The French Companionage This company of masons, carpenters (and various other trades) has been written about by many erudite masonic scholars such as Gould and Mackey. However, the well known Scottish author, Bro. A. S. MacBride, has written an interesting comparison in his Speculative Masonry (1914). I quote some of these:
The name Sons of Solomon reminds us of our own fraternity cf Widows’ Sons
Accepted companions
Passed companions
Every companion was eligible and able to vote for office
Belief in God
Sequence of degrees
Conventional knocks
A living circle (in other orders)
Oath of secrecy and pass words
Use of squares and compasses
Similar regalia
Use of test questions
Possession of the ‘Hiramic legend’
What was unique was their twisted canes and flowing colours round their hats. Today, they function more like an Incorporation or Guild than anything like freemasonry in that they support young craftsmen and women into the various trades. However, a rich history they most certainly have!
Cross Keys April 2021
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