The Magpie Mason is an obscure journalist in the Craft who writes, with occasional flashes of superficial cleverness, about Freemasonry’s current events and history; literature and art; philosophy and pipe smoking. He is Worshipful Master of The American Lodge of Research in New York; is a Past Master of New Jersey Lodge of Masonic Research and Education 1786; and also is at labor in Virginia’s Civil War Lodge of Research 1865. He is a past president of the lamented Masonic Society as well.
The month of June was very significant in the life of Daniel D. Tompkins.
For example, he was born June 21, 1774 in Scarsdale. He was elected Assistant Grand Secretary of the Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of New York on June 4, 1800. Became Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge in June 1801. Was elected Grand Master in 1820 on St. John Baptist Day—while serving as Vice President of the United States!
And he died on this date two centuries ago, on June 11, 1825.
I have nothing profound to say. I’m just remembering his passing on this bicentennial anniversary.
Here are a few previous Magpie posts:
▻ A look at Tompkins’ final resting place in Manhattan here.
▻ Excerpts from his revealing writings while a student uptown at Columbia College here.
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.
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!
The academic year without the Temple is winding down, but it’s just getting started within. MW Steven Adam Rubin announced Thursday the pending revamp of Masonic University! In a letter to the Craft, the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of New York writes:
I am proud to share that the Grand Lodge of New York is in the process of relaunching Masonic University—a renewed commitment to Masonic education, scholarship, and the pursuit of Light.
As part of this initiative, I have convened a dedicated committee of Brothers passionate about Masonic research to develop a Masonic Scholars Program, modeled after successful efforts in other jurisdictions and appendant bodies. This self-paced journey of learning and discovery will deepen general Masonic knowledge, culminating in the writing of a publishable scholarly paper on a topic of the Brother’s choosing.
Each participant will be guided by a personal mentor, assisting with both research and writing. The curriculum will be structured in five progressive levels, each building upon the last:
Level 1: Foundations of Academic Paper Writing
Level 2: World History of Freemasonry
Level 3: The Degrees: Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason
Level 4: Freemasonry in New York
Level 5: Scholarly Paper and Presentation
Each level will include both required and elective readings, along with written submissions and reflections. Upon completion, Brothers will earn a distinguished scholar designation, complete with a jewel and formal recognition.
This program is not just about knowledge—it is about igniting minds, deepening bonds, and cultivating a culture of thoughtful leadership. Let this be the age of the Scholar Mason—curious, enlightened, and dedicated to truth.
Let us study, let us write, and let us build something that will last because this is our time.
While more information will be disseminated during the summer months, questions should be directed here.
If I understand, Masonic University’s earlier incarnation involved the Masonic Development Course, which is good, but what is promised here sounds much more demanding. Can’t wait to enroll! (I hope they don’t ask about my SATs.)
As reported here last Saturday, the Observant Masonry movement in the Grand Lodge of New York is recently reinvigorated with a newly staffed and small committee of practitioners that has promulgated new guidelines for winning the OM certification.
Chairman Bradley Hubbard was kind enough to send me the committee’s publication. While I can’t reproduce the eighteen pages here, I’ll summarize many key points that probably ought to be explained to those who misunderstand what this is all about. Excerpted:
▶︎ A common misconception is that a Lodge so acutely focused on the ritualistic, educational, and esoteric aspects of the Craft tends to lack in the fraternal, social, and charitable pursuits that many Masons pride themselves on. This is mistaking the light for the flame. The fraternal, social, charitable and other elements of Masonry are natural consequences of practicing Masonry as Masonry was intended to be practiced. The
innate culture of excellence that exists within Observant Lodges actually serves to strengthen and amplify these aspects of Masonic culture. Simply put; where Observance is present, Freemasonry thrives.
▶︎ It is a widespread misunderstanding that the OM title is meant to elevate a Lodge above its peers in either prestige or exclusivity. Quite the contrary, the intention behind this designation is that the adherent Lodge has dedicated itself to the service of the Craft at large as an exemplar and emissary of the Observant Masonry movement. An OM Lodge deliberately conveying “holier than thou” airs would therefore be acting in contradiction to the spirit and intention of this program.
▶︎ There are two common paths toward establishing Masonic Observance within a Lodge. Neither is easier than the other per se, but one or the other may not even be possible within a particular region or district. The first is
to “convert” an existing Lodge to an Observant model, which requires a culture shift of some magnitude depending on the composition and trajectory of the membership. In this case, achieving a critical mass of members in favor of the initiative becomes of utmost importance. Conversion basically entails modifying the culture of a Lodge over a period of time to come into alignment with the guidelines and requirements of Observant Masonry in our jurisdiction. This is an excellent way to ensure the long-term success of a Lodge or it can be an effective way of “rescuing” an otherwise failing Lodge at risk of dissolution by converting it to the
Observant model.
The second is to establish a new Lodge based on the Observant model from its inception. This is far more laborious as it requires the formal warranting of a new Lodge and the immense amount of work that goes along with it, not only clerically but the acquisition of ceremonials, securing a meeting place, overcoming potential political opposition, etc. Sometimes though, this may be the best or only option available in a particular region. Once the Lodge is formally established, careful and selective increase through affiliation and initiation is necessary to maintain Observant culture over time. The Lodge needs a clear plan for growth and succession to sustain itself past the initial enthusiasm of its founding members as well as a strong inculcation of the tenets of Masonic Observance to maintain critical mass.
▶︎ An unfortunate statistic is that most OM Lodges last an average of about five years before they either dissolve, merge, or convert back to a mainstream Lodge culture. Feedback suggests the reason behind this is that the initial enthusiasm which propelled the Lodge forward eventually waned, particularly as the original “movers and shakers” moved through the chairs and were replaced by others who were less versed in Observant Masonry.
This is why a Lodge-wide inculcation of the tenets of Masonic Observance and a strong plan of succession is critical to its longevity. As previously stated, the level of excellence an OM Lodge aims for requires an enormous amount of energy to maintain. If it is not a larger ensemble effort, those who primarily shoulder the burden can only do so for but so long.
What follows are many specifics that comprise the curated OM lodge experience. These are not secrets to regular readers of The Magpie Mason, but to quickly summarize several:
• Keeping the lodge building and grounds attractive.
• Maintaining all lodge room furnishings, regalia, etc.
• Decorum in lodge: dignified attire, no phones, use of candles and incense. (I’m big on incense.)
• Discriminating choice in selecting officers.
• Ritual excellence.
• Festive Boards.
Then there are details on the most important matters, namely candidate selection and the candidate’s experience. Excerpted:
▶︎Guarding the West Gate: This is far more than a catch phrase. Prospects for initiation or affiliation in an OM Lodge should undergo careful and scrutinous selection involving a multi-stage process. A version of the current Northstar program customized to the Lodge’s needs and culture should be defined and implemented.
▶︎Cost of admission: Oftentimes a higher than average initiation and affiliation fee is associated with Observant Lodges. This is both to discourage those lacking a serious interest in Observant Masonry and to offer the Lodge funding to provide candidates with additional resources and experiences during their process of advancement. Many associate value directly with price, so setting a somewhat higher than average bar to admission heightens the expectations of what is to be gained on the other side.
▶︎Acceptance letters: It is good practice to notify candidates of their acceptance and scheduled degrees by formal letter mailed to their residence. Attention should be given to the presentation as well as content. A Lodge letterhead on quality stationary, hand signed by an appropriate officer, perhaps with embellishments like a wax seal over a cord/ribbon makes a substantial impression and sets the right tone for all that is to come.
▶︎Number of candidates per degree: Creating a bespoke experience for each Candidate is critical on several levels. In an ideal situation it is one candidate per degree.
▶︎Interval between degrees: Although it is common for a candidate to progress through the degrees over the course of a few months, elsewhere and previously in Masonry it takes much longer. Observant Masonry espouses this concept and generally allows candidates to progress at a pace that mirrors their proficiency.
▶︎Heightened proficiency: As OM Lodges expect more from their officers, so should they expect more from their candidates. The proficiency required in the form of Masonic catechism or “Q&As” should be as close to perfection as it is deemed that particular candidate is capable of achieving. The delivery should occur in open Lodge in front of the Brethren, with the decision of proficiency resting with the Master by right.
▶︎Mentorship: A candidate should not be expected to navigate these waters alone. The purpose of joining a Lodge is to receive guidance and assistance from those who have gone this way before. This is not limited to the proficiency work associated with each degree or even matters of practical worldly assistance.
▶︎Education: Candidates should be exposed to an organized course of study related to each degree that includes the required catechism, a reading curriculum, and exposure to degree-appropriate education programs through the Lodge. Since candidates generally take longer to progress under this model, OM Lodges can take advantage of opening on the EA and FC degrees to allow them to actively participate in the Lodge’s Communications which will naturally include education and discussion.
Other aspects of the experience:
• Procession of officers.
• Uses of sound and music.
• Times for silence/meditation.
• “Light from the East” candle ceremony.
• Chain of Union.
And then there’s the Chamber of Reflection, which is analyzed in a separate appendix. Of all the characteristics of the Observant ethos, the Chamber of Reflection surely is the most debated. Previous editions of New York’s Standard Work, as I recollect, mentioned a Chamber of Reflection, but this was described as the Preparation Room with the addition of a candle. It wasn’t the room full of symbolism concerning transformation and mortality borrowed form the European tradition. To quote just two sentences from the guidelines: “In the most general sense, the purpose of the Chamber of Reflection is to provide a candidate the opportunity
for meditation and introspection in a place set apart from the profane world they’ve just come from. Similar to the various Observant practices Masons use to set their Lodge room and ritual apart from the profane world without, the Chamber is a tool employed to offer Candidates the same opportunity.”
Under Supplemental Resources, I am pleased to see the Knights of the North’s literature, as well as Andrew Hammer’s Observing the Craft, among other suggested readings.
Under Candidate Course of Study, three sets of books, one for each degree, are recommended, and they are by the same authors: Carl Claudy, Robert Lund, and W.L. Wilmshurst.
The OM designation is not necessary to ensure an amazing lodge experience, but the practices that would earn a lodge that designation are required, an opinion I base on my twenty-eight years of experience in the Craft. In fact, I’m getting on in years, and I don’t know what my involvement in the fraternity will look like after my thirtieth anniversary, so don’t ask me what today’s busy young men might expect from a Masonic experience. I know only that we ought to project excellence. Impressive and thoughtful reports of committees aside, the high standards we need are defined in our ritual text Standard Work and Lectures of Ancient Craft Masonry.
Still, I must congratulate the Observant Masonry Committee, and I hope more lodges work toward OM certification.
Grand Lodge is readying for its Annual Communication, to open Monday, May 5 and close the next day here in Manhattan. Naturally, part of the preparation includes the publication of reports, financials, and other documents; these will be included in the Book of Proceedings later this year, but are being circulated now. The report of the Observant Masonry Committee, submitted by Chairman Bradley Hubbard, Past Master of Alcyone 695, notes major changes of purpose for the group that deserve congratulations.
First, it was explained how the three-man committee is newly restaffed. Previously, the committee was comprised of Chairman Piers Vaughan with Richard Powell and Daniel DiNatale. Today it’s Chairman Hubbard with Stephan Carter and Briggs Houston—both also of Alcyone Lodge—with the three previous committeemen now serving as advisors.
There are four lodges at labor under our Grand Lodge (of 427 lodges) that have been certified as Observant: Queensbury 121, Alcyone, Harmonie 699, and Ecclesia 1189. (It’s worth mentioning how no certified Observant lodges are found in New York City! I’m not sure what to make of that.) Chairman Hubbard writes:
“With only four out of over 400 lodges certified as Observant, it became clear that this committee in its previous format was servicing less than 1 percent of New York lodges in any practical manner. Our objective was to redefine the scope of work beyond a mere certifying body, and expand it to provide resources that would be relevant to 100 percent of the lodges in the jurisdiction. The true purpose of the Observant Masonry movement and this committee is to ensure the survival and prosperity of the Craft by disseminating resources which can be implemented by any lodge to revitalize and revolutionize its Masonic practice. Whether that lodge seeks the path of Masonic Observance or picks and chooses which aspects work for their lodge culture is their choice, but in either circumstance the committee is there to assist.”
It’s time to reminisce a little. There is no connection between the Grand Lodge of New York and the Masonic Restoration Foundation. I hereby promise and swear I don’t know the reason for that, but I once was told that about a decade ago, the Grand Lodge made it known it wouldn’t want its lodges aligned with the MRF. New York lodges then listed on the MRF’s website soon were delisted.
This reminds me of that essential cabal meeting* at Gadsby’s in February 2008 when the discussion of what then was called Traditional Observance Masonry included the caution “You can’t serve two masters,” meaning a lodge looking to include T.O. ideas into its practices had better understand that fealty to its grand lodge should dwarf any appreciation of the MRF.
Back to the present. W. Bro. Hubbard goes on to say the GLNY’s Observant certification guidelines were redefined “to create a flexible, but comprehensive standalone document that described not only the objectives of the initiative, but provided a practical template for lodges to implement.”
If I understand correctly, this is in the form of a book, Guidelines for Practice and Certification, a copy of which I now am seeking to obtain. Got it. Click here. Hubbard continues:
“Another aspect of the new Guidelines was to revise the mission statement of the GLNY Observant Masonry initiative to reflect the mandate of expanded relevance mentioned previously in this report. Part of that included redefining the controversial OM designation–the only of its kind in existence–from a perceived title of exclusivity to one of service. Lodges choosing to pursue and bear the OM designation henceforth must commit to bettering the Craft at large by serving as an exemplar and ambassador of the program, offering themselves as a practical regional resource to other lodges that wish to implement Observant practices.”
For more on this forward thinking project, visit the Observant Masonry page on Grand Lodge’s website here.
Bravo to the committee! Huzzah!
Really strange there aren’t OM certified lodges in the city.
The Grand Lodge of New York will launch its Académie Esoterica in August to inculcate the meaning of Masonry in a long term series of classes and discussions, Grand Master Steven Adam Rubin announced this afternoon. Excerpted from his letter to the Craft:
I am pleased to introduce Académie Esoterica.
Freemasonry is an initiatic tradition that speaks in symbols, invites personal reflection, and guides us toward universal truths. It is this deeper journey, this inner path of growth and Light, that we now invite you to explore.
The Esoteric Classes of the Grand Lodge of New York are designed to enrich the mind and elevate the spirit. This multi-year program begins with two years of foundational study, followed by deeper explorations into the mysteries of our three degrees. Classes will be offered as monthly one-hour intensives, each paired with Esoteric Salons to engage in meaningful dialogue, debate and shared discovery.
The first-year course outline is above.
Registration details and the full schedule will follow shortly. Our first session, “The Goals of Esoteric Masonry,” launches at Grand Master’s Day at Camp Turk on Sunday, August 17 at noon. All Brothers are welcome.
Should you have any questions, please send an email here.
Grand Master’s Day at Camp Turk:
For all Brothers and families traveling from the Metro Area, round-trip bus transportation from Masonic Hall will be available for a small fee of $25. The bus is available to all, and not just those wishing to participate in the Esoteric Program. Bus payment details will be available after the Grand Lodge Session.
Should other Regions of the State wish to explore the possibility of a Grand Lodge/Trustee sponsored bus, please email RW Bro. Lorenzo Cesare here.
Come grow with us and seek Light with us, because within every Brother lies a greater self waiting to awaken.
Balloting will close at the end of the month in Grand Lodge’s tartan design contest. Submitted for your approval are fifteen patterns, the most popular of which will become our official plaid for crafting into kilts and maybe—I dunno—neckwear, flat caps, scarves, and the like. Also will be registered with the Scottish Register of Tartans!
My personal preferences in plaid favor the subdued colors, but I’m not going to lie to you: a lot of those things look the same to me.
Voting is open only to New York Masons, and ballot integrity is protected. Click here.
The Grand Lodge of New York’s first Masonic Con arrives tomorrow, and you still can buy tickets and join about 125 of your brethren from New York and elsewhere around the Northeast.
Masonic Con New York will examine Freemasonry in the 21st Century: Self and Society—a look at where our fraternity should go as modern America suffers from an epidemic of male loneliness, as documented in the recent study from the U.S. Surgeon General.
Freemasonry, as a path of self-development, as a social network, and as an influential and history-making institution, bears the potential to remedy the crisis facing so many American men. Come here our speakers discuss the ideas behind this Masonic Con with a mission:
Keynote Speaker
Maj. Gen. William Green, Jr.
Chief of Chaplains
U.S. Army
—with—
Dr. Heather K. Calloway
Executive Director
Center for Fraternal Collections
and Research, Indiana University
MW Akram Elias
Past Grand Master
Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia
Bro. Bull Garlington
Author and Attorney
Bro. Michael LaRocco
Executive Director
Chancellor Robert R. Livingston
Masonic Library
Bro. Jim Loporto
On “The Elephant in the Room”
This day of Masonic and social studies is open to the public, except for Bro. Loporto’s presentation at day’s end, which will be restricted to regular Freemasons, with an emphasis on seating Apprentices, Fellows, and new Master Masons.
Mariners 67
The weekend will begin tonight with the famous Mariners Lodge 67’s Maritime Festive Board and Beefsteak Banquet. That’s a separate ticket for a magnificent meal in an unforgettable ambiance of feast and song. This is the kick-off of the lodge’s bicentennial celebration.
The speakers program awaits you on Saturday, also featuring tours of Masonic Hall, plenty of vendors, and other attractions.
Afterward, the 1781 Society welcomes you for cocktails and socializing with our speakers and with Grand Master Steven A. Rubin and our Grand Lodge leadership. (Sorry. Sold out.)
There are group rate hotel accommodations (sold out) and special rate parking as well.
New York Freemasonry has a corps of philanthropists who commit to support our Brotherhood Fund which aids distressed brethren and their families in times of need. I was late in learning about this, but it has appeared on my radar because a 1781 Society cocktail hour will cap our Masonic Con weekend in January.
(Tickets to Masonic Con New York can be had here, and there is an option to also buy tickets to the after-Con cocktail party. I’ll have much more on Masonic Con very shortly, but we have six amazing speakers booked, plus other major attractions.)
Anyway, the 1781 Society welcomes contributions of many denominations but, as the Society says: “This isn’t just a donation—it’s an invitation to become part of something truly special. Join the 1781 Society and add your name to this list of those preserving the legacy of Freemasonry in New York!”
Two hundred years ago today—and at this very minute—New York’s Freemasons were hosting and toasting their historic Brother, the Marquis de Lafayette. The last surviving general of the American Revolution was invited to the United States by the Masonic Order to be a “Guest of the Nation” for a valedictory tour in the autumn of his life.
He had landed at New York the previous month and traveled New York and New England, enthralling cheering crowds all throughout. He returned to Manhattan before continuing travels that would extend well into 1825 and would encompass all twenty-four states.
Bro. Chris Ruli released his second book last month; Brother Lafayette recounts the Masonic details of the historic tour. I haven’t seen it yet, but I aim to buy a copy next Thursday when Chris comes to the Livingston Library for a talk. But, on Monday, September 20, 1824, a grand banquet of more than 500 Freemasons was hosted at a place named Washington Hall, located on Broadway at Reade Street. In lieu of Chris’ book, I turn to Lafayette: Guest of the Nation, which consists of contemporaneous local newspaper reportage, and was compiled and edited by Edgar Ewing Brandon and published in 1957. Quoting the September 21, 1824 edition of The Evening Post, the book says:
Masonic Dinner to La Fayette
Yesterday afternoon in consequence of previous arrangements, General La Fayette partook of a dinner at Washington Hall, to which he had been invited by the Grand Lodge of this State. From 5 to 600 of the Craft, decorated with their sacred symbols, were present.
Language is inadequate to give a correct description of the scene. On entering the room, we found ourselves in the midst of a magnificent temple, at the upper end of which was raised a vaulted pavilion, the canopy supported by marble columns, the front arch decorated with laurel and flowers; at the center of which was a brilliant illuminated star.
In the rear of the pavilion, and immediately behind the General, was a beautiful transparency, emblematic of Masonry. The floor was here raised about two feet from the level of the room, on which was placed a circular table, extending from column to column, and garnished in the most splendid style with temples and candle branches of great magnitude and exquisite beauty. At this table was seated the General, and the Right Worshipful Grand Masters and Wardens.
Immediately opposite, and at the other end of the room, was a splendid alcove, having in the center a fine transparent painting, representing the Genius of America, elevated on a pedestal, and holding in each hand a wreath. On one side of the pedestal was a fine and well executed full length likeness of WASHINGTON, and on the other a similar likeness of LA FAYETTE, both in Masonic costume, and joining their hands in brotherly friendship. On the front was inscribed “Veritas et Lux”—Truth and Light. At the bottom was a plow, sheaf of wheat, &c.
The whole of this group was placed within a circular colonnade of thirteen columns, and around the columns were entwined the names of 76 distinguished patriots of the Revolution. On the top of each column was a letter, the combination of which formed the motto “E Pluribus Unum.”
The front of the alcove presented two columns supporting an arch, at the center of which was a star of variegated lamps. At the piers opposite the door of entrance, was hung full length likenesses of Washington and Hamilton, both looking towards the pavilion, painted in oil, and in elegant carved and gilt frames, ornamented by appropriate trophies. Over these two pictures was a transparent rainbow.
Between the columns of the pavilion and the alcove were four other columns, supporting hemispheres, and uniting at the head of the room, where was fixed a large resplendent sun, its center formed of convex looking-glass, which reflected the different objects below in all directions, and produced a very sublime effect. Eight immense chandeliers of cut glass were suspended from the ceiling, and a vast number of lamps and candles were distributed throughout the temple, which sent forth an inconceivable blaze of light.
Over the door of the entrance was an extensive bower of evergreens, suspended to the branches of which was a transparent atmosphere with the words “Lafayette, the Friend of Freedom, and Benefactor of Mankind.” Within this bower were seated the musicians, entirely hid from the view of the company.
Down the interior of this immense temple, a space of about 80 feet in length, were placed six tables, besides the two at the top and bottom, which were laid out in the most splendid style and loaded with all the delicacies and elegancies that could be procured, and arranged in a manner which reflects great credit on Mr. McIntyre, the keeper of the House, who appears to have exerted himself, particularly on this interesting occasion, to give entire satisfaction to the brotherhood.
The decorations under the general superintendence of the Committee were got up by Mr. Andrews; the transparencies, by Mr. Reinagale and Mr. Herring; the oil paintings by Stewart and Trumbull; and the joiner work by Mr. Newcomb.
During the dinner, several appropriate toasts were given, a list of which we have not yet received. The following song, written for the occasion by a well known native bard at the special request of the Committee of Arrangements, was sung by Mr. Keene, and received with great applause.
FAYETTE’S RETURN
TUNE: “Anacreon in Heaven”
The hero hath come in the eve of his day,
To the land where he planted the tree of his glory,
And warmly that land doth her gratitude pay,
And long shall she cherish his name in her story;
Each heart springs to meet him In triumph he moves Midst the men who adore him,
The men whom he loves
And the stars of our banner in darkness shall set,
Ere oblivion gather the wreath of FAYETTE.
He hath come to us now in his fulness of fame,
And proudly we claim him our friend and our brother,
For he guarded the altar of freedom whose flame
Oppressions fierce minions all vainly would smother;
He bled in our cause
With our fathers of old,
When their flag of defiance
They sternly unrolled—
And ne’er shall the sons of such heroes forget
The friend of their fathers, the gallant FAYETTE.
Following the reprint of this description of the Masonic banquet, the Commercial Advertiser in the issue of September 23, printed also the address of the Worshipful Master of the Grand Lodge. No newspaper consulted published a list of the toasts. The following is the address of the M.W. Grand Master, Martin Hoffman, to Gen. La Fayette, on his entering the Grand Lodge:
This book’s title page.
BROTHER LA FAYETTE—Your return to the United States has rekindled the recollections of the surviving warriors and patriots of our revolution, and the joy which pervades every heart evinces the deep gratitude of all our citizens. Permit us, your Masonic Brethren, to join the general voice of gladness, to offer you the hand of friendship, to welcome you among us, and to express the warmest sentiments of brotherly love. We receive you with pride and exultation; we hail you as a BROTHER and PHILANTHROPIST; we cherish you in our hearts as a patron of our order.
To the names of WASHINGTON, LIVINGSTON, CLINTON, and other distinguished Masons of our country who have shed a luster on our institution, who have presided over our labors, who have patronized our assemblies, we now, with heartfelt gratification, record in our annals, the presence and name of LA FAYETTE.
To which the General made the following reply:
Most Worshipful Grand Master, and beloved Brethren—I am happy in your affectionate welcome; I am proud of the high confidential honors you have conferred, and purpose farther to confer upon me. Our Masonic institution owes a double luster to those who have cherished, and to those who have persecuted it. Let both glories, equal in my opinion, be the pride of every member of our fraternity, until universal freedom insures to us universal justice.
As already noted, Lafayette was eager to reach the Federal Capital—“the seat of government.” He had been apprized that extensive preparations were making in Philadelphia and Baltimore for his reception in those cities which would consume many days. He had been detained in New York by the repeated postponements of the Castle Garden Fête, and this, in turn, necessitated a delay in the trip up the Hudson and undue haste in the receptions in the several towns along the river that had invited him to make them a visit. Even this excursion was so hurried that his short stay in various towns was a disappointment to the inhabitants and an embarrassment to himself.
Visit the Chancellor Robert R. Livingston Masonic Library of the Grand Lodge of New York here to see all thirty toasts.
I assume this banquet took place at this very hour two centuries ago because they would want to make greatest use of the daylight, and because the night did not end when the feast concluded. After the festivities, Lafayette and entourage took in a show.
From this summer’s production of The School for Scandal.
They adjourned to the Park Theatre to see The School for Scandal, starring a Mr. Barnes as Sir Peter Teazel. This theater was a major venue in its day. Built in 1798, it stood for fifty years at 23 Park Row, right outside City Hall Park, with its 2,000 seats. It burned down December 16, 1848, by which time the theater district had migrated uptown to the Washington Square area.
Amazingly, the Royal Shakespeare Company staged The School for Scandal at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon this summer! It closed two weeks ago. The RSC says:
After Shakespeare but long before Bridgerton, there was The School for Scandal, Richard Brinsley Sheridan’s brilliantly biting comedy of manners in five acts. This new production—styled to the nines with period flair—promises an exuberant feast of big wigs and even bigger laughs. 1770s London, where the aristocracy’s morals have plunged lower than the necklines on the women’s gowns. The vicious Lady Sneerwell enjoys ruining reputations for pleasure, and her latest target is the young bachelor Charles Surface—why should this pretentious little rake inherit his uncle’s fortune? Together with Charles’ conniving brother Joseph, Sneerwell orchestrates an elaborate scheme of intrigue and infidelity that’s sure to ruffle all the right feathers—hopefully.
My original plan for tonight was to bring The American Lodge of Research to host an anniversary dinner either in that neighborhood or maybe half a mile north at Le Coucou on Lafayette Street. It was too difficult to plan, frankly. It’s a busy time, particularly with fêtes Lafayette. Maybe in 2074, eh?
Click here to keep track of New York Freemasonry’s many celebrations of the Lafayette Bicentenary.
Posts
