Old Masonic Cross The jewel is dated mid to late 18th Century from France as shown by the cockerel. The six pointed star, commonly associated with the Royal Arch, is shown here before Royal Arch masonry had come into existence. Therefore, we can assume (?) that this symbol came into Royal Arch masonry from France and perhaps strengthens the claim that its origins are actually French rather than being part of the MM degree.
Paisley Railway 1888
The railway station in Paisley, better known as Gilmour Street, looked very different in 1888 than it does today, especially with horse drawn carriages where taxis fly about. That year, 242 held a Grand Ball & Conversazione in the Town Hall for funds, took a deputation to Lodge St. Barchan No.156 for the opening on the new public park in Kilbarchan and the master Bro. Henry Wylie and IPM James Reid instructed the brethren in the “opening ceremony of different offices” and they went “through a great number of questions and answers likely to be put to younger members applying for admission to sister lodges. . .” Our ‘walk through’ degrees have addresses some question, but perhaps an initiative that would work again especially regarding the roll of each office?
Cross Keys January 2022
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