and monuments in several States of the Union. 

Fitting it would be to make the present ceremony the more interesting and memorable by using that emblem of authority once wielded by him whose memory we hold sacred and this day further perpetuate. There are now in existence twelve different medals which were struck, in the early days of the Republic, to commemorate the Masonic virtues of WASHINGTON. At the close of his earthly labors, the lodge over which he presided as its first Master buried him with Masonic honors.

I conclude this hasty sketch by strongly commending to the Craft the following beautiful words of WASHINGTON, spoken while President of the United States. Replying to an address from some Rhode Island Brethren, he said:

“Being persuaded that a just application of the principles on which the Masonic Fraternity is founded must be promotive of private virtue and public prosperity, I shall always be happy to advance the interests of the Society, and to be considered by them as a deserving brother.”

To the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts he said:

“To enlarge the sphere of social happiness is worthy the benevolent design of a Masonic institution, and it is most fervently to be wished that the conduct of every member of the Fraternity, as well as those publications that discover the principles which actuate them, may tend to convince mankind that the great object of Masonry is to promote the happiness of the human race.”

We are assembled here today in the presence of this vast audience to perpetuate the memory of a man who left on record such inspired words of wisdom, and while we build this Memorial Arch, which, we pray God, may be as enduring as the granite itself, we nevertheless firmly believe that the greater monument of WASHINGTON’s pure life, valiant deeds, and fraternal advice will be erected in the hearts of a grateful people, to remain spotless and perfect forever.

The officers of the Grand Lodge assembled at the residence of BROTHER the Hon. EDWARD COOPER, ex-mayor, and marched thence in procession to the site of the proposed Memorial Arch in Washington Square.

Okay, so you can see this likely was kind of a stump speech, and I won’t address its various factual errors (remember, this was 1890, when people had a folklorist approach to history).

Magpie file photo

I don’t doubt it was an awesome day for the city, and I’d bet the participants would be happy to see the Arch not only remains in place, but also is a prominent landmark in a part of the city where the buildings are short and the streets are narrow. 

Ownership of the Arch was duly transferred to the City of New York, and on May 4, 1895, the completed marble Arch was dedicated. It has been an anchor in time, not flinching as the world around it ever changes.

    

‘Hudson Valley Masonicon is near’

    

Click here for tickets.

The first Saturday in June is the day, and Hoffman Lodge 412 in Middletown again is the place for the Hudson Valley Masonicon.

Ten speakers—including keynote Piers Vaughan, the outstanding Rashied Bey, and even myself as opening act (discussing “Masonic Learning: Search and Research”)—are on the bill. This will be a full day, and there are ticketing options for your preferences.

Click here. I’m going all the way: Masonicon program, cocktail hour, and festive board. I think I’ll look into a hotel room somewhere, so I can collapse with dignity for once.

Also, proceeds will benefit the Orange Rockland Sullivan District Masonic Association’s Brotherhood Fund to assist our brethren in need.

It’s the third annual Masonicon there, and it’ll be a tremendous event. Hope to see you there next Saturday.

     

‘John Paul Jones at Jersey lodge’

    

Magpie file photo

Randomly chosen photo of an apron displayed in the GWMNM. Has nothing to do with the meeting described below.

New Jersey Lodge of Masonic Research and Education 1786 will meet Saturday, June 14 at Freemasons Hall in North Brunswick. The lodge will tyle at 9:30 a.m. All Master Masons are welcome.

We have a few business items to tackle before our presenters approach the lectern, but they will be:

● “Opening Q&A” — Bro. David Palladino will discuss his personal lodge-level education and restoration initiative, “Rebuilding Jerusalem.” If you are not familiar with what David does as Master of Jerusalem Lodge 26, this will inspire you.

● Bro. Erich Huhn, our Secretary, will review Allan E. Roberts’ Freemasonry in American History, the current choice of our Masonic Book Club.

● Bro. Thomas Thurber, of Audubon-Parkside 218, is the day’s guest speaker. His paper, titled “John Paul Jones’ Masonic Journey,” documents how Masonry assisted Bro. Jones’ naval career and opened up the world to him. Tom’s paper has been very well received in lodges throughout the state.

After closing the lodge, we will retire to a local restaurant for lunch ($22/person) and conversation, which is as enjoyable as the meeting itself. I always look forward to these Saturdays. (We just need to find a place to smoke.) Hope to see you there.

     

‘Was ist das?’

    

Other than being a sponsor of Craftsmen Online, Bricks Masons is unknown to me, but I just noticed this seller of Masonic regalia and various supplies has a bad reputation on social media. Accusations varying from copying other retailers’ product designs to selling substandard goods to being a drop shipper to not providing customer service go unanswered, so it’s hard to know who’s running the enterprise.

From its website:

At Bricks Masons we are inspired by the idea of building the lodge for the 22nd century by inspiring the younger generation. To achieve our goal, every brick must be well aligned and perfectly placed. The name embodies perfection, strength, patience, and being on the level. We are using the Internet to do the outreach, educate, inspire, and connect.

Bricks? Freemasonry allegorically teaches with ashlars. Ashlars are not bricks.

Speaking of allegedly copying someone else’s design, it was brought to light on Faceypage Monday how Bricks Masons is selling this pin:

They offer one in gold tone too.

Which reminds me of this:

The Reichstag, Nazi Germany’s parliament, 1939.

I didn’t join the conversation about it because there were too many idiots defending the look of the pin. (There are so many jadrools in this fraternity I sometimes find myself sympathizing with the anti-masons.) “Zac Alan” posed this question to one of the pin’s critics:

I don’t think Bricks Masons is pro-nazi. I think it made a poor decision in bringing this pin to market. Since it caters to the “younger generation,” it’s highly likely there’s a typical ignorance of recent world history. This eagle has nothing to do with eagles of Masonic ritual and symbol, like the Roman Eagle of the apron presentation or the A&ASR’s bicephalous bird, the Rose Croix Degree, Royal Arch’s Dan banner, et al. And it’s not just the eagle; there’s the circular appendage at the bottom. So what is this?!

I have submitted the question to Bricks Masons, and I’ll let you know if an answer is received.

     

‘Story of the Week: One’s Role in Work’

    

One of the email subscriptions available from the School of Practical Philosophy is its Story of the Week, and we received this today:

One’s Role in Work

This is a story about a traveler in the Middle Ages who happened upon a large work site in the center of a village. He had been traveling for many days, and he was eager to talk to anyone who would engage with him.

He walked up to a worker at the site and asked, “Sir, may I ask what you are doing?” The worker scowled a bit and said tersely, “I am cutting stones.”

The traveler decided he would find little conversation there, so he moved on to another worker. When he asked the same question, the worker paused for a moment and explained that he was cutting stones so he could support his family. He had a wonderful wife and two small children who depended on him to provide them with food and shelter. They chatted about the project and the village for a few minutes, and the worker turned back to his large pile of stones.

The traveler moved to a third worker and asked the same question: “Sir, may I ask what you are doing?” The worker put down his tools, stood quite tall, looked the traveler in the eye and said with a warm smile, “I am building a cathedral. It will be the tallest and most magnificent structure for miles around. Its beauty will delight people for centuries to come. The stone I am now working on will go near the front door where people will enter for shelter and kinship. I will probably not see the final product, but I know my work is part of something very important.

Author Unknown

     

‘To promote the happiness of the human race’

    

“To enlarge the sphere of social happiness is worthy the benevolent design of a Masonic Institution; and it is most fervently to be wished, that the conduct of every member of the fraternity, as well as those publications that discover the principles which actuate them, may tend to convince mankind that the grand object of Masonry is to promote the happiness of the human race.”

George Washington

Letter to Massachusetts Masons

January 1793

In its promotion of its upcoming symposium in Ontario, the Masonic Restoration Foundation is releasing hints of what the speakers will present from the lectern. MW Bro. Philip Durell, of the Grand Lodge of British Columbia and Yukon, is going to talk about happiness.

Seeing that graphic above on social media really struck me hard. I can’t remember the last time I associated Freemasonry with happiness, I’m sorry and embarrassed to admit. Obviously I am missing something central to it all. For the most part, my experiences in the fraternity for many years have been characterized by negative states of mind, such as fear and anxiety, caused by worrying about the future. The shrinking membership and resulting financial woes and inevitable reconstitution of the fraternity, for which no one seems to be preparing, produce an overbearing dread that only worsens when we exit the temple to mix again with the increasingly unrecognizable and violent world.

Happiness? My God, I can’t wait to hear what the Past Grand Master has to tell us.

It’s not that I do not enjoy Freemasonry; I do, and I am grateful to be a small part of it. If it made me unhappy, I’d have been gone long ago—and I had reasons to be very unhappy years ago, but logically found the positive (Masonic Light) outweighed the negative (certain Masonic people).

Bro. George Oliver, the famous nineteenth century Masonic author, had something to say about happiness, being a clergyman and all. One of his books, The Symbol of Glory: Shewing the Object and End of Freemasonry, from 1850, is an anthology of lectures. Here are several excerpts:

We have a rule, which, if universally observed, would produce more peace and happiness in the world, than, I am afraid, is to be found amongst mankind at present. It is a golden maxim, applicable to all times and occasions, and cannot possibly fail in its operation. It was delivered by the Divinity, taught in the Gospel, recognized in Freemasonry, and is equally beneficial to all orders and descriptions of men. These are the words: Whatsoever you would that men should do unto you, do ye also unto them.

Page 75

In a Mason’s lodge, however, every thing which the candidate sees before his eyes possesses a symbolical meaning to recommend the practice of virtue in order to produce the glory of God, peace on earth, and good will towards men; a result which is considered acceptable to TGAOTU, because it cannot fail to prove a source of happiness to his creatures and lead to an abundant reward in the mansions of the blessed.

Page 130

     

‘VIVAT: The ALR festive board’

    

UPDATE: Sorry, but we have to cancel. Maybe do it later in 2025.

If it’s spring, it must be time for The American Lodge of Research’s festive board. We’re doing it a week after next Monday—so that’ll be June 2–at Masonic Hall in the 2 East dining room.

The meal: I am not yet acquainted with the caterer, but it comes highly recommended by a lodge that I trust in matters of good eats. We will feast on roast beef & potatoes; chicken marsala & penne vodka; eggplant parmigiana; plus salads, desserts, etc.

Our keynote speaker is a Mason with a low profile but has great enthusiasm for his topic: a seminal document from the first years of the Grand Lodge of New York that was the first of its kind in post-Revolution America. This important expression of Masonic values seems to not have received the appreciation it deserves, but maybe that will change.

The ritual: None other than RW Bro. John Mauk Hilliard himself researched the history of Masonic feasts in England and France to compile the verbiage and action that went into our festive board ritual. Vivat!

This will be a great night. Our 2024-25 term is nearly done. After this June 2 celebration, The ALR will have only its Annual Meeting four weeks hence.

Seating for our festive board is limited somewhat, so book your seats now by advance payment. Just follow the directions in the graphic above.

     

‘Yes, it DO have to be Masonic’

    

I guess it’s podcast reviews week on The Magpie Mason (see previous two posts). Today I comment on one I don’t even watch.

The premise of the Old Fashion [sic] Masonic Podcast, in the words of host Brian Byrd, is: “…we talk all things Freemasons [sic] while drinking an Old Fashioned.” I have seen a few episodes; I don’t see anyone drinking an Old Fashioned, but I digress.

This episode was brought to my attention by two of my research lodge cronies, acting independently (they don’t know each other), to aggravate me for their own entertainment. If you remember the Niagara Falls guy from the various Three Stooges and Abbott and Costello sketches, then you can picture me getting squirrelly when the meaning of Masonic learning is abused. For example, Bro. X says we should have a chiropractor give a talk in lodge, and then I stomp on his foot, pull down his nose, and snip his necktie in half.

Byrd’s guest on the show last Sunday was MW Steve Almager, the recently installed Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of New Mexico. Masonic learning isn’t the subject of the discussion, but they approach it while agreeing on how to keep the brethren coming back to lodge during the fraternity’s overall efflux of members.

To Byrd, “Masonic Ed” either can be reading a “Short Talk,” I guess meaning a Short Talk Bulletin from the MSANA, or having a speaker visit to discuss things not pertaining to Freemasonry. That’s where the fraternity was when I was initiated in 1997: dying lodges hosting insurance brokers to talk to the guys about the pros and cons of term life policies while maybe gaining a few customers. Rotary Club stuff. Actually, I think Rotarians have higher standards.

The host and his guest here agree that investment products, tutorials in using social media, and pocket watches are good examples of educational topics to keep the brethren interested in the fraternity. “It don’t [sic] have to be Masonic,” says New Mexico’s grand master.

Gracie Films

I disagree. One can find random subjects anywhere, including online, which is why they’re random. There’s no need to put yourself through the rigors of Masonic initiation if you want to learn about financial products. You simply could attend a free local seminar where financial advisors buy you lunch and teach the basics of securities and the like while maybe gaining a few customers.

Masonic lodges should provide what Masonic brethren cannot find anywhere else: Freemasonry. I don’t think reading a Short Talk Bulletin is the best use of precious time either, so find a way to impart the meaning of Masonry. It’s never been easier than today. Tons of information is freely available online—maybe even on this blog. There are more speakers on the Masonic scene now than probably ever before (of course there are variances in quality), so leave the real estate tips to the service clubs’ business networkers.

If you need to watch this, here it is cued to the relevant second:

Byrd mentions a previous episode that was devoted to education, which he defines as “personal and business development,” but I won’t look for it.

     

‘Through Fire and Fellowship’

    

The guest on The Masonic Roundtable podcast last week was W. Bro. Jimmy Densmore, Secretary of Dalton Lodge 105 in Georgia, who authored a history of the lodge to mark both its dodransbicentennial year and the centenary of the Masonic temple it calls home.

That book, titled Through Fire and Fellowship, is the product of the kind of Masonic research I wish was more common these days, namely the digging through archives Masonic and otherwise, and records public and private.

Dalton Lodge, chartered in 1849, lost much of its early records to fires, necessitating the deep investigation into its past to match documented facts to oral history. The lodge’s first building was dedicated in 1855, but was a casualty of Gen. William T. Sherman’s “March to the Sea” that included the devastation of Atlanta in 1864 during the Civil War. A second fire, during peacetime in 1911, again deprived the brethren of their building. For a number of years, the lodge moved around the neighborhood until the current Dalton Masonic Temple was dedicated in 1925.

Dalton Lodge 105

So, the lodge’s story twice suffered the loss of minutes and all the ephemera and other items Masons collect, leaving not only gaps in its narrative, but knowledge lost in the mists of time. Until now.

“History is one of the big draws that brought me to become a Mason,” Densmore tells his interviewers. “It was really a labor of love to want to do this, and dive into that, and be the sleuth and be the historian.”

His starting point was a framed document hanging on a wall inside the temple that renders a post-1911 history, and Densmore sought to prove its accuracy. From there, he shares a very inspiring account of seeking newspaper stories, digging into University of Georgia archives, and even the Library of Congress. Although this was mostly online searching, and not QC2076-style Masonic archaeology, it nevertheless required time and commitment, and is worth hearing about.

Through Fire and Fellowship is available for sale at $25 shipped or $20 picked up in person (the lodge will meet next Monday at 7:30). Click here.

Dalton 105 has a great plan on the trestleboard for its June 23 meeting, when three generations of the Laster family will open and close the lodge. W. Bro. Speedy Laster (second generation) will preside in the East; Bro. Josh Laster (third generation) will sit in the West; and W. Jack Laster (first generation) will serve as Junior Warden. Densmore will give a talk on generational Masonry.

The Masonic Roundtable Episode 512.

This episode of TMR runs fifty-six minutes, but feel free to skip to 6:00 to get into the conversation directly. Click here. My thanks to the show, for bringing this news to light, and congratulations to Bro. Densmore.

     

‘The Masonic Shelf debut’

    

It’s rare I can catch a Masonic podcast at its launch, but I saw the debut of The Masonic Shelf last week, and I’m glad I did. Hosts Bradley Kohanke and Chris Williams chatted for forty-nine minutes about a book on their shelf they find exceptionally meaningful.

Observing the Craft by Andrew Hammer garners their sincere praise. Kohanke says it is the first book he recommends to new Masons who ask. If you don’t know this book, watch the conversation here:

The hosts quote from the text, and then they discuss how its ideas factor into their Masonic experiences.

The Masonic Shelf, unlike every other Masonic podcast I’ve seen, has a credited producer. Jason Reichenberg, or anyone else, can’t be expected to create a perfect show from the start, so I’d like to pitch a few suggestions:

📖 If you must post a disclaimer, have someone read it. The AI voiceover sounds cheap.

📖 Ditch the “fire” graphic in the intro/outro. Flames and books do not mix in a free society.

📖 That music is too dramatic. Swap it for something lighter and uptempo, like baroque strings, or jazz, or even something significant to Texas, their home state.

📖 I don’t mean to beat up Bro. Chris, but he ought to look in the camera once in a while. He should wear a shirt with a collar because the shapeless T-shirt looks like a barber cape. And the repeated sniffles and throat-clearings annoy the viewer.

(Easy for me to say! I always politely deflect invitations to appear on Masonic podcasts because I mumble and curse too much.)

The hosts said they wanted to create a podcast where books can be discussed, saying they didn’t know any such thing existed. Magpie readers know about M.A.G.I.—Masonic Authors Guild International—hosted by Bob Cooper and Mark Tabbert. We can’t have too many talk shows that intelligently review important books, so put both of these in your rotation.

My review of Observing the Craft, from almost exactly thirteen years ago, is here.

     

‘New York Freemasonry’s new tartan’

    

The winner in the Grand Lodge of New York’s tartan design competition was crafted by RW Richard Powell.

Congratulations to RW Bro. Rick Powell on fashioning the winning plaid pattern in Grand Lodge’s tartan design competition!

If I’m not mistaken, there were fifteen entries in the contest, which was announced last summer. Balloting closed March 31, and the winner was revealed last week at Grand Lodge’s Annual Communication.

Of his brilliant design, Rick, on social media, says: “The colors in the tartan consist of blue and orange, the official colors of the State of New York. The shades of blue represent the Symbolic Lodge; vertical orange lines remind us that we are upright men and Masons; the horizontal orange lines that we are all on the level; and the three white lines represent our three degrees.”

This will be added to the Scottish Register of Tartans.

Now comes the work of having the fabric made, and that fabric turned into kilts. Maybe other garments too, like ties. I think this would make a handsome flat cap. A dinner jacket!

     

‘Pennsylvania researchers next month’

    

Pennsylvania Lodge of Research will host the first meeting of its twenty-fifth anniversary year in June to hear two presentations and to vote on a slew of new members. From the publicity:

Pennsylvania Lodge of Research

Saturday, June 14 at 10 a.m.

Altoona Masonic Center

600 Jackson Avenue, Altoona

Presentations

Bro. Jerry Hamilton, a Past Master of the lodge:

“Regius Poem or Halliwell Manuscript”

Bro. Ronald E. Stuver:

“Exactly Different: Masonry in Pennsylvania and Ohio”

And about those petitions for membership: The lodge has thirteen Masons from around the state seeking membership by affiliation. Not too shabby! To pursue membership in this lodge, contact Secretary Michael Moran here.

Sorry to say I cannot visit this meeting as New Jersey’s research lodge will meet at that hour, and, frankly, Altoona is a haul. Hopefully a future Worshipful Master will steer the lodge eastward—like Easton or East Stroudsburg, if I may boldly pitch ideas. But if Altoona is feasible for you, check out your research lodge.

Pennsylvania Lodge of Research will mark its silver anniversary in December. The brethren will meet on the thirteenth at the Scottish Rite Valley of Harrisburg.

     

‘The Masonic Shelf to debut Wednesday’

    

Another Masonic podcast is about to premiere. The Masonic Shelf will debut Wednesday. From the publicity:

Join Brad Kohanke, a Freemason affiliated with both the grand lodges of Arkansas and Texas; and fellow Texas Mason Chris Williams as they crack open the hidden pages of Masonic and esoteric literature in The Masonic Shelf, a podcast for curious brothers and seekers of deeper light.

Each episode features honest, insightful, and often humorous reviews of books that have shaped Masonic thought, from timeless classics to modern explorations of symbolism, ritual, philosophy, and the Craft’s evolving role in the world.

Whether you’re a newly raised brother or a seasoned student of the mysteries, Brad and Chris bring thoughtful analyses, historical contexts, and down-to-earth Texas perspectives to help you build your own Masonic library—one book at a time.

Bro. Kohanke is the author of Light Reflections: Philosophical Thoughts and Observations of a Texas Freemason (2001) which its back cover says:

Freemasonry in the United States was arguably at its peak during the decade following the First World War. The Masonic writings of the day were eloquent, easy to read, concise, and filled with thought-provoking opinions and observations. This was the model after which Bradley E. Kohanke patterned his writings. For nearly ten years, Brother Kohanke, a Past Master, former District Deputy Grand Master, and former Grand Orator for the Grand Lodge of Texas, wrote a monthly article for his lodge’s newsletter. The essays contained within the pages of this book are based upon those articles and harken back to a time when Freemasonry inspired a passion for philosophical thought.

Also included are his Orations from the Texas Grand Lodge Historical Observances in 2019 and his Grand Oration from the Grand Annual Communication in January of 2020. As Brother Kohanke puts it: “Masonry holds no secrets or sacred knowledge that are suddenly revealed to the initiate. Rather, it provides a framework on which to build…a guide for living. It offers a way to attain that knowledge over time through learning, patience, and truth. And it does so without harming others in their search. This practice of perfecting one’s self is ancient beyond record and is the true measure of success. The attainment of balance in one’s life…achieving happiness with yourself, without interfering with the happiness of others, and proactively helping others in their search for balance in their lives…that is success. It is a noble quest, the objective of which can only truly be obtained by those who are worthy and true…to themselves and each other.”

Bro. Williams is the author of There Is No Texas Without Freemasonry. Its publicity says:

There is No Texas Without Freemasonry is the latest book from Bro. James “Chris” Williams. Brother Williams is the author of the now world-famous John Deacon book series. Readers will not be disappointed with the wealth of Masonic education contained within the pages of this book, a collection of Masonic papers written over the last twenty-five years by Bro. Williams. Most of them have been presented at various Masonic and non-Masonic gatherings.

There is No Texas Without Freemasonry is the first and most famous paper presented to date by Williams. This book is an excellent addition to any Masonic library. Each chapter is short enough to be read as an education piece in the lodge or as the focus of family education night. Enjoy each page as you laugh, cry, and, more importantly, reflect on Freemasonry. 

Both hosts have podcast experience. This should be good! May 14 at 7 p.m. The link is here.