The Cross Keys January 2021
Cross Keys January 2021
The Monthly Newsletter of Lodge Houstoun St. Johnstone No.242
Number 233
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From the Editor The theme of this edition is the ’masonic jewel’ where charity jewels are revisited, special and PM jewels are mentioned.
In this issue: 3
The Future
Continuing the Royal Arch series is the Triple Tau symbol on Page 7 often seen on lapels and cufflinks. But what does it mean?
4
Old Grand Lodge Room
5
Post Revolutionary Part 2
6
Charity Jewels of England
What is masonic philosophy? A series will start of his ideas in February. The Craft “proclaims the fact that there exists a higher and more secret path of life than that which we normally tread, and that when the outer world and its pursuits and rewards lose their attractiveness for us and prove insufficient to our deeper needs, as sooner or later they will, we are compelled to turn back upon ourselves, to seek and knock at the door of a world within; and it is upon this inner world, and the path to and through it, that Masonry promises light, charts the way, and indicates the qualifications and conditions of progress.” Bro. Walter Wilmshurst
7
Why degrees after the FCD?
8
Matthew McBlain Thomson
9
Johnstone RAC Origins
11
The Outer Guard
12
Edinburgh Royal
13
Hospital & Hall Stone Jewels
14
1827 PM Jewel
16
Masonic Miscellany
17
Temples
19
Sacred Books
20
Bro. Rick Wakeman
21
Dar-es-Salaam Lodges
22
Fiji Masonic Lodge
23
Expected Behaviour of a Freemason
24
QC Lodge No.2076 (EC)
25
What is Freemasonry?
26
Grand Lodges of France
Grant Cover—a book cut into the form of the square and compasses.
The Cross Keys is a free magazine distributed across the many countries in order to spread the good (and sometimes not so good) qualities of the Craft. All views are of individual brothers and not any organised body.
ALL MEETINGS CANCELLED
Editor: Bro. N. Grant Macleod PM of Lodge Houstoun St. Johnstone No. 242 PM of The Anchor Lodge of Research No.1814 Past Provincial Grand Secretary of the Province of Renfrewshire East. Proof Reader: Bro. Allan Stobo PM of Lodge Houstoun St. Johnstone No. 242 Treasurer 242
All Scottish Constitution.
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The Future The Craft in Scotland has existed from before 1600; as a whole, it has survived the Nazis and other despotic dictators and re-emerged in a number of countries. It will be reenergised but probably in a different way. We are now seeing more use of electronic mediums such as Zoom for talks, busines and keeping in contact. In a similar manner to the time of the Jacobite defeats in the mid 18th Century when many Jacobite lodges/brethren had to go into hiding and lodges did not meet, in some cases, for 12 to 18 months. Some brethren did come back, some were sold into slavery in the US and some never went to a lodge again for fear of being caught. Likewise, the current pandemic might mean a new set of brethren will emerge in many lodges to take it forward – only time will tell.
Young people prefer chunk size bits of info (hence why Twitter, Snapchat, Tik Tok, etc have become so popular with them) rather than long essays or articles and even books. Some initiatives have reached world wide audiences – good examples are The Grand Lodge History and Heritage Group, Hope of Kurachee Lodge No.337 based in Fife, The Grand Lodge of Georgia (these two now having the past lectures on their YouTube channel) and so many more. We therefore need to rethink our strategies and maybe even re-brand our image. We need to look at new ways of communicating which has come to the fore with lodges up and down the country. The Zoom calls have brought us in touch with brethren from every part of the world and meetings of Grand Bodies of some Orders with Scottish lodges, conclaves, colleges, etc allow the members from
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these far off lands to zoom into the Scottish assemblies – in many cases for the first time due to the cost and time to travel. Truly inspiring to be part of this in these difficult times. Over the last few years, we heard many brethren lament that the Craft is failing and numbers are dropping at a great rate. To verify the accuracy of these statements, we need to look at our figures over a much longer period and not just since 1980 when numbers have decreased. In which case, it is easy to see the numbers in lodges before the world wars were typically 20, 30 and maybe 40 if a larger meeting. We could well be returning to what is actually a true ‘norm’ for Scottish masonry. 242 (and I have absolutely no doubt many other lodges) had many 19th Century meetings called by the master purely to confer a degree and often with 9/10 brethren. How many masters have mentioned to candidates that quality and not quantity is important? Now is the time to show that this is true. Having fewer members might mean a downsizing, is that a necessarily a bad thing? What does it all mean? No one really knows, but perhaps it’s a wake up call. Maybe we can re-structure the Craft and its orders into a more coherent stream lined organisation from which to build upon. Rather than doom and gloom, it could an exciting period for the Craft—one of these landmark periods which future historians will describe as a notable turning point for the Craft.
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Old Freemasons’ Hall, Edinburgh The present Freemasons' Hall was built during 1911 – 12, replacing an earlier building that had been on the site since 1858. The previous building (below) was designed by the famous Scottish architect, David Bryce who was a Freemason. The west and east (bottom) ends of the Grand Lodge Room with Grand Room for dining.
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‘High Degrees’ in Post Revolutionary America Part 2 Last month’s article talked about the so called ‘higher degrees’ and it affect of masonry in the US in the early 1800s. However, it was not plain sailing as we shall see.
Templars.” Part of the reason was at that time, candidates were made to drink wine from a skull, emblematical of the bitter cup of death. In all likelihood, a very impressive ceremony, but not to every brother’s taste.
In 1793, De Witt Clinton (a prominent US mason and past Grand Master) felt these degrees These high degrees were clearly designed to formed a real danger and said “the genuine degrees of Freemasonry have been considered as initiative steps into more elevated orders, and more sublime mysteries” invented “with a view of gain or of gratifying that taste for frivolous parade which is the natural companion of frivolous minds.” He later complained to GLoNY of “frivolous pageantry and fantastic mummery, equally revolting to good taste and genuine Masonry.” He did not ‘dazzle.’ Officers played the main roles, but if mince his words! you are not artistic in nature or theatrically inclined, this must have been difficult. This He did not reject these degrees in their totali- became a very American way of conferring ty and he did become head of some of these degrees and the Scottish Rite continues in orders, his comments were significant. The many places to have large auditoriums to frivolity referred to some of the degrees confers degrees between the 4th to 32nd in a which were conferred by theatrical stand- similar manner. ards. For example, most really needed actors, with fancy robes, backdrops, trapdoors, veils This idea never really took hold in the UK and and so on. He also queried the fanciful titles our lodges, chapters, sanctuaries, etc are still which he thought was “un-masonic and im- places viewed where the outside world can posing.” be left behind, brethren can focus on the degree within that body and feel a calm serenity This was also supported by Bro. Thomas within the surroundings. Thompson, Grand Master of New Hampshire, who agreed with this but then exclaimed “of all the masonic titles there were none so truly ridiculous in America as that of the Knights
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English Charity Jewels Continuing on from the previous article in January 2019 about charity jewels which had a formal Committee of Charity since 1725, here is a follow up on the colours of the ribbons which are not random. To have a good look, see the jewels presented by Bro. John Elkins in the Master’s Room. These charities are The Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution (RMBI founded 1842), the Royal Masonic Trust for Girls and Boys (RMTGB, 1982)) Royal Masonic Institution for Boys (RMIB founded 1798) and the Royal Institution for Girls (RMIG founded 1788). Blue ribbon—RMIB White—RMIG Red—RMBI
An older form of ‘jewel’ was the tassel jewel from 1859—these were silk and all three charities produced them (usually bu Kenning & Son). They were usually undated and used at Dinners and Balls, but fell out of favour in 1878. Another form to commemorate the various charities was the Steward’s armband. Only the Boys’ Institute experimented with this in 1877 and it was not popular. Hence it was discontinued very quickly.
My thanks to Bro John Elkins PM Blackmore Vale Lodge No.3625 (Dorset ) for the information.
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Why Degrees after the Fellow Craft? The origins of the degrees are rather obscure, but what is rarely discussed is why they even were conceived. The EA and FC were without a doubt used by operative masons with a mode of recognition for travelling masons in new towns or cities. But why was the FC developed into a new degree? This will probably remain unanswered, but here are possible ideas.
sons who wanted to know more and perhaps the substituted secrets were not enough. These brethren may have wanted to include a more ‘colourful’ ceremony to incorporate their Christian faith. They fully understood how the emblematic and symbolic representations of Christianity could be utilised within a ritual setting. These brethren could have been ministers or men influenced by Christian esotericism or spiritual alchemy if Rosicrucian texts are compared wit the ritual. The development of the MM to the RA definitely shows a transformation of the Hiramic legend into a spiritual allegory. Likewise, the RA degree is concerned with the re-building of the temple, possibly not a material temple, but a temple within which resonates with a natural progression from the MM degree.
It is likely that the symbolism and lessons of the MM were already part of the FC degree and it’s length was becoming unwieldy. Certainly plausible and I’m sure there is an element of truth in it bearing in mind many lodges started at a later hour than today and getting home with no lighting was not conducive to a safe passage. With the introduction of the Hiram legend (which was becoming more popular than the Noachide legend), the length of the degree must have increased considera- This new degree was not accepted by all in bly. England which was divided in the 18 th Century – the Antients were in favour of this fourth Statements have been that the degree was a degree, whereas the Moderns were not and purely speculative creation to make the Craft only in 1814 when the UGLE was formed was belong more to the speculatives and as a re- there uniformity. However, in Scotland we sult, the operatives created the Mark degree did not have that problem and the ceremony (MMM) to exonerate the 15 FCs. Hence the of the Veils continued as a precursor to the impression of the MMM degree has a very op- RA degree as is still the case today. At the forerative flavour to it. Again, this explanation is mation of the SGRACs of Scotland and Engplausible. I would be interested in other rea- land in 1817, the Christian elements were resons why both degrees were formed. moved or at least downplayed. The MM was well established in the 1730s while the Royal Arch degree in the 1740s. So why was a RA degree formed so closely after the MM and MMM degrees? The formula which became fairly standard for degrees was a symbolic journey for the candidate, a legendary history, signs & secrets and some kind of catechism to explain the degree in more detail. It has possible French origins and perhaps the French fancied an input – unlikely, especially since the first record of a RA is Stirling. More likely was that the new master masons (ie. of the third degree) were enthusiastic ma-
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In the MM degree, we are taught to seek that which was lost and in most rituals, this refers to the genuine secrets and acknowledge of thyself. However, some foreign rituals refer to the loss of the self, relating to the primal fall of man. This latter explanation is a more modern interpretation and this is one of the strengths of the Craft. This search for the truth can have different meanings in different times. Today, under the pandemic, the search might refer to something slightly different in terms of how we view the Craft when we return to meeting.
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Matthew McBlain Thomson Thomson was born in Ayr, Scotland on 9 January 1854 and was a house painter by trade. It is believed that he was initiated in Glasgow Melrose St. John Lodge No. 1 in 1874, but this was an independent lodge never having joined Grand Lodge, but being chartered from Melrose No.12 in 1872 in Bath Hall (left), London Road, Glasgow.
and Herbert P. Jefferson, founded the American Masonic Federation on September 21, 1907. He falsely claimed to be authorized by charters issued by Mother Kilwinning Lodge No. 0 and the Supreme Council of Louisiana, although he did receive a certificate from Theodor Reuss, on 10 May 1919.
One time Master of Patna Bonnie Doon No. 565, Scotland, editor of the short-lived Scottish FreeIn 1881, Thomson immi- mason and Grand Orator for the Grand Lodge of grated to Idaho, United Idaho in 1901, Thomson left regular Freemasonry States, where he joined to begin a career in selling masonic degrees. the King Solomon Lodge in Montpelier, Ida- Thomson and his assoho. Eventually, the lodge ciates—Thomas Perrot, members refused to ac- Dominic Bergera and Jamieson— cept his Masonic degrees Robert from Scotland and also were convicted at Salt accused him, as a Mormon taking part in Lake City Utah on May the Temple endowment ceremony, of practicing a 5, 1922 on ten counts of using the mails to "clandestine" form of Masonry. defraud. Each was senAfter leaving "regular" Freemasonry as practiced tenced to serve a term under the Grand Lodge of Idaho, Thomson found- of two years in Fort Prison ed his own Masonic organization, the American Leavenworth Masonic Federation (AMF), and began practicing and pay a fine of what he called "Universal Masonry", which ac- $5,000, and costs, on cepted Mormons as members. In 1908, he found- each count—sentence ed a lodge in Helper, Utah and in 1909 moved his to run concurrently. organization to Salt Lake City, Utah. Thomson claimed the AMF descended from an African- With the exception of St. Louis Post Office InspecAmerican lodge in New Orleans, and accepted tor Monte G. Price, a freemason in Illinois, no one blacks as members unlike the "regular" Grand involved in the case, neither judge, juryman nor attorney, was a freemason. He eventually died in Lodges of the time. Salt Lake City in 1932 while the AMF finally died He sold Masonic degrees by mail to "shopkeepers, out in the 1970s. Prosecuting attorney Isaac Blair workers and other people" mainly from Utah, Evans authored a 1922 book entitled The Thomwho as Mormons were not eligible to become son Masonic Fraud: A Study in Clandestine MasonFreemasons under the Grand Lodge of Utah. The ry about the trial. charge for the Craft degrees ranged from $35 up to $50 or more. For the Scottish Rite degrees from the Fourth to the Thirty-Third the charge was from $135 to $200. In 1918, Thomson dedicated a Masonic temple. He also published a periodical entitled the Universal Freemason, in which he attacked the Grand Lodge of Utah's policy of exclusion. The Grand Lodge of Utah protested Thomson's activities, and sent a letter to all Utah Masons warning them that AMF lodges were "clandestine, spurious, and fraudulent" A masonic charlatan who, with Robert S. Spence Cross Keys January 2021
Despite various degrees, a non-masonic stone. Page 8
Johnstone RA Chapter Origins The very first commission issued in Scotland for a Grand Superintendent to erect and constitute a Provincial Grand Chapter was granted by The Supreme Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Scotland on 20th December 1854. Some nine months later on 21st September 1855, The Provincial Grand Chapter of the Western Districts of Scotland was formally constituted in St. Marks Masonic Hall, 213 Bath Street, Glasgow by the Depute Grand Z., Dr. George Arnott Walker Arnott, Professor of Botany at Glasgow University . Dr. Walker Arnott was exalted in Edinburgh Chapter No 1 on 28th February 1840, elected Second Grand Sojourner on 21st March 1841, Depute First Grand Principal in 1843 and First Grand Principal of the Supreme Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Scotland between 1856 and 1859. Unfortunately a dispute arose with Walker Arnold in Ayr and very briefly Supreme Grand Chapter, after deliberation on documents sent in by the various Chapters of the Western Districts, suspended the following Chapters: Glasgow Chapter
No 50
The Cathedral Glasgow Chapter
No 67
St. Andrews Glasgow Chapter
No 69
Airdrie Districts Chapter
No 78
Until the day of the next annual election in September 1863 and until that day prohibited these Chapters from meeting in Chapter. Such was the feeling engendered that four Chapters, Glasgow No 50, Cathedral No 67, St. Andrew of Glasgow No 69 and Airdrie District No 78 formed their own Supreme Body which they termed “The General Grand Chapter for Scotland and the Colonies.” On 8th January 1863, the attention of Supreme Committee was drawn to a document printed and sold in Glasgow, styled “Masonic Calendar for the Province of Glasgow” compiled by Companion Donald Campbell, late P.G.M. Depute for Glasgow and a list of what is called “The General Grand Chapter for Scotland and the Colonies.” From the Post Office Directory of 1864 we learn that Sir Archibald Allison Baronet, was the nominal if not the actual head of the General Grand Chapter It is doubtful if he ever held office, for the proceedings of the Supreme Grand state the following Principal Office Bearers for the General Grand Chapter:Grand Z
Donald Campbell
Chapter No 50
Grand H
Dr. Edward Pritchard
Chapter No 50
Grand J
Neil B. Dalveen
Chapter No 67
Grand Scribe E
Gordon Smith
Unknown
Grand Scribe N
James Muir
Chapter No 67
Grand Treasurer
Hutcheson Campbell
Chapter No 69
[As an aside, Dr. Edward Pritchard, a Past First Principal of Glasgow Chapter No 50, was later to achieve notoriety being the last man to be publicly hanged in Glasgow, he had been found guilty of the murder of his wife and mother-in-law by poisoning, and was sentenced to be hanged outside the Old Tolbooth at Glasgow Cross.] Cross Keys January 2021
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Johnstone RA Chapter Origins (ctd) One notable mention is that Sir William Wallace RAC in Johnstone records that it was given the number 14 so at least 14 chapters were under its control. Whether from loyal or financial means we do not know, but by the year 1866 the four seceding Chapters had expressed contrition for their actions and were re-admitted to Supreme Grand Chapter. In 1865, Sir William Wallace RAC petitioned the SGRAC and was chartered officially and numbered 109 (present day number). Therefore, it appears that 109 is a few months older than its charter! During the existence of the General Grand Chapter, they issued eight Charters to the following Chapters: No 1
Ayr Arnott
Ayr
December 1863
No 2
St. Andrews
New South Wales
February 1864
No 3
Sir William Wallace
Johnstone
June 1865
No 4
Paisley
Paisley, Renfrewshire
October 1865
No 5
Partick
Partick, Glasgow
January 1866
No 6
Baron of Renfrew
Renfrew, Renfrewshire
March 1866
No 7
Rosslynn
Glasgow
December 1866
No 8
Athole
Govan, Glasgow
?
Excluding Ayr, by 1867 the other seven Chapters, on renouncing their irregular membership and taking the Oath of Allegiance, were admitted to the Roll and given precedence by the numbers given against their names. Bro. William Guy PM 242 was a prolific degree worker and very active in the province so in all likelihood, he was shocked by the new body and quickly changed to join the SGRAC of Renfrewshire later that year. In 1906, when the PGRAC Renfrewshire was formed, Johnstone and Paisley chapters changed province.
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The Outer Guard The Tyler’s Sword In early Freemasonry, the Tyler was armed with a trowel used by operative stonemasons to spread cement or mortar. Later, the trowel became a symbolic instrument in the Craft, representing the tool that spreads the cement which binds brethren together, men to help each other and all society. By 1738, at least in English lodge jurisdictions, we know the Tyler was armed with a sword instead of the trowel. The blade of that sword was originally described as curved or wavy to represent the shape of fire. Flaming Sword (Flamberge) A sword whose blade is of a spiral or twisted form is called by the heralds a flaming swords from its resemblance to the ascending curvature of a flame of fire. Until very recently, this was the form of the Tyler's sword. Carelessness or ignorance has now in many Lodges substituted for it a common sword of any form. The flaming sword of the Tyler refers to the flaming sword which guarded the entrance to Paradise, as described in Genesis (iii, 4): "So he drove out the man; and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden cherubim's and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life;" or, as Raphall has translated it, "the flaming sword which revolveth, to guard the way to the tree of life." In former times, when symbols and ceremonies were more respected than they are now; when collars were worn, and not ribbons in the buttonhole; and when the standing column of the Senior Warden, and the recumbent one of the Junior during labour, to be reversed during refreshment, were deemed necessary for the complete furniture of the Lodge, the cavalry sword was unknown as a Masonic implement, and the Tyler always bore a flaming sword. It were better if we could get back to the old customs. Thanks to Bro. Al Williams, Secretary, Lodge Continuity No. 242 (UGL of Queensland)
In the Royal Arch Chapter, the Tyler is call the Janitor - his jewel is a sword. The word Janitor originated with the Roman God Janus, the God of beginnings and transitions, and a doorkeeper. The connection to the important role of the Janitor as we transition from Craft to Chapter is clear.
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Edinburgh Royal Foundation Stone In 1725 the first steps were taken towards to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary where the establishing an infirmary by the Royal Col- foundation stone of the western half of the lege of Physicians in Infirmary Street. hospital (demolished in 1884 to be replaced with a school and baths) was laid with full Built to the design of Bro. William Adam (of honours and the first patients admitted in Canongate Kilwinning No.2), the foundation December 1741. stone of this, the first purOne of the pose-built driving forchospital in es was Bro. Scotland, George was laid in Drummond, 1738 for the Lord Proveastern half. ost—see an article later In 1740, this year. James Earl Grand of Morton, Grand Master Mason of Scotland, Lodge was given the honour by the Directors walked in procession with Grand Lodge and of the Hospital due to the support and finanits daughters from St. Mary’s Chapel (home of cial aid given to build this new hospital. The Lodge of Edinburgh No.1) where GL met
Charity Mark Token The charity token below costs £6 for The Erskine Homes. They are available from Bro. John Muir: csj195@gmail.com
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Hall Stone & Hospital Jewels At a special meeting of Grand Lodge in June 1919, the Grand Master, the Duke of Connaught, expressed a wish that a memorial be established to commemorate those brethren who had made the supreme sacrifice in the 1914-1918 war. It was agreed that this memorial should be a building of a central home for Freemasonry on a site to be selected in London.
tions were made, and in 1933, the newly named hospital was reopened.
The iconic hospital cared for over 8,600 Freemason servicemen throughout the war. It stayed independent even when the National Health Service (NHS) was established in 1948. From 1977, the hospital started to care for non-Masonic patients. However, due to financial difficulties that concluded in its closing, the hospital was purchased by the NHS The Masonic MilTrust in 1992. lion Memorial Fund was then In 2002, the hospital reopened as part of the launched in Sep- NHS. Once more, it closed in 2006. Six years tember that year later, the building was reconstructed. It was and brethren both meant to hold the London International Hosat home and over- pital (LIH) known for its cancer, heart and seas were invited brain disease research. In 2015, the hospital to contribute to was purchased by VPS Healthcare. raise the £1m needed to finance The jewel on the right was called the Permathe work. The con- nent Steward’s Jewel – its ribbon is in the tributions from individuals and Lodges were dark and light blue of Craft masonry and the to be recognised by the award of a commem- design shows humanity succouring the sick. orative jewel. The motto, ‘Aegros Sanat Humanitas” means ‘Kindness Heals the Sick’. The five pointed The design (seen on the left) was described at Masonic star and the interlaced letters the time as follows: ‘FH’ (Freemasons Hospital) complete the design. The Jewel was first issued in silver, The jewel is in the form of a cross, symbolising Sac- engraved on the reverse with the donor’s rifice, with a perfect square at the four ends, on the name and lodge number. left and right squares being the dates 1914-1918, the years in which the supreme sacrifice was made. Between these is a winged figure of Peace presenting the representation of a Temple with special Masonic allusion in the Pillars, Porch and Steps. The medal is suspended by the Square and Compasses, attached to a ribband, the whole thus symbolising the Craft’s gift of a Temple in memory of those brethren who gave all for King and Country, Peace and Victory, Liberty and Brotherhood.
Both jewels are now in the Master’s Room cabinet—thanks to Bro. John Elkins PM (Dorsetshire) for the info and kindly donating the jewels. Below is the Nurses’ uniform belt buckle.
Royal Masonic Hospital History
The Royal Masonic Hospital was built as a war (World War I) hospital for the Freemasons. It was first opened in 1920 as the Freemason’s Hospital and Nursing Home. However, the building outgrew its space. Renova-
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1827 PM Jewel An inscription (see below) on the back of this engraved jewel shows that it belonged to “Nath’l R. Hill" who was "Exalted in Belknap Chapter on Jany 30th 1827.” Founders received a charter for Belknap Chapter (which became No. 8) just a few weeks before, on January 11, 1827. Returns sent to the Grand Chapter of New Hampshire that same year record that Nathaniel R. Hill of Dover, New Hampshire, was among the first group of fifteen men who received degrees at the new chapter. The jewel’s owner, Nathaniel Rogers Hill (1796-1878), also belonged to Strafford Lodge No. 29 in Dover. This medal is in an unusual shape that incorporates symbols associated with some of the different degrees that were part of the Royal Arch. At the centre is a keystone that bears Hill’s mark and the mnemonic associated with the Mark Degree, HTWSSTKS. The overall shape of the jewel—compasses connected to a quadrant, surrounded by a circle--reflect the Past Master Degree. For his mark at the middle of the jewel, Hill selected a rendition of a distinctive Masonic symbol, the Forty-Seventh Problem of Euclid. This symbol is a visual representation of the Pythagorean Theorem. In Freemasonry, this emblem reminds Masons to be lovers of the arts and sciences. The engraver who decorated Hill's jewel used a combination of a burin-to make straight lines and cuts, and a roulette, a texturing tool with a patterned roller, to make the zig-zagging lines that define the circle and compasses on Hill's jewel.
Hill was a steadfast Mason for many years. Strafford Lodge No. 29 went dark around 1833 and Belknap Chapter closed around 1835, in response to a political movement which sought to diminish Freemasonry--the Anti-Masonic movement--that flourished from the mid-1820s through the mid-1830s. In 1848 former members of Strafford Lodge petitioned the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire to revive their lodge, and Hill was among their number.
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Bro. President Truman Most brethren are aware that President Harry S. Truman was not only a mason but a Grand Master. This apron was worn by Bro. Truman during his visit to Hiram Lodge No. 10 on 6th November, 1947. The President was delighted to sit on the side lines while his personal physician became a Master Mason.
Fabulous Temples
Hiram Lodge No.4 is based in Frankfurt, Kentucky.
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Question 1: Where does the word 'mote' come from ? Answer: 'Amen ! Amen ! So Mote it be ! So say we all for Charity' The earliest known Masonic manuscripts (1390) end in that way. The phrase 'So Mote it be' literally means 'So be it' or 'So may it be'. It is derived from the Saxon word – 'motan' and was used in the middle-ages in England as a pious finale to prayers or blessings. It should be noted that medieval prayers often began with the Hebrew word 'Amen', it has a range of meanings all related to fidelity, constancy, sureness, trust and when used at the end of Hebrew prayers and blessings it was a formula of acquiescence and confirmation, as though to say 'Truly, we believe that it is [or will be] so.
their labour' and also to represent 'the Sun, Moon and Master of the Lodge.' The Antients took a less obvious view of the matter; to them the three great lights were the VSL, the Square and Compasses, while the three lesser lights were the candles of the Master and his Wardens. To the 'Moderns' the VSL, the Square and Compasses were known as the 'furniture' of the Lodge and are still often described in that way.
After the Union, the Lodge of Reconciliation whose purpose it was to standardize the ritual, adopted the Antients practice as to the great lights being the VSL, Square and Compasses and agreeing that the three lesser lights be situated in the East, South and West to represent the Sun, Moon and Master of the Thus 'Amen' and the 'So Mote it be' do not Lodge. have the same original meanings, but have acquired virtually the same meanings in the In the old Lodges the candles were arranged course of centuries, and possibly explains the to form a triangle on the floor of the Lodge modern omission of the word 'Amen' in our but have over the years been moved to the Lodges. side of the Masters and Wardens pedestals. Who said 'We've always done it that Question 2: way ?" In case you are wondering - There Why do we have 'lights' at the Masters and does not appear to be any reason why the Wardens pedestals ? candlestick should be on the left or right of Answer: In the 18th century the 'Moderns' at the pedestal and although the right side is first regarded their three big candles carried more generally used, the left is more practical on high candlesticks as the three great lights, when working with a candidate. the purpose of which was 'not only to show the due course of the sun which rises in the My thanks to the PGL Warwickshire . east, has its meridian in the south and sets in the west, but also to light men to and from Cross Keys January 2021
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Temples Three great religions – the Christians, the Jewish, is twelve, signifying “Was, Is, Shall be, Jehovah.” and the Mohammedan - revere the Rock of the Temple, or the Dome of the Rock, on the summit It is interesting to study how those numbers held of Mount Moriah, as Holy Ground. sacred by the ancients spread throughout the world under the seal of what is known as Masonic Here Melchizedek, King of Salem and Priest of the secrecy. They are all around us and our rituals Most High God, offered sacrifice; here is where abound with them if we “have eyes to see and ears Abraham built an altar on which to offer up his to hear.” son Isaac; here the Ark of the Covenant stood; here David built an altar of sacrifice to stay the The Washington Monument in Washington D.C. is plague in Jerusalem; here Solomon built that Tem- 555 feet high, add the three units together, the ple which is of unusual interest to Freemasons; answer is 15, signifying the sacred name, Jah the here Zerubbabel directed the rebuilding of the Creator. The Lincoln Memorial in the same city, a destroyed structure which later as restored and splendid example of Grecian architecture is supbeautified by King Herod; here Jesus worshipped; ported by thirty-six Ionic fluted pillars each 44 here Mohammed walked; Here the Crusaders feet high. The number thirty-six signified to the built a church; and there are identified with it ancients and does yet to the Hindus, the Sun. You many other names and events sacred to millions can also find the same number thirty-six by addof religious people. ing the two units of the height of each pillar together then all the numbers from one to the speciIt is not my intention at this time to give dates and fied number eight. descriptions of the various temples that occupied this hallowed spot, I want only to give you the The length of the Capitol in Washington is 750 measurements of the present structure, suffice it feet. Add the units together, then all the numbers is to say that five sacred structures stood on that from one to the specified number twelve. The anspot before the present one known as the Mosque swer is 78. Twenty-six was the number which sigon the Temple Rock. The five were the Temple of nified the sacred name Jehovah and 78 is three Solomon; the Temple of Zerubbabel; Herod’s times twenty-six, or “Was, Is, Shall be, Jehovah.” Temple; Hadrian’s Temple and Justinian’s Church. The Senate Chamber is 113 feet in length and 82 The Temple is surrounded by a wall 1,601 feet feet in width. Add all units together, the result is long on the west, 1,530 feet on the east, 1023 feet fifteen, signifying Jah, the Creator. The ceiling of on the north and 922 on the south. There are the chamber is 36 feet above the floor and as aleight flights of steps which lie along the four sides ready noted thirty-six signified the Sun. The of the esplanade. The building is octagonal in dome of the Capitol is supported by twenty-six form, that is having eight sides, and is surmounted fluted Corinthian pillars signifying the sacred by a drum that bears the dome. The dome itself name Jehovah. The front entrance of the porch is which is of wood is 96 feet high and 75 feet in di- supported by eight pillars and all the numbers ameter and there are thirty-six stained glass win- from one to eight total thirty-six. The porch to dows of great brilliancy and beauty. Washington’s old home in Mount Vernon Va. is supported by the same number. Let us find out what those measurements signified. To get the total circumference of the area, Now we know that if we take all the numbers add the number of feet of the west, east, north, from one to eight and add them together, the reand south together, the result is 5,076, then add sult is the number thirty-six. Now take all the the units together 5 + 0 + 7 + 6 = 18. The number numbers from one to thirty-six and add them toeighteen signified “Life.” Eight flights of steps, gether the answer will be six hundred thirty-six, eight sides to the building. Take all the numbers then turn to St. John’s Book of Revelation. Chapter from one to the specified number eight, and add 13 Verse 18 and read “Here is wisdom. Let him them together, the answer is thirty-six, the same that hath understanding count the number of the number of stained-glass windows, and the num- beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number thirty-six signified the Sun. The height of the ber is Six hundred threescore and six.” dome is 96 feet, add the two units together; the answer is fifteen, which signified the sacred name The original Capitol was built on Jenkins Hill – of Jah. Diameter of the dome 75 feet, follow the now Capitol Hill- right beside Goose Creek, which same procedure, add the units together the result was renamed The Tiber, and later bricked over. Cross Keys January 2021
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Temples (ctd) The site was picked in 1791 by Major Pierre Charles L’Enfant, a touchy genius who laid out the city of Washington. Dr. William Thornton, the amateur architect who won the $500 prize for the original design was born in the Virgin Islands and studied medicine in Scotland. His winning design was selected by Washington and Jefferson for its “grandeur simplicity and convenience.” B .H. Latrobe, architect responsible for much of the early construction, was of English birth, French descent, and once served in the Prussian hussars. Latrobe’s weakness was that he didn’t fully understand the arch, a serious matter. Once when an arch fell he wrote philosophically to John Lenthall, his assistant, “We must grin and bear it.” Two years after this, another arch fell, killing Lenthall.
pounds weight was barbecued.” The Capitol was destroyed by the British in 1814 and was rebuilt. The structure of the dome was modeled after the Russian Cathedral of St. Isaac, in St. Petersburg, now Leningrad, from plans brought to this country in the luggage of a young German immigrant August Gottlieb Schoenborn around 1850. He became right-hand man to the then architect of the Capitol, Thomas U. Walter, in building the great dome, and was chief draftsman of the Capitol until 1902. Schoenborn’s grandson, August Eccard, present civil engineer in the Capitol still has most of the old documents and designs and so if we find the same numbers held sacred by the ancients who built the temples on Mount Moriah in the Capitol in Washington they came to us by way of Russia.
The building was begun with a Lodge meeting, a parade, a booster speech and a barbeque. On that Brother Craighead St. George Lodge No.190 in Abbright day of September 18, 1793, George Wash- erdeen, Scotland and PM of Thistle Lodge No.900, ington himself a Mason, met with a company of Yonkers, New York. Masonic brothers and dignitaries at the future site of the White House. They then marched, with music of fife and drum, along the mile of dusty country road to Goose Creek and Jenkins Hill where militiamen waited with cannon primed for PGL Middlesex window in Twickenham. salutes. Washington, wearing an apron made for him by Madame de Lafayette, laid the cornerstone. Thereupon, according to the contemporary account in the Columbian Mirror and Alexandria Gazette, “The whole congregation joined in awful prayer, succeeded by a volley from the Artillery.” Then they listened to “an animated and ingenious Oration” by the Right Worshipful Grand Master Pro. Tem. Joseph Clarke. The speech of Brother Clarke’s delivered on the wooded hill overlooking the malarial marshes of the “Potowmack” still sounds familiar today. Listen to a few excerpts: “Although quite inadequate to the task and entirely unprepared,” he began, but as he warmed up, he roundly predicted that this desolate place would become “the super excellent emporium of politics, commerce, industry and the arts of the United States … seated in the very centricity of our republic on the banks of one of the noblest rivers in the universe, with a climate the most serene and salubrious.” Then, according to the Gazette “The whole company retired to an expensive booth, where an ox of 500
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Sacred Books
T
he ritual of the Grand Lodge of Texas is the only ritual in the United States which conforms to the correct measurements of the twin pillars. The measurements were: height of each pillar 18 cubits; network, half a cubit; chapiter, 5 cubits; in all 23 1/2 cubits symbolically meaning the angle of the Earth’s incline to the sun 23 1/2°. In the two pillars each 18 cubits, you find the number 36, the Egyptian and Hindu number for the sun. The Melbourne, Australia, architects who designed the shrine of remembrance which houses the tomb of the Unknown Soldier in that city made a provision for a small round hole in the roof of the chamber. The orifice is so situated and the entire structure is so oriented that every year at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month a ray of sunshine will penetrate the chamber and fall upon the centre of the tomb.
into the adjacent hills, and thus be prepared for the inundation which was about to take place. Shanghai, China now possesses a Masonic world record that is believed to be the only city in the world having Masonic Lodges working under six different Grand Jurisdictions. No native in Japan is permitted to become a member of the Masonic Lodge for the reason that outside propaganda might be promulgated within such societies. There is a “gentleman’s agreement” between the government and the Masonic Lodges which are in existence there that they will not admit natives to membership.
Freemasonry in nearly all of the Dutch East Indian Lodges is active. No color or racial lines are permitted. The membership is composed of Javanese, Malays, Chinese, and extractions of many bloods. While the language used in the lodge is The architects and engineers em- Dutch, occasionally the work is done ployed astronomers to make the in the Javanese tongue. necessary computation for them. And important megalithic monu- The Grand Lodge of England sancment has been discovered on the tions the use of “seven or more” French side of the Franco-Swiss sacred books in its lodges. Accordfrontier. M. Reiber, Geneva archae- ing to the country in which the cereologist, says that the monument mony takes place and the faith of dates from a period nearly 10,000 the initiate - requiring only that men years before Christ. It consists of 12 of all races and religions who seek enormous megalithic blocks of gran- Masonic fellowship shall confess ite disposed in a circular fashion faith in a supreme being. supposed to mark the hour of noon and each month of the year. In the The sacred books so recognized are centre of the circle formed by the as follows: stones is a great granite slab which (1) Our own Bible, consisting of the may have been an altar. The cere- Old, or Hebrew, and the New, or monies are supposed to have taken Greek, Testaments, used actually for place at the times of the solstices. the obligation of Christians or Jews, the former kneeling and uncovered, The ancient Egyptians about the the latter standing and covered. 1st of July watched closely for the (2) The Vedas, or collected body of rising of the Dog Star, or Sirius, that the Hindu writings, comprising of blazing star that warned them that the four holy Baids of Knowledge of the Nile was about to rise and over- the Brahmana - the highest of the flow its banks. By a firm reliance on Hindu castes. The Vedas are not the first appearance of the blazing divided into chapters, but into bodstar, just before sunrise, they were ies, limbs, joints and so forth and enabled to move their families, cat- are known as the Rig, Yajur, Sama tle and crops up out of the valley and Atharva Vedas.
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(3) The Tripitaka or Triple Basket, of the three canonical divisions of the writings of Buddha, known as the Sutras (discourses). The Vinaya, and the Abhidharma, or the book of metaphysics. (4) The Koran, or Alkoran, contains the religious and moral code of the Mohammedans, by which they regulate not only their spiritual faith but their military, legal and civil transactions. (5) The Tao Teh King, or Bible of the Tachist - the word Tao meaning the Way. This book is said to have revealed the knowledge of the Triune God in China, five centuries before Christ. (6) The Books of Confucius, known as the five classics, dealing with Changes, History, Rites, Spring and Autumn, and so forth. It is the sacred book of the higher class of China. (7) The Zend Avesta, or sole rule of faith and practice of the Parsees, ascribed to Zarathustra, the Mede, who reformed the Magian religion, “Avesta” meaning the “living word”. It is not generally known but General Yudenitch, who commanded the Northern Russian armies in 1919 issued the only postage stamps that have ever been printed bearing reference to Masonry. There were five stamps in the set, of the value of 5, 10, 15, 20 and 50 kopeks. Upon each was a square, and the words in the Russian language, “Are you with Mason?”. The stamps are said to be in active demand by collectors all over the world.
Over in England elective officers of the Grand Lodge are required to pay ten pounds or fifty dollars into the Grand Treasury. The English idea is that a contribution to the society is an appreciation of the honour conferred. Bro. Alexander Craighead was introduced to Masonry in St. George Lodge No.190 in his native city of Aberdeen, Scotland and a charter member & PM of Thistle Lodge No.900, Yonkers, New York. Written before 1920.
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Bro. Rick Wakeman & Chelsea Bro. Rick is a keyboardist, songwriter, producer, television and radio presenter, and author. He is best known for being in the progressive rock band Yes across five tenures between 1971 and 2004.
Show, Top of the Pops! The record topped the UK Singles Chart for seven weeks, made No. 1 in 26 countries and has He was installed as master of Chelsea lodge sold around 30 milNo. 3098 in 2014. This is the ’entertainers’ lion. lodge’ and is not named after the place, but the old Chelsea Theatre in the West End of Also during Bro. London and was formed in 1905. The lodge Rick’s year was David meets in Great Queen Street, London 5 times “Kid” Jenson made a per year. FC—a well known DJ with BBC Radio 1 The lodge has raised over £100,000 in the then Capitol. The three are shown together. last few years. Listen to Bro. Rick to hear what he thinks is important about the Craft, Today, he is the his lodge and charity: Assistant Director of Ceremonies. https://youtu.be/1romNG-6ntM Left is the front Bro Ray Dorset was initiated during his year page of the sumas master—who? Well that is the lead singer mons of Bro. of Mungo Jerry, well known to many pop fans Rick’s installation. of the 70s. The song "In The Summertime" entered the UK charts at No. 13 and the following week went straight to No. 1. Ray had to ask his boss for time off to do the UK TV
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Dar-es-Salaam Lodges Timeline The following is a timeline of the Craft in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania in East Africa. Both the Grand Lodge of Scotland UGLE have District Grand Lodges operating with daughter lodges as follows: • • • • • •
HAVEN OF PEACE LODGE, 4385 EC, consecrated 31 March, 1922 Foundation Stone of Masonic Temple, Dar-es-Salaam laid in December 1925 by Sir Donald Cameron, Governor and Commander-in-Chief, Tanganyika. Masonic Temple in Dar es Salaam dedicated by Sir Philip Colville-Smith GS 26 September, 1926 LODGE ST. ANDREW, 1360 SC consecrated on March, 1928 DAR ES SALAAM LODGE, 5095 EC, consecrated on 22 February , 1929 GUIDING STAR LODGE, 5299 EC, consecrated on 27 November, 1931
17th July, 1992: Printed media in Tanzania carried an article by RW Bro Chande, DGM containing history of English Freemasonry and of District Grand Lodge of East Africa, EC. 130 Freemasons and their ladies helped to raise Tanzania Shillings 4 million for non-masonic charities at a dinner in Dar es Salaam. Freemasons were honoured by the presence of President Ali Hassan Mwinyi who was the principal guest. 9th October, 2004 : 350 Members and guests participated in the gala banquet at the Royal Palm Hotel in Dar Es Salaam at which the Guest of Honour was Tanzania’s President William Benjamin Mkapa and Mrs Mkapa. The banquet was attended by 350 members and guests of which included diplomats, business leaders and captains of industry. At the banquet President Mkapa praised the work of Freemasons and inter alia said “I commend you not only for aspiring to high ideals but for setting an example for others emulate”. In his view Freemasons were a role model. In 2008, as part of the 9th Freemasons’ Charity, the Freemasons of Dar es Salaam, together with the US Embassy and the US Combined Joint Task Force, Horne of Africa completed and handed over the Mikocheni Clinic to the local Authorities at a total cost of US$ 100,000.The clinic was officially opened by H E Mark Green-US Ambassador, Admiral Phillip Greene Commander of US Combined Joint Task Force Horne of Africa and W Bro B K Tanna, Assistant District Grand Master. At the conference the following year, an attendance of 298 participants including R W Bro Virendra K Talwar - DGM, V W Bro Graham Redman, Assistant Grand Secretary of UGLEA, R W Bro Pierre Malan - DGM, South Africa, Eastern Division, R W Bro James Duggan - DGM South Africa, Western Division, R W Bro Colin Pedlar - DGM Orange Free State, South Africa, Bro Mansur Asaria - DGM DGLEA Scottish Constitution, R W Bro Sir J K Chande - PDGM and the 2008 Prestonian Lecturer, W Bro Robert Sillet.
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Fiji Masonic Hall The town and its low line of buildings set among coconut and mango trees along the beach front was the first colonial capital of Fiji, ceded to the British in 1874. It developed from the early 19th century as a centre of commercial activity by Americans and Europeans who built warehouses, stores, port facilities, residences, and religious, educational and social institutions around the villages of the South Pacific island’s indigenous population. It is a rare example of a late colonial port town that was influenced in its development Club, Bowling Club, workers cottages and the by the indigenous community which contin- shell button factory site. ued to outnumber the European settlers. In 1875, a sailing captain named Alexander Development continued beyond removal of Barrack established Freemasons in Levuka the capital to Suva in 1882 as companies con- and, 38 years later, built the Masonic Lodge in tinued to establish bases at Levuka, reflecting a classic Greek style. The home of The oldall stages of colonial development in the est lodge in the South Pacific, Lodge Polynesia South Pacific. Key elements include the for- 562 chartered by the Grand Lodge of Scotland mer Totoga and Nasau village sites, the for- in 1875 although might have existed since mer Cakobau Parliament House site (now the 1871, is also to be found in Levuka. UnfortuEuropean Memorial), Morris Hedstrom bond nately, in the 2000 riots in Fiji, the lodge was store, the Baba indentured labour settlement, burned down when 300 Fijians went on the the Hennings residence, Sacred Heart Cathe- rampage. dral and Presbytery dating from the 1860s, the Royal Hotel founded in the late 1860s, Today, the old site is now a nursery with la Deed of Cession site, former Government great variety of plants growing throughout ad (Nasova) House site, Port Authority, Post and the frontage being kept. The lodge is still acCustoms buildings together with their rem- tive and works from the masonic hall in Suva nant tram tracks to the wharf, former Meth- on the third Saturday every months. odist Church and mission, Levuka Public School, Town Hall, Masonic Lodge, Ovalau
Lodge in Suva in 1935
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Inside the lodge
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Expected Behaviour of a Freemason Fundamentally, Freemasonry is a code of living based on the highest ethical and moral standards. Among its principle aims are: i. to promote the brotherhood of man under a belief in God; ii. to render practical aid to the less fortunate members of the community; iii. to develop such behaviour in daily life as will demonstrate that the teachings of the Order have a profound and beneficial effect on all who sincerely embrace its concepts; iv. to encourage the practice of every moral and social virtue. But in essence was does all that mean when behaviour that Freemasons seek to achieve in you are a Freemason? all facets of their life. Most importantly, a Freemason should have nothing but the utAs a Freemason, you are expected to love most respect, love, consideration and your fellow brother Mason, and your neigh- thoughtfulness for his partner and family. bour, as you love yourself. So, Freemasons have a duty to respect themselves for we can- Some may say that the responsibilities of a not set an example to others unless we have Freemason consist of, attending your lodge inner peace and are able to hold ourselves in regularly, visiting other lodges, accepting an high esteem. Freemasonry will prompt you to office position in the Lodge, paying your anexamine yourself - "To Know Thyself" - to dis- nual dues on time, and contributing to charicover your inner strengths of character and ty. But Freemasonry is more than that, for it resilience, and expect you to, "…to set a guard offers you that chance for personnel developupon our tongues, to place a watch at the en- ment and growth amongst a brotherhood of trance of our thoughts, and a sentinel over like-minded men. our actions, thereby excluding every unworthy word, thought and deed." And a final thought for you to consider: The basis of the brotherhood of Freemasonry comes from treating, at all times, your brother Masons with the highest respect and regard. In Freemasonry, you will meet brothers from all walks of life with a diversity of skills, views and beliefs, and as a Freemason it is incumbent upon you to respect those views and beliefs, and to always treat each other with the highest admiration.
The Measure of a Man - (Author unknown) Not- "How did he die?" but—"How did he live?" Not-"What did he gain?" but—"What did he give?"
In the wider community outside of Freemasonry, in situations such as family, work and social activities, Freemasons should apply the same standards of behaviour as is expected of them whilst at Lodge with their fellow Masons. The ideals of treating each other with respect, admiration and regard should be the
Victorian Lodge of Research No. 218 Victoria Australia
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Founder: V.W. Bro G. Love; Editor/Author: W. Bro Brendan Kyne (Comments and contributions to: lordbiff@hotmail.com )
Paper Respectfully Submitted By: R.W. Bro. Robert Kliaman Canada Lodge No.532 (GRC)
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QCCC Limited is the commercial arm of the annually since 1886, Ars Quatuor CoronaQuatuor Coronati Lodge No 2076 (EC), the turum is the longest continuously running world’s premier Masonic research lodge. Established in 1884, the Lodge’s founders adopted an evidence-based approach to Ma-
Masonic Research Journal in the world. Collectively, AQC’s volumes form a repository of Masonic history and research, and are re-
garded as one of the most important sources sonic history that replaced the more imagina- available. tive writings of earlier authors; it became known as the ‘authentic school’ of Masonic The Transactions is required reading for anyone interested in
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Membership can be individual or as a Lodge Click here for the QC website. and all members receive a copy of Ars Quatuor Coronatorum (AQC), the Transactions of Click here to go to the PGL Renfrewshire East Quatuor Coronati Lodge. The volume is pro- online library of past editions of AQC or here duced towards the end of each calendar year for Folder 2. and mailed out in December to all members. Or the PGLRE Library in Maxwelton Road has
AQC provides the full text of all papers deliv- a number of hard copies for loan. ered during the year and the questions and answers that followed; the volume also con- There is a wealth of information in these voltains book reviews, ‘notes and queries’, and umes and every freemason should at least shorter articles of Masonic interest. Published delve into some parts of them.
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What is Freemasonry? Can we really say these days with a simple definition? It’s difficult because it has grown from its early days of a two degree system in the 17th C to the 3 degrees (and more) of today with so much research having been conducted by professional and amateur historians. Below shows a number of facets of the
Craft—there is no one more important and many brethren will identify with more than one. It is not a definitive list, but it probably covers the majority although there are many overlaps. Problems can arise when one or two become the main focus at the expense of the others.
If there are any others I have missed, I’d be delighted to hear.
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The ‘Grand Lodges’ of France These are the fifteen current Grand Lodges and Supreme Councils in France, in order of their founding:
Grand Orient of France (GODF)
Supreme Council of France (SCDF)
Grand College of Rites
Le Droit Humain International
Grand Lodge of France (GLDF)
Grand National French Lodge (GLNF)
Women's Grand Lodge Of France (GLFF)
Grand Lodge Traditional and Symbolic Opera (GLTSO)
Supreme Council for France (SCPLF)
French National Lodge (LNF)
Global Mixed Grand Lodge (GLMU)
Mixed Grand Lodge of France (GLMF)
Rectified and Reformed Scottish Rite Grand Lodge of Occitania
Regular Grand Lodge of France
United French National Lodges (LNFU)
To read the full confusing story of the grand lodges, see the attached paper published in August by The Virginia Lodge of Research.
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More and more brethren are enjoying their freemasonry through video links, zoom, etc and it’s been proving a great way to stay in touch with many brethren. So here are a couple more links that might be of interest: Grand Lodge of Ireland Tour
United Grand Lodge of England Tour PGL Glasgow has just donated ÂŁ10,000 to the new COVID memorial in Pollok Park supported by the Herald Garden Appeal for a place of contemplation and reflection for individuals and families. To donate visit: gofundme.com/ herald-garden-of-remembrance. You can also send donations via post to The Herald Garden of Remembrance Campaign, Herald & Times, 125 Fullarton Drive, Glasgow, G32 8FG. If you can help email memorialgarden@theherald.co.uk
More Videos The many aspects of California Masonry's rich cultural influences, from those of the state's original settlers to new immigrants who have made California their home today is shown with lodges of Germans, French, Armenians, Chinese, etc. The second video on the page shows the art of masonic education including the new digital format for candidates. From floor sketches to tracing boards, Masonic artists over the centuries have produced incredible works to serve as lodge teaching aids. The third video refers to the holy writings and the last gives an insight into the apron. https://freemason.org/masonic-education/videos/
Old PM Jewel A truly beautiful Past Master's jewel worn by Bro. Charles Meech, master of Grand River No.34 (now Grand Rapids No.34) in 1898-99 based in Grand Rapids, the second largest city in Michigan. This lodge was formed in 1850 and was giving PM jewels 50 years later whereas 242 was formed in 1811 and the first master to receive a jewel was Bro. Col. Paton in 1917.
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Obituary—Bro. Allan Stobo Snr PM Bro. Allan Stobo was born on 28th April, 1945 in Johnstone. He was brought up as an only child. He was educated at the Thorn Primary School and later Johnstone High School. In his early life he had a part-time job with a butcher. He used to be sent to the abattoir to collect a bucket of blood to make black puddings. In later life when you were eating black pudding, he would remind you of the blood and other ingredients. His working life proper began with an engineering apprenticeship with Loudon’s in Johnstone where Bro. Allan Campbell Org. was his journeyman. Then at 21, he went to work for Rolls Royce where he remained for the rest of his career, at times travelling the world for them. He was stranded in America after 9/11. He had been in Dallas looking at parts for an aeroplane engine. He used to say later that he had got the last flight out of America. On many of these occasions, he was able to visit lodges!
at the 3rd Johnstone BB. He had a season ticket at Ibrox and went there with his son for many years before having to give it up for health reasons. In addition, he played bowls in his younger years and latterly enjoyed his garden. He also had a wicked sense of humour. When he was an inspector with Rolls Royce, he would not pass anything until it met his standards and this applied to OBs’ floorwork in degrees!! On one occasion he would not pass something and he wouldn’t pass it again. Eventually when he did pass it, a workman said, “The man from Del Monte says, ‘Yes.’” Sadly, Bro. Allan passed away at the Golden Jubilee Hospital on 19th November, 2020.
Allan was an officer in the 3rd Johnstone Boys’ Brigade before he was married. He was initiated on the 2nd May 1969, passed 25th September 1969 and raised 9th October 1969 MMM was 6 February 1970. His installation was 9th November 1981, and more recently serving as lodge chaplain. During this time, Bro. Allan rarely missed a meeting. He married his wife Anna in April, 1969 and they remained happily married for 51 years. Last year they celebrated their Golden Wedding at Crieff with all the family. They have an only son who is also called Allan and had the pleasure of installing him as master (see photo). They were happy to welcome his wife Mandy into the family circle. As the years went on, they were delighted by the arrival of their granddaughters, Emma and Katie. Allan was a “big softie” where his grandkids were concerned. His son Allan commented there were different rules for them than when he was being brought up.
Last year he received his Jubilee Certificate from 242. When he was younger, he played football for Johnstone YM. Later he managed the under 18 team in Johnstone Castle for a number of years. He was also on the match committee for Johnstone Burgh. He said that his one claim to fame was that he had given Bro. Ally Dawson (later Rangers captain) his first game of football when
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Something Different Interesting sculpture, Quedlinburg, in the former
East Germany. Memorial of W:.M:. von Stuhl, last mast of Lodge Zur Goldenen Waage (Lodge of the Golden Circle).
Perhaps if meetings are still prohibited then outdoor meetings could be possible similar to the ‘lodge room’ below.
However, with Scotland’s
weather . . .
To submit an article or want added to the mail list or Facebook group, contact the Editor, Grant Macleod: E-Mail:
sec242pm@yahoo.co.uk
Website: http://lodge242.bravesites.com/
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