Brethren: I left you in my last article with my wish to discuss issues of concern about our beloved Craft, so I won’t beat around the bush with a lot of rhetoric. Membership. My first concern is with our loss of membership because of suspensions. I have done some demographics on this issue and found that last year we suspended over 800 members because of NPD’s (Nonpayment of Dues). Unfortunately, suspensions in any organization are a part of doing business. Every fraternal organization will have those that decide they don’t want to participate any more. My concern is that we are letting people go when they most need us. I have found that of those 800 suspended members over 300 are age 60 or older. I know that there will be a few of those that just joined us and decided that we didn’t have what they were looking for, but 70 of that 300 are over the age of 70, and 30 are over 80 years of age. The biggest majority of these brethren have several years of membership and my concern is that they are either financially strapped or dependent on others to take care of their every day affairs. Either way it is our duty to seek them out and assist them in every way we can. That is what we are supposed to be about and supposed to do. We have heard it many times in our obligations and lectures but it is up to us to live it. Life is a struggle. It is supposed to be that way. What doesn’t kill us makes us stronger. We learn--we grow--we move on with our lives. We also need to stand together because it makes us even stronger. We can’t afford to leave even one member behind when it is in our power to be the difference in their lives. Most of 38 Spring 2009
us don’t need that kind of assistance now but we may in the future. What assurances do we have of assistance if we don’t live up to our obligations to our brethren now? Hopefully younger men will follow us into the future. We need to live the generational lessons given to us through our obligations as a continuing example for those who follow us in the future. To make that happen we must work together to find those of our brethren that need us. That is my charge to each of us. Get with your Lodge secretary and find out who is missing. Then make every effort to find them and assist them in whatever way we can. Grand Lodge Finances. By now most of you have heard that the Grand Lodge is close to the vest in its financial future. We need to do something to assure that financial future and the only way I know to do that is to come to you and ask for your assistance. I have proposed a $3.50 increase in per capita. That amount will not fix the problem but it will slow it down sufficiently to give us time to pursue some other avenues of income. I have never known a Mason to
turn his back when there was a need if he knew that need was real. I wouldn’t come to you if I, and your Grand Lodge line, didn’t believe that this need is real. This increase will not help me in any way. I will be long gone before any of these funds would be realized. I come to you because you need to know. Your Grand Lodge Officers are making every effort to be good stewards of every penny that you, the Craft, have given us to work with just as you do in your own homes. I come to you personally as a member of that Craft who has a concern for the financial future of the Grand Lodge. Without the glue that makes it all work, the structure of Masonry in Missouri would collapse. I ask you to stand with me and support this proposal in September. At this writing, I have been in office just over three months and your response to the “Brothers Helping Others” program has already outnumbered the reports that were turned in for all of last year. I am presently setting dates to make pin presentations in Lodges all across the State and I look forward to getting a report and setting a date for your Lodge. I can’t say it enough. Thank you for the opportunity and the privilege you have given me to serve you, the Craft, and as always be safe and be well. God Bless each and every one of you. Most Worshipful Brother
Rocky E. Weaver Grand Master of the Grand Lodge AF&AM of Missouri THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
©
Official Publication of the Grand Lodge of Missouri
VOL. 54 NO. 2
SPRING 2009
Published and copyrighted under the direction of the Committee on Masonic Publications
CONTENTS 40
Your Grand Line 2008-2009
44
What Will 57 Cents Build?
46
Three Lodges And 78 Brothers
49
It Is Weird! The Curious Return of Founding Brother Joshua Pilcher
49
Celebrating Freemasonry’s Future - Learning From Freemasonry’s Past
50
Special Event! The Masonic Life of Harry Truman
51
Missouri Rainbow
52
Jobs Daughters
53
Missouri DeMolay
54
Masonic Home
55
Masonic Service Awards
57
The Work of Our Craft
Committee on Masonic Publications Bruce R. Austin, Grand Master Rocky E. Weaver, Deputy Grand Master Larry C. Reynolds, Senior Grand Warden Gail S. Turner, Junior Grand Warden Ronald D. Miller, Grand Secretary E. Otha Wingo, Assistant Editor 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
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FROM THE EDITOR’S KEYBOARD If you read the statistics in the last edition of the Missouri Freemason closely, you learned the magazine’s circulation is roughly 45,000. Out of that, exactly 44,999 readers got back with me to point out the picture Priceless Collector’s Items of Grand Master Rocky Weaver on the cover was backwards. I apologize for this oversight. I personally apologized to Rocky who’s only reaction was, “Well, whatever you did, it didn’t make me look any better.” We very much appreciate Rocky taking it in stride with a sense of humor. So now that I’ve fessed up, I’d like to point something out you’re probably not considering. Remember those stamps with the airplane printed upside down? Known in philatelic circles as the “Inverted Jenny,” one of these stamps recently sold for over a half million dollars. See, you have to think of it like this: our last issue isn’t a mistake... IT’S A COLLECTOR’S ITEM! Certain to be forever known as the “Reversed Rocky,” it’s a cover to save for posterity. Who knows, it might become valuable. And, hey... you don’t have to thank me. Steve Harrison, Editor 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 $12.00 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.orgPhone: 573-474-8561
Spring 2009 39
YOUR GRAND LINE FOR 2008-2009 Most 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 1992-93. He served as President of the Liberty Masonic Temple Board in 1991. He also has endowed memberships in Buckner Lodge #501 Rocky E. Weaver and Kansas City Lodge #220. His many Masonic affiliations include: Liberty Chapter Grand Master 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 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. 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, Valley of Joplin (KCCH), AbouBen-Adhem Shrine, Order Of Eastern Star, National Sojourners # 63 Kansas City, Mo. and Old Glory Camp, Heroes of 76.
Gail S. Turner Senior Grand Warden
40 Spring 2009
Larry C. Reynolds Deputy Grand Master
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.
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YOUR GRAND LINE FOR 2008-2009 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 John W. Hess Charlemagne Chapter of the Knights Masons. John is also the recipient of the Knight Junior Grand Warden 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 MOCHIP, Missouri Child Identification effort. He is also the current President of the National Masonichip Foundation. 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 David L. Ramsey Roth married to Randy Roth, and Timothy Ramsey and one grandson, Jack Roth. Senior Grand Deacon His many Masonic affiliations include: Scottish Rite Valley of St. Joseph, (KCCH), Moila Shrine Temple, High Twelve Club in St. Joseph and the National Sojourners Chapter #63 in Kansas City. 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 John B. Broyles Site and served as its Webmaster from its inception in 1996 to 1999. He is a past Junior Grand Deacon Master of the Missouri Lodge of Research. His many Masonic affiliations include: Caldwell Chapter No. 53, Kirksville 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. THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
Spring 2009 41
YOUR GRAND LINE FOR 2008-2009 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, 33°), 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. Randall M. Berger Senior Grand Steward
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, 33°), 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.
David W. Haywood Junior Grand Steward
RWB Charles Brent Stewart was born in 1960 in Columbia, Missouri. He received a BA degree from the University of Missouri—Columbia in 1983 and graduated from the UMC School of Law in 1987. He served as the Staff Director for the Missouri Public Service Commission and since 1993 has been in private practice specializing in public utilities. He married his wife Kris in 1981 at the Newman Center. He was raised on April 9, 1985 in Twilight Lodge #114, where he served as Master in 1999, and holds dual membership in Acacia Lodge #602 and Fayette-Howard Lodge #4. He received his 32o at the Columbia Valley Scottish Rite in September 1985, was coroneted an Inspector General Honorary 33o in November 2003, and was the Valley’s SGIG. Personal Representative from 20042007. He joined the York Rite bodies in Kirksville, Missouri in October 1988 and serves on the Grand Chapter and Grand Council Jurisprudence Committees. His Charles Brent Stewart other memberships include the Mid-Missouri York Rite College, Marquis de La Fayette Council #392 AMD, Tipperary Council #62 Knight Masons, Royal Order of Scotland, MSRCIF, St. Thomas of Acon, Order of High Priesthood, Past Commanders Association, Scottish Rite Research Society, Missouri Lodge of Research, Moolah Shrine, Allepo Grotto, Tiger Shrine Club, Tall Cedars, Sword of Bunker Hill, Optimists and the Elks.
42 Spring 2009
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Cooper Lodge #36 held it’s second annual Christmas fundraiser at the Lodge, on Nov. 1, 2008, with a Chili Lunch prepared by our Master Chef, Brother Arlin Baker and several helpers. Tickets were sold to the public and it was a great success. We cooked 50 gallons of chili, serving about 600 people and we ran out of chili about 1:30. This was a community effort as all the proceeds are going back to the community to families in need at Christmas time. Last year we raised $3,700; this year we raised $5,200. This year the local HDC office has a list of 50 families in need. The Lodge gave 15 free tickets to 1 the local Unlimited Opportu-
nity Industries, plus tickets to our Fire and Law Enforcement personnel who were working that day. Supplies for the meal were donated by Dave’s Country Mart, Ed Stevens, Roy Cary, Arlin Baker and Tom Miller. We 2 will also provide Christmas to our widows and shut-in Brothers of the Lodge. In addition, the Lodge donated $200, from the fundraiser proceeds, to the Stein House restaurant’s annual free Thanksgiving community dinner. Last year Stein House served dinner to 340 people, including 90 shut-ins. I don’t know this years’ number at this time, but I’m sure it was more than last year.
Photos: (1) Arlin Baker, Tom Miller, Lynn Kellner of UOI, WM Mark Bean, PM Roy Cary. (2) PM Roy Cary; Tim Parrish, Owner; Jeff Lueck, Owner; WM Mark Bean; Tom Miller, Chaplain; Arlin Baker, Master Chef.
REGION C SCHOOLS OF INSTRUCTION In order to complete the last part of one of the Lodge of Research books to come out later, I would like to know how many Masonic Cemeteries we have in the state. If your lodge or community has one, would you be kind enough to mail me the Name and location of said cemetery. That all is all I need, for now. Thanks!!!!
Ronald E. Wood, Jr., Editor, Missouri Lodge of Research P. O. Box St. Joseph, MO 64508
RWB MICHAEL ARMSTRONG March 7 - 9:00AM • Crescent Hill Lodge #368 Adrian, MO • Grand Lecturer to instruct Round Robin Contest April 18 - 9:00AM • Ada Lodge #444 • Orrick, MO May 16 - 9:00AM • Grandview Lodge #618 • Grandview, MO
REGION B SCHOOLS OF INSTRUCTION February 28 - 9:00 AM • King Hill Lodge No. 376 St. Joseph, MO • RGL B - W. Dugan
Green Tree Dedication Planned MWB P. Vincent Kinkead has announced the the monument for the Green Tree Tavern, site of the first Masonic Lodge west of the Mississippi, is planned for Saturday, May 30, 2009 at the Green Tree in Ste. Genevieve, Missouri. For the full story of the Green Tree Tavern, see the Spring, 2007 edition of the Missouri Freemason Magazine. For additional information on the dedication, please contact the Grand Lodge.
THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
March 28 - 9:00 AM • Liberty Lodge No. 31 Liberty, MO • RGL B - W. Dugan March 3 - 6:00 PM • Western Star Lodge No. 15 Winston, MO • RGL B - W. Dugan April 4 - 9:00 AM • Rising Sun Lodge No. 13 • Kansas City, MO REGION B ROUND ROBIN • GL R. Jones/ RGL W. Dugan March 21 - 9:00 AM • Bethany Lodge No. 97 Bethany, MO • RGL B - W. Dugan July 11 - 9:00 AM • Lathrop Lodge No. 506 Lathrop, MO • GL R. Jones/ RGL W. Dugan
ON THE COVER: Thomas F. Riddick, first Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Missouri and Riddick’s tombstone in Bellefontaine Cemetery, St. Louis, where he and his wife Eliza are buried. The cover background is one of the earliest maps of St. Louis and St. Louis county as it appeared at the founding of the Grand Lodge of Missouri. Riddick’s tombstone has weathered, but the legible parts read as follows: Thomas F. Riddick, Born June 5, 1781, Died Jan. 15, 1830 Eliza M., wife of Thos. F. Riddick, Born April 5, 1791, Died Jan. ?, 18?? Photo of Riddick grave site by Maureen and Randy Davis (Polar StarRose Hill #79). Brother Davis and Maureen recently spent considerable time searching for and photographing the grave sites of MWB Riddick and Joshua Pilcher, for which the Missouri Freemason extends heartfelt thanks.
Spring 2009 43
WHAT WILL 57 CENTS BUILD? Why The Dream Continues By Douglas Reece, PDDGM
Editor’s note: This article is excerpted from RWB Douglas Reece’s remarks at the Lodge of Research Breakfast in September. A little girl stood near a small church from which she had been turned away because it was “too crowded.” “I can’t go to Sunday School,” she sobbed to the pastor as he walked by. Seeing her shabby, unkempt appearance, the pastor guessed the reason and, taking her by the hand, took her inside and found a place for her in the Sunday school class. The child was so happy that they found room for her, and she went to bed that night thinking of the children who have no place to worship. Some two years later, this child lay dead in one of the poor tenement buildings.. Her parents called for the kindhearted pastor who had befriended their daughter to handle the final arrangements. As her poor little body was being moved, a worn and crumpled red purse was found which seemed to have been rummaged from some trash dump. Inside was found 57 cents and a note, scribbled in childish handwriting, which read: “This is to help build the little church bigger so more children can go to Sunday School.” For two years she had saved for this offering of love When the pastor tearfully read that note, he knew instantly what he would do. Carrying this note and the cracked, red pocketbook to the pulpit, he told the story of her unselfish love and devotion He challenged his deacons to get busy and raise enough money for the larger building. But the story does not end there... A newspaper learned of the story and published it, which was read by a wealthy realtor who offered them a parcel of land worth many thousands. When told that the church could not pay so much, he offered to sell it to the little church for 57 cents. Church members made large donations Checks came from far and wide. Within five years the little girl’s gift had increased to $250,000.00--a huge sum for that time (near the turn of the century). Her unselfish love had paid large dividends. When you are in the city of Philadelphia, look up Temple Baptist Church, with a seating capacity of 3,300. And be sure to visit Temple University, where thousands of students are educated. Have a look, too, at the Good Samaritan Hospital and at a Sunday school building which houses hundreds of beautiful children, built so that no child in the area will ever need to be left outside during Sunday school time. In one of the rooms of this building may be seen the 44 Spring 2009
picture of the sweet face of the little girl whose 57 cents, so sacrificially saved, made such remarkable history. Alongside of it is a portrait of her kind pastor, Dr. Russell H. Conwell, author of the book, “Acres of Diamonds”. This is a true story, which goes to show WHAT GOD CAN DO WITH 57 CENTS. Most of you heard RWB Weaver’s report to the Grand Lodge on the progress of the Museum and the work and effort put forth. So where are we right now? To repeat the report given by RWB Miller here is a brief synopsis. 1. We have ordered glass partitions or entrances for both sides of the back of the building similar to that marking the entrance to the Grand Lodge office and the Masonic Home office. 2. We are seeking to establish a relationship of assistance with the University of Missouri. This relationship is designed to be dynamic and changing as the needs of the Library change and grow. 3. We have established collection policies for the Library. The collection policies for the Museum are still in effect as well. 4. There is a huge interest among the brethren and Masonic Researchers, not only from the library and research side but also from a couple of private individuals donating their entire collections, which are very extensive. 5. And finally, we also need your financial support. The committee is exploring the funding options associated with a library of this magnitude. So what exactly is a Library? Contained in the 2nd CD of the movie Book of Secrets is an interview with Dr. James H. Billington. He is the Librarian for the Library of Congress, the largest library in the United States and the Congressional Library. Dr. Billington states that a library is a “True University.” He also said that a library has to do three things; they are: 1. Acquire Material. In our case, Masonic related materials. Whether written by Masonic brethren or not, and, it does not matter about the subject as long as it has a bearing that can be applied to Masonic teachings. 2. Preserve it. We have in our midst several documents which date back in the early 1800’s and have a bearing on the establishment of this Grand Lodge. The Masonic Library in Scotland has records of meetings dating into the 1430’s. As rare as these are they also have hand written copies of Anderson’s constitutions and other founding documents to establish the Grand Lodge of Scotland and the Grand Lodge of England. 3. Share it and Make it Accessible. In other words make the library available to the rank and file along with the general public. THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
We are in a very unique position. We have established a Museum which is the only one of its style in the nation devoted to masonry. Our library needs to be in the same caliber. We need to consider and put into place the needs of the many. Along with having a “BOOK” type library we also need to have a “DIGITAL” library. Another point of consideration is that of membership records. That is, the name of an individual, what lodge he belonged to and the dates of his degrees. These ancestral, or genealogical records, are becoming more and more vital as younger generations are looking back upon their roots. The question might arise as to why a Library? What does that mean for me? It’s just words! To answer that; allow me to state: Words; are the most powerful force in all of creation. How powerful are words? Listen to what the Supreme Architect of the Universe says in Genesis 1:3 (KJV) “And God Said…” Again in John 1: 1 (KJV) we find, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” Those two verses demonstrate how powerful words are. With words we can turn a man into a degraded, blubbering shell of what was once someone with integrity, fortitude and fidelity. Or with words we can plant the seeds of greatness which will benefit all mankind. One unintentional phrase can destroy a solidly built nation or destroy the dreams of a child. A well placed phrase can unite a nation or place a man on the moon. They can build up or destroy and they can encourage or incriminate. A phrase can inspire or leave a person emotionally flat. All of our tenets and cardinal virtues have one common thread. They contain words which can be used in any manor you choose. The words explaining Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth; if properly used with meaning, can inspire future generations of Masons. Romans 10:17 (KJV) says, “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” If we take a look at the first part of the verse we can apply it to our daily lives in the way we use our words. A new candidate will hear the faith we have in our great institution by the way we say the words contained within our ritual. He will understand Brotherly Love by the way we address and talk with our fellow brethren. 70% of all verbal communication comes from the tones and the way we say the words we use. A candidate will not remember all of what was said but, he will remember the way we said it. The feeling we use in saying our ritual can reflect the belief we have in our ritual and in our fraternity. What made that impression? It was feeling and passion. To create that feeling and passion for the ritual – we need THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
research into what Masonry is. Where do we get that education outside of our ritual? To explain the various viewpoints of the ritual we turn to books and articles. And where do we get these? A library. One of the reasons why the dream continues is found in the statement by Rene Descartes, one of the key figures in the Scientific Revolution of the 1600s: He said: “We have sufficient evidence that the ancient geometers made use of certain analysis which they applied in the resolution of their problems … These writers, I am inclined to believe, by a certain baneful craftiness, kept the secrets of this mathematics to themselves.” What Dr. Descartes was saying is that through their pride and ignorance of what future peoples would need we have lost, what he termed as, “pure Knowledge.” Do we want to be guilty of the same thing? A library, as Dr. Billington says, preserves and shares that knowledge. Masons have been guilty in the past of keeping the knowledge taught in our ritual and lessons forged by time and experience to ourselves. A library would make those lessons and principles accessible to the entire world, thus sharing our knowledge and proving who and what we are. Yacov Rambsel, a Pastor for a Messianic Congregation in San Antonio, TX stated in 1996: “Proving what one believes inspires growth of one’s faith, adding wisdom to knowledge gives direction to one’s life. Sharing your prosperity with others, whether material or spiritual, gives joy to the giver and benefit to the needy.” Brethren, MWB Glenn Means, addressed this distinguished group at the May meeting. In his address he filled us with facts and figures on various Grand Lodges with Lodges of research. As he stated, most have libraries and museums of one sort or another. We belong to an association called:”The Masonic Library & Museum Association or MLMA.” Of the sixty some members belonging to this organization, all have a library. Membership consists of Grand Lodges, Lodges of Research, Scottish Rite Valley’s and privately held Masonic libraries. The common theme among the members is to fulfill the needs of the brethren and public as we have discussed. “The dream continues because the needs of the many out weigh the needs of the one or the few “ – to quote Dr. Spock on Star Trek. Do you remember our story of the little girl whose 57 cents help start Temple University? What will your 57 cents build? Worshipful Sir and Brethren, Thank you for allowing me to share this with you. And visit the Museum.
Spring 2009 45
THREE LODGES AND 78 BROTHERS A new Grand Lodge Emerges West of the Mississippi River By Steve Harrison, PM
Just after the turn of the 19th century, travelers in this young country indeed faced a rough and rugged road. The Mississippi River just about marked the end of civilization and the literal end of the Masonic world was the appropriately named Western Star Lodge #105, located just east of the treacherous river in Indiana Territory. In 1803, the Louisiana Purchase expanded the country well past the Mississippi. People crossed it and began to settle in what would eventually become the state of Missouri. Freemasons west of the river found themselves having to brave crossing the unpredictable Mississippi currents in order to attend meetings at Western Star, located in Kaskaskia. By 1807, fully half of the membership of Western Star Lodge #107 lived west of the mighty river. Brothers on both sides of the river agreed it was time for a Lodge on the west side, so they petitioned the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, which granted a charter for the new Lodge. On Saturday, November 14, 1807 brothers from the area gathered in St. Genevieve and constituted Louisiana Lodge #109 in what was the first Lodge meeting ever held west of the Mississippi River.i More Lodges opened in the west over the next several years, having charters granted by the Grand Lodges of Pennsylvania, Indiana, Kentucky and Tennessee. While these new western Lodges eliminated the hazards of going to local meetings, it was still difficult to travel to and communicate with the Grand Lodges that chartered them. By 1821, the brothers in the area knew Missouri statehood was imminent and they began to push for the formation of a Missouri Grand Lodge. At the time, there were or had been seven lodges in the territory:ii Name and Number Louisiana Lodge #107 St. Louis Lodge #111 Missouri Lodge #12 Joachim Lodge #25 (Herculaneum, Missouri) St. Charles Lodge #28 Potosi Lodge #39 Harmony Lodge, U.D.
Grand Lodge Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Tennessee Tennessee
Chartered 1807 - 1821 1808 - 1815 1815 1819
Tennessee Kentucky Indiana
1819 1816 - 1818 Dispensation Issued 1820
Although Louisiana Lodge #107 was still active and conducting degrees, its issuesiii communicating with the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania were insurmountable. The Lodge folded and never became part of the Grand Lodge of Missouri. In other words, as the talk of forming a Grand Lodge was at its peak, there were three active Lodges in the area, and one under dispensation. Representatives of three 46 Spring 2009
of those Lodges (Missouri #12, Joachim #25 and St. Charles #28) met at Missouri Lodge #12 in St. Louis on February 22, 1821,iv in order to organize a Grand Lodge. Edward Bates, Master of Missouri Lodge #12 presided over the meeting, which drew up a resolution to that effect and agreed to meet in two months to vote on ratifying the constitution. The resolution set forth the following goals: 1. Established the necessity of forming a Grand Lodge in the state 2. Authorized a committee of three to draft a constitution 3. Asked each Lodge in the area to vote on the constitution 4. Established the date of the next meeting as April 23, 1821 5. Appointed Brothers Wm. Bates, of Joachim Lodge #25, Nathaniel Simonds of St. Charles Lodge #28, and Edward Bates of Missouri Lodge #12 to draft the constitution. The existing Lodges all voted in favor of the constitution and two months later on the appointed date the brothers returned to St. Louis, ratified the constitution and officially formed the Grand Lodge.v Once the brothers completed that business, they addressed the issue of electing the slate of officers, including the man who would be the first Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Missouri. The brothers must have given considerable thought to whom they might name as the first Grand Master. There was certainly an auspicious list of possibilities to choose from: Edward Bates – Generally recognized as the man who organized the Grand Lodge of Missouri, Bates was a respected Missouri attorney who served in many prestigious capacities during his career, including two years as Abraham Lincoln’s Attorney General. Bates presided over all meetings involved with the formation of the Grand Lodge. William Bates – The brother of Edward bates, William organized Joachim Lodge #25 and was instrumental in the organization of the Grand Lodge of Missouri. He eventually served as its first Junior Grand Warden and died in office in 1822. Thomas Hart Benton - A successful lawyer and editor of the Missouri Enquirer, Benton eventually went on to become Missouri’s first United States Senator, serving for thirty years. Alexander Buckner – A prominent area attorney who had served as the first Grand Master of Indiana. Buckner held several appointive and elected positions, eventually serving as US Senator from Missouri from 1831 until his death in 1833. THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
William Clark - Co-leader of the famed Corps of Discovery (Lewis and Clark expedition) and territorial Governor of Missouri.vi Rufus Easton – The first Postmaster west of the Mississippi who had also served as Attorney General for the Indiana Territory. Aaron Elliott – First Worshipful Master in what would become the state of Missouri at Louisiana Lodge #109. Elliott 1 was the first American physician west of the Mississippi. Archibald Gamble – Attorney for the St. Louis public schools, Gamble eventually became the Grand Lodge of Missouri’s first Grand Treasurer and later Grand Master. Joseph V. Garnier – A St. Louis attorney instrumental in organizing the Grand Lodge of Missouri, who eventually served as Clerk of the Missouri Supreme court. James Kennerly – A St. Louis businessman who owned a mercantile exchange along with his brother George and John O’Fallon; a first cousin of Julia Hancock, William Clark’s wife. Kennerly eventually became Missouri’s first Senior Grand Warden, but never served as Grand Master. Alexander McNair - A wellknown military man and veteran of the War of 1812, who eventually became Missouri’s first governor. William. G. Pettus – Involved in 3 developing the Missouri state constitution, Pettus served as secretary of the Missouri state convention and later as secretary to Missouri’s first Governor, Brother Alexander McNair. Joshua Pilcher – A prominent St. Louis businessman who organized the Masonic-related Missouri Fur Company. Pilcher served as Thomas Hart Benton’s second at his infamous duel with Charles Lucas. President Martin Van Buren appointed Pilcher as Superintendent of Indian Affairs in 1838, a position he held until his death in 1843. William Renshaw – A military man and member of the St. Louis guards who was instrumental in forming the Grand Lodge of Missouri. Renshaw served as the Grand Lodge’s first Grand Secretary and later as Grand Master. Otho Schrader – A member of the 4 original petitioning committee involved THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
with establishing the first Lodge West of the Mississippi, and later master of that same Lodge, Louisiana Lodge #109. Thomas Jefferson appointed him Federal Judge of the St. Genevieve District. The initial meeting got off to a slow start. By Monday, April 23, only 16 brothers were in attendance. Those brothers agreed to adjourn until the following day, hoping that others would be able to attend. An additional seven members arrived the following day.vii The primary order of business for that initial meeting was to elect the Grand Officers’ Line. Had notoriety been the determining factor, the leading candidates for the honor of becoming the first Grand Master may well have gone to Clark, McNair or Benton; however, in anticipation of statehood, Clark and McNair were busy mounting campaigns to run against each other to become Missouri’s first governor, a campaign which McNair won. Benton was newly wed and considering the US Sen2 ate, a seat which he won and held for thirty years. We will never know what wrangling may have taken place to determine the first Grand Master. With Clark, McNair and Benton seemingly out of the picture there still remained several respected brothers who were capable of the job. Whatever the case, the brothers chose to elect the top three officers from those in attendance, perhaps owing to the dedication which the jobs, especially that of Grand Master, would require. Accordingly, if dedication was what the brothers were looking for, they may have chosen the most dedicated man in Missouri for the role. His name was Thomas Fiveash Riddick. Although he did not share the fame of Clark, McNair or Benton, he was certainly as well-respected. Riddick was born in Suffolk, Virginia June 5, 1781. He was a member of Suffolk Lodge #30 and came to St. Louis in 1803.viii He was a fervent Freemason who became the first Senior Warden of St. Louis Loge #111. He was present for all of William Clark’s degrees and became a charter member of Missouri Lodge #12 and Missouri Lodge #1, giving him the distinction of being a charter member of three Lodges under separate charters.ix At the series of meetings held to charter the Grand Lodge of Missouri, he represented Joachim Lodge #25, at Herculaneum, Missouri. Riddick was an influential businessman in St. Louis and his popularity was a factor in his election as Spring 2009 47
Grand Master. In addition to working in the priHaving named deacons to the grand line before vate sector, he held a number of positions, both his installation, Grand Master Riddick, as his first appointive and elective in the public sector. act, appointed a committee to create bylaws for In 1805, the President appointed him Clerk the governance of the Grand Lodge. The body of the Courts of Common Pleas and later then approved the resolution of February 22, as Assessor of Rates and Levies. In 1818 1821 and the following day approved the he was elected to the territorial legislature new bylaws. In addition, the Grand Lodge and was a member of the board of direcenacted a provision whereby the existing tors and President of the Territorial Bank lodges in the state would surrender their of Missouri. charters and receive new ones from MisHe is most recognized for his work on souri, creating the first Missouri Lodges: behalf of the Missouri school system, and Missouri #1, Joachim #2 and Hiram #3. it is here he proved the dedication, which MWB Riddick also issued a dispensation would characterize him later and help to to Harmony Lodge at Louisiana, Missouri. secure his election as Grand Master. After the He elected to delay issuing a charter to Unity 5 lands west of the Mississippi transferred to the Lodge, U.D. until it obtained a release from the United States under the Louisiana Purchase, there Grand Lodge of Indiana. was considerable confusion regarding property ownerRiddick completed his term as Grand Master when ship. The government finally settled most claims but some the Grand Lodge met again in October, 1821. He went on land was left in dispute or unclaimed. In 1812, Riddick to continue his successful business and public career, but personally rode on horseback, at his own expense, from his fight for the public schools remained his most noted St. Louis to Washington, D.C. in support of a bill, which accomplishment and today he is known as the father of gave all unclaimed lands to the public school system. The the Missouri public school system. In 1827, he moved to bill passed and ensured a sound future for Missouri public Sulphur Springs, Missouri, located east of present-day Barnschools.x hart, where he died in 1830, at the relatively young In addition to Riddick, the first meeting of the Grand age of 48. He is buried in Bellefontaine Cemetery Lodge of Missouri elected the following officers: in St. Louis. • James Kennerly, Senior Grand Warden From its humble beginning as a Grand Lodge • William Bates, Junior Grand Warden consisting of three Lodges and 78 members, • Archibald Gamble, Grand Treasurer the Grand Lodge of Missouri began accepting • William Renshaw, Grand Secretary charters from new Lodges elsewhere in the Best estimates indicate there were a total of state. Soon, it not only became a statewide 78 Masons in the state at the time of the formainstitution but also began to charter Lodges in other tion of the Grand Lodge of Missouri.xi Just less than states and territories, becoming the mother of many half of those members attended the ceremonies on western Grand Lodges. At one time, beginning with May 4, 1821, when the brothers met at the Lodge the charter it issued to Multnomah Lodge #13 in Orein St. Louis and walked in procession to the Baptist gon the Grand Lodge of Missouri literally stretched church. There, they performed a solemn ceremony from the Mississippi River to the Pacific Ocean.xii 6 Continued on next page of consecration and installed the Grand Officers’ Line. Photos: (1) Thomas Hart Benton, Missouri’s first Untied States senator. (2) General William Clark, leader of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, in a painting by Charles Wilson Peale. (3) Alexander McNair, First Governor of the state of Missouri. (4) Home of Thomas Riddick, first Grand Master, located at 4th and Plum in St. Louis, Photo courtesy of Rootsweb. (5) Thomas Fiveash Riddick, Missouri’s first Grand Master and father of the Missouri public school system. (6) Cross on top of Riddick’s grave. i ii
iii iv v
vi vii
viii ix x xi xii
Harrison, Steven L., Freemasonry Crosses The Mississippi, Missouri Freemason Magazine, Spring, 2007, p. 39 Denslow, Ray V, Territorial Masonry: The Story of Freemasonry and the Louisiana Purchase, 1804 – 1821, The Masonic Service Association of the United States, 1925. Unless otherwise indicated, statistical and historical information in this article comes from this source. Harrison, Steven L., Freemasonry Crosses The Mississippi, Missouri Freemason Magazine, Spring, 2007 details these issues. Washington’s birthday. It is possible the brothers selected that date purposely. The Grand Lodge of Missouri recognizes April 21, 1821 as its official organization date. Historical documentation indicates the brothers did not assemble until Monday, April 23, 1821, and did not have a quorum until April 24, when the actual business of the meeting and election of Grand Officers took place. Meriwether Lewis, the expedition’s co-leader died in 1809 at the age of 35. Edward Bates, William Bates, Abraham Beck, J. Craig, John D. Daggett, Thompson Douglass, Joseph V. Garnier, Thornton Grimsley, H. Hardin, W. H. Hopkins, Harvey Hunt John Jones, James Kennerly, Isaac A. Letcher, H. C. Melody, James H. Penrose, Wm. G. Pettus, Abraham Platt, W. H. Pocock, John C. Potter, Hugh Rankin, Thomas F. Riddick, Joseph White Missouri Lodge of Research, Biographies and Engravings of Grand Masters, Grand Treasurers and Grand Secretaries of The Grand Lode of Missouri, From 1821 to 1900, Inclusive. St. Louis #111 – Pennsylvania; Missouri #12 – Tennessee; Missouri #1 – Missouri. His other Lodge, Joachim #25 was also chartered under the Grand Lodge of Tennessee. Stevens, Walter B., Centennial History of Missouri (The Center State) One Hundred Years in the Union 1820 - 1921; The S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1921, Volume II, p. 4. Missouri #1 had 41 members; Joachim #2 had 15; Hiram #3 had 12; Harmony #4 had 10 Harrison, Steven L., Masonry’s Journey West, Missouri Freemason Magazine, Summer, 2006 p. 75
48 Spring 2009
THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
IT IS WEIRD!
The Curious Return of Founding Brother Joshua Pilcher Born in Culpeper County, Virginia in 1790, brother Joshua Pilcher, like so many others, moved to the Louisiana territory to seek the opportunities afforded in the western frontier. An ardent Freemason, in 1815 he was instrumental in the formation of Missouri Lodge #12 and later became its first Master. A well-connected businessman, he was a good friend of such influential Missouri pioneers as General William Clark and Senator Thomas Hart Benton, and was a cousin of Thomas F. Riddick, who eventually became Missouri’s first Grand Master. He also held the rank of Major in the US Army. In 1820, Pilcher co-founded the Missouri Fur Company, a trading group associated with Freemasons. He played a key role in the founding of the Grand Lodge of Missouri and may have been one of those under consideration as its first Grand Master. In 1838, he succeeded General Clark as the Superintendent of Indian Affairs and had such a strong friendship with Senator Benton that he served as Benton’s second in his infamous duel with Charles Lucas. Brother Pilcher passed away in early June of 1843. The evening before his death, he attended an extravagant banquet with his friend Senator Benton, and his body was discovered the following morning in his bed. The funeral of the founder of the Missouri Fur Company and a true pioneer of the west was an auspicious affair. He was buried in Christ Church Cemetery in St. Louis in a special metal casket imported from Europe. Nearly a half-century later, November 30, 1892, the good people of St. Louis woke up to read a headline in the St. Louis Dispatch, which screamed, “IT IS WEIRD!” The article said on the previous day, men working near the old Christ Church Cemetery had discovered a
highly ornamented metal casket. The casket contained no nameplate, but it bore the trademark of an English manufacturer. The article went on to say the remains inside the casket were surprisingly well-preserved, but “withered” a short time after being exposed. The discovery caused a minor stir in town and subsequent research on the curious finding led to other newspaper articles and speculation about the identity of the body. Dispatch reporters eventually determined the body was that of Warren Pilcher, who had died following a banquet attended by Senator Thomas Hart Benton. Reports continued to unfold and chronicle the life of Warren Pilcher. In the meantime, Warren Pilcher himself, the grand nephew of Brother Joshua Pilcher, watched the story develop with great amusement. He let the case of mistaken identity rage on until one report claimed Warren had at one time been a debtor and died owing back rents. At this, Warren Pilcher appeared at the offices of The Dispatch and revealed that the body was that of his great uncle Joshua, who had founded the Missouri Fur Company. Great speculation followed concerning the life and death of Brother Pilcher, including reports that some unnamed scoundrel may have murdered him with robbery as a motive. Warren even reported that at his death, Joshua’s servants had come forward claiming to know who was involved, but demanded to be given part of his estate before giving details of the dastardly plot. Pilcher’s relatives refused to play along with the scheme and the matter ended. Brother Pilcher’s body was reburied in Bellefontaine Cemetery where it rests today after its brief, but adventurous return from the dead.
Celebrating Freemasonry’s Future Learning From Freemasonry’s Past Back in the “old days” of Masonry, a full Lodge was a common sight as Masonry was THE social event on any given evening. But few, if any, hands will be raised today when gentlemen of a Lodge are asked “Who has ever sat in a regular communication with 100 men in attendance?” Our objective is simply to get 100 men together in a regular communication. This simple but unique act does so much to show us what Freemasonry looked like in the past and where it could go in the future. More importantly, how can the young men of the Lodge know what the future will be if we have not experienced and understood the past? Crestwood Anchor Lodge #443 has a very active group of young Masons this year led by JD Phil Cole (MWB Dan’s son). Its members are trying to fill every seat in the Lodge hall May 28 for a 100 man meeting. If you are interested in being part of this event, please join the brothers. Spread the word; tell your brothers far and wide. Close your eyes. Imagine such a meeting. Make it happen. For further information, please contact: Crestwood-Anchor Lodge 443 • 9078 Sappington Road • Crestwood, Mo 63126 (314) 821-2273 • crestwoodanchor443.org • ca443lodge@gmail.com
THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
Spring 2009 49
SPECIAL EVENT!
SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2009 • 11:00 AM “Brother Truman: The Masonic Life of Harry Truman” Harry S. Truman Library and Museum • Independence, Missouri • www.TrumanLibrary.org 2009 marks Harry Truman’s 125th birthday...and the 100th anniversary of his becoming a 3rd Degree Mason. A York and Scottish Rite Mason, Truman was the Grand Master of Missouri from 1940 to 1941 and was coroneted a 33rd Degree Scottish Rite Mason on October 19, 1945. Join the Truman Library’s supervisory archivist, Sam Rushay, for a fascinating look at the documents, photographs and artifacts which exemplify the importance of Masonry in the life and political career of Harry S. Truman. This program is part of a year-long series of “Talkin’ Truman” programs; for a complete program listing, please visit http://www. trumanlibrary.org/programs.htm.
Special Offer for Missouri Masons: Save $3 on Museum admission during 2009 with an exclusive coupon attached. For additional coupons, go to: www.momason.org/images/ Truman Library Coupon.jpg Regular admission for the museum is: • $8 for adults • $7 for seniors 65 & older • $3 for children ages 6-15 • Free for children 5 & under Address: 500 W. US Hwy. 24. Independence MO 64050 • truman.library@nara.gov • Phone: 816-268-8200 or 1-800-833-1225 • Fax: 816-268-8295. The Harry S. Truman Library and Museum is one of twelve Presidential Libraries administered by the National Archives and Records Administration
Continued from back cover Sir Alexander Fleming (8/6/18813/11/1955), British discoverer of penicillin in 1928, was elected Fellow of the Royal Society in 1943, knighted by King George VI in 1944, and awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 1945 (jointly with Chain and Florey, who completed the penicillin research). George VI (1895-1952), King of England (1936-1952), whose father King George V and brother Edward VIII were Freemasons, was initiated in Naval Lodge No. 2612 in Dec., 1919. As king, he accepted the rank of Past Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of England, and was ceremonially installed at the Albert Hall in London before an audience of Freemasons from all parts of the world. He created the precedent of the English sovereign’s active participation in Masonic ceremonies, and personally conducted the installation 50 Spring 2009
of three Grand Masters—the Duke of Kent at Olympia in 1939; the Earl of Harewood in Freemason’s Hall in 1943; and the Duke of Devonshire in Albert Hall in 1948. Toward the end of his reign, he stated that he had always regarded Masonry as one of the strongest influences of his life. Other Masonic details are given in 10,000 Famous Freemasons (William R. Denslow, 1957-1960), which quotes King George as saying, “The world today does require spiritual and moral regeneration. I have no doubt, after many years as a member of our Order, that Freemasonry can play a most important part in this vital need.” Fleming was awarded the Distinguished Service citation of the Grand Lodge of New York in 1953. A member of several English lodges, he was Master of Misericordia Lodge No. 3286 in 1935, and later served as Trea-
surer; Master of Santa Maria Lodge No. 2682 in 1925, and later Secretary. In 1942 he was elected Senior Grand Deacon of the United Grand Lodge of England and promoted to Past Grand Warden in 1948. He served as High Priest of Aesculapius Chapter and in 1942 was Past Grand Sojourner of the Supreme Grand Chapter, R.A.M. of England, and later was named Past Grand Scribe. In the Scottish Rite, he was 30° and was sovereign of Victory Chapter of Rose Croix. He was also a member of the London Scottish Rifles Lodge No. 2310 and took special pride in the fact that he has served as a private in the Scottish Rifles Regiment of London for 14 years. The interconnections of Fleming and Churchill, along with other great men of history, through their membership in Freemasonry put them in a more significant perspective than an imaginative legend. THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
RAINBOW GETS GIRLS READY FOR LIFE. Hello Missouri Masons and Friends! I’ve had several of my visits now…I just love getting to know the new people that cross my path and re-acquainting myself with the ones I’ve been with before. I presented remarks at Missouri’s Grand Lodge and want to say we’re mighty proud of Rocky Weaver! He’s been a HUGE Missouri Rainbow supporter for years and years. Have a great time serving this year! And speaking of years, Patty Crotty is now the Worthy Grand Matron of Missouri’s Grand Chapter, where I also spoke. Patty was actually a Rainbow Girl “for a minute” before joining Job’s Daughters and was even an adult worker with Job’s Daughters and then a Missouri Rainbow Assembly in the past. It’s wonderful seeing her lead Missouri’s Eastern Star this year. I’d like to thank my Rainbow sisters who were in the audience at each of these events to support the adult groups... but also to support me. I look forward to Amaranth’s Grand Court this coming spring. Word trickles in to me how Missouri Rainbow is supporting the State Service Project. Joanie Hedrick, our State Dean of Missouri’s Grand Cross of Color, and I chose to support Missouri’s Domestic Violence Shelters. Each Assembly is assigned one near its location. Meals, food drives, teddy bears, bubbly drives (shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, etc.) and even a sweatshirt drive have erupted. Our “little sister” Pledges in St. Joseph actually had a scavenger hunt—going door-to-door (with chaperones!) to ask for donations for their local shelter. You should have seen their table full of items! So our members could become more educated regarding this problem, our recent newsletter had much information and facts in it. Parade participation, taco stands, membership events and Halloween parties filled up our fall. Now Christmas caroling and nursing home deliveries are coming to a close as Christmas is just a week away as I write this. Before we get there, though, (and providing the weather cooperates), my Official Reception “back home” at Pulaski County is this weekend. I can hardly wait! Time goes so quickly – after my reception there is only one visit left. In April there is a “Rainbow Retro” visit that I haven’t decided whether or not I should worry about—you never know what you’ll get! But, new ideas abound and, with them, so will our Rainbow ranks. Oh, and the DeMolay Knights have a HUGE dance the evening following that Rainbow Retro visit…I can’t wait to break out my dancing shoes! THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
I want to take just a moment to express remembrances of two fine people who originated from our Springfield Rainbow Assembly. In July we learned of the passing of Dr. James Gibbons. Dr. Gibbons was fully supportive of all Rainbow Girls near his Springfield roots – but also of Rainbow Girls throughout Missouri. The time and, often, money he invested in our organization will always be remembered. And then, just a few days ago, Ms. Linda Jackman, our State Pledge Mother, passed away. Linda joined Rainbow at the age of 12 in Springfield and became a Worthy Advisor and received her Grand Cross of Color there (as did her sister – her mother was once the Mother Advisor). When her daughter joined Marlborough Assembly in Grandview in 1993, she waited to get involved – then became Marlborough’s Pledge Mother in 1997. In 2005 she was asked to become the State Pledge Mother – recruiting and helping train our “little sisters” in their always memorable Grand Assembly Pledge Ceremony performance. Both of these service-giving individuals will be missed tremendously. Well, time to bring this to a close. I still need to remind Santa about my Christmas wish list…let’s see: members, memorization, memories…maybe some money for scholarships…h-m-m-m… Hope you had a Great Holiday Season and are having a fantastic New Year! Love One Another!! Amanda Fisher 2008-2009 Grand Worthy Advisor State of Missouri International Order of Rainbow for Girls
Missouri Freemason Deadlines Issue Summer, 2009 Fall, 2009 Winter, 2009 Spring, 2010
Deadline April 1, 2009 July 1, 2009 October 1, 2009 January 4, 2010 Spring 2009 51
Hello again Missouri Masons! When I last wrote, November was upon us and Missouri Job’s Daughters were as busy as ever. October held our Miss Missouri Job’s Daughters Pageant and we crowned our new Miss Mo Trio. Miss Mo 2008-2009 is Miss Tiffany Hudson of Bethel #19, Jr. Miss Mo is Miss Amy Bush of Bethel #49 and Miss Mo Congeniality is Miss Katie Richardson of Bethel #33. November was fast upon us and Missouri Jobies 2 traveled to Kansas City for the annual Thanksgiving Ball, where our new Thanksgiving Ball Trio was selected! Thanksgiving Ball Queen is Miss Kiley Whitton, Bethel #7, Sr. Princess is Miss Kristie Thompson, Bethel #7 and Jr. Princess is Miss Lilly Flanery, Bethel #33. December held Bethel installations and the start of new terms and new officers for all our Bethels. For the retiring Honored Queens it was bittersweet and for the newly installed Honored Queens, it was all excitement and adrenaline. December also marked the halfway point for my term as Grand Bethel Honored Queen – I can’t believe that I’m already half done! But with the second half of my term, there are a new set of official visits and events to attend.
January marked the first meetings of the term for most Bethels and getting used to the new offices that each daughter has. February holds the reception for our Associate Grand Guardian and myself on the 21st at the Scottish Rite in St. Louis, followed by a Jobie-wood Derby. I’m looking forward to that day 1 with great anticipation and excitement! March will hold the reception for our Grand Guardian on the 14th at Bethel #19, in Webster Groves. March means that we are preparing for our Mini Session at Trout Lodge! Mini Session is going to be a weekend full of Jobie love, pirates and knights. I couldn’t be more excited and I cannot wait to see all the work and planning that I have put into this weekend unfold! So remember to celebrate a year in the life of friends and I hope to see Missouri Masons 3 visiting Bethels, because the daughters love to have visitors! Jobie love and mine, Daniella Brand, Grand Bethel Honored Queen 08-09 Photos: (1) The 2008-2009 Miss Missouri Trio; Katie Richardson, Tiffany Hudson & Amy Bush (2) The new Thanksgiving Ball Trio; Kristie Thompson, Kiley Whitton & Lilly Flanery (3) The Grand Bethel Trio; Caitlin Burress, Jr. Princess, Daniella Brand, GBHQ, Jen Hallahan, Sr. Princess
BETHEL #29 CELEBRATES 60 YEARS OF SERVICE On October 28th, 2008 Job’s Daughters Bethel #29 celebrated its 60th Birthday at the Independence Lodge #76 in Independence, Missouri. The evening started at 6:00PM with a complimentary spaghetti dinner. These young ladies wanted to show their appreciation to all of those who have been supporting their Bethel through the various dinner fundraisers, sponsorships, donations, and visitations. The girls, their parents, friends, family and Guardian Council have been working very diligently to earn the funds for their various events and expenses and have been doing well with all of the support from the various Masonic bodies in the area. After the dinner the guests were asked to retire to the Bethel room for a special open meeting. The open meeting was made up of two ceremonies. The “Let’s Get Acquainted Ceremony” explains the purpose and function of Job’s Daughters and the qualifications for membership in the Order. The “Robe Ceremony” explains the many meanings behind the white robes and cords that the daughters wear. A special presentation was made to Trish Stinger, the Special Events Manager for Wayside Waifs of Kansas City,
52 Spring 2009
Missouri. The Job’s Daughters held a special dinner fundraiser for this charity on September 7th, 2008 at the East Gate Masonic Lodge in Kansas City, Missouri, and through the support of various organizations and their friends the girls were able to raise $300.00 for Wayside Waifs, a not for profit animal shelter in Kansas City, Missouri. The Honored Queen of Bethel #29, Nachelle H. Miller, chose Wayside Waifs as her special charity because of her desire to help animals and to become a veterinarian. The true spirit of sisterly love was shown by Lilly Flannery from Bethel #33 of North Kansas City, Missouri who assisted these girls in putting on their ceremonies. Lilly is a wonderfully friendly, and vibrant young lady who is also very good with her memory work. The girls performed the “Coin March” collecting donations for their primary charity - H.I.K.E. which stands for the Hearing Impaired Kids Endowment fund, and through the continuing generosity of our guests and regular attendees, $40.00 was raised for H.I.K.E. The daughters performed their traditional closing ceremony and then everyone returned to the dinning room for birthday cake and ice cream.
THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
The following is an excerpt from the speech Missouri DeMolay State Master Councilor and Scottish Rite Mason Ryan Matthew Cockerham gave at the recent Missouri DeMolay State Installation of Officers at the beautiful Scottish Rite Cathedral in St. Louis, Missouri:
“I would like to extend my utmost gratitude and recognition to every DeMolay and Mason. You are the life of our great order, the source of all its energy. The greatest fraternity in the world would not be possible if it were not filled with enthusiastic, warm-hearted, men such as all of you. I have a message for you, my brothers, a message that I ask you to carry with you and share with the world. Take this charge and share it with your other brothers, your families, your friends, and your neighbors. Share it with everyone with whom you may ever come in contact. You already know what the message is. My brothers, the message is simply DeMolay. Jacques DeMolay left us a great legacy to learn from when he died on the stake under flames before his brothers and their families that fateful March night, 1314, when he sacrificed his own life, in order to save the lives of his fellow brethren. He left behind a lesson, and that lesson was picked up, nearly 600 years later, by a man named Frank Sherman Land. The virtues were set in place, and The Order of DeMolay was soon to be on a roll. In the memory of that great Templar, set in stone were the life-guiding principles: Love of Parents, Reverence for God, Courtesy, Comradeship, Fidelity, Cleanness, and Patriotism. Years ago, my brothers, the common man would strive to live according to these principles, and he would be revered by his countrymen for doing so. From the bottom of my heart I believe this to be true in today’s standards. Even with all the worlds’ seeming negativity and mantras of hopelessness, I believe this to be true. I believe this to be true because I am standing before you today, as proud as I ever could be, speaking to many different individuals whom I am privileged to call my brothers. Well my brothers, ‘we live in troubled times when the bulwarks of the bible, flag and school books are in danger of sinking into the waste of doubt and uncertainty; our virtues are under attack. Who we are is under attack. Today, Instead of loving and honoring our parents, the media teaches us to disobey and act out against them. Today, seemingly harmless comedians and other celebriTHE MISSOURI FREEMASON
ties toss around the name of God as if it’s some lifelong joke, as the Ten Commandments are being brutally torn from the courthouses, a lost citadel for what was once indestructible. Today, being polite and courteous to others makes you lame. Instead, television teaches us that being as rude and obnoxious as we possibly can be will always result getting whatever we want. Today, if someone does not like or appreciate the level of sophistication a certain organization brings to the table, if they do not value its beautiful lessons and principles, if they do not care for the amount of pure camaraderie that is generated between a group of respectable persons, it is then automatically cult-like and stupid. Today, gossip rules all. Among the wicked, there are no more secrets. There are no more promises. There are no more trusts. Rumors spread more rapidly than a forest fire and they destroy people more chaotically than death itself. Today, our youth is bombarded with glorified images of sex, drugs, alcohol, and a poor, inane vocabulary. Celebrities, who are viewed as great role models, are revered whenever they do or say something moronic. For some reason, pornographers are allowed to roam our land freely, illegally distributing their mind bending tactics among the innocent and the arrant nonsense that is streamed into our radio frequencies is a whole other story… Today, today my brothers, I am heartbroken to say that you are exalted by the media if you hate our beloved country. For some reason, they are more attracted to violent protesters who try to devastate a dead soldier’s funeral, than the soldier himself. My brothers, I disagree with this and many things I have just mentioned about how the media elitists, corrupt politicians, and other evil sources are warping the minds of innocent people day after day, week after week, month after month, and year after year after year. The United States of America is the greatest nation on earth and yet, today, many fellow Americans might not say so. Do not be afraid to express your pride. Do not be afraid to express your opinion about things, as we are currently in a culture war that requires our feelings and openness to win. It is imperative to realize that we as DeMolays and Freemasons are modern day Crusaders, battling all the evil and corrupt fabrications in this world by honoring our seven cardinal virtues and by truly Living DeMolay and Masonry. Do not believe that it is wrong to live a life of righteousness, instead of popularity. Do not believe that it is wrong to express the way you feel about something, instead of turning the other cheek when you witness something wrong you are trying to stand up against. Do not believe that our country is not the greatest country, just because some people out there are chanting that America desperately needs to change, when in fact what we need to do is turn back to the basic fundamentals founded by our great Masonic Brothers. Do not believe that calling on God to ask you for help throughout your life is Continued on page 62 Spring 2009 53
Announcing the 7th Annual Masonic Home of Missouri
MHM OUTREACH REQUESTS ON THE RISE With the current state of our nation’s economy, there are so many in need of assistance. The staff at the Masonic Home of Missouri would like to thank everyone who has taken the time to send Outreach Referrals. It speaks volumes about the caring nature of the Masonic Family. Due to this overwhelming influx of requests and referrals, the Masonic Home staff would like to ask your patience in its response process. It takes time to get through all of the requests and referrals to make the initial phone calls. Once that has happened, interviews are scheduled around current interviews and reassessments. While we may not respond to your request or referral within 24 hours, we will do so as soon as we can. Each referral and request is just as important to us as another, and we want to be as thorough as possible to fill our members’ needs to the best of our ability. Please continue to be vigilant and let us know of any Masonic Family members in need of our help. Thank you again for your patience and support.
Public Golf Course Fulton, Missouri
It’s Tee Time! Monday, October 5th 2009 More Information to Come
There is something for everyone! For more information on sponsorship levels or how to get involved please call 800-434-9804
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The Masonic Home of Missouri Public Relations Department is currently working on a new and more cost-effective method for creating Masonic Home Representative name badges. We hope to have them to you soon. Thank you for your hard work and patience.
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On October 21, 2008 at the annual Past Master’s and Installation banquet for Adair Lodge No. 366 and Kirksville Lodge #105, Kirksville, a special presentation was made to Right Worshipful Brother Robert M. Barrett honoring him for 69 years of dedicated service to Freemasonry. To date RWB Barrett has conducted 248 Masonic funerals, served as Master of Adair Lodge #366 on two occasions, served as District Deputy Grand Master, District Deputy Grand Lecturer, served on the Board of the Masonic Home of Missouri, serves as Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of Missouri to China, served as Grand Tyler and served on the Grand Lodge Speakers Bureau. In the photo from left to right, Mrs. Marilyn Barrett, RWB Barrett and RWB Barry Cundiff. RWB Cundiff is presenting RWB Barrett with a Certificate of Appreciation from the Grand Lodge of Missouri. Bro. and Judge Russell Steele, Circuit Judge Second District, was the featured speaker for the evening.
On December 2, 2008, New Bloomfield Lodge #60 presented Don Zewgin his 50-year pin and Certificate from the Grand Lodge of Missouri. RWB Donald E. Fairley, DDGM of the 12th Masonic District made the presentation.
On November 30, 2008 Brother Maurice Evans was presented his 50-year service award. Brother Evans is a member of Washington Lodge #87 AF & AM, Greenfield Missouri. WB Billy Cooper made the presentation with WB Gary Gabbert and WB Don Adams in attendance.
St. Francisville Lodge #588 at Wayland presented 60 year pins to Brothers Earl Hunzinger and Bill Jutte at its regular meeting Thursday night December 4, 2008.
Galena Lodge #515 presented Brother John Young his 50year pin and certificate from the Grand Lodge on September 18, 2008.
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Walter Sims, a 50-year member of Texas Lodge #177 was honored with a pin and certificate from the Grand Lodge for his continuing membership in the Masons. Shown at the presentation (standing 1 to r) Reese Bucher, WB Edward Bluebaum. WM John Casey, Thomas Chapman and WB Tony Tadaro of Latimer Lodge #145. Seated: Brother Sims.
On November 4, 2008, the members of Waynesville Lodge #375 celebrated WB Nelson Morgan’s 99th birthday. Nelson was initiated into the mysteries of Freemasonry in 1951 at George Washington Lodge #9 where he is a Past Master and 50 year member. Nelson joined Waynesville Lodge #375 and has served as Marshall since 2002.
Wallace Lodge #456 of Bunceton presented Claude Daniel Morris his 50-year award with the help of Round Rock Lodge #227 in Round Rock, Texas. Shown (L to r) Grand Lodge member from Texas, Claude Daniel Morris and WM from Round Rock #227 in Texas.
Recently Brother Harold R. Tinsley received his 50-year jewel and certificate from the Grand Lodge of Missouri. The presentation was held at Poplar Bluff Lodge #209. RWB Bob Brannum made the presentation. WM Dean Gholson pinned the jewel. Brother Tinsley game an interesting talk about his 50 years of Masonic Service.
On December 9, 2008, WB Don Ripley was presented with his 50year pin and certificate at Waynesville Lodge #375 in Waynesville, Missouri. Pictured with him from left to right are RWB Dale Summerford who made the presentation, WB Don Ripley and his wife Margaret and Wayne Gerdes, Worshipful Master of Waynesville Lodge #375.
On December 17, 2008, at Benjamin Franklin Lodge #642, MWB M. Robert Berger presented biological and fraternal brothers Gene and Jerry Zafft with their 50-year awards. Both Gene (on the left) and Jerry are Past Masters of Benjamin Franklin Lodge as was their Father Harry Zafft. Both brothers were also Past Master Councilors of the Perfection Chapter, Order of DeMolay.
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Jefferson Lodge #43 celebrated its 167th Anniversary, on November 13, 2008 with a special dinner. Jefferson Lodge was chartered on November 15, 1821. The celebration was held early so not to conflict with opening day of deer season. MWB Rocky E. Weaver was guest speaker for the event. Worshipful Master James Thomas welcomed all to the event and explained that Jefferson Lodge had the honor of having seven Grand Masters come from its membership and that the Lodge had in its possession four Past Grand Masters Jewels. After displaying the PGM’s Jewels to the audience, he announced that the PGM’s Jewels and a PGM’s Apron would be put on permanent loan to the Grand Lodge Masonic Museum. MWB Rocky E. Weaver and RWB Ronald Miller accepted the presentation on behalf of the Grand Lodge Masonic Museum. Pictured from Left to right are RWB Ronald Miller, MWB Rocky E. Weaver, Worshipful Master James Thomas and Donald Trabue.
Cosby Lodge #600, Cosby, MO installed RWB Dennis N. Vogel as Worshipful Master for the 2008-2009 year on September 7, 2008. Prior to the installation, Grand Lodge officers conducted a Lodge dedication in celebration of Cosby Lodge’s 100th anniversary. Officers for the upcoming year are RWB Dennis N. Vogel, WM; WB LeRoy Salmon, SW; James Maag, JW; WB Larry P. DeShon, SD; WB Ralph Hood, JD; WB Earl Furst, JS; WB Kenneth Vette, JS; Ron Bailey, Chaplain; WB Clifton L. DeShon, Marshall; WB Jerry L. Davidson, Secretary; WB Elbert F. Turner, Treasurer; RWB Donald J. Hageman, Tyler. Installing officers were WB Larry Lambing, Installing Master; RWB Richard Paul, Installing Chaplain; RWB Herman Collins, Installing Marshall. The Lodge held a reception in celebration of the dedication ceremony and new officers after the installation.
Recently the 159th installation of officers was held at Hermann Lodge #123 for the 2008-2009 year. Installing officers present were: WB Rick Dobson, Retiring Worshipful Master; RWB Norman Harrison, Installing Master; RWB Steve Lynn, Installing Chaplain; RWB Frank Wright, Installing Marshal. Front Row, Left to Right: RWB Steve Lynn, RWB Norman Harrison, WM Russell Warren, RWB Frank Wright and WB Rick Dobson, Retiring Master. Second Row: Leo Hendricks, Chaplain; Charles W. Kelsey II, SS; Richard Requarth, Secretary; Dan Wilson, JS. Third Row: Ben Grosse, Treasurer; WB Daniel Howard, SW; Matt Schutt, JD and WB Clinton Coulter, Marshall.
On 26 August, 2008 Waynesville Lodge #375 held its 120th annual installation of officers. Pictured are (L-to-R) Worshipful Master Wayne Gerdes, Senior Warden Robert Baker, Junior Warden Brian Jenner, Treasurer WB Richard McCauley (Installing Marshall), Chaplin WB Don Ripley (Installing Master), Senior Steward Ramon Martinez, Marshall WB Nelson Morgan, (2nd Row) Senior Deacon Aaron Stoltz, Junior Deacon William Rollins, Installing Chaplin RWB Dale Summerford, Secretary Ellvan Markley, Tyler WB Paul Frantzen and Junior Steward Mike Estright.
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Sedalia Lodge #236 AF&AM recently installed new officers for 2009 at the Sedalia Masonic Center. The new officers, from the left, are James Hamilton, Marshall; Donald Walker, SD; David Miller, Chaplain; Robert Melby, SW; Thomas Gordon, SS; William Talley, WM; David Wiedeman, Treasurer; Ralph Britz, JW; Andres Amezcua, JS; Phillip Lawson, JD; and, Robert Weikal, Secretary.
Members of Monroe Lodge #64 participated in Monroe City’s annual Christmas Parade held on the afternoon of December 6, 2008. Brothers Richard and Dennis Dexter are pictured in the Gator and Brothers Jed Johnson, Allen Mehrer and Frank Coberly are waving from the trailer. Although a cold afternoon, everyone had a good time.
On October 21, 2008 Kirksville Lodge #105, Kirksville, installed officers for the coming year. Front row left to right: David Powell, John Rehm, Bob Steele, Al Barnes, and Dale West. Back row left to right: Marcus Dew, Marion Rehm, Burt Holloway, Dr. Richard H. Mercer, and Wally Trosen. Installing Master MWB Dale C. Motter, Installing Chaplain RWB Marion Rehm, and Installing Marshal RWB Dale C. West.
The Lamar Masonic Lodge #292 members played Santa and his elves on December 6 as they passed out apples to the residents and staff at Truman Health Care, Silver Oaks, Bristol Manor and Barton County Memorial Hospital. This is the second year the group has made the rounds spreading cheer as well as the apples. From left are Lodge Master Sterling Martin, Charles Sprenkle and Cool Yule Santa Ed Boucher.
At a ceremony on Monday, December 15, Richmond Masonic Lodge #57 was recognized for its community efforts. MWB Rocky Weaver, from The Grand Lodge of Missouri, presented members with the very first “Brothers Helping Others” Award. Recent events include MoCHIP events at the Richmond Mushroom Festival and at Ideal Industries, and a fundraiser to help Colton Newman. MWB Weaver applauded the members for their efforts, noting the Lodge’s involvement in the local community, and urged that they continue to do all they can to help those in need.
On January 7, 2009, Rodney McGrath, Worshipful Master of Rising Sun Lodge #13 of Kansas City presented Park Hill High School Social Worker Chandra Callow with a check to support the needs of students at Park Hill and Park Hill South High School. The money was used to purchase calculators, binders, fabric for sewing class, art supplies, tennis shoes, and other items for the students who could not afford them. Approximately 27 needy students were helped by the contribution.
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On December 12, 2008, members of Rising Sun Lodge #13, Kansas City, and Compass Lodge #120, Parkville, visited the Masonic Home Assisted Living Facility on Bannister Road in Kansas City. Santa Claus (RWB Larry Davis, DDGM of the 17th Masonic District) visited the residents and presented each of them with an apple and an orange. WB Rod McGrath of Rising Sun Lodge and WB Gary Ficken of Compass Lodge served as Santa’s elves. Both Lodges are participants in the Masonic Home’s Adopt-a-Resident Program and special gifts from Santa were provided to their adopted residents.
On October 15, 2008, at an open meeting of Arrow Rock Masonic Lodge #55, the officers for 2009 were installed. (L to R) front row: WB Ron McCoy, Marshal; Robbie O’Bryan, JD; WB Geary Norris, SW; RWB Leo Bottom (DDGL), WM; WB Luane Miller, JW; WB Fred McBurney, SS; Tommy Miller, JS; Second row: WB Bob Stith, Treasurer; WB Jim Humburg, Chaplain; John Vinson, Tyler; Charlie Goodman, JD; Back row: RWB Ken Osborn (DDGM), Secretary; RWB Bob Hayes, Installing Marshal; and RWB Mike Armstrong (RGL-C), Installing Master. Note: All 12 elected and appointed officers were present.
Branson Masonic Lodge #587 held its second charity breakfast of the year on November 8, 2008, to raise funds for the Christmas Baskets that will be given out to needy families in the Branson and Hollister communities. Over 100 hundred baskets have been given out each year.
Branson Masonic Lodge #587 donated $500.00 and a pool table to the Branson Area Boys and Girls Club from fundraisers held during the past year. The Boys and Girls Club sent a letter of thanks and appreciation for the donation.
Webster Groves Lodge #84 wins Heart of the Community Award Back in 2001, Webster Groves Lodge #84 installed a Worshipful Master who had graduated from Webster Groves High School—WB John Berger. Even though the lodge had been in the community since 1897, it always remained in the background. He wanted to start doing things in the community. Each year we did a little more until, in 2007, under the leadership of WB Larry Brockmeier, the Webster Groves-Shrewsbury Chamber of Commerce noticed us and we received the “Heart of the Community Award.” We held a MoCHIP event, identified 270 children, delivered donuts to all City employees, (including the police and firemen) hosted a Chamber meeting where RWB Nick Cichielo spoke on the MoCHIP program and let them use our building for a trivia fundraiser. We held 4 BBQs helping promote events in the community and adopted a family through the Webster-Rock Hill Ministries. One of the biggest events was to coordinate the 71 float Independence Day parade, marshaling with 47 members and volunteers. WB Rick Bayer and WB Rudy Beuc chaired the event and it came off on time and with no problems.
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Greensburg Lodge #414 held an appreciation dinner at Keith’s Café in Memphis on December 8, 2008. The Lodge presented certificates to wives for loyal support and assistance. Seated left to right, Lea Glass, Merry Ward, Amy Clark. Standing, Tracy Mallett, Charlene Carriker, Elenora Houghton, Linda Clark, and WM Loren E. Carriker.
The Wallace Lodge #456 Second Annual “Shooting for Scholarship” fundraiser was held on October 16, 2008 at River Hills Sporting Clay in Boonville. This year, any sponsor who donated $100 or more had its name displayed on a poster at the shooting stations. The Lodge thanks all who helped to make it another successful year. Shown from left to right are Shayne Fuemeller, Mark Nelson and Jason Elliott.
December 8, 2008, Richard (Rick) Clark and Carson Clark were presented certificates of community service for their help assisting Greensburg Lodge #414 with its MoDot Adopt a highway program.
The Worshipful Master of Sedalia Lodge #236, David E Miller, congratulates Bro. Thomas H. Gordon with a certificate. Bro. Gordon returned all three of the candidate proficiencies in open lodge.
Florence Chapter #124 OES and Brookfield Lodge #86, Brookfield, Missouri, annually distribute fruit plates to the widows. This photo was taken on Dec 20, 2008 ,showing some of the members preparing to brave the cold and icy weather to deliver the plates. Left to right: WB Don Allen, Janey O’Dell, WB Larry Lentz, Lela Groes, DDGM George Teeter.
Grandin Masonic Lodge installed officers for 2009 on Saturday, Nov 8. Pictured (front row, l to r) are Moose Camptan, SW; Don Denette, WM; Wayne Tucker, installing officer; Dean Crudgington, JD; (back row) Bryce Wilson, JW; Bob Libla, Treasurer; Freddie Bartholomey, SD; Sam Papayik, Marshall; Carl Brooks Chaplain.
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District 10 members have been purchasing duplicate trophies for the winners of the last three annual ROUND ROBIN proficiency State wide contests ( who are all three members of Shelbina Lodge#228) so that they will have one to keep. Wednesday night, November 19, 2008 during the regular meeting of Shelbina Lodge GSW Gail Turner and RGL Bob O’Dell made the trophy presentations. Shown (l to r) RWB Bob O’Dell, RGL “A”; RWB Jerry Miles, PDDGL, winner of the 2008 contest; Bro. Steve Smith, winner of the 2007 contest; RWB Tom Christine, DDGL, winner of the 2006 contest; RWB Gail Turner, GSW. We are very proud of these three Brothers as it took a lot of practice and studying to win this and come out in first place when there are thousands of Brothers throughout Missouri eligible to enter these contests. These three Brothers are helping to keep the memory of the proficiencies alive.
Sedalia Lodge #236 held an open Installation of Officers Mon October 13, 2008. The events of the evening were under the direction of master of ceremonies James C Duzan, PDDGM, who introduced the installing officers. They were: Michael F Armstrong, Regional Grand Lecturer, Region C, installing Master; WB H H Luetjen, installing Chaplain; and WB E George McConnell, installing Marshall. They were conducted to their stations and places by WB H. Ron Butler. Pictured (l to r) James R. Hamilton, Marshall; Donald O. Walker, SD; David E. Miller, Chaplain; Robert P. Melby, SW; Thomas H. Gordon, SS; William D. Talley, WM; David W. Wiedeman, Treasurer; Ralph E Britz, JW; Andres M. Amezcua, JS; Phillip B. Lawson, JS; and Robert D Weikal, Secretary. Not in picture: Stephen J. Galliher, Tyler. A reception was held in the dining hall after the installation. Photo courtesy Jim Rissler.
Branson Masonic Lodge #587 held its annual Christmas Party in conjunction with Branson Chapter #299 OES on December 13, 2008 at the Lodge Hall. Turkey and ham were served for dinner along with all the trimmings. Barry Smith and Lodge member Leroy New, who has a show in Branson, provided the entertainment. Santa Claus stopped by to see the kids and see what they wanted for Christmas. He gave each child a sack of cookies and candy. Approximately 65 people enjoyed the party. There were several members of the community in attendance that were not members of the Masonic Lodge or the Eastern Star.
Branson Masonic Lodge #587 held its Installation of Officers for 2008-2009 on October 11, 2008. The Branson Eastern Star Chapter #299 served brisket and ham with all the trimmings for the installation. Most Worshipful Brother Rocky Weaver, Grand Master of the State of Missouri was Installing Master, Right Worshipful Brother Webb Edwards, installing Marshal, Right Worshipful Brother Bob Alexander installing Chaplain, Deputy Grand Master Larry Reynolds and several other Grand Officers were present. The following officers were installed: Brother Herb Terrill, WM; Brother Dallas Smith, SW; Brother Wally Halicki, JW; Brother Lyle Stanley, SD; RWB Brother Randy Berschied, Chaplain; WB Doug Baker, Secretary; Mike Fuller, Treasurer; Mike Ward, JS; WB Larry Samsel, Tyler; Glen Cameron, Marshall. There were approximately 130 people present for the dinner and installation.
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The Versailles Lodge has held annual Christmas parties, as well as monthly Bingo games, for residents of the Kidwell Home for several years. During the annual Christmas event the Lodge provides residents with gifts and cards as well as bingo for entertainment. Pictured on the left is WB C.L. Trahern and in the center is WB Earl Webb. Both Brothers are 50 year members of the Masonic fraternity and have been instrumental in making the event work over the past several years. Assisting Brothers Trahern and Webb is Santa Claus, better known in Masonic circles as RWB Grant “Bud” Smith. Brother Smith is also a member of the Versailles Lodge, as well as serving as DDGL of the 23rd district.
Branson Masonic Lodge #587 has been giving out Christmas Baskets, full dinner, for over 25 years in the Branson area and this year is no different. The Lodge gave over 75 baskets to needy families in the Branson and Hollister area. There are two charity breakfasts held during the year one in the spring and one in the fall, to raise money for this very worthwhile cause. Don McGuirt has been chairman for the last five years and Al Jones was chairman before Don. Don McGuirt and other members of the Lodge and Eastern Star work all year to put this together. This project is one that is very dear to the members of this Lodge, especially the older members that started it over twenty five years ago.
Tyro Lodge #12 AF&AM of Caledonia will host its coon dinner on March 7, 2009 at 6PM. Lodge will follow at 7:30PM, with degree work. The menu will consist of coon, deer chili, baked beans, potato salad, pies, cakes, soda and coffee. Irondale Lodge #143 in Irondale, Missouri held its annual installation of officers for 2008-2009 on December 6, 2008. The new Worshipful Master is WB Joe Crump. The Installing Master was RWB Francis D. Jett, DDGM, District 28, and the Installing Marshall was RWB Cecil Issac DDGL, District 28.
Continued from page 53 meaningless, instead of falling into the evils of temptation. Do not believe that truly living the flawless seven cardinal virtues of a DeMolay is anything but glorious. If we, as DeMolays and Freemasons ‘do not stand unswervingly in defense of the teachings of our Order, if we do not seek to perpetuate them in our daily lives, then perhaps, these flames will be extinguished, muted in the shadows and darkness shall inherit the land.’ Stand up my brothers. Stand up for what you believe in and what is right. It is you who can make the difference, for ‘each of you hold within your heart a flame, a beacon to guide you through the darkness.’ My brothers, the world is getting darker day by day, as we continue to let it be consumed into the shadows of lies and false hope. We cannot let the purity of virtue fall beneath our feet. ‘If you can make this light shine upon another, if you can reach into the innermost 62 Spring 2009
Call (573) 779-3426 or (573) 734-2822 for additional information. depths of his soul and set his flame afire, then therein lies the purpose of the Order of DeMolay, and therein lies your purpose for living.’ My brothers, I love each and every one of you. I thank you for giving me the honor of serving as your State Master Councilor. May God bless you all, and guide you through the mist of uncertainty, as we travel along the pathway of righteousness for God, for Country, for Freemasonry, and for DeMolay.” I look forward to working with the Master Masons of Missouri as we continue building Freemasonry through DeMolay.” Ryan Matthew Cockerham, 32° State Master Councilor Missouri DeMolay www.modemolay.org THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
On Thursday, July 3, 2008, Brookfield Lodge #86, held an open meeting to present 50-year jewels to Lloyd Mossbarger and Emmett Kirtley and presented one for Swope Park Lodge to Alan Stephens. Pictured left to right: Alan Stephens, Lloyd Mossbarger, Emmett Kirtley, and RWB Bob O’Dell (presented the jewels). There was a large number of Family members, Friends, and Brothers present for the ceremony. The three distinguished Brothers were each given an opportunity to reminisce on their earlier Masonic years, which all present enjoyed. After the ceremony all retired to dining room for an ice cream social.
On December 4, 2008, WB George Mainprize (left) received his 50-year jewel and certificate during a banquet in his honor at Clifton Lodge #463 in Thayer, Missouri. Making the presentation is WM Jimmy Denton, Worshipful Master of the Lodge. Rosey, the wife of WB Mainprize, was present for the occasion. The son of WB Mainprize, Brother Danny Mainprize, performed the honors of “the pinning.”
WB Donald P. Schmitt received his 25-year pin and certificate from WM Bruce E. McGlasson at the stated meeting December 12, 2008. Shown (l to r) WB Donald J. Hall, WB Gary Tourville, WB Raymond Vonderbruegge, WB F. Donald Puls, WB Dennis B. Trimble. A reception with cake and refreshments followed the ceremony.
On Saturday, October 4, 2008, MWB Rocky E. Weaver and Grand Lodge Officers opened Grand Lodge in Brookfield Lodge #86, at 9:00 am and then moved the procession to Pershing Memorial Hospital, Brookfield, Missouri, to dedicate a plaque for the cornerstone laying for the hospital’s new addition.
On October 21, 2008 Adair Lodge #366 installed officers for the coming year. Front row left to right: Bill King, Miran McAauley, Charles Cooper, Robert Barrett, Richard Mansfield. Back row left to right: Barry Cundiff, Kenny Rongey, Raymond Buchanan, Brian Hudnall, Kelley Snipes. Installing Master MWB Dale C. Motter, Installing Chaplain RWB Marion Rehm, and Installing Marshal RWB Dale C. West.
In November, members of Hermann Masonic Lodge #123 made a donation of over $1000.00 to the Gasconade County R1 School to purchase coats for the students in Hermann School District, Hermann Missouri. Pictured left to right: Clinton Coulter, Masonic Home Representative; Dawn Grosse, School Based Social Worker; Charles W. Kelsey II.
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CHURCHILL AND FLEMING: CONNECTIONS IMAGINARY AND REAL Dr. E. Otha Wingo, DDGL 38, FMLR — otha.wingo@gmail.com We won’t wait for the thirty-volume official biography of Winston S. Churchill, being published by Hillsdale College Press ($1130) to verify the notorious legend connecting him with Sir Alexander Fleming. (Only four of eight biographical volumes and ten of twenty-two document volumes have been published so far.) I’m sure you know the story, which has been around for nearly 60 years. It always starts: “His name was Fleming…,” and tells how Fleming’s father pulled young Churchill out of a bog on his remote farm in Scotland, in gratitude for which Churchill’s father paid for young Fleming’s education, which led to his discovery of penicillin; and in later life Churchill’s life was saved when he was treated with penicillin by Fleming. It’s a great story! I have known about this specific version for about 10 years, but I have known the story for over 50 years. It is typical of what currently is called GLURGE. However, that is such an unpleasant word, I prefer another term, Urban Legend, or even the
more appropriate word, Myth. In teaching mythology for forty years in university classes I suggested this approach: “Myth should be taken seriously, but not literally. Myths are a way of conveying truth.” The myth of the nobleman’s and the poor farmer’s sons goes even farther back. You can add any names that fit the tenor of the story. In 1950 the story was included in a religious text for Sunday school kids, with the names Fleming and Churchill added. A friend recently sent it to me by email. In the words of the Churchill Centre, “Charming as it is, the story is certainly fiction.” Knowing the history of a legend does not take away from the story, when you consider it from the idea of myth as history changed into fable. It is typical of famous persons that mythic stories become attached to and actually enhance their reputations (e.g. George Washington, John Kennedy). To paraphase the late Martin A. Larson: “As with other great personalities, tradition recorded certain historical facts concerning
these heroes, but around them there soon grew up a periphery of myth, the purpose of which was to establish their authority and divinity.” Sir Winston Leonard SpencerChurchill (11/30/1874-1/24/1965) was Prime Minister of Great Britain (1940-1945 and 1951-1955) and Honorary Citizen of the U.S. (1963). Official records rarely mention Masonic connections or activities. The history of WWII inevitably ties Churchill with Franklin D. Roosevelt (1882-1945), 31st President of the U.S. (1933-1945), who received his Masonic degrees in Holland Lodge No. 8, NYC in 1911 and was present when his three sons became Master Masons. He was a member of Scottish Rite, the Shrine, and other Masonic organizations. Churchill was initiated in Studholme Lodge No. 1591, London and raised March 25, 1902 in Rosemary Lodge No. 2851. His father, Lord Randolph Henry Churchill (1849-1895), is recorded as having visited Harmony Lodge No. 17, Washington, D.C. on Oct. 15, 1873. continued on page 47
POSTMASTER: Please send Address Forms 3579 to Grand Secretary, 6033 Masonic Drive, Suite B, Columbia, Missouri 65202-6535.