Missouri Freemason Magazine - v53n02 - 2008 Spring

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Volume 53 No. 2

SPRING 2008

Official Publication of the Grand Lodge of Missouri A.F.&A.M.

THE MISSOURI FREEMASON

©

Official Publication of the Grand Lodge of Missouri

VOL. 53 NO. 2

SPRING 2008

Published and copyrighted under the direction of the Committee on Masonic Publications

CONTENTS 35

Grand Master’s Message

36

Your Grand Line for 2007 - 2008

39

Polk County Courthouse Cornerstone Rededicated

40

Job's Daughter’s

41

Tree Lighting Ceremony Honors Dedicated Masons

42

New Website Is A Quick Link To Missouri Lodge Information

44

Missouri DeMoly

46

Brad The Soldier's General

51

Missouri Rainbow

53

A Dream Becomes Reality

55

Bringing Laura Ingalls Wilder to Columbia

56

Masonic Service Awards

59

The Work of our Craft

FROM THE EDITOR’S KEYBOARD NO ADMITTANCE! I looked at the imposing sign unceremoniously taped to a plastic sheet hanging from the ceiling. Knowing the sign applied to mere mortals, but certainly not me, I ignored it and confidently walked into the dreaded construction zone. It's amazing what you can get away with when you have a camera and press credentials.

Immediately, I found myself looking at a black and white checkered floor with the seal of the Grand Lodge of Missouri in its center. It was all familiar, but only from drawings I had seen. Now, it had come to life.

I walked through the maze of walls, some blank, and some sporting new murals. Still under construction, this was the new Masonic Museum in Columbia, and I got an early peek at it in order to photograph it for this issue of the magazine.

After what has literally been years of work from concept to reality, the Masonic Museum has finally opened with a grand opening ceremony on Feb- Memorabilia and displays have replaced conruary 23, 2008 and an opening to the struction materials at the brand new Masonic Museum in Columbia. public two days later.

If you were at the Grand Lodge building, say, a couple years ago, you probably saw a lot of empty floor space on the main level. That floor space is now filled with walls, murals and displays of Masonic memorabilia.

Doug Reece has chronicled the story of getting the museum off the ground in the Masonic Home section of this issue. In addition, Cindee Herrick has highlighted the story of Laura Ingalls Wilder and there is a biography of Missouri Freemason Omar Bradley, both featured in the museum.

I hope you can make plans to come and see this terrific new addition to the Masonic Complex in Columbia. Don't worry; they've removed the "NO ADMITTANCE" signs.

Steve Harrison, Editor

Committee on Masonic Publications M. Robert Berger, Grand Master Bruce R. Austin, Deputy Grand Master Rocky E. Weaver, Senior Grand Warden Larry C. Reynolds, Junior Grand Warden Ronald D. Miller, Grand Secretary E. Otha Wingo Steven L. Harrison, Editor, Chairman Editor Steven L. Harrison P.O. Box 1120 Kearney, MO 64060-1120 816-628-6562 / Call for Fax editor@momason.org Please note the change of address for the Missouri Freemason:

P.O. Box 1120, Kearney, MO 64060-1120 The Missouri Freemason (USPS 573-920) is the official publication of the Grand Lodge, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of the State of Missouri, and is published four times yearly. Articles to be considered for publication should be submitted to

34 SPRING 2008

The Missouri Freemason, P.O. Box 1120, Kearney, MO 64060-1120, not later than the first day of the month preceding publication in February, May, August, and November.

Unless otherwise indicated, the views expressed in this magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or policy of the Grand Lodge A.F.&A.M. of Missouri. The Editor reserves the right due to limitations of space, to accept, reject, subedit and rearrange material submitted for publication. Pictures submitted for publication will not be returned. The Missouri Freemason does not accept forms or clippings for publication. Please do not submit materials in PDF format.

OFFICE OF PUBLICATIONS: Grand Lodge of Missouri, 6033 Masonic Drive, Suite B, Columbia, MO 65202-6535. Printed by Tribune Publishing Co., Columbia, Missouri. Periodicals Postage paid at Columbia, Missouri.

POSTMASTER: Please send Address Forms 3579 to Grand Secretary, 6033 Masonic Drive, Suite B, Columbia, MO 65202-6535.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: The Missouri Freemason is mailed to every member of this Masonic Jurisdiction without charge. Domestic subscriptions elsewhere are $8.00 annually.

PERMISSION TO REPRINT: All recognized Masonic publications have permission to reprint original articles from The Missouri Freemason with credit to the author and the publication.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS (Important): Whenever a member changes his mailing address without notifying his Lodge Secretary and a mailing of the Freemason magazine occurs, the Post Office charges the Grand Lodge 75¢ per undeliverable Freemason.

PLEASE, contact your Lodge Secretary with your address change so that the Grand Lodge can then be notified. GRAND LODGE OF MISSOURI GRAND LODGE OF MISSOURI INTERNET ADDRESSES E-Mail to the Grand Lodge Office grlodge@momason.org The Grand Lodge web page www.momason.org Phone: 573-474-8561

THE MISSOURI FREEMASON

Brethren: The holiday season is over, and I hope each of you had a home full of joy and happiness. My wish is for everyone to have a New Year filled with many blessings from our Creator.

Many thanks brethren for the wonderful reception you gave me at our area meetings. I had a chance to visit over 1000 Masonic brothers at these meetings.

I am receiving much positive feedback from brothers concerning each lodge to adopt a mentoring program. Many lodges across our great State are implementing, or already have, a mentoring program. If your lodge does not have this program, please give it top priority so that our newly made brothers will have a better understanding of our fraternity.

We lost the one-on-one teaching of Masonry when we did away with the proficiency requirements. The mentoring program, to a great extent, will correct this deficiency. Education and ritual must be equally taught if we wish to maintain the high standards of our fraternity.

May your lodge excel in both ritual and education.

The MOCHIP program continues to be the best program our fraternity has ever implemented. At this writing, over 40,000 children across Missouri have gone through our program. We pray that no family will

will give the law enforcement the ability to Amber Alert the whole nation within a few minutes of an abduction or disappearance of a child. Thank you brothers for making this program a success. The MOCHIP program is already booked solid way into 2008. Our thanks to Nick Cichielo and his many volunteers that have spent many hours making MOCHIP successful.

We have a great event planned February 23rd. It is the official opening of our Museum at the Grand Lodge Complex in Columbia, MO. You will be pleased to tour this great exhibit of Masonry. The museum has been years in planning. Your interest will not wane as you walk through the many exhibits that you will see.

We now have a visual record of masonry in our state, from the Green Tree Tavern in St. Genevieve to the present. If you can't make it to the grand opening, I urge you to visit it as soon as you can. Thank you for the warm greetings I am receiving as I travel across our great state. You have confirmed my belief that Freemasonry has the best men in the state.

You have created memories for me that will last the rest of my life.

ever have to resort to the information that we have provided them. The information on the computer disk

On the cover (Clockwise from top left): George Washington laying the cornerstone of the US Capitol Building, a replica of the same mural in the George Washington Masonic Memorial, Alexandria, Virginia; Eastern Star stained glass display; Painting of Harry Truman as Grand Master; Antique Masonic apron; Omar Bradley Cover, Life Magazine, April 9, 1951; Laura Ingalls Wilder; Lewis and Clark with Sacagawea; Leadership display, photos of Grand Masters.

THE MISSOURI FREEMASON

Missouri Freemason Deadlines Issue

Deadline

Summer, 2008 Fall, 2008 Winter, 2008 Spring, 2009

April 1, 2008 July, 1, 2008 October 1, 2008 January 2, 2009 SPRING 2008 35

YOUR GRAND LINE FOR 2007 - 2008 Grand Master

Deputy Grand Master

No. 16, Order of High Priesthood and Order of the Silver Trowel.

RWB Rocky served as Right Eminent Grand Commander of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of the State of Missouri in 2000 - 2001.

He has numerous other Masonic awards and affiliations.

Senior Grand Warden

Bruce Raymond Austin, Grand Master in 2007 - 2008, was born in East Prairie, Missouri. He attended Southeast Missouri State University in Cape Girardeau for two years prior to joining the U.S. Navy, where he became a Hospital Corpsman. Afterward, he enrolled in the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science in Cincinnati, Ohio, where he obtained a degree, graduating Magna Cum Laude. He married Myrtle (Sisser) Goodin on April 6, 1963. They have 3 sons, Stephen, Sam and David.

Bruce began farming in 1965 and currently farms over 1,700 acres. RWB Austin was raised in May, 1961 in East Prairie Lodge #384. His many Masonic affiliations include: Scottish Rite Valley of St. Louis.

(KCCH, 33째), Charleston Chapter #19 RAM, Cape Council #20, Cryptic Masons, Cape Girardeau Commandery #55, Knights Templar, the Missouri Lodge of Research, Hunt York Rite College #162 of St. Louis, National Sojourners, Heroes of '76, Sword of Bunker Hill, Moolah Shrine and many more. He is honorary president of the Masonic Home Board.

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Right Worshipful Brother Rocky Edward Weaver was born in Kansas City, MO. He attended Maple Woods Community College for two years and was employed at Ford Motor Company in Claycomo, Missouri for over 32 years, retiring in 2001. He and his late wife Judy started a small embroidery business in 1997, which he continues to operate. Rocky lost Judy to a brain tumor in 2001 after 31 years of marriage. Rocky has a son, Bradley James. In 2002 he wed Janet Berwald and now has a stepdaughter, Cheryl, and stepson, Alan. RWB Weaver served two years in the United States Army, where he attended Aviation Maintenance school and finished first in his class. He enjoys golf and fishing and loves to teach and be part of a team effort. RWB Weaver is an endowed member of Liberty Lodge #31, where he was raised in 1983 and served as Master in 199293. He served as President of the Liberty Masonic Temple Board in 1991.

He also has endowed memberships in Buckner Lodge #501 and Kansas City Lodge #220. His many Masonic affiliations include: Liberty Chapter No. 3, Liberty Council No. 50, Liberty Commandery No. 6 (recipient of the Lewis and Clark Award), Independence Chapter No. 12, Independence Council No. 49, Palestine Commandery No. 17, Ascalon Commandery

Larry C. Reynolds was born in Gainesville, Mo and attended public schools there, graduating High School in 1963. He volunteered for the Armed Services in 1965 and served 3 years in the US Army.

While in the Army he spent 1 year in Viet Nam. He married his wife Bettie in 1966 and they have one Daughter, Deanna. After discharge from the army, he was employed by Kraft Foods in Springfield, where he retired after over 32 years of service.

While with Kraft Foods, he attended SMSU, majoring in Business Administration. He and Bettie are members of First Baptist Church in Rogersville, Mo. His Masonic career began in Gainesville, Mo, where he was raised in 1969. He transferred to Henderson Lodge # 477, in 1971, becoming Worshipful Master in 1985, and again in 2000-01. His hobbies include Reading, Fishing, Hunting, and riding his ATV. His many Masonic affiliations include: Past Master, Missouri Lodge of Research, Scottish Rite, ValTHE MISSOURI FREEMASON

ley of Joplin (KCCH), Abou-BenAdhem Shrine, Order Of Eastern Star, National Sojourners #63 Kansas City, Mo. and Old Glory Camp, Heroes of 76.

Senior Grand Deacon

MOCHIP, Missouri Child Identification effort. He is also the current President of the National Masonichip Foundation.

Junior Grand Deacon

Junior Grand Warden

Right Worshipful Brother Gail S. Turner graduated from Linn Co R-1 Public Schools in 1970. He continued his education receiving an Associate of Arts degree from Hannibal LaGrange College in 1972, a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Missouri in 1974, and a Masters of Education in the area of Secondary Education in 1976 from the same institution. His service to the community includes serving with the Northcentral YMCA of Brookfield, Brookfield First Christian Church, Pershing Memorial Hospital, the City of Brookfield Board of Adjustment, and the Brookfield Rotary Club. Right Worshipful Brother Turner was raised in Jackson Lodge #82 in 1978, where he has served as Master and Secretary. His many Masonic affiliations include: Scottish Rite Valley of Kansas City, Liberty Chapter #3, Liberty Council #50, Ararat Shrine, Royal Order of Scotland, National Sojourners # 63 Kansas City, Mo. and Old Glory Camp, Heroes of 76.

THE MISSOURI FREEMASON

John William Hess was born in Albia, Iowa, where he graduated from Albia Community High School.

After high school John attended the University of Iowa and received a Bachelor of Science Degree from Creighton University in 1975. The State of Missouri Family Support Division currently employs him as a Child Support Specialist. He is a member of St. James Roman Catholic Church in Liberty Missouri. He married Ina Winfrey in August, 2003. He has been active with and received honors from the Boy Scouts of America. RWB John holds an endowed membership in Buckner Lodge # 501 where he was raised in 1994. He served as Master of the Lodge in 1996 - 1997 and is also a Past Master of Kansas City Lodge #220. His many Masonic affiliations include: Liberty Chapter #3, Liberty Council #50, Liberty Commandery #6, Order of High Priesthood, Past Commander' Association in Missouri, Kansas City Valley of the Scottish Rite (KCCH), Allied Masonic Degrees, and Charlemagne Chapter of the Knights Masons. John is also the recipient of the Knight York Cross of Honor (KYCH). John served as a member of the Board of Directors of the Masonic Home of Missouri from 1999 - 2003. John is a Past President of the Masonic Childrens Foundation and has been involved in the creation of the

Right Worshipful Brother David L. Ramsey is a graduate of Central High School in St. Joseph, MO. He earned a 4-year Apprenticeship, Journeyman Electrician Certificate from the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, and holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Missouri Western State College. He is General Manager, Tri County Electric Cooperative, Lancaster, Missouri. He was raised in March, 1991, in Savannah Lodge #71 where he served as Worshipful Master in 1999-2000. He has held many Grand Lodge offices and served on the Board of Directors of the Masonic Home of Missouri from 2000 - 2004.

RWB Ramsey is a member of First Christian Church in Savannah. He also works with other civic organizations including the Regional Homeland Security Oversight Committee and the Highway 63 Tax Commission. RWB Ramsey and his wife Christin (Friday) were married in 1974 in St. Joseph, MO. They have two children, Carra Roth married to Randy Roth, and Timothy Ramsey and one grandson, Jack Roth. His many Masonic affiliations include: Scottish Rite Valley of St. Joseph, SPRING 2008 37

(KCCH), Moila Shrine Temple, High Twelve Club in St. Joseph and the National Sojourners Chapter #63 in Kansas City.

Senior Grand Steward

Council No. 44, Ely Commandery No., 22, Scottish Rite Valley of St. Louis (KCCH), Moila Shrine, Moolah Shrine and Rose Hill Chapter No. 120, Order of the Eastern Star. RWB Broyles is also active with Job's Daughters and DeMolay.

Senior Grand Marshal

Junior Grand Steward

Jon Blake Broyles grew up in Kirksville, Missouri where he attended school, graduating from Kirksville RIII High School in 1978. He graduated from Northeast Missouri State University (Truman State University) in 1982 with a B.S. in Mathematics and Computer Science. He is a member of the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Kirksville. He has served the church as a Deacon and parent in the LOGOS youth program.

He is now a resident of Ballwin, MO. He works in the information technology field, specializing in IT management and networking. RWB Broyles married Anna Spalding of Kirksville in 1981. They have three children, Maria, Alexa, and Sara. RWB Broyles was raised in Adair Lodge #366 in 1990. He moved to St. Louis in 1995 and became a dual member of Rose Hill Lodge #550 (now Polar Star-Rose Hill No. 79), where he served as Worshipful Master in 1996-1997. He created the first Grand Lodge Internet Web Site and served as its Webmaster from its inception in 1996 to 1999. He is the current Master of the Missouri Lodge of Research. His many Masonic affiliations include: Caldwell Chapter No. 53, Kirksville 38 SPRING 2008

RWB Randall M. Berger grew up in St. Louis, Missouri. He graduated from Parkway North High School in 1987 and St. Louis College of pharmacy in 1992, with a BS in pharmacy.

He is currently employed as a pharmacist at Williams Pharmacy in University City, Missouri. Brother Berger received his Blue Lodge Degrees in Ben Franklin Lodge #642 in 1992, where he served as Master in 1997. His many Masonic affiliations include the Scottish Rite, Valley of St. Louis (KCCH, 33째), Keystone Chapter RAM, Jeremiah Council of Cryptic Masons, Allied Masonic Degrees, and Moolah Shrine. He has received the DeMolay Honorary Legion of Honor. In 1998, he became a dual member of Rose Hill Lodge No. 550. When it merged with Polar Star Lodge, Randy became the first Master of Polar Star-Rose Hill Lodge #79. RWB Berger currently resides in Clayton Missouri.

David William Haywood was raised in Webster Groves, Missouri where he attended school, graduating in 1969. He was a Boy Scout, and obtained his Eagle Scout award in 1965. He married Diane Walleman in 1974. He attended Meramec Community College and the University of Missouri at St. Louis, earning BA in Biology and a BS in Chemistry. He currently works as a microbiologist for Sensient Colors, Inc. David and Diane live in Fenton, Missouri and have one daughter, Alicia. Dave attends Southminster Presbyterian Church where he is an ordained Deacon and Elder. He was a DeMolay at Rabboni Chapter and served as Master Councilor of the Webster Groves chapter in 1968. He has received the Chevalier and Legion of Honor awards and is currently Dean of the St. Louis Preceptory. David was raised in Webster Groves Lodge #84 in 1974 and served as Worshipful Master in 1986. His many Masonic affiliations include: Scottish Rite Valley of St. Louis (KCCH, 33째), Moolah Shrine, Rabboni Royal Arch, Jeremiah Council #43, Ascalon Commandery #16, Ray Von Denslo Chapter of the Allied Masonic Degrees and the York Rite College.

THE MISSOURI FREEMASON

POLK COUNTY COURTHOUSE CORNERSTONE REDEDICATED Missouri Freemasons gathered to rededicate the cornerstone of the Polk County Courthouse on October 13, 2007 in Bolivar, Missouri. Officers of the Grand Lodge of Missouri, along with other Masonic organizations, originially dedicated the Cornerstone 100 years ago. The rededication of the Cornerstone was the culmination of a celebration held in honor of the renovation of the Polk County Courthouse. The Cornerstone originally contained a time capsule whose contents were put on display.

Speeches from various local and state public servants preceded the event. A parade followed, featuring the Officers of the Grand Lodge of Missouri, led by Most Worshipful Brother Bruce Austin, Grand Master of the State of Missouri.

Also in attendance were the Shriners with their band and many Brothers from the area. The Grand Master addressed the crowd and explained what the Officers were doing as each checked the Cornerstone for square, level, and plumb, and then made offerings of corn, wine and oil into a bowl by the Cornerstone.

Submitted by Brother Bill Hedgcorth, visiting Master Mason from St. John's Lodge No. 1, Portsmouth, Rhode Island.

Photos by Joanne Ryan Evans.

Grand Lodge staff members Amy Tripi, Sandy Clark, Adriene Green, Nancy Weiner and Christi Casey present John T. Litzau with the Secretary of the Year Award.

Brother Litzau is secretary of Craftsman Lodge #717.

THE MISSOURI FREEMASON

Each year the Grand Master awards the Truman Medal to a distinguished brother for his service to the fraternity.

The 2007 recipient was RWB Ronald D. Miller. RWB Ron currently serves as Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Missouri, a position he has held for nearly a dozen years.

MWB Robert Berger is shown introducing RWB Miller after the award announcement.

SPRING 2008 39

SWOPE PARK LODGE #617 INAUGURATES SECOND YOUTH GROUP IN 2007 Swope Park Lodge is sponsoring a Job's Daughter’s Bethel which moved November 4, 2007 from Eureka, Missouri.

Bethel #1 is the second youth group formed at Swope Park this year. The Swope Park Squire’s Manor was formed January 28, 2007. Wm. F. Kuhn DeMolay Chapter, which also meets at Swope Park, actively supports both new youth groups.

The girls were excited to finally have the Bethel organized and running at Swope Park that they had been working on since early summer 07. The officers of the Bethel are Beca Crocker as Honored Queen, Rhiannon Roberts as Senior Princess, Cassandra Henderson as Junior Princess, Samantha Keller as Guide and Victoria O’Dell as Marshall. Our other officers are Jordan Thornton, Taylor Thornton, Madison Parkinson, Tiffany Perry, and Kaia Outhout. They also have a group called “Jobie-to-Bees”, who are little girls that are not yet old enough to be Job’s Daughters. They are Polly Cowen, Alexis Parkinton and Madison Parkinton.. They have their own meeting and are in our beehive. On or after their tenth birthday, they will join the Bethel. The girls have been working hard at getting the ritual and the marches down. The meetings that we have had the girls did an amazing job at running their meeting.

Many Swope Park Brothers worked to bring the Bethel To Swope Park, including RWB Larry Cameron, WB Ken Best and Brother Ed Culver. Pictured areWB Best, Swope Park Master, Lynn Cowen, WB Gary Dryer (Associate Guardian), Bro, Ed Culver and Tonya Culver, Bethel Guardian.

Seen in the back are Bro. Albert Beal, Grand Associate Guardian and Grand Guardian Donna Goede.

The lovely young ‘Jobie-Bees’ Madison Parkinton, Polly Cowan and Alexis Parkinton

MISSOURI LODGE OF RESEARCH Receive More Light What is a Lodge of Research?

A Lodge of Research is a group of Freemasons interested in the history and study of Freemasonry, and who by their contributions make it possible to publish and distribute the results of their studies and investigations. The Lodge gathers and disseminates, by discussion and/or publication, information primarily of an historical nature pertaining to the origin and development of Freemasonry and to the members who have contributed to its growth and development.

Is this some new Project?

Research Lodges are nothing new in Freemasonry.

The first and oldest Lodge of Masonic Research was organized in London, England. It is commonly referred to as AQC, (Ars Quatuor Coronatorum), or more properly, 40 SPRING 2008

Quatuor Coronati Lodge No. 2076. It is the largest Masonic Research Lodge in the World. There are several other Lodges of research in England.

The second largest research Lodge is the Missouri Lodge of Research, Charted by the Grand Lodge, under direction of MW Harry S Truman in 1941. In America, research Lodges exist in many Grand Jurisdictions, such as California, New York, North Carolina, Maine, Idaho, Oklahoma, Georgia, Oregon and Texas. They prove very helpful to those interested in knowing more about Freemasonry.

Who may join?

Any Master Mason in good standing may join the Missouri Lodge of Research. If living in Missouri he may become an Active Member, if in another jurisdiction, he becomes a Corresponding Member, and if any organization, library, or lodge desires to join it is considered A Subscribing Member.

continues page 52 THE MISSOURI FREEMASON

TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY HONORS DEDICATED MASONS Larry and Rita Moss were the honorees at the annual Children's Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 18th at the Northland Children's Fountain, 32nd and Burlington, North Kansas City. Larry and Rita had the distinct honor of turning on the Children's Christmas tree lights and received an award for their dedication to children's charity.

The City of North Kansas City, Kansas City Parks and Recreation Department, University of Missouri Extension of Clay County and Ernest Shepherd Memorial Youth Center make the annual event possible.

Every year as the lights are turned on, the Edna Shepherd Youth Development Award is bestowed upon an individual who has enriched the lives of Northland youth. Larry and Rita, along with Alpha Lodge #659 and Alpha Chapter #507, order of the Eastern Star, established the T.O.S.S. program, which stands for Title One School Support. It includes seven North Kansas City School District elementary schools: Winnwood, Chouteau, Maplewood, West Englewood, Topping, Crestview and Gracemoor.

A special fundraising project makes the support possible. Larry and Rita founded this project and members of Alpha Lodge #659 and Alpha Chapter #507 support it. Its purpose is to help children with clothing needs with a 24 hour turn around.

Larry and Rita have worked tirelessly as the "point people" providing basic needs such as coats, gloves, shoes, socks, hygiene kits and other items for the kids at any of those schools, as determined by a resource specialist at the school. When a school calls Larry and Rita with a special request, they take pride in delivering the item within the next twenty-four hours so the child will take the item home that day.

On one occasion, after arriving home from out of town at 9:00 p.m., they picked up the message, went to the store, purchased the item and delivered it to the home of the specialist that night. Needless to say the school specialist was overwhelmed.

Congratulations to Larry and Rita for their great work in providing basic necessities to children in the Northland school.

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP

THE MISSOURI FREEMASON

SPRING 2008 41

NEW WEBSITE IS A QUICK LINK TO MISSOURI LODGE INFORMATION

Did you ever find yourself needing specific information about a Lodge and not knowing where to go or whom to call? Brother Loran Don Frazier has developed a site on the mofreemason network, which will solve that little problem. In order to look up any information on a Lodge, secretary or even regional information, go to the site at http://www.mofreemason.net.

Brother Don is Senior Deacon at Angerona Lodge #193. He has set up several web pages for Lodges in his area, as well as the district page. He has this site set up so you may navigate it by region, but the easiest way to get the information you need is to click on the very top line ("Missouri Lodges Locator - Search Page"), which will bring up the search page. Just enter the information you are looking for... a secretary's name, Lodge name or Lodge number and the site will bring back a list of pages containing that information.

Brother Frazier has included phone numbers as well as meeting dates and times for each Lodge. The site even includes a handy link to Mapquest so that the user may copy the Lodge address and paste it into the Mapquest section to request a map to an individual Lodge.

"The reason I did this was born out of frustration," said Brother Frazier, "I had a Lodge I wanted to visit that had only a PO Box and two phone numbers that were no longer in service. I believe the information on this Web Site is nearly up-to-date and could be of use to many. I am dedicated to keeping it current and I am willing to add any additional information deemed necessary."

The Grand Lodge discontinued its directory of Lodges in 2004, which makes this site the only up-to-date place to find this information.

Brother Frazier is asking individual Lodge members, secretaries especially, to review information on their Lodges and send him updates or corrections as necessary. The quickest way to reach Brother Don is at his email address, webmaster@mofreemason.net. He is hoping to receive updates and suggestions for continued development of the site.

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THE MISSOURI FREEMASON

The Grand Master of Freemasonry in Missouri, Bruce R. Austin, was the guest of honor for the DeMolay Degrees on November 3, 2007. Nine boys experienced the amazing degree work of the Initiatory and DeMolay Degrees. It was a spectacular presentation of the Degrees and there were many compliments on the performance!

After the Degrees, Missouri DeMolay installed the 2007-2008 Jurisdictional Officers. Dad Robert Cockerham, Executive Officer of Missouri DeMolay, performed a very special ceremony for MWB Bruce R. Austin to invest him into the Honorary Legion of Honor and also named him as a Personal Representative for Missouri DeMolay.

In addition, Missouri DeMolay was also honored to have Niki Lodholz, Grand Worthy Advisor, International Order of the Rainbow for Girls in Missouri and Diane Lynch, Grand Bethel Honored Queen, Job’s Daughters International in Missouri to bring up their Grand Officers for introduction.

I am proud to introduce the 2007-2008 Officers for the

Jurisdiction of Missouri and have noted the Masonic facility where they meet.

STATE SQUIRE OFFICE State Master Squire State Senior Squire State Junior Squire State Squire Chaplain State Squire Marshal State Squire Recorder State Squire Treasurer STATE DEMOLAY OFFICER State Area Master Councilor – Area 1 State Area Master Councilor – Area 3 State Area Master Councilor – Area 4 State Area Master Councilor – Area 5 State Area Master Councilor – Area 6 State Area Master Councilor – Area 7 State Almoner State Chaplain State Marshal State Scribe State Sir Knight State Junior Councilor State Senior Councilor State Illustrious Knight Commander Deputy State Master Councilor State Master Councilor 43 SPRING 2008

NAME Liam Huntsucker Brandon Steensgaard Zack Deason Tyler Waldon Michael Braun Macio Harris Jeremy Trent NAME Nick Fox Cole Short Billy Rollins Bobby Williamson Scott Buttrey Douglas Stalling Jamie Phillips Dan Best Brock Harrison Brandon Cockerham Drew Hinkle Mike Jones Kris Woods Gabe Eggers Ryan Cockerham Justin A. Woods

NAME OF MANOR & MEETING PLACE George Wilkerson Manor – Ararat Shrine St. Charles Manor – St Charles Lodge Mineral Area Manor – Leadwood Lodge Swope Park Manor – Swope Park Lodge Mineral Area Manor – Leadwood Lodge Mochila Manor – St. Joe Scottish Rite Mineral Area Manor – Leadwood Lodge NAME OF CHAPTER & MEETING PLACE Troy Chapter – Troy Masonic Lodge Excalibur Chapter – Blue Springs Lodge Lebanon Chapter – Lebanon Lodge Excelsior Chapter – Jackson Lodge Mineral Area Chapter – Leadwood Lodge Carondelet Chapter – Webster Groves Lodge St Charles Chapter – St Charles Lodge William F Kuhn Chapter – Swope Park Lodge Mineral Area Chapter – Leadwood Lodge George L Walters Chapter – Clayton Lodge Excelsior Chapter – Jackson Lodge Waynesville Chapter – Waynesville Lodge Frank S. Land Chapter – Ararat Shrine Excelsior Chapter – Jackson Lodge George L Walters Chapter – Clayton Lodge Frank S. Land Chapter – Ararat Shrine THE MISSOURI FREEMASON

I want to share my goals for the year, as State Master Councilor, and hope that you can support us on the way to achieving each of them.

Charity! Missouri DeMolay will be giving to and supporting the RiteCare Language Clinics. Each chapter has been requested to add a fundraiser to its term planning to help with donations and also to volunteer time to the clinics. (As of December 15th – over $5,800 has been collected!)

Missouri DeMolay has been #1 in the world in positive growth & membership and we want to make sure that we continue the tradition through excellent membership programs and providing incentives to members that participate.

The state leadership is also encouraging retention in the chapters by making sure that you have fun events as well as service and fundraisers.

Continue to improve communication. Promote the website and the e-newsletter. Encourage the Area Master Councilors to cooperate with their chapters and to share the events they are having with the rest of the state.

Adult recruitment. The Missouri State Officers will be networking with our various Masonic sponsors to encourage them to support DeMolay at the chapter level by being an advisor.

Refocus on the precepts outlined in the ritual. Recall the importance that the lessons taught in the ritual are for your every day lives. Excellence in ritual is the exemplification of showing the world around you that you believe and live what is being taught.

The Executive Officer & State Master Councilor Conference in Columbia on December 1st was a great start to our year. With almost 75 in attendance, the day was filled with information for DeMolay, Chapters, Advisors and a fun filled interactive game of Missouri DeMolay Jeopardy.

I had the opportunity to present a 65-year pin for DeMolay to Mr. Arthur Edward Lee who was initiated into DeMolay on December 16, 1939 into Mother Chapter. He is a resident of the Masonic Home West. He shared several stories with me about his very fond memories of DeMolay. The Masonic Home was having a family holiday celebration and it was a great honor to be able to present the pin on the day of his anniversary.

There are some upcoming events that I hope that you can support and attend.

On March 15th, I will be holding a fundraiser in Columbia at the Scottish Rite. We will be raising money, not only for Missouri DeMolay but for the RiteCare Clinics in Missouri. We will be having a Texas Hold’em tournament and only fee to play is your donation and, of course, there will be prizes.

On April 5th is the State Officers Reception in Kansas City at Ararat Shrine. This is always one of my favorite events of the year because all three Masonic Youth groups are honored.

May 23rd starts our Missouri State Conclave and we invite each and every one of you. You can attend just to enjoy watching the sport competitions or step in as a ritual judge. If you can’t attend and would like to support Missouri DeMolay there is an opportunity to purchase a sponsorship or buy an ad for the yearbook.

If you would like more information on any of these events you can check out our state website at www.modemolay.org for upcoming events or contact me at justinw@modemolay.org.

Justin A. Woods State Master Councilor Jurisdiction of Missouri THE MISSOURI FREEMASON

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SPRING 2008 45

BRAD The Soldier's General

By Steve Harrison, PM The two Masonic brothers concluded their meeting, shook hands and parted. They both had their doubts. To say this had been one of the most important meetings in World War II was no exaggeration. To say it didn't go well was no less true. Outside, General Omar Bradley knew he had not shown the forcefulness of other generals. He felt he had been so unimpressive he was astounded his brother had openly confided in him. He had walked in to discuss his command position over the troops in Europe, but walked out wondering if the president would allow his promotion to go forward. "I was flabbergasted," he later wrote, "I left his office in a troubled state of mind.i"

John and Bessie Bradley were a hopelessly poor couple who lived near Clark, Missouri in the late nineteenth century. John, like his father, had started out life as a farmer but at nineteen, entered a rural school. Two years later he found himself qualified to teach and launched his life's profession as a schoolteacher. The couple greatly admired local newspaper editor Omar Gray and, when their son was born on February 12, 1893, they named him after the editor. Omar Nelson Bradley's middle name came from a local doctor.iii John Bradley was an athletic type who carved his own baseball bats and passed his love of the sport on to Omar.

In addition to teaching, he set up small libraries in the schools near Clark and taught his son a lifelong love of reading. When, in 1908, John contracted pneumonia and died, young Omar was devastated. His mother could not support the little farm they owned by herself, so the family packed up and moved north to the town of Moberly, Missouri. Here, she scratched out a living by taking in borders. Young Omar helped out by delivering the Moberly Democrat.

Bradley was a loner in high school, but managed to maintain excellent grades, and to play on the high-school baseball team. After high school he took a job with the Wabash railroad and planned to work until he had enough money to attend the University of Missouri at Columbia.

However, a friend suggested he apply for the West Point Academy, where he could get a college education at no cost. He took the advice, tested into West Point and altered the course of his life.iv

West Point Lodge #77 Highland Falls, NY Omar Nelson Bradley, 33° General of the Army, 1950

Inside the oval office, President Franklin Roosevelt was also troubled. He wondered if the quiet, unassuming Bradley was up to one of the most horrific jobs ever.ii However, it was Bradley's modest and tempered nature that made him the right fit and won support from both Dwight D. Eisenhower and George C. Marshall. They both assured Roosevelt that Bradley, not the impulsive George Patton, was the man for the job – And the job was a big one, commander of the First Army over Operation Overlord. more commonly known as the Battle of Normandy or, simply, D-Day. It was September, 1943. Nine months later they would all learn if Marshall and Eisenhower were right.

West Point Cadet Circa 1914

‫ﱝﱜﱛ‬

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At West point, he distinguished himself in athletics, lettering in both baseball and football. While some cadets struggled with the adjustments they had to make in the military academy, Bradley found life at West Point suited his personality. He probably was not as successful as he could have been academically because of the time he devoted to sports.

As a result, his military advancement there was slow, and he did not achieve the rank of cadet lieutenant until his final year.v Bradley graduated 44th out of 164 in his class. It was not a stellar showing, but what a class it was. The young graduates of 1915 would go on to become the leaders of World War II. This group became known as "The Class The Stars Fell On." It included some of the great and near great of the Second World War, including Bradley and Dwight D. Eisenhower. Astonishingly, every member of this class who remained in the army for his entire career, 59 in all, became a general.vi After graduation, Bradley accepted a series of peacetime assignments while war grew in Europe and civil war raged in Mexico. When, in May, 1916, Mexican skirmishes boiled over into United States territory, Bradley was sent to Douglas, Arizona where American troops played a waiting game. The standoff came at a bad time for Bradley and his fiancée, Mary Elizabeth Quayle, who had been planning a June wedding. Ultimately, the Mexican situation waned and Bradley married Mary in Columbia, Missouri on December 28, 1916.

The young couple hopped from assignment to assignment as Bradley served as a military instructor. Bradley desperately tried to win an assignment overseas during World War I, but it did not happen. Now a captain, he spent the bulk of the conflict with a unit guarding copper mines in Montana. In August 1918, he finally won his coveted assignment in Europe, but the great influenza outbreak of that year prevented his unit's deployment. Thoroughly discouraged, he became convinced he would be a military failure.

By 1923, the war was long since over and Bradley had been back at West Point teaching mathematics for over three years. Here, he had settled down into the life of a military instructor and Mary was expecting their first child (Elizabeth) in December.vii Bradley's reasons for joining Freemasonry remain unrecorded. Perhaps other cadets and officers at West Point introduced him to the Fraternity. Whatever the reason, he followed in their footsteps and on September 23, 1923, petitioned the Lodge closest to the Academy, West Point Lodge #877, F & AM. WB Fred Hittinger, Master of the Lodge at the time, was his first-line signer, along with L. W. Miller. On the petition, filled out in Bradley's own hand, he professed his belief in God, stated his address was West Point, New York and listed his occupation as, "Officer, United States Army." He was raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason on November 15, 1923.viii Aside from teaching math at West Point, Bradley spent his time as a student Ours is a world of nuclear giants of military tactics and history. Inspired by William Tecumseh Sherman, Bradley and ethical infants. We know was convinced the strategy of plodding trench warfare recently employed in the more about war than we know war in Europe was ineffective, and that a better way to defeat an enemy was about peace, more about killing through deep incursions into its territory. His admiration of such military giants than we know about living. We as Sherman, coupled with the experience he gained the following year in the have grasped the mystery of the advanced course at the Infantry School at Fort Benning, Georgia, shaped his miliatom and rejected the Sermon on tary career and came to good use later during the invasion of France. Bradley the Mount." – Omar Bradley acknowledged his training at Fort Benning bolstered his confidence more than anything he had learned elsewhere, "the confidence I needed had been restored; I never suffered a faint heart again.ix" "In 1927, the army appointed Bradley officer in charge of National Guard affairs, becoming the liaison officer between the U.S. Army and the Hawaiian National Guard. Many of the officers stationed there enjoyed life in the tropical paradise and even requested lengthy extensions. Not Bradley; he felt the position was a dead end and within a year, requested, and received orders to attend the Army Command and General Staff school at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. He viewed this assignment as an honor and thought it would guarantee the rank of colonel prior to retirement.x In Kansas, Bradley not only furthered his military career, but also his Masonic journey. Here, he joined the Scottish Rite Armed Forces Consistory at Fort Leavenworth.xi A year later, Bradley was at a crossroads. He had completed his studies at Fort Leavenworth. The army offered him the choice of two positions. The first was treasurer of the Academy at West Point. The second was a position as an instructor at the infantry school at Fort Benning. Mary much preferred the comforts of West Point. However, Omar preferred the outdoor atmosphere at Benning. He also felt it was a better career move. Later in life he wrote, "We chose Benning, the most fortunate decision of my life."xii The decision was fortunate because at Benning he served under and gained the confidence of George C. Marshall.

Here, he became a member of an informal group of "Marshall Men" and made a favorable impression on him. Bradley later said no one had influenced him more, personally or professionally, than Marshall even though he admitted never feeling entirely comfortable in Marshall's presence.xiii

“

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Bradley was recognized as an innovative officer for, among other things, his development of a prototypic Officer Candidate School at Ft. Benning. He steadily rose through the military ranks and held a series of increasingly important positions. By 1941, the situation in Europe was growing progressively darker. In preparation for a possible war, Bradley was temporarily promoted to the position of Brigadier General, skipping the rank of full colonel and becoming the first member of that stellar West Point class of 1915 to become a general.

Omar Bradley postage stamp issued November 10, 1999 at the Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, post office.

Bradley had little time for personal interests serving as commandant at Ft. Benning. On Sundays, he would take time off to be with Mary.

The winters were mild in mid-Georgia and gardening, a hobby they shared, was a near year-round activity. One Sunday, he and Mary were in the garden pruning flowers when an old friend, Harold R. "Pink" Bull, joined them. "Have you heard," asked Bull, "The Japanese have just bombed Pearl Harbor." Bradley was stunned. Within minutes he was in uniform, at headquarters and in charge. He realized there was little chance of an attack or sabotage in Georgia. Nonetheless, he immediately executed the region's preparedness procedure, "Plan White," and within hours his troops were guarding key facilities in the state. He realized, however, more important responsibilities were about to come to him.xiv Bradley was recognized as a top trainer of infantrymen. As such, he 48 SPRING 2008

was put in charge of two of the army's most elite units, the 28th and 82nd Infantry Divisions. As in World War I, he became concerned he would never see combat. However, on February 12, 1943, his 50th birthday, he received the following telegram: "It is only fitting that your birthday should precede by only a few days your transfer to command a corps, which comes as a longdelayed acknowledgement of your splendid record with the 28th division.

Congratulations and best wishes –George Marshallxv" It was the birthday present he had been hoping for.

A week later, the allied forces suffered one of their worst setbacks in the war. Three hundred Americans died, 3,000 were wounded and 3,000 were missing or captured at the battle of Kasserine Pass in Tunisia. It was Eisenhower's second defeat in rapid succession. Bradley's job was to be "Eisenhower's eyes and ears" and to help him turn things around.

He did just that. Under his direction, Bradley's II Corps learned "to crawl, to walk and then run." By mid-May, 1943, thanks in no small part to Omar Bradley, the allied forces had won the North African campaign.

Two generals under Eisenhower – Bradley and George Patton – were recognized as the dominant battlefield commanders of the North African fighting and of the march into Italy. Patton was at least Bradley's equal as a battlefield strategist and tactician, but he was a human relations catastrophe.

Bradley, on the other hand, understood and related to the everyday foot soldier. The troops responded to this understanding and turned their respect for Bradley into victories.

Considered the soldier's general,xvi they affectionately called him "Brad."xvii Because of his leadership abilities, both Marshall and Eisenhower wanted Bradley, not Patton, to be the

Brad The Soldier's General

general in charge of preparing the troops for the invasion of France.

First, they had to convince President Franklin Roosevelt that Bradley was the man for the job. After that uncomfortable meeting with Bradley in September, 1943, Roosevelt, was indeed unconvinced. Marshall and Eisenhower stood their ground.

Operation Overlord had its commander – Omar Bradley.

Marshall and Eisenhower were right. On June 6, 1944, Bradley led the American forces onto Omaha Beach. In a day of important decisions, only one decision was critical – whether or not to press on or pull back in the face of the German conflagration. After careful consideration, Bradley felt the troops he had trained were resolute and determined enough to gain a foothold on the beach. It didn't come easy, but DDay was a success. Less than a month later, the American forces were well-established in North France and Operation Overlord became Operation Cobra, also under Bradley's command.

Inspired by some of the military tactics he had learned years ago by studying generals like William T. Sherman, Bradley led his forces out of Normandy and, slowly, eventually, to a victory in Europe.

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As WWII drew to a close, Bradley requested a transfer to the Pacific, but the war ended before new president Harry S. Truman could comply. Instead, Truman appointed Bradley Administrator of the Veterans Administration.

Bradley was reluctant to accept, but the dutiful general took the position and spent the next three years modernizing the bureaucracy there. From the Veterans Administration he became Army Chief of Staff and, in 1949, the first Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Then, on September 22, 1950, congress appointed him General of the Army, making him one of only nine men to hold the fivestar rank in US history.xviii To date, he is the last to do so.

In this capacity, Bradley supported President Truman when the he relieved Douglas MacArthur of his command in North Korea. MacArthur had pushed for all out war, which many thought would develop into a war with Red China. Bradley cautioned against this in congressional testimony with one of his most famous quotes, "Red China is not the powerful nation seeking to dominate the world.

Frankly, in the opinion of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, this strategy would involve us in the wrong war, at the wrong place, at the wrong time, and with the wrong enemy."xix Having already completed the first volume of his memoirs in 1951, Bradley retired from military life in 1953. The next year, he became chairman of the Bulova Corporation's research and development laboratories and then, five years later, he became chairman of the entire company. He held this position until retiring in 1973 at the age of 80.

Robert G. Swanson presents Omar N. Bradley his 50-year service award during a 1974 Ceremony in Bradley's honor.

In 1965, Mary died of virulent leukemia. The following year, while on business for Bulova, he met Esther Dora "Kitty" Buhler. They were married in September. Together he and Kitty established the Omar N. Bradley Library at West Point in 1974, as well as the Omar N. Bradley Foundation.

Omar Bradley was a "true and faithful brother among us." Over the years, he remained in communication with his Lodge. On October 22, 1965, he was coroneted a 33rd

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The Soldier Without A Smile Bradley's reserved personality followed him his entire life. Not only did it influence Franklin Roosevelt's first impression of him, but others also found him to be withdrawn. He wrote of being a loner in high school and mentioned in his autobiography that even though he had Eisenhower's confidence, he knew Ike thought he had a dull personality. While the makeup of a person's personality is a complex issue, Bradley wrote of connected incidents in his life, which even he thought had a bearing on how people perceived him.

Always the athlete, Bradley was an excellent ice skater and enjoyed skating on the lake in Forest Park in Moberly. Late one night in 1909, seventeen-year-old Bradley was skating in relative darkness. The limited visibility turned out to be catastrophic. Bradley collided with another skater whose head slammed directly into Bradley's face at high speed. The accident was, in Bradley's words, "bone smashing." It knocked virtually every one of his teeth loose, caused severe, lifelong gum damage and turned Bradley's teeth into a jumbled mess.

Bradley's family had no money for a dentist. As a result he lived with the aftermath of the injury for the remainder of his life, suffering numerous abscesses and gum infections.

During the year he spent at Fort Leavenworth, the problems with his mouth became particularly severe.

With all due respect to the armed forces, the army of that day was not exactly known for its world-class dental care. The army promptly pulled every one of Bradley's teeth and provided him with a set of dentures, which must certainly have been a step or two better than Brother George Washington's famous but fictional wooden teeth.

As a result of the skating injury and becoming toothless at the young age of 35, Bradley rarely smiled. About the best he could manage was a tight, pursed-lip grin, a fact which is borne out in photographs throughout his life. The story of Omar Bradley's life reveals a serious, career-driven, no-nonsense soldier and people certainly perceived him as such. However, extreme perceptions that he was withdrawn and diffident may be due to his skating accident as a youth.

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Degree, Inspector General Honorary and Honorary Member of the Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite, Southern Jurisdiction. In 1974, he traveled back to West Point where his Lodge presented him his 50-year award and certificate. The then-current master of the Lodge, Robert G. Swanson, presented his certificate. WB Fred Hittinger, who had been Master of the Lodge when Bradley joined, signed his petition and raised him, presented his pin. The Lodge records document the ceremony as follows: "Bro. Bradley stated that he was proud and honored to be associated with Masonry and that he always tried to live according to its teachings.

After the presentations concluded, Bro. Bradley took the time from his busy schedule to spend a few minutes reminiscing with some of the Lodge's more senior members about their baseball playing days, after which the General had to leave to return to California where he presently resides."

Bradley received countless awards and honors in his life. On April 8, 1981 the eighty-eight year-old soldier traveled to New York to accept the prestigious Gold Medal Award from the National Institute of Social Sciences. Only minutes after accepting the award, a blood clot in his brain took his life while Kitty and dozens of guests watched helplessly.xx Bradley's body was flown back to Washington, DC on Air Force One. He was buried with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery, next to Mary. Kitty, who died in 2004, is buried there as well.

The most recognized of all his achievements is his victorious leadership on the beach at Normandy. However, many historians believe his support of Truman and strong advice against a full-scale war in Korea to be of even greater significance, as it was a major factor in the United States' avoiding a direct conflict with Red China. He may have failed to impress Roosevelt when he met with him in 1941, but his accomplishments speak for themselves.

i Bradley, Omar Nelson and Blair, Clay, A General's Life, Simon and Schuster, 1983, p. 211. ii Elizabeth Bradley Dorsey, Bradley's daughter, America's 5-Star Heroes, ©1998, A&E Television Networks iii Bradley, Omar Nelson and Blair, Clay, A General's Life, Simon and Schuster, 1983, p. 17 - 18. iv http://history.sandiego.edu/GEN/WW2Timeline/bradley3.html v http://www.arlingtoncemetery.net/omarnels.htm vi http://www.kkpnyc.com/westpoint/westpoint_history.html; http://www.army.mil/cmh-pg/brochures/Bradley/Bradley.htm vii In 1918, the Bradleys had a stillborn boy (http://www.rootsweb.com/~morandol/brad.htm) viii Petition for Initiation, Omar Nelson Bradley, September 20, 1923, courtesy West Point Lodge #877, Highland Falls, NY. For the record, Bradley was initiated October 18, 1923 and passed November 1, 1923. His investigating committee consisted of Brothers Robert Donaldson, H. Koehler and Richard M. Levy. Petition and other referenced Lodge materials were provided through the considerable effort of RWB Irving Breitbart, Secretary, West Point Lodge #877. ix http://www.army.mil/cmh-pg/brochures/Bradley/Bradley.htm x Bradley, Omar Nelson and Blair, Clay, A General's Life, Simon and Schuster, 1983, p. 59. xi Stephenson, James H., President, Omar Bradley Memorial Class of the Scottish Rite, 1983, personal correspondence to West Point Lodge #877, February 5, 1983. xii Bradley, Omar Nelson and Blair, Clay, A General's Life, Simon and Schuster, 1983, p. 62. xiii Bradley, Omar Nelson, A Soldier's Story, Henry Holt and Company, 1951, p. 20. xiv Bradley, Omar Nelson and Blair, Clay, A General's Life, Simon and Schuster, 1983, p. 102 – 103. xv Bradley, Omar Nelson and Blair, Clay, A General's Life, Simon and Schuster, 1983, p. 142. xvi By some accounts, he was called "the GI General." xvii America's 5-Star Heroes, ©1998, A&E Television Networks xviii Brother Douglas MacArthur, General of the Army; Dwight D. "Ike" Eisenhower, General of the Army; Brother George C. Marshall, General of the Army; Chester Nimitz, Fleet Admiral; William "Bull" Halsey, Jr., Fleet Admiral; Brother Omar N. Bradley, General of the Army; Brother Henry H. "Hap" Arnold, General of the Air Force; William D. Leahy, Fleet Admiral; Brother Ernest J. King, Fleet Admiral; Brother John J. "Blackjack" Pershing and Brother George Washington held the rank of General of the Armies of the United States (Washington posthumously), which some consider to be higher than the five-star rank. xix Testimony before the Senate Committees on Armed Services and Foreign Relations, May 15, 1951. Military Situation in the Far East, hearings, 82d Congress, 1st session, part 2, p. 732 (1951). Years later, President John F. Kennedy used this same quote to characterize the Vietnam War, and several, including presidential candidate John Kerry have used it to describe the Iraq War. xx Bradley, Omar Nelson and Blair, Clay, A General's Life, Simon and Schuster, 1983, p. 670.

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Everyday Heroes: Happy New Year! I’ve reached the halfway point of my “Grand” Term and I’m learning SO MUCH! Here’s just one example…

I learned at Grand Lodge a sure way to get everyone’s attention (whether they are awake or not): Lower the microphone down to your height. For those that are attentive, they jump out of their seat because of the noise AND for those who may be dozing…well, let’s just say they are sure to wake up! Sorry, guys!

Let’s see – how about some updates? In July we had our Grand Officers’ and Mother Advisor retreat in Rolla, Missouri. We played get-to-know-you games, participated in a membership presentation, and heard some of Supreme Assembly’s future plans. There was a jewelry show and great food. We were reminded to be wise: personally and on the Internet – good to refer to often!

And then, we were back on the road for the Masonic Youth Day in Columbia, Missouri. Hot doesn’t even begin to describe the weather – but I think everyone enjoyed themselves anyway! Thanks guys!

I reported last time on my first visit to Columbia and now I’ve had my reception in St. Louis and a visit to Republic. Even with the price of gas, attendance is outstanding – thanks to the Masons who gladly step forward to help with chairs, tables, running errands and more! The ladies hostessing these events have gone “beyond the call” to make certain everyone has a fantastic time. YOU should come to one and see for yourself how well everything goes! Check our up-to-date calendar at www.moiorg.org!! You won’t regret being a “new” face at anything we do!

Every issue of our newsletter, “Sharing Rainbow Treasures,” is FULL of information – especially Assembly activities. In addition to reports about Grand Assembly, July’s Installations, the retreat and GWA visits, here are a few Assembly’s events: Wentzville Assembly is home to this year’s Missouri DeMolay State Sweetheart – Chelsea Thomason.

Wentzville helps with MOCHIP events and has more on its calendar. At the Moolah Shrine Youth Ball in September Kristin Thomason was crowned Moolah Queen – yes, that’s Chelsea’s sister! “Make a Wish Foundation” is their service project. Harrisonville’s new Worthy Advisor has Elvis as her “symbol” with her theme: “Rainbow Rocks.” They are trying to bring awareness to the need for organ donations! They’ve scooped ice cream with Service Assembly at the annual Santa-Cali-Gon

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Days and held a “Rainbow Rush” membership event.

Lee’s Summit Assembly has welcomed new members and had a very special new friend visit – Christina Vidrich, a Rainbow Girl in Brazil. She came to a September meeting with information AND an accent described as “simply delightful.”

North Kansas City Assembly had a Founder’s Day Picnic, attended a T-Bones game and wandered around the Liberty Corn Maze. NKC is always on the go…It has new members and is making plans to support Synergy House. In addition to scooping ice cream, Service Assembly serves Lodge dinners and has a Worthy Advisor in college! She's ON THE ROAD to fulfill her obligation. It also has new members! St. Joseph-Harmony Assembly still chugs along. It has adopted a foster family (in keeping with the State Dean and my State Service Project) and had a movie night. The members helped with a MOCHIP event and held an “Open House” for membership–there was even a Sponsoring Orders Honor Night recently – are you near there? Did you go?

Mexico has a new Mother Advisor and had a very successful rummage sale. It's members rode a float in the town’s annual Soybean Festival. Have you seen people at four-way stops collecting money? Well, Mexico tried this and raised $200 for the State Service project.

Cool! Its members have many ideas for Christmas fun and have several raffles going on. Liberty has Pledges and Sparkles running rampant and Rainbow Girls serving ALL OVER! At Grand Assembly, they were proud to have Amanda Ogan selected as the recipient of the Grand Master’s Youth Award AND their Assembly chosen as Missouri’s Assembly of the Year! Congrats to all!

They sent a squad of girls to Supreme Assembly’s retreat to help play BUNKO and have attended many (FIVE?!)

MOCHIP events already. They helped in the kid’s area for the Race for a Cure and helped with kids’ crafts at the Down’s Buddy Walk. Also, they marched in the local Fall Festival Parade passing out 350 Rainbow flyers!

Pulaski County participated in its local Relay for Life raising $2,000. The members also raised money to buy a relay radio for the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Department! They trick-or-treated for UNICEF and painted pumpkins for the Life Care Center in Waynesville. Like many Assemblies, they do a great Bible Ceremony when asked! Republic Assembly also was in its local Relay for Life. Its members had a Taco Stand at their local fall festival and did a Tiny Tots contest there. They wore out their Mother Advisor at their annual cookout and sleepover at her house! Lamar Assembly is home of Melissa

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Felkner, the State Dean, and she is on the road trying to keep up with me! Lamar attended the retreat and GWA visits while staying active with local Masonic and Eastern Star activities. Ashland Assembly celebrated Founder’s Day with a picnic, rode in a convertible in the Rodeo Parade and donated new school supplies to the local Foster Care facility. Its Advisory Board fixed the girls a mystery Halloween dinner! Oh my! St. Charles Assembly sold soda at the Festival of Little Hills and had a pumpkin party.

Marlborough Assembly in Grandview continues to plan and hold Rainbow Roundup membership events – another comes this Spring. Its members have initiated four girls and had a slumber party with midnight swimming. Pledges and Sparkles are invited often to events.

They participated in a local scarecrow contest for the fifth year and, for the first time, trick-or-treated for the Grandview Assistance Program collecting nearly 80 canned and non-perishable items. Springfield Assembly could be nicknamed “Pledges on the Grow” because little girls are

everywhere. They have tremendous family support and can’t wait to be Rainbow Girls. They made bracelets for the kids at Cox South Hospital and made Thank You plus Christmas Cards for military troops. They made containers to collect pop tabs for Ronald McDonald House and are collecting newspapers for the Humane Society.

Whew! And not every Assembly has reported in recently!

Zero or Hero? There are plenty of heroes making certain things keep happening at Missouri’s Rainbow Assemblies…and ensuring service gets to those who need it.

You know don’t you?: Zeros hide behind taking action while Heroes take responsibility for making certain action gets taken!

Happy 2008! Remember: Hero status is waiting for YOU…if you only show love and compassion to a child!

Niki Lodholz, Grand Worthy Advisor State of Missouri International Order of Rainbow for Girls

from page 40 What does it cost to become a member?

There is no initiation fee. The fee to join as a member in the Missouri Lodge of Research is $15.00. ($20 for international members) This fee is the same for the yearly dues. If you desire to become a lifetime member the price is $300.00. Membership in the Lodge of Research requires you to receive the annual book published by the Lodge along with any other membership publications.

What are these funds used for?

They are used for administrative costs, the printing of Masonic Literature, printing of the membership books and funding approved grants to Masonic Researchers. You may apply for these grants through the Secretary’s Office located at 6033 Masonic Drive, Ste. B, Columbia, MO 65202-6535 or e-mail your request for information at rmiller@momason.org.

There are no salaries given, however, the Secretary/Treasurer is voted an honorarium. Every penny of our funds is used for Masonic purposes and the enlightenment of the members.

How often does the Lodge of Research Meet?

The Missouri Lodge of Research meets two times a year. The first meeting is during the York Rite Session in May. The regular yearly meeting and installation is held during the Annual Session of the Masonic Grand Lodge of Missouri. Otherwise, the Lodge is subject to the call of the Master and may meet at any place within the State of Missouri.

What does a member receive for his dues?

The Missouri Lodge of Research publishes at least one 52 SPRING 2008

bound volume of research annually. Among its most outstanding volumes are Freemasonry and the American Indian, The Masonic Essays of H.L. Haywood, AntiMasonry, House Divided, the four volumes of 10,000 Famous Freemasons, Freemasonry in the American Courts, The Masonic World of Ray V. Denslow, and Did You Know?

How may I acquire membership in the Missouri Lodge of Research?

Send in an application, which is provided for you, or send your name, Masonic Lodge membership and full address to: Ronald D. Miller, Lodge of Research Sec/Treas., 6033 Masonic Dr., Suite B. Columbia, MO 65202.

You can request an application or more information by calling the Grand Lodge office at 573-474-8561.

How may I apply for a research grant from the Missouri Lodge of Research?

Write a letter of intent to the Secretary, giving an outline of your intended research topic and the amount of funds that you seek. Accompany this with a letter from your Lodge supporting your request. Grant requests may be submitted at any time. They are considered for approval just prior to the Annual Meeting and the results are announced at that time.

Are past publications of Missouri Lodge of Research still available?

Yes, although not all of them. You can contact the Lodge of Research Secretary and request to purchase a past publication. Availability and prices of the books will vary.

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A DREAM BECOMES REALITY

By Douglas Reece, Chair Library and Museum Committee A very wise man once said, “Whatever the mind of man can conceive and believe; he can achieve.”

That wise philosopher was Napoleon Hill. He concluded his lecture to several sales people by saying that all great accomplishments started with a single idea in someone’s mind.

A museum is a collection of great accomplishments by men and women, which are the result of an idea which was acted upon. Regardless of whether those results are inventions, philosophies, career accomplishments, etc; the execution of action upon those ideas has impacted the way we conduct our everyday activities. A Masonic museum is no different. It is a collection of great accomplishments by men and women who acted upon their ideas for a cause under the umbrella of Freemasonry in Missouri. Their actions upon their ideas have resulted in the Masonic Home of Missouri, in great leadership roles such as Harry Truman and General Omar Bradley, in founding and promoting Appendant bodies such as Laura Ingles Wilder’s efforts with the Order of the Eastern Star, and the list goes on. Our Masonic Library and Museum has endeavored to capture those ideals which, through history, have influenced the basics of Freemasonry in Missouri through the theme of the Museum “Reflected Values: Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth.”

Several years ago a brother of this grand jurisdiction planted a seed in the form of a substantial donation to begin a museum. Several Grand Masters nourished and watered that seed through resolutions and proposing by-law changes and the legislation necessary for that seed to grow. Like any good Masonic building, the foundation had to be laid straight and

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true before the building could be erected on top of the foundation.

Three years ago that foundation was finished and having the proper cornerstone in place the structure began to take shape. Policies were written and by-laws amended to allow the structure to frame the original idea.

In the movie National Treasure, Ben asks Riley what you have just short of fanaticism. His answer was passion. The committee was blessed in finding a curator with the type of passion we desired and needed; hence we welcomed Cindee Herrick to the staff, not only as the curator but as the project manager as well.

Cindee’s passion for the museum provided the necessary reinforcement the structure needed in order to meet the standards the brethren deserved and desired.

The largest and most difficult decision the committee had to make was what type of museum was needed. The discussion was enlightening to say the least. The criteria of what type centered around the fact that the content had to have enough public appeal to allow students of all ages to come and visit the museum, display enough of the historical teachings of the fraternity while showing the history of the Grand Lodge and the Masonic Home, and create enough internal desire that when a non-Masonic visitor left he might be left with just enough desire to join our order.

Since we needed some serious help, the committee reached a decision; and with the consent of the Masonic Home Board we hired PGAV, a museum design firm located in St. Louis. Its credentials outshined the other firms considered, and it didn’t hurt that some of the staff had some Masonic knowledge through rela-

tives. At least the project manager was already familiar with the tenets of the fraternity and we did not need to spend extra time in education. In order to take a single idea to fruition; design concepts have to be reviewed, cost estimates, allowing for future growth and a host of other items had to be considered. Through PGAV’s insightful revelations, the museum transformed from solely theme based into a combination of themes supported by artifacts. This allows the future leaders enough leeway to display different artifacts from time to time and to do theme based displays as needs arise.

To realize the fulfillment of any dream you need a solid foundation from which to build. Having now just laid that foundation in the form of a curator and a design firm, the process of developing the steps to reality needed to be defined. Questions like who was most influential and famous in our history? What milestones, buildings, and other items helped define Freemasonry in Missouri? Who were the leaders and who started the donations that resulted in the Masonic Home? How did the individual Lodges help?

What part did the Appendant bodies play in developing the Masonic Home and the Grand Lodge? To answer these questions a large pot of coffee and a 12 pack of diet soda were needed.

At this point in the development, past leaders of the Grand Lodge and other influential individuals left the definition of the museum dream to the committee. Thus it became our quest to define the dream clearly enough and with the help of the design firm, to allow a design to begin to take shape. Speaking of shape, personal dreams have a shape.

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They consist of a car, home, other material goods, a promotion at work, and so on. Have you ever tried to come up with the shape of a museum? The committee ran out of diet soda before we finally said, “This is what we want.”

Oh Boy, now what do we put in the museum? The layout design we chose tended to automatically give us defined areas in which to work. We knew that the entry way and the rotunda had to introduce the Grand Lodge and the Masonic Home history.

We find in life that once a dream is clearly defined the “how” and other details will always present themselves. The paths which lead to the dream's fulfillment become clearer and through that process the dream’s details become more refined. Using the tenants of Masonry became our number one priority in selecting content for the museum. It was decided through much discussion and coffee, that the tenants, Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth should be reflected and become the theme of the museum. Now we have a clearly defined path; Reflected Values … Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. “Why these?” you ask. “They are the core beliefs of every Freemason.”

PGAV (the design firm), through its due diligence and design of the museum pointed out that we are reflecting the values in seven different sections. These areas are the “swoop” or front entry wall of the museum, the “portal” or entry way into the museum sections and the following five sections; Pioneers and Pathmakers, Living Well, Generosity, Leadership, and Everyman. Now comes the task of giving substance to our structure and through Cindee’s efforts we uncovered a host of information to include in each section.

In the Pioneers and Pathmakers section we found William Clark’s apron.

In the Living Well section, which centers on the Masonic Home and the life of the residents of the home, we find the influence of Laura Ingalls Wilder. We gave the recognition due the Knights Templar and the Order of the Eastern Star in the section entitled Generosity, along with other notables. Leadership was a tough one to define.

There were so many to choose from. Harry Truman was oblivious, but we believe you will find this section of extreme enlightenment.

In our efforts to make sure every Lodge has an opportunity to contribute and display its history as it relates to the history of Masonry in Missouri, we designed the Everyman section to accommodate this. Pride of the West 54 SPRING 2008

Lodge in St. Louis and Temple Gate Lodge in Kansas City are the first two Lodges to be allowed to display items in the museum. There are other cases filled with items from other Lodges as well. The policy for which Lodge, what artifacts are to be displayed, and how often are still being revised and rewritten. Please wait a time with patience; your Lodge’s turn will come.

As in every dream, minimum expectations are made as to what that dream will be. In the case of the Museum we believe we have exceeded what the original concept was. When the committee was formed five years ago, we all took a trip one weekend to the Grand Lodge of Iowa’s museum and received a personal guided tour. Its guidance helped form the initial concept of what shape our dream should take.

As you read this, you will find that the Museum has already opened. We of the committee would like to publicly thank the Grand Lodge of Iowa for its support, the Grand Lodge of Missouri and all of the Grand Masters of Missouri who through out their term of office gave us the freedom and guidance to pursue the completion of the dream, the Masonic Home Board, without whose support and belief the physical portion of the dream would not have taken shape this early, and above all to every brother in this Grand Lodge and every sister in the Order of the Eastern Star for your devotion to the ideals of the fraternity and the support you gave because A Dream can Become Real.

RWB Doug Reece is Past Master of both Temperance Lodge #438 and Adelphi Lodge #355. He is Past District Deputy Grand Master of the 17th Masonic District, and serves as chairman of the Masonic Home Library and Museum Committee. Doug is a member of the Missouri Lodge of Research, Secretary and Masonic Home Representative of Temperance Lodge #438, has a dual membership with Agency Lodge #10, and Weston Lodge #53. He has been awarded the Honor Lodge Achievement award each year as Master of Temperance Lodge and the Truman Honor Lodge Award as Master of Adelphi Lodge. He has attained all of the Ritual proficiency cards and the Individual Ritual Award and was appointed District Deputy Grand Lecturer in the 7th Masonic District.

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BRINGING LAURA INGALLS WILDER TO COLUMBIA

By Cindee Herrick Special Project Curator Museum exhibits often begin as casual conversations.

People brainstorm, tossing out ideas for objects to put on display or offering suggestions for what they find interesting or what they think others would find interesting. Reflected Values followed this pattern. The Library and Museum Committee wanted to highlight many, many topics, themes and objects. One theme was people.

Masons, particularly Missouri Masons who made a difference in Missouri and in the Nation, kept surfacing as noteworthy.

Early in the discussions surrounding the new exhibit opening at the Missouri Masonic Library and Museum on Saturday, February 23, 2008, emerged this idea of bringing forth people who exemplify the best in humanity. To that end, lists were drawn up and from those lists, too few people were selected. The Library and Museum Committee knew that it had the difficult task of selecting a handful of individuals from the many potential candidates. One person who emerged consistently was Eastern Star sister Laura Ingalls Wilder.

Laura Ingalls Wilder was one of 25 Charter members of Mansfield Chapter No. 76. Mansfield Chapter No. 76 was Instituted and Constituted on May 15, 1897. These Mansfield women were pathmakers in Missouri Eastern Star. Of chapters in the FortySixth District, only Mountain Grove Chapter No. 29 is older. Mary S. Chapter No. 129 in Houston is two years younger and Hartville Chapter No. 164 is three years younger, having been founded in 1900. The Grand Chapter of the Eastern Star itself organized in Missouri in 1875. Laura served as Esther that first year. She then served in many capacities, including as Worthy Matron, as Secretary, and as District Deputy Grand Lecturer.

Laura came to Masonry through THE MISSOURI FREEMASON

her father. He was a Mason in De Smet, South Dakota, where the family finally settled. Laura Elizabeth, her parents and one of her sisters were members. Since Mansfield organized its own chapter two years after Laura and her husband Almanzo Wilder moved to Mansfield, it is likely that she helped found the chapter. She also brought her husband to Masonry, encouraging him to become a Master Mason in 1902. His card in the vaults of the Grand Lodge of Missouri shows that he served as Tiler for his lodge.

His health, and his less outgoing nature, perhaps prevented him from accepting a greater variety of responsibilities in his lodge. He retained his active status until his death in 1949.

Laura Ingalls Wilder is best known for her popular children’s books the Little House on the Prairie series. She began writing the fictionalized version of her childhood on the frontier in 1932. Over the next eleven years, she completed the series,

describing daily life for a young girl in a mid-western pioneer family of the 1870s and 1880s. Wilder was a natural writer, making a living writing and editing for a diversity of newspapers and magazines. She was also a proficient and efficient organizer, helping found community services as different as the local library and the local farm loan association. Wilder’s work clearly shows a woman who believed that one should work to better one’s own community, by joining with others to

create organizations of lasting value.

Wilder’s Mansfield Home graciously lent the Missouri Masonic Library and Museum a few precious items from Wilder’s personal wardrobe. Going on display will be handkerchiefs she embroidered and a pair of stylish gloves she wore. The Wilder Home itself is open to all who make the drive to Mansfield, east of Springfield. Almanzo Wilder built the house, just the way he built the house that she describes in her Little House books. And just as in the Little House books, this house is made with lower counters and cabinets in the kitchen and other features that reflect her and Almanzo’s slighter statures. The Wilder Home is open from March through mid-November. Mansfield is on Hwy. 60 east of Springfield and south of Lebanon. Both the home and the barn still stand.

Sources: Centennial Book 1875-1975 Grand Chapter of Missouri Order of the Eastern Star Lecture given by Judy Cantrell to the Mansfield Chapter No. 76 Web site for the Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum at www.lauraingallswilderhome.com Cindee Herrick brings 20 years experience to her role as facilitator for the development of the Masonic Library and Museum. She received her training in history at Reed College and Portland State University and her museum training at the Oregon Historical Society and San Francisco State University. Cindee specializes in working with small history museums and historical societies, developing collections policies, collections storage systems, exhibitions and education programs. Prior to moving to Missouri with her husband, Frank, she turned around the U.S. Coast Guard Museum, in New London, Connecticut. She enjoys the challenge of helping guide a nearly two hundred year old institution as builds and maintains a museum and library.

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Bro. Ernest Roedel of Deepwater, Missouri, received his 50-Year Grand Lodge of Missouri Membership Certificate and Jewel from family friend Mrs. Arlen Baker representing Fayette-Howard Lodge #4, Fayette, at his home in December.

On Saturday, 10/20, Lawrence Cripps of Osage Lodge #303 presented Vernon Duncan (left) his 50-Year Masonic Lodge Membership Certificate. Howard Butler (Right) presented his commemorative pin. The Grand Lodge of Missouri bestows this honor on all 50-year members.

Long time Brother J. B. Garrett of Boonville received his 50-year Veteran Member Jewel, Certificate and Membership card from Centralia Council No. 34, Royal and Select Masters, Cryptic Masons of the State of Missouri. Making the presentation on behalf of Centralia Council was Brother Robert H. Bray of Fayette. Bray is a Past Master of the Grand Council of Cryptic Masons and Past Illustrious Master of Centralia Council. J. B. is a 50-year member of Cooper Lodge #36, AF & AM and served his Lodge as Worshipful Master in 1963.

Photo (L to R): J.B. Garrett, Robert Bray.

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On Dec 18 several members of Kirksville Lodge #105 met to present Brother Boyd Brown with his 60-year membership pin. Brother Brown is our second oldest living member.

Pictured L to R are David Powell, lodge secretary, Jim Conner, Brother Brown, Marion Rehn, lodge chaplain, and standing, Dale West, lodge treasurer.

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On August 4, 2007, Donald Zahnter presented Ross Jakeway his 50-year pin and certificate from the Grand Lodge of Missouri. Brother Jakeway was also celebrating his 90th birthday that evening. Pictured (l to r): WB Donald Zahnter, Freddy Thomas, Daniel Price, WB James Gross, WB Marvin Williamson. Brother Jakeway is seated.

At its Monthly Dinner on December 20, 2007, Samaritan Lodge 424, Bonne Terre, made a 50-year Grand Lodge Pin and Certificate presentation to Brother Robert L. Gawf, who with His Wife (Marry) accepted the Honor accorded Him. Pictured (l to r) Mrs. Gawf, Brother Gawf and RWB. Dale Newcomer, with the framed Certificate, and many Brethren and Friends in attendance enjoying the occasion.

Edina Lodge #291 Presented Delbert Rourke and Don Woodward with their 50-year pins and Certificates from the Grand Lodge of Missouri on November 1, 2007.

Pictured (l to r): Neva Rourke, Delbert Rourke, Phyllis Woodward and Don Woodward.

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Bonhomme Lodge #45 presented Brother Jim Hastings with his 50-year pin and certificate from the Grand Lodge of Missouri at its stated communication on May 15, 2007.

Pictured (l to r): WB Jim Hastings, his wife Gwen, WB Mike Apple and WB Don Dahlem.

On Monday evening, October 15, 2007, Elvins Ionic's member Denny A. Smith was presented his 50-year certificate and pin from the Grand Lodge of Missouri. Worshipful Brother Garry L. Dalton, acting as District Deputy Grand Master, 38th Masonic District of Missouri, made the presentation.

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Wallace Lodge #456 of Bunceton on October 24,2007, celebrated four milestones. Aubrey Scholtzhauer for 50 years, Keith Bail for 25 years, Albert Eichhorn for 60 years, and Glen Eichhorn for 60 years of being Freemasons. The lodge also celebrated 135 yrs. RWB Jim Wade presented Aubrey Scholtzhauer his 50-year pin, which his daughter pinned on him. RWB Robert Gander presented Aubrey his 50-year plaque. Worshipful Master Logan Pfeiffer of Wallace Lodge presented Keith Bail his 25-year pin and 60-year plaques to Albert and Glen Eichhorn.

Many members, family and friends from the 22nd district were present. DDGM Robert Gardner is shown presenting Aubrey Scholtzhauer his 50-year plaque as Glen Eichhorn, Albert Eichhorn and Keith Bail look on.

from back cover Britain by Lewis Masonic, 2007), thoroughly demolishes the preposterous claims made in modern, popular books based on assumptions, guesses, misinterpretations, and imagination. In the picturesque words of Christopher Hodapp, author of Freemasons for Dummies and Solomon’s Builders (2007), Cooper “slaughters an entire herd of sacred cattle with his investigation of the many claims of Templar involvement in Freemasonry’s formation and the building of Rosslyn.”

Comparing the murdered apprentice and Masonic legends, Cooper states that they appear to be similar on the surface, but are in fact quite different in content and purpose.

“The legend at Rosslyn Chapel cannot be taken to be Masonic in any way, not least because it is directly opposite to the lesson being imparted in the Third Degree” (p. 174).

He points out that the earliest writers who describe the chapel make no mention of the murdered apprentice. “Of supreme importance is the fact that the carved head of the so-called murdered apprentice was not originally carved as such. The wound on the right forehead was not part of the original carving at all. It was only later, much later, indicated by the use of ochre, chalk and paint….That

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H.O. Grauel Lodge #672 in Cape Girardeau honored Brother Kenneth E. Myles with his 50-year pin at the lodge's regular meeting of April 5, 2007. DDGL E. Otha Wingo (left) is shown making the presentation to brother Myles. Augusta Lodge #141, Augusta, Maine raised Brother Myles in March, 1957. Upon his later relocation to Cape Girardeau, he became affiliated with the H.O Grauel Lodge. He is very active in Moolah Shriners of St. Louis and has served as Illustrious Potentate of that organization in 1992.

means that the legend did not exist at the time the chapel was begun (1446) and only came into being more than 250 years later, that is, sometime after 1700 (p. 177). Further evidence of deliberate tampering is that the original carving depicted an old man with a beard and moustache, which have been “crudely chiseled away.”

One of Cooper’s predecessors in office, D. Murray Lyon (1830-1903) “made a valiant attempt to set the record straight in History of the Lodge of Edinburgh Mary’s Chapel No. 1 (1873). Although his history was based on examination of original documents and he cited sources and individuals with precision,” his conclusions were ignored by writers who popularized the myth. As Cooper himself stated, “No popular author has been to Freemasons’ Hall to read the original documents” (p. 122).

The valuable introductory chapter on how to recognize the way original sources have been misused in popular “Masonic” books is worth the price of the book ($11.45 from amazon.com). Techniques of “proving” fantastic and imaginative theories are clearly explained and illustrated: proving a positive from lack of evidence, apply modern ideas to ancient practices, ignoring opposing views, self-quoting, inter-quoting, and misquoting are a few. This chapter is a concise course in

how to evaluate and use original documents.

In reading early Masonic history it must be remembered, “None of the traditional histories of any of the branches of Freemasonry are, or were, intended to be taken literally.

Our forebears in all the Masonic Orders manufactured ‘pasts’ for allegorical purposes” (p.

307). As I reminded my university students during over fifty years of teaching mythology, myths should be taken seriously, but not literally.

I found the meticulously detailed documentation compelling and worthy of serious consideration. An important contribution Cooper makes is including copies of the actual documents upon which speculative interpretations are based, so that the reader may directly examine sources otherwise difficult to locate.

Rosslyn Chapel was a Christian church, not related in any way to Freemasonry, especially not to the Knights Templar Crusaders and was so considered until modern times.

The myths of Masonic connections with Rosslyn were deliberately fabricated to enhance the reputation of certain persons and organizations.

The author’s conclusion is inevitable:

There is no Masonic symbolism within Rosslyn Chapel!

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Albert Pike Lodge #219 installed its Officers for the coming year on October 23, 2007. Officers for 2007-2008 are as follows: Jimmy R. Douthitt, WM; Charles J. Wentworth, SW; Thomas R. Butts, JW; Bobbie E. White, Treasurer; Teddie E. Harrison, Secretary; Joseph L. Heilig, Chaplain; Ben C. Kenney, MAR; Lance Berry; SD; Donald Powers, JD; Dennis Abernathy, SS; John Cardin, JS; Ted W. Harrison, Tyler.

It pays to welcome visitors to your Lodge. Recently, the son of Brother J. T. McMahon, Jesse T. “Tom” McMahon V, of Alexandria, Va. paid a visit to Cooper Lodge #36 with his father. While he was here for dinner, one of the old refrigerators quit working. Tom has sent a check to help pay for a new one. With help from Brother Todd Snapp, we now have it.

Photo Left to Right: Proud father J. T. McMahon, Master Roy Cary, Tom McMahon.

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Cooper Lodge #36 held its annual installation of Officers and dinner on the evening of September 11 at the Lodge Hall. Master Chef Arlin Baker prepared the meat and the Brothers furnished the side dishes. More than 80 members, family and friends attended the ceremony and dinner. All those present were given the opportunity to tour the newly restored Lodge Hall. Special recognition was given to Tammy Florine for the painting and window repair. Jim Hackman was thanked for providing the special truck with a lift so the second story windows could be painted. A great night of fellowship was had.

Installation picture: 1st row from left: Senior Warden-Mark Bean; Installing Master-A.K.”Iggy” Ingacio; Master-Roy Cary; Chaplain-Jim Painter; Installing Chaplain-Lewis Odneal; 2nd row: Senior Deacon-Marvin Utterback; Marshall-John Cary; Junior Warden-Bill Burnett; Treasurer-Robert Bradshaw; TylerNathan Cary; Installing Marshall & Secretary-Billie Sullivan; 3rd row: Senior Steward-Matt Price; Junior Steward-Rick Zimmerman; Master Chef-Arlin Baker; Junior Deacon-Ted Litton.

CONGRATULATIONS!!! Submitted by Sam Thompson.

The 22nd Masonic District met at Cooper Lodge #36 on October 24, 2007. There were 93 Brothers in attendance to enjoy a great dinner prepared by Arlin Baker and his Lodge helpers. The 22nd Masonic District is comprised of nine Lodges. They are: Centralia Lodge #59, Centralia; Twilight Lodge #114, Columbia; Ashland Lodge #156, Asland; Hallsville Lodge #336, Hallsville; Ancient Landmark Lodge #356, Harrisburg; Acacia Lodge #602, Columbia; Cooper Lodge #36, Boonville; Wallace Lodge #456, Bunceton; Fayette-Howard Lodge #4, Fayette.

Brother Robert Gander passed the gavel to the new officers: President Grant Lawson, Hallsville Lodge #336; 1st Vice-President Daren Clark, Centralia Lodge #59; 2nd Vice-President Roy Cary, Cooper Lodge #36.

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Laclede Lodge #83 & Twilight Lodge opened a joint session for the third degree on Nov. 27th, 2007 at the lodge hall in Lebanon, MO for the purpose of giving a third degree to a man from each lodge. Michael Manley from Laclede Lodge and Tanner Hunt of Twilight Lodge #114 were the members to be raised on this special occasion. Visiting brethren from Twilight Lodge were WM Dean Christy, RWB Jim Wade - Secretary, WB Kenneth Gebhardt, WB Robert Warford, SD Charles Palmer and Tanner Hunt.

From left to right; First row; Michael Manley, Tanner Hunt & David O'Dell; Second row; WB Kenneth Gebhardt, WM Rick Johnston, WB Robert Warford, WM Dean Christy, Jason Arends, Billy Garrett; Third row; WB Sam Mustard, Tom Shamel, RWB C N Unverzagt, Charles Palmer, WB Mike Day, Paul Berry; Fourth row; Dan Knauss, Mike Crisp, RWB Jim Wade, Allen Tubbs; Last row; Terry Ozborne, WB Jim Morgan, Frank Grantham, John Winfrey, WB Wayne Calk, Steve Phelan, Clay Veurink.

Saturday, September 15th found several members of the Swope Park Masonic Temple family working the third CHIPS event sponsored by our Lodge. I am told we are the ONLY Lodge in the state to do three programs this year. As evidenced by the photo (left), we had a huge crowd! Scheduled to run from 10 AM to 3 PM, we worked until 4 PM and processed 175 children between the ages of 6 months up to 14 years old. In addition to Swope Park Lodge #617 members, Swope Park OES Chapter #520, William Kuhn DeMolay, Job’s Daughter Bethel #48 members and even the Wm F Kuhn Royal Arch Mason’s chapter were represented and hard at work. This was our third program this year and the 200th program statewide. Our efforts added 175 children to the 33,194 processed since inception of the Missouri program. Kudos to St. Luke’s Methodist church in South Kansas City for hosting the event.

On behalf of Butler Lodge #254, RWB Alvin O. Griffin, DDGL 32nd District, welcomed RWB Rocky E. Weaver, Deputy Grand Master, to its second degree on October 18, 2007. RWB Weaver told the attendees he enjoyed giving the second degree lecture, and was invited to Butler #254 for that purpose. RWB Weaver was received as a distinguished guest and Butler Lodge members were honored to confer a degree in his presence.

On Nov. 27, 2007 WM Rick Johnston of Laclede Lodge #83 presented Bro. Terry Ozborn with his 25-year lapel pin.

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Wallace Lodge #456 of Bunceton on Oct-20, 2007, had a fundraiser at River Hills Sporting Clay in Boonville. It was called "Shoot for Scholarships." Members and friends shot at clay targets in skeet trap and sporting clay. People and companies pledged money for each trap broken. It was a great success and the money will go to students going to a two-year college or trade school.

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The Labor Day parade in Doniphan united members of Composite Lodge #369, Naylor Lodge #568, Grandin Lodge #579 and Poplar Bluff Lodge #209 in a winning effort. Worshipful Master Gary Greenlee of Composite Lodge displays the blue ribbon for fraternal organizations.

At its regular meeting on November 13, 2007, the Liberty Masonic Building board presented monetary donations to three charitable organizations. Marvin Scott, building board president is shown with representatives of the groups. Pictured with Scott are Linda Knouse from Freedom house, Marianne Hill from the Liberty Hospital Tree House Foundation, Kyle Sublett from Fidelity Chapter of DeMolay International, Gail Elliott, Lisa Elliott and other representatives of Liberty Rainbow Assembly #31.

Members of the Grand Line of the Grand Lodge of Missouri joined members of several lodges from the St. Joseph area to dedicate the cornerstone of the New Social Security Administration building in St. Joseph.

MWB Bruce R. Austin, Grand Master, officiated at the ceremony which took place on November 4, 2007.

Members of Sedalia Lodge #236 and their guests enjoyed a Family Picnic at Liberty Park in Sedalia Sat. Sept. 15, 2007.

RWB Wayne Hutching, MWB Robert Berger, MWB P. Vincent Kinkaid and RWB Harvey Soule are shown at the annual Lamplight meeting at St. Francois Lodge #234, Libertyville, MO, on August 2, 2007. St. Francois Lodge #234 has met in the same building since 1866, making this the longest consecutive Lodge meeting in the same hall in the state of Missouri.

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Meridian Lodge No.2, of St Louis, followed its tradition of over thirty years of volunteering for Old Newsboys' Day on November 15. Neither rain nor sleet nor cold can keep the men from their corners selling newspapers to benefit children's charities. They collected approximately $900.00 in a little over two hours.

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Cooper Lodge #36 distributed proceeds from its chili dinner fundraiser, which raised $2,740. Those who benefited were the Stein House HDC, four families the Jaycees are helping, Harvest House, Blake Frevert (a third grader with Leukemia), eighteen of our widows and 8 homebound members (who received Christmas baskets). We also gave over twenty dinner tickets to Unlimited Opportunities. Shown (L to R): Brother Mark Bean, Linda Sappington (HDC), Master Roy Cary, Carrie Harrington of the Jaycees, Brother Bill Burnett.

Liberty Lodge #31 conducted its annual flower delivery to Lodge widows just prior to Christmas this year. Given the snowstorm of that week, Lodge brothers performed the additional service of cleaning off many of the widow's driveways.

Pictured: Brother Jerod Crump, Junior Warden, pitches in.

Sedalia Lodge #236 held an open Installation of Officers Mon. Oct. 15, 2007. (L to R) Robert P. Melby, Tyler; David W. Wiedeman, Treasurer; Wilfried C. Koch, SS; Donald 0. Walker, JD; William D. Talley, SW; David E. Miller, WM; Floyd D. Ulmer, SD; Floyd E. Stevenson, JS; James R. Hamilton, Marshall; Robert D. Weikal, Secretary; H.H. Luetjen, Chaplain.

Cooper Lodge #36 Christmas baskets for homebound members and widows were prepared and delivered by Brothers John Cary, Chris Cary, Arlin Baker, and Gary Whitehurse.

(L to R): Brothers John Cary, Chris Cary, Arlin Baker, and Gary Whitehurse.

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Linn Creek Lodge #152 once again has completed its annual Christmas Drive for families in need. Through the generous donations from our Lodge Brothers and the Lake Of The Ozarks area merchants we were able to collect and distribute well over $4,000 in food, cleaning products, personal hygiene products, checks, and gift certificates. This was our sixth annual Christmas Drive and the amount collected has far exceeded previous years. We were able to assist nine families, two had just lost their homes to fire. We also made donations to six local organizations in the Camdenton area who help persons in need. They are Lake Area Helping Hands, Citizens Against Domestic Violence, Camdenton County Child Advocacy Center, Elks Lodge #2517, Lamb House, and The Salvation Army.

Pictured is Bro. Paul Warman, Marshall, loading a vehicle with items for delivery. We are proud to have Bro. Warman as a member of our lodge. This Brother spends several weeks each year canvassing the lake area merchants at his own expense soliciting donations for our drive.

TYRO Lodge #12 AF & AM of Caledonia, MO will host its

31st Annual Coon Dinner Mania with other wild game also baked beans, potato salad, coleslaw, desserts & refreshments. There will be work in the 3rd Degree that night.

RWB Larry Cameron chaired the committee coordinating contributions from Swope Park OES #520, William F. Kuhn DeMolay, Jobs Daughters Bethel #1 and many brothers of Swope Park Lodge #617. Brother Cameron purchased socks, oranges, and bananas with funds collected. Braving the wintry elements Friday evening, volunteers from the youth met at the Lodge and assembled the Christmas sacks. Young Job-Bees Lexi and Madison Parkinton assist Chief Elf Larry along with DeMolay Boys Matt Hoaglan, Dakota Parkinson and Alex Barnes working in the background.

Saturday afternoon, through the snow storm, RWB Larry Cameron, Brother Al Beach, WM Ken Best, Master Councilor Alex Barnes, Senior Deacon Matt Hoaglan and Junior Deacon Dakota Parkinson visited the KC VA Hospital. Santa’s helpers spent all afternoon delivering the gifts and bringing smiles to every veteran they met. What a great day it was - to listen to the many stories the veterans had to tell. Over 155 gift sacks were distributed during the course of the day.

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Food @ 6:00 PM • Lodge @ 7:30 March 15th, 2008 All Master Masons are invited, for more info call 573-779-3426 or 573-734-2822

REGIONAL SCHOOLS OF INSTRUCTION REGION C • RWB MICHAEL ARMSTRONG

April 19, 2008 Appleton City Lodge #412 Appleton City, Missouri, 9:00AM May 31, 2008 Mt. Washington Lodge #614 Independence, Missouri, 9:00AM SPRING 2008 63

yself In Freemas M e v o r p onry To Im THE MURDERED APPRENTICE Dr. E. Otha Wingo, DDGL 38, Fellow of the Missouri Lodge of Research [otha.wingo@gmail.com] The owner was meticulous about the way he wanted the structure built. He was a stickler for detail and insisted that the building conform precisely to his design, for he himself, not an architect, drew the designs for the building he wanted the stonemasons to construct. He was so determined that he even drew the designs upon wooden boards, which he required the builders to carve out exactly the way the designs would be chiseled into stone. After all this was to be a private sanctuary for a special purpose only for himself—to perpetuate his memory—and for his distinguished family.

The master stonemason, who was overseeing the project, knew that the outward purpose was a religious one. As was common in the Middle Ages, the Church had inexorable requirements for every ounce of a person’s life and this authority reached beyond death. In compliance with the Church’s canons, he wanted to assure himself entry into heaven. To accomplish this, the owner was establishing a perpetual place of prayer, with a priest whose only duty was to pray for the salvation of his soul after death, as well as those of his family members. A perpetual endowment was being set up to assure the perpetuity of the prayers. To prevent any interference or cessation, he was having a private chapel constructed on his own property. It was no unusual thing for wealthy persons and eminent families to do, for there were some forty-two such chapels in the immediate vicinity. They were called churches, but to distinguish them from buildings dedicated to general worship, they were called collegiate churches, and to dis-

tinguish them from churches owned by the church hierarchy, they were called “secular collegiate churches,” i.e., privately owned chapels whose unique function was perpetual prayers for the souls of the owner and his families and for family burials. Considering all this, the master stonemason scrupulously constructed the family chapel to the exact specifications of the owner.

The design of one inner column was so intricate and elaborate that the master of the craft despaired of reaching the perfection required by the owner, if he attempted only to follow the pattern that was first drawn then carved in wood. Inquiring about its origin, the householder informed him that it was based on an original that he had seen in his travels. He thought it was in Italy, but wasn’t sure whether it was in Rome or Florence.

The chief mason received permission to travel to Italy to examine the original column, a trip that took two months. On his return, “when he entered the chapel he was astonished to find that the pillar had been completed and was identical to the original.

His astonishment soon turned to anger as he realized that his long journey was a wasted one. He demanded to know who had, in his absence, carved the pillar. A lowly apprentice stepped forward and proudly claimed the work as his. Instead of receiving praise for his beautiful work the master mason, further enraged by the fact that such beauty had been wrought by a mere apprentice, struck a blow to the apprentice’s forehead which killed him instantly” (p. 172).

This is an account of a purportedly real

event that took place in the 15th century at the building of an ordinary chapel that was unusual mostly for the quantity of columns and carvings inside. The chapel itself was never completed.

If this story is reminiscent of a familiar Masonic legend, you will not be surprised to notice that many modern writers have attempted to make direct connections between Freemasonry and this building, known as Rosslyn Chapel, even to the extent of claiming it as a “Masonic chapel.”

A distinguished academic historian, who is also a perspicuous investigator of the sources of Freemasonry’s history, has written a thoroughly documented treatise clarifying and correcting the recent claims concerning Freemasonry and Rosslyn Chapel. This historian is Robert L. D. Cooper, Curator of the Grand Lodge of Scotland Library and Museum, and author of Cracking the Freemason’s Code: The Truth Abut Solomon’s Key and the Brotherhood (2007) and editor of the Grand Lodge of Scotland’s 2002 reprint of The Genealogie of the Sainteclaires of Rosslyn, written by Fr. Richard A. Hay (1661-ca.

1736). The author, a member of Quatuor Coronati Lodge No. 2076 (London), had access to original sources in this Library.

The “murdered apprentice” story was first told in 1761 and was unknown to writers who were thoroughly familiar with the chapel earlier: John Slezer (Theatrum Scotiae, 1693) and Fr. Hay. Bro. Cooper’s book, The Rosslyn Hoax? Viewing Rosslyn Chapel From a New Perspective (published in Great

POSTMASTER: Please send Address Forms 2579 to Grand Secretary, 6033 Masonic Drive, Suite B, Columbia, Missouri 65202-6535.

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