Category: About Masonry

A Brother being met on a stormy night wading from Lodge and ridiculed for the unnecessary exposure, sent the following 14 reasons for his conduct, says the Michigan Masonic World:

1. Because the by-laws of my Lodge and the character of my engagements as a Mason make no exception for stormy evenings.
2. Because I expect the Worshipful Master to be there I should be surprised if he were to remain away on account of the storm.
3. Because if his hands should fail through weakness, I should have great reason to blame myself, unless I sustain him by my presence and good wishes.
4. Because by staying away I may lose the instruction which would do me great good.
5. Because my presence is more needed on those evenings when there are but few, than when the Lodge is full.
6. Because whatever station I may hold in the Lodge, my example must influence others. If I stay away, why not they?
7. Because on any important business, bad weather does not keep me at home.
8. Because among the crowd of pleasure seekers, I see that bad weather does not keep the delicate female from the ball, the party or the concert.
9. Because among other advantages, stormy evenings will show me what foundation my Masonic attachment is built. It will prove how much I love Masonry. True love never misses an appointment.
10. Because those who absent themselves from the Lodge because it is too warm, too cold or t0o stormy frequently absent themselves from the fairest evenings.
11. Because an avoidable absence from the Lodge is an infallible evidence of Masonic coldness.
12. Because there is a special promise that where two or three are gathered together in God’s name, He will meet them.
13. Because such yielding of surmountable difficulties prepares for yielding to those merely imaginary, until thousands never enter the Lodge, and yet think they have good reasons for neglect.
14. Because I know not how many more evenings God may give me, and it will be poor plea for affectionate remembrances which I crave as a Mason, that I slighted my last Masonic evening on earth.

An article from the Michigan Masonic World reprinted in the Builder Magazine in 1925.

The following is a non-Mason’s assessment and view on modern Freemasonry and its history.  This is a well-written article by Margaret Kohut, written in August 2006, essentially examining ‘Fact vs. Fiction’ surrounding Freemasonry:

---

“Members of the order of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons are generally referred to as “Freemasons” or simply as “Masons.” Although this fraternal order has existed for centuries, interest in Freemasonry was sparked by Dan Brown’s novel ‘Angels and Demons’ which was written before The ‘Da Vinci Code’. Rumors about the Masons have always been controversial; some based in fact but misunderstood and taken out of context, and some that are strictly whimsical fantasy. The Masonic order is perhaps the most misunderstood organization in known history – except by its own members.

This article focuses on the facts of Freemasonry and dispels the myths of secret conspiracies and strange, sinister rituals. Drive through any town of decent size, and you will see a welcome sign that depicts the square and compass with the letter “G” prominently displayed in the middle. This sign informs a visitor that a Masonic Lodge exists in the area, and tells the visitor that he has Brothers available for aid of any type, or an opportunity to meet like-minded fellow Masons.

Most Masons wear some sort of identifying symbol; a ring, watch, necklace, or shirt displaying the square and compass. Masons recognize each other also by “passes, signs and grips;” certain spoken words, gestures and handshakes known only to Masons. A Master Mason takes a vow never to reveal to “outsiders” the nature of the passes, signs and grips. Yes, the Freemasons are a secret society. But “secret” does not equal”sinister” although many people assume this fact without evidence.

There are very specific reasons for the secret nature of Freemasonry; throughout the centuries, Masons have been persecuted by religious groups, political organizations and world leaders because of their opposition to tyranny and closed-mindedness. Adolf Hitler attempted to wipe out Masonry in Europe and the Masons were forced to hide their affiliation with the order. Masons have also been nearly exterminated by the Vatican and European monarchs. The reason for their secrecy was survival, and the practice continues today merely out of tradition. A Mason today will tell you anything you’d like to know about their fraternal organization except the signs, grips and passes, which are never written down in any form or repeated to non-Masons.

What does that square and compass mean? These are two working tools of actual masons; those who build structures, walls, brick and stone work, carpentry, etc. Their symbolic meaning is the “construction” of a society, a community, a nation, a religious faith of any nature, and a family. The requirements to become a Mason is that you are (1) male (2) of legal age (3) free-born, and (4) you believe in a Supreme Being, whom the Masons refer to as the Great Architect of the Universe. The square and compass symbolize structure, fairness, tolerance, “right-thinking” and tolerance of others’ beliefs. The “Gil stands for either God or Geometry. Freemasonry is not a religion, as some myths have it. The nature of your Supreme Being is entirely up to you; Masons welcome every religion and faith regardless of ethnic origin or nationality.

The legend of the beginning of Freemasonry lies deep in antiquity with the building of King Solomon’s temple in 1000 B.C.E. This legend has it that the architect and primary builder of the temple was Hiram Abif, an accomplished stonemason of the highest order. In that age, master craftsmen like Hiram Abif did not reveal the secrets of their craft to anyone who was undeserving of this knowledge. After the temple was completed, three men, called the “three rufians”, Jubela, Jubelo, and Jubelum demanded that Hiram reveal the secret of his talents as a master craftsman. Hiram Abif refused to reveal this information and was murdered by the “three J’S.” Upon Hiram Abif’s death, the real word (i.e. password) of master masons was lost.

Keep in mind that this was a time when few people were literate, and in some places a written alphabet did not exist. Therefore, signs, passes and grips weren’t written, but spoken or physically demonstrated. Hiram Abif is often referred to simply as “the widow’s son” among Masons; a promise requested from a Mason from the widow’s son is a very serious matter; it should never be asked for lightly, and, if made, must never be broken.

In the 1666, after the Great London Fire destroyed the city, master craftsmen were in great demand, especially to re-build St. Paul’s Cathedral. Craftsmen began to meet together for fellowship in pubs and coffeehouses to exchange ideas and methods and how they could assist in restoring London to its former glory. Recalling the legend of Hiram Abif, the first Grand Lodge was formed in 1717 and elected Anthony Sayer as the first Grand Master. Freemasonry was born! One article cannot possibly cover the entire history and practice of Freemasonry; only a general outline is presented here. Masons never call attention to themselves or actively recruit members. The slogan “2B1 , Ask1” (To Be One, Ask One) is literally how men become Masons; if they wish to know more about Masonry, all they need do is ask a Brother to have all their questions answered with the exception, of course, of the signs, passes and grips which are not taught to any man until he is “raised” as a Master Mason.

In brief, Masonry consists of three “degrees” of the Blue Lodge: the Entered Apprentice, the Fellowcraft, and the Master Mason. The Blue Lodge degrees are kind of like having an undergraduate college degree; you can stop there and enjoy full membership in the Craft, or you may choose to pursue additional knowledge through the three advanced Masonic degrees of the Mystic Shrine, the York Rite, and the Scottish Rite.

The Shrine is a branch of Masonry that has two objectives: having fun and fellowship with other Nobles, together with the very serious task of financially supporting the 23 Shrine Hospitals for Children throughout the nation. Shriners contribute to a yearly budget of over 6 billion dollars to provide free care to crippled or burned children. State of the art medical care, and absolutely no charge regardless of the complexity of the child’s care. No other fraternal organization in the world comes close to the Shrine Hospitals in philanthropy and medical excellence. The appendant organization for female relatives of Shriners,
the Daughters of the Nile, exist to support the Shrine’s work in caring for children by helping to raise funds, making toys, crafts of all kinds, holiday gifts etc. for the hospitalized children.

The Scottish Rite and its 32 degrees, focuses on “right living,” moral and ethical values, and service to others. It enhances teachings of the three degrees of the Blue Lodge. It enriches a Brother’s understanding of the lessons of Masonry so that he may put those values into action in his own life, his community, his family and the religious faith of his choice. In the Scottish Rite, Masons learn the “word that was lost” by the murder of Hiram Abif. A man who wears the symbol of the 32nd degree of the Scottish Rite, the double-headed eagle, has proven himself to be moral, ethical, and responsible, a Prince of the Royal Secret.

In the York Rite, the three highest degrees are devoted soley to Christianity. The ultimate degree in the York Rite is the designation as a Knight Templar; these Masons are referred to as “Sir Knight” and their ceremonial dress includes a
plumed hat, white gloves, and a silver sword engraved with the Knight’s name.  The Templar legend is intertwined with Freemasonry; it is patterned after the nine original Knights that were dispatched by the Vatican to give safe passage to
Christian pilgrims visiting the Holy Lands. Since the ownership of Jerusalem was in dispute between Christians and Muslims, these pilgrims were often murdered on the roads as infidels by Muslim assassins. The Templar Knights grew in number, taking up residence at the site of King Solomon’s Temple; they were reputed to be the fiercest warriors of their time, and they also grew wealthy and powerful in their own right. On Friday, October 13th, 1307, King Phillip of Spain and Pope Clement the Fifth ordered the mass extermination of the Templar Knights all over Europe; this is tl1e origin of our superstition about Friday the 13th. Many Templars were killed, and their leader, Jacques DeMolay, was burned at the stake. The surviving Templars went underground in order to survive. Today, a Sir Knight takes an obligation to defend the faith of Christianity and to conduct themselves in a manner commensurate to the teachings of Jesus Christ. It is a serious, solemn obligation that is never taken lightly. No Mason is pressured to become a Knight Templar or adopt the Christian faith.

Several myths about Masonry persist despite proof that they are not based on facts. Freemasons have no interest in dominating others through a New World Order. In fact. Masons are forbidden to discuss politics of any kind while meeting in the Lodge to prevent discord among the Brothers. There is no such thing as a Masonic Illuminati, a sinister make-believe organization that also seeks world domination and the destruction of organized religion. Masons do not worship Satan. The controversial and misunderstood writings of Brother Albert Pike, Morals and Dogma, refer to “Lucifer” only as an allegory of enlightenment; the name literally means” morning star” and has nothing to do with Satan worship. When confronted with this myth, Masons smile and remind their accuser that the very first self-striking matches were called “Lucifers.” Does that mean that the inventor of the match was a Satanist? Masons are not “a bunch of rich and powerful men” as is mistakenly thought. Men from all walks of life and all economic status are Masons; all Brothers are equal, and leave their money, their status, their religion and their politics at the door of the Lodge. All are “on the level” quite literally; a Masonic Lodge is built with that concept in mind.

The leader of a Lodge is voted into office by the Brothers and is referred to as the Worshipful Master. Contrary to the myth, this doesn’t mean that the Master himself is worshipped; it means that he, above all Brothers of the Lodge, must be the most worshipful of the Great Architect and Masonic tradition. Satanic “magician” Aleister Crowley was not a Mason, although he claimed to be. For over a century, the myth has persisted that Jack the Ripper was a Mason and was either imprisoned or killed by his Brothers to prevent him from killing prostitutes on the streets of London in 1888. There is no conclusive evidence that Jack was a Mason. Likewise, Freemasons did not found the Nazi party; this is certainly evident as Hitler either killed or imprisoned every Mason he could find because they opposed his “final solution” of genocide. In fact, many Masons were interred in concentration camps because of their outspoken defense of the Jews.

Finally, despite the myth that Masons are disemboweled and their tongues cut out if they reveal the secrets of the order, this is just plain silly. The obligation of secrecy. and the ritualistic penalty for violating it, is symbolic, not actual. Masonic obligations are spoken before the Lodge members, while the candidate is “hoodwinked” (blindfolded) with his right hand placed upon the open Bible and the square and compass. Only after taking his obligations is the hoodwink removed, ushering the Brother into the Light. Violation of obligations may result in very severe penalties, including expulsion from the order.

The truth about Freemasonry is that it is a benevolent fraternal organization that exists to personify role models of decency and honesty among their fellows, Masons or non-Masons. They are intensely patriotic, devoted to their families, and seek opportunities to provide service and aid to others.  The truth is that women cannot be Masons; this is an organization of men who band together with other men of like-thinking. Some organizations that call themselves Masons do admit women as full members. A “real” Mason, however, takes a solemn obligation never to accept a woman as a Mason. Masonry, however, is very much a family endeavor.

The Order of the Eastern Star consists of Masons and their female relatives, who provide service and aid to their community, teach lessons of moral living such as fidelity, devotion to family, self-sacrifice for the good of others, faith in God, and loving charity towards others. Masons aren’t “women haters.” On the contrary, they treat their spouses with devotion, fidelity, honor and kindness. Masons refer to their wives as their “Lady,” and other Masons treat her with great respect. In a very big way, the wives and daughters of Masons receive the benefits of Masonry through the protection and love of their husbands and fathers.

The truth is that Masons are devoted parents; the Rainbow Girls, Job’s Daughters and DeMolays are organizations for the daughters and sons of Masons so that they might learn the ways of “right livingII as well as providing a supportive, positive peer group. Remember that “2B1, Ask1.” ”

(original article  by Margaret Kohut)

“WHAT’S HE GOTTEN HIMSELF INTO THIS TIME?”

It may seem a light-hearted way to ask the question, but still it’s a question many women have when their husbands decide to join the Masonic Lodge.  In spite of the fact that we’ve been around for hundreds of years, many people don’t know that much about us, even people whose fathers were Freemasons.

So we’d like to tell you a little more about the Fraternity your husband is joining. Especially, we’d like to tell you about some of the benefits YOU will get from Masonry. It may be for men, but our Ladies get a lot from it, too.  Here are some of the most frequently asked questions.

WHAT IS HE GOING THROUGH? HOW DOES HE ACTUALLY JOIN MASONRY?

There are three degrees or stages of membership: (1) Entered Apprentice, (2) Fellow Craft and (3) Master Mason.
Masonry takes many of its terms and symbols from the craft guilds which built the great cathedrals and castles of the Middle Ages. The beginning craft stonemason, just starting to learn the skills he would need, was an Apprentice, entered on the rolls of the guild. That’s where the name comes from.

He will have to learn some memory work before he can take the next degree. Since that material is not written, he’ll have to learn it from another Mason, and that may take him some time away from home. As soon as he is ready, he’Il go to a meeting of the Lodge and show them that he has learned the material. A little encouragement from you can make all the difference here. For most men, this first memory work is the hardest. He can learn it, millions of us have. If he gets discouraged, we’d appreciate it if you’d remind him that he really can learn it.  After the first couple of sessions, it gets much easier for him.
The Degrees are learning experiences. There is nothing silly or frivolous about them. They talk about the duty we owe to God, to our families, our country and ourselves. They teach the importance of self-development, patience and self-control.

WHY ARE THERE SO MANY SECRETS?

Really, there are very few “secrets” in Masonry, and they relate to ways a man can prove he’s a Mason to another Mason. We keep those secrets because a Mason will do almost anything to help another Mason or his family.  He earns the right to that help because he promises to give that help to others. But there are no secrets about the teachings or values of Masonry. After your husband receives the Master Mason Degree, he can obtain a Monitor, which sets forth the teachings in the same words he heard. You’re perfectly welcome to read it.

HOW MUCH OF HIS TIME IS MASONRY GOING TO TAKE?

That’s up to the two of you. In most cases, It depends upon the man’s age. Generally, older men have more time to give than younger men. It may be only a few hours a year, or it may be many hours a week. Masonry, itself, doesn’t take much time, but many Masons find things they really like to do. Some serve as volunteer drivers, taking crippled children and their parents to Shrine Masonic hospitals in other states where they are treated free of charge. Some decide they want to be officers, and that takes a tittle more time, just as it does with any organization.

And then you may decide you want to participate in some of the family dinners, picnics, outings and other activities of the Lodge. Each family tailors Masonic involvement to its own needs and wants.

WHAT DO THE REST OF US GET OUT OF IT?

Masonry offers a lot to the family. In fact, there are several Masonic organizations for both women and men. The Order of the Eastern Star, with one of the most beautiful rituals around, is one. So are the White Shrine of Jerusalem, the Order of  Amaranth, the Social Order of the Beauceant, and several others. If you have children, there are Masonic Youth organizations. For boys, 13-21, there’s the Order of DeMolay. For girls there is Rainbow and Job’s Daughters. These organizations can be important to your children. Not on]y do they offer a chance for your children to be with others in a structured anti supervised activity which teaches ethics and morality, they also teach social skills, leadership skills, and self-development. All that can be reassuring in these days of drugs and teenage pregnancy.

And Freemasonry offers benefits to you, too. If you need help, at home or in a strange town, that help is as near as the nearest Mason. There are literally thousands of cases in point. Suppose you have car trouble when you’re traveling cross country. You don’t know who to trust in that town to fix the car and not cheat you. Find a Mason (Lodges are listed in the phone book) and tell him you’re the wife of a Mason. He’ll do everything he can to help you.

ARE THERE THINGS MY HUSBAND CAN’T TELL ME ABOUT MASONRY?

Very little. We ask him to keep secret the words of the obligation and the memory work, because that’s one of the major ways we have of recognizing another Mason.  We ask him not to tell anyone who isn’t a Mason about the grips, passwords, and other means of recognition.  But he can tell you anything you want to know about the teachings, the values, the ideals and the structure of Masonry.

CAN I FIND OUT MORE ABOUT MASONRY IF I WANT TO?

Sure! We’re happy to give you all the information you want. Your husband may not be able to answer all your questions yet–it takes a while to learn. But feel free to write to the Grand Secretary, P.O. Box 1020, Jacksonville, FL 32201 about any questions you have.  We’ll have a Brother answer your letter personally, and do our best to answer your questions.

(c) Grand Lodge of Florida, F. & A.M.

If he is interested in joining, have him download and fill out a petition and bring it in to us, so we can meet him personally!

(courtesy of Grand Lodge of Florida)

The History of Masonry in Florida cannot be traced properly until the source from which it derived its authority has been firmly established.  Inasmuch as Masonry in Florida and in the various States of the Union was established by authority from Masonry in the British Isles, a brief review of the early Masonic activities there should be reported.

Masonry can be traced as far as 926 A.D. in the City of York, England.  The history of Masonic activities in this region is referred to as the “York Legend.”  Although Masonry can be traced back to the Eighth Century, it was not until the Eighteenth Century that dedicated members of the four Lodges in London recognized the need for organization and firm leadership and for a close bond between the various Lodges.  Thus, in February, 1717, representatives of the four Lodges met in the Apple Tree Tavern, and the Grand Lodge of England was formed.  The structure of this new organization was based upon a constitution which provided for regular communications and a revival of the assembly and the feast.  Its object was to provide mutual help and promote brotherly feeling among the members of the affiliated Lodges.  A new ritual, coupled with a system of secret signs, added strength to this structure of Freemasonry.  As provided in its constitution, the Grand Lodge adopted rules and regulations which clarified the rights and the responsibilities of the individual Lodges.  In addition, the rulesand regulations set limitations on the powers of the new body and provided for its operations.  On St. John The Baptist Day, 1717, the annual assembly and feast was held at which time Mr. Anthony Sayer was proclaimed Grand Master.  Then in 1725 the Grand Lodge of All England was formed in York, England, and like the Grand Lodge located in London, was constructed on the foundation of Operative Masonry, which had passed into history.

Freemasonry was brought to America by those Master Masons who sought a better way of life in the new world.  Here, again, this review will deal only with that portion of the early Masonic history that has a bearing on Masonry in Florida.  Inasmuch as Masonry in the United States is organized and operates according to Grand Jurisdiction, it will be necessary to deal with the early history in the States. The first known record of Masonic activity on the new continent was in 1730 when Thomas, Duke of Norfolk, the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of England (Moderns), appointed Daniel Coxe as “Provincial Grand Master of the Provinces of New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, in America.” The appointment made on June 5, 1730, established a Grand Lodge in North America.  There is evidence, however, that Masonry and Masonic Lodges were in existence prior to that date. The appointment of Daniel Coxe as Provincial Grand Master was for a period of two years, but there is no known record as to his activities.  Neither is the fate of the Provincial Grand Lodge known. It is assumed that it went out of existence, and a provincial Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania was established since certain records have been found in the archives of the present Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania and in copies of the Pennsylvania Gazette which was owned and edited by Benjamin Franklin, the celebrated patriarch and statesman.  Benjamin Franklin became a member of the Masonic Fraternity in 1731.  He was elected Junior Grand Warden of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania in 1732 and Grand Master in 1734.  The history of this Grand Lodge from 1734 to 1743 is vague.  In 1743, Thomas Oxnard of Boston was appointed Provincial Grand Master of America, and in 1749, he appointed Benjamin Franklin the Provincial Grand Master of Pennsylvania.

In 1735, Masonry was organized in the territory of Georgia.  The early history of Masonry in this Grand Jurisdiction is vague because its records have been destroyed.  In 1786, however, the Masonic Lodges of this Grand Jurisdiction declared their independence and formed the Grand Lodge of Georgia. Masonry was introduced into South Carolina when Solomon’s Lodge of Charleston was organized October 28, 1736.  This Lodge was warranted in 1735 by Lord Weymouth, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of England (Moderns); and in 1736, John Hammerton was appointed Provincial Grand Master by the Earl of Landown, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of England (Moderns).

In 1783, the Grand Lodge of England (Ancients) granted a charter for a Lodge in Charleston, South Carolina.  By 1787, five Lodges had been chartered by this Grand Lodge.  These five Lodges joined together and, in 1787, organized the Grand Lodge of Ancient York Masons of South Carolina. Distrust and hostile feelings between the two Grand Lodges existed until 1817 when they merged and adopted the name “Grand Lodge of Ancient Freemasons of South Carolina.” On May 31, 1801, the Supreme Council of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry was opened in Charleston.  This Council is the Mother Council of the world.  The seat of the Council remains in Charleston, but the physical outlay and its operations are located in Washington, DC.  Organized Masonry came to Alabama in 1811 during the time that this land was still a part of the Mississippi Territory.  The Grand Lodge of Kentucky, a product ofthe Grand Lodge of Virginia, chartered Madison Lodge No. 21 in 1811.  This Lodge worked under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky until the Grand Lodge of Alabama was formed in 1821. From 1818 to 1821, the Grand Lodge of Tennessee, which originated from the Grand Lodges of both North Carolina and Kentucky, chartered some twelve Lodges in Alabama.  When the Grand Lodge of Alabama was originated on June 14, 1821, these Lodges were also absorbed into that body.

The historical records of Freemasonry in Florida were for many years hidden from the world, lying dormant in unmarked and forgotten files.  Historians made various attempts to report the early Masonic activities on this territory.  Their efforts were in vain.  In 1898, the first authoritative record of Masonry in Florida came to light.  This record was a rare and very old copy of “Preston’s Illustration” which was presented to the Grand Lodge of Florida by Doctor F. F. Bond of Thorncliff, Brighouse, England. On the title page of the prized gift, the following words were inscribed:  “The Gift of James Murray to St. Andrews Lodge No. 1, West Florida, June 27, 1776.”  This was the first reliable information that a Masonic Lodge had existed in Florida at such an early date and was the spark that kindled the interest to search for the history of Masonry in the Grand Jurisdiction of Florida. M . W . James M. Hilliard, Grand Master in 1898, appointed R.  W . Silas B. Wright, Deputy Grand Master, to search for any additional information that might have a bearing on the history of Florida Masonry and to make a written report of his findings to the next Grand Lodge.  Brother Wright made two appeals, one to the Board of Editors of the “History of Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons and Concordant Orders,” and the other to the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.  The Board of Editors was unable to furnish any information that would be beneficial or that would support historical facts about Masonry in Florida, but the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania reported that there were documents and records in possession of that Grand Lodge that would prove the existence of Masonry in Florida during the early period of the country. The records, so the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania reported, had been found among the old records of that Grand Jurisdiction which had been boxed and placed in storage. These records
were compiled by the Library Committee of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania under the title “Old Masonic Lodge of Pennsylvania, Moderns and Ancients, 1730 ­ 1800.”

The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, through its Grand Secretary, made the records and documents available to R . W . Brother Wright, who studied and copied documents and papers pertinent to Florida. Authentic copies of these papers are now filed in the archives of the Grand Lodge of Florida and are a part of its St. Andrews Lodge No. 1, of West Florida, and other documents which cover portions of the period from 1768 through 1785.  Brother Wright prepared and gave a detailed report on his findings which was included in the 1899 Grand Lodge Proceedings. The charter of St. Andrews Lodge No. 1 of West Florida was issued on May 3, 1771 by the “Provincial Grand Lodge of the Southern District of North America.”  The petitioners for this Lodge were members of Lodge No. 108 of theregister of Scotland and were attached to the 31st Regiment of Foot of the British Army stationed at Pensacola.

Ten Master Masons applied for the charter and are listed as charter members. The charter was signed by James Grand, Provincial Grand Master of the Provincial Grand Lodge of the Southern District of North America, and other officials of the Provincial Grand Lodge.  In addition to the certified copy of the charter of St. Andrews Lodge, there were other documents and papers relating to early Masonry in Florida.  There were records and minutes of St. Andrews Lodge which revealed the plight of this Lodge and its ties with its Provincial Grand Lodge.

These historical records were definite proof of the activities of the Masonic Fraternity in Florida and further revealed that its activity had emanated from the Grand Lodge of Scotland.  Brother Wright immediately wrote that Grand Lodge requesting confirmation of the authenticity of these records and any other information from the records of that Grand Jurisdiction.  Their records not only confirmed the accuracy of the records found by the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, but also shed light on the Provincial Grand Lodge of the Southern District of North America.  The following excerpts are taken from the replyof R . W . Brother Lyon: “In searching our Grand Lodge records, I find under date of March 15, 1769. . . ‘Having read a petition from James Grant, Esq., Governor of the Province of East Florida, HenryCunningham, late Senior Warden of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, and many other brethren residing in the province aforesaid, craving a charter for holding a Lodge there by the stile and title of Grant’s East Florida Lodge, and also entreating that the Grand Lodge would appoint the said Governor, James Grant, Provincial Grand Master over the lodges in the Southern District of North America, the Grand Lodge granted the desire of that petition and authorized a charter to be made out accordingly, and likewise acommission appointing Governor James Grant, Provincial Grand Master, over the lodges in the Southern District of North America’.”

On March 15, 1768, a charter was issued by the Grand Lodge of Scotland to “Grant’s East Florida Lodge No. 143,” to be located in St. Augustine, in the Territory of Florida. This was the first Masonic Lodge to be established in what is now the State of Florida.  On this same date the “Provincial Grand Lodge over Lodges in the Southern District of North America” was created and located at St. Augustine, in the Territory of Florida. Honorable James Grant, Governor of the Territory of Florida, was named Provincial Grand Master.  This Grand Body functioned until 1783 when it was suppressed by the Dominican Priesthood and the Spanish Government.  All records of this Grand Lodge were destroyed or were carried away and are still missing.  The
meager information that is available was found in the archives of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania and the Grand Lodge of Scotland.

The fate of the first Masonic Lodge, “Grant’s East Florida Lodge,” in the Territory of Florida, is not known, but it is assumed that it was suppressed at the same time as the Provincial Grand Lodge. The records founds in the archives of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania gave a clear picture of the operations and the fate of Florida’s second Masonic Lodge, St. Andrew’s Lodge of Pensacola. Pensacola and the Territory of West Florida were captured by the Spanish in 1781.  The Masonic Fraternity again was suppressed by the Dominican Priesthood and the Spanish Government and the Masons were forced to flee.  Even though the Masonic Brethren faced grave dangers, they did not leave until they had obtained the charter and records which included the minutes of every communication that had been held since the Lodge was chartered.  After they reached the safety of Charles Town, the plight of St. Andrews Lodge No. 1 was reported to the Provincial Grand Lodge on February 9, 1782.  This report was assembled and prepared by the Worshipful Master, Thomas Underwood, the Junior Warden, H. Beaumont, and three other members, and forwarded to the Provincial Grand Master in St. Augustine.  The Provincial Grand Lodge at St. Augustine
acknowledged receipt of the communication, and on March 14, 1782, issued a dispensation to the Brethren of St. Andrews Lodge to work at Charles Town, South Carolina.  This authorization stated:  “Under your charter until it shall please God to restore you to the Ancient seat of your lodge in West Florida, provided you have the Master and a sufficient number of members of the same to form a lodge.”  It was signed by R . W . John Forbes, Deputy Grand Master, the Senior and the Junior Grand Wardens and the Grand Secretary.

In compliance with the Dispensation and to assure adequate and proper Masonic protection, a meeting was called and all Masters of the Ancient Lodges of Free and Accepted Masons of Charles Town were summoned.  The stated business of this meeting was setforth in the call “to examine into their regularity and their right to work as Masons.”  A “Clear Bill of Regularity” was duly issued and signed by the Masters and Past Masters of four Lodges.  This action cleared St. Andrews Lodge No. 1 of any doubt, andtheir labors as a regular Lodge were resumed in Charles Town, South Carolina. When the “Provincial Grand Lodge over the lodges in the Southern District of North America” was suppressed in 1783 by the Spaniards, St. Andrews Lodge No. 1 of West Florida, working under Dispensation in Charles Town, was without authority to function.  A new charter from an active Grand Lodge was essential.

The Officers and members of St. Andrews Lodge No. 1 turned to the Grand Lodge of Philadelphia (Ancients), and on July 12,1783, the Lodge was rechartered as Lodge No. 40 of Charles Town, South Carolina.  There is no explanation as to why the original name was dropped, but apparently the decision was made by the Grand Lodge of Philadelphia. Lodge No. 40 of Charles Town continued to work under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Philadelphia until 1787, when it surrendered its charter, and together with four other Lodges, formed the Grand Lodge of South Carolina.  The subsisting Lodge assumed the name of “St. Andrews Lodge No. 10,” under the charter and jurisdiction of the new Grand Lodge of South Carolina.  It continued to work until 1881 when its charter was surrendered and stricken from the rolls.  It is reported that on January 17, 1859, the Grand Lodge of England (Ancients) warranted a Lodge to the 14th Regiment of Foot.  The number of this Lodge is reported to be 58b.  This Lodge, located in St. Augustine, became dormant. On March 6, 1776, a renewal of the warrant was authorized and on March 20, 1776, it was renewed. Then, on January 3, 1778, the Grand Lodge of England (Ancients) granted a warrant to No. 204, St. Augustine in East Florida.  On January 17, 1780, this warrant was ordered returned to the Grand Secretary because the
fee had not been recorded. The Grand Lodge of South Carolina (Ancients) issued warrant No. 30 to a Lodge at St. Augustine as well as a warrant to Lodge No. 56 located at Pensacola under the name of “Good Intention.”  Both Lodges were short lived and their exact fate is not known, but it is known that the Spanish Government suppressed all Masonic activities throughout its domain.

In 1806, St. Fernando Lodge in St. Augustine was chartered by the Grand Lodge of Georgia.  This Lodge was subsequently suppressed by a mandate of the Spanish Government. Again, in 1820, the Grand Lodge of South Carolina granted a charter to Floridian Virtue Lodge No. 28, but it could not survive the political and religious hostilities of that day. During 1824, the Grand Lodge of South Carolina granted another charter to Esperanza Lodge at St. Augustine.  The failure of this Lodge was attributed to the fact that practically all of its members moved to Havana, Cuba.  There are reports of additional Lodges in Florida, but no records from these Lodges have been found.  Theseare mentioned here only because some day documented evidence may be found to support their existence. Freemasonry entered Florida as a permanent institution when, on December 19, 1825, the Grand Lodge of Alabama issued a warrant to Jackson Lodge No. 23,to be located in Tallahassee, in the Territory of Florida.

A warrant was issued on December 2, 1826, to Washington Lodge No. 1 by the Grand Lodge of Georgia. This Lodge was to be located in Quincey, in the Territory of Florida.  On December 8, 1829, theGrand Lodge of Georgia warranted Harmony Lodge No. 2.  This Lodge was to be located in Marianna, in the Territory of Florida. The three Lodges worked under their respective Grand Lodges until 1830.  At the regular meeting of May, 1830, Jackson Lodge No. 23 of Tallahassee adopted a Resolution inviting Washington Lodge No. 1 and Harmony Lodge No. 2 to join together in the organization of a Grand Lodge for the Territory of Florida.  The two Lodges accepted the invitation and in due time named their delegates. On Monday, July 5, 1830, the delegates from the three Lodges met in the Masonic Temple of Jackson Lodge No. 23, Tallahassee, to decide the proper course to be taken.  The meeting was called to order by Brother John P. Duval, of Jackson Lodge No. 23, the oldest Past Master in attendance.  Brother Thomas Monroe, also of Jackson Lodge No. 23, was named Secretary.  It was the consensus of the group to organize a Grand Lodge for the Territory of Florida. The meeting was then organized into a permanent Convention.  Brother John P. Duval was elected President and Brother Thomas Monroe was elected Secretary.

The first order of business following the organization was the adoption of a Resolution stating the right and the purpose of the body to organize a Grand Lodge for the Territory of Florida.  The next order of business was the appointment of a Constitution and By­Laws Committee.  Named to the Committee were Brothers Thomas Brown, Robert Butler, Richard K. Call, John P. Duval, and Isham Green Searcy of Jackson Lodge No. 23; Henry Gee, John Lines and Isaac Nathans of Washington Lodge No. l; James W. Exum, Jacob Robinson and William J. Watson of Harmony Lodge No. 2.  Brother Jacob Robinson served as Chairman.  The Committee made its report to the Convention on Friday, July 9, 1830.  The report was adopted as amended,
enrolled, certified and signed by the Honorable John P. Duval, President of the Convention.  The Convention elected Grand Lodge Officers, and the first Grand Master was M . W . John P. Duval.  The Officers, both elective and appointive were duly installed.  The Convention, having fulfilled its mission, was adjourned.

The Grand Lodge for the Territory of Florida was then opened in Ample Form.  The rules and By­Laws of the Grand Lodge of Alabama were adopted so far as they were applicable to the proceedings of this Grand Lodge; however, a Committee was appointed to make a study and prepare suitable rules and a code of By­Laws for the new Grand Body.  The study was made and the report was submitted during the next annual session of Grand Lodge. Warrants for the three subordinate Lodges were approved and on July 10, 1830, were issued to Jackson Lodge No. 1, Washington Lodge No. 2 and Harmony Lodge No. 3. The new warrants were exchanged for the old charters.  The Grand Secretary returned the three old documents to the appropriate Grand Lodges, and with these documents went a request for fraternal recognition and the exchange of fraternal correspondence. The First Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of the Territory of Florida was closed in Ample Form to
meet again on the second Monday after the annual session of the Legislative Council of the Territory of Florida.

In these early years of Freemasonry in Florida, it was determined that no Lodge in Florida shall be named after any living man, and no Lodge in Florida shall bear the number “8.”  Orion Lodge No. 8 was chartered by the Grand Lodge of Florida at Pleasant Grove, Georgia, near the Florida Line, in 1839.  Two years later, without consent of either Grand Body, the Lodge moved to Decatur, now Bainbridge, Georgia.  When this fact came to the attention of the Grand Lodge of Georgia, much indignation was expressed and a Resolution was adopted officially declaring Orion Lodge to be a Lodge of Clandestine Masons.  Explanations followed and the matter was adjusted in a fraternal spirit of amity and good will.  Florida released claim on Orion Lodge and
Georgia received it in full fellowship, and to cement the bond of good will and good fellowship, Florida resolved that no other Florida Lodge should bear the number “8,” and as a further gesture of good will, elected the Masters and Wardens of Orion Lodge No. 8 honorary members of the Grand Lodge of Florida in perpetuity.  In the same spirit, Georgia resolved that Orion Lodge should continue to work under the charter granted by the Grand Lodge of Florida, endorsed by the Grand Lodge of Georgia.  And so we see the anomaly of a Lodge of Masons working in another Grand Jurisdiction under and by virtue of authority granted by the Grand Lodge of Florida more than 145 years ago.

The Grand Lodge of Florida, under Masonic Law, has determined that newly chartered Lodges shall be numbered chronologically, the newest Lodge taking the next number above the last Lodge chartered.

NOTE: It is recommended that for further research into early Freemasonry in Florida that the Grand Lodge Proceedings and the Grand Lodge Archives are an excellent source for study and research. Source: History of Freemasonry in Florida, Volume One (Approved by the 133rd Grand Communication­­. See report of History Committee, Grand Lodge Proceedings 1962, page 337) and Chapter 16, Article 16.01 ­ Digest of Masonic Law.

Ever Consider joining?

---

Freemasonry is the oldest, largest Fraternity in the world. Its members have included Kings, Presidents, Prime Ministers, Statesmen, Generals, Admirals, Supreme Court Chief Justices, corporate CEOs, opera stars, movie stars, and probably, your next door neighbor.  (see some examples of famous Masons)

And Masonry is always ready to welcome good men in the Fraternity.

One of Masonry’s traditions is that we do not actively solicit members. Men must seek membership on their own initiative. When you are ready to join, you can complete the CONTACT Form on our site, and someone will contact you regarding membership.

Freemasonry is ready to welcome YOU, if in your heart you can answer “yes” to a few questions.

Do you believe that there is such a thing as honor, and that a man has a responsibility to act with honor in everything he does?

Masons teach that principle. We believe that a life not founded on honor is hollow and empty — that a man who acts without honor is less than a man.

Do you believe in God?

No atheist can be a Mason. Masons do not care what your individual faith is — that is a question between you and your God — but we do require that a that a man believe in a Supreme Being.

Are you willing to allow others the same right to their own beliefs that you insist on yourself?

Masonry insists on toleration — on the right of each person to think for himself in religious, social and political matters.

Do your believe that you have a responsibility to leave the world a better place than you found it?

Masonry teaches that each man has a duty not only to himself but to others. We must do what we can to make the world a better place. Whether that means cleaning up the environment, working on civic projects, or helping children to work or read or see — the world should be a better place because we have passed through it.

Do your believe that it is not only more blessed to give than to receive, it’s also more fun?

Masons are involved with the problems and needs of others because we know it gives each of us a good feeling — unlike any other — to help. Much of our help is given anonymously. We’re not after gratitude, we’re more than rewarded by that feeling which comes from knowing we have helped another person overcome some adversity, so that their life can go on.

Are you willing to give help to your Brothers when they need it, and to accept their help when you need it?

Masonry is mutual help. Not just financial help (although that’s there, too) but help in the sense of being there when needed, giving support, lending a sympathetic ear.

Do you feel that there’s something more to life than financial success?

Masons know that self-development is more precious than money in the bank or social position or political power. Those things often accompany self-development, but they are no substitute for it. Masons work at building their lives and character, just as a carpenter works on building a house.

Do you believe that a person should strive to be a good citizen and the we have a moral duty to be true to the country in which we live?

Masons believe that a country is strong as long as freedom, equality, and the opportunity for human development is afforded to all. A Mason is true to his government and its ideals. He supports its laws and authority hen both are just and equitably applied. We uphold and maintain the principles of good government, and oppose every influence that would divide it in a degrading manner.

Do you agree that man should show compassion for others, that goodness of heart is among the most important of human values?

Masons do. We believe in a certain reverence for living things, a tenderness toward people who suffer. A loving kindness for our fellow man, and a desire to do right because it is right. Masonry teaches that although all men are fallible and capable of much wrong, when they discover the goodness of heart, they have found the true essence of virtue. Masonry helps men see their potential for deep goodness and virtue.

Do you believe that men should strive to live a brotherly life?

Masons see brotherhood as a form of wisdom, a sort of bond that holds men together — a private friendship that tells us we owe it to each other to be just in our dealings and to refuse to speak evil of each other. Masons believe a man should maintain an attitude of good will, and promote unity and harmony is his relations with one another, his family, and his community. Masons call this way of believing in the Brotherhood of Man. It really means that every Mason makes it his duty to follow the golden rule. This is why Masonry has been called one of the greatest forces for good in the world.

IF YOU ANSWERED “YES”, YOU SHOULD CONSIDER BECOMING A MASON.

Freemasonry offers much to its members — the opportunity to grow, the chance to make a difference, to build a better world for our children. It offers the chance to be with and work with men who have the same values and ideals — men who have answered “YES” to these questions.

It’s easy to find out more. Just find a Mason and ask him about Masonry. You probably know several Masons. Perhaps you’ve seen the Square and Compasses like the one on this page or on a pin or tie tack or bumper sticker. If you know where the lodge is in your community, stop by or look up the number of your local Masonic lodge in the phone book and ask for the secretary of the lodge. He’ll be happy to help you.

Have you ever considered becoming a Mason? We’d like a chance to talk with you

.  You can also download, fill out and either bring us or mail us your petition for membership.

Please feel free to watch this video, courtesy of the Grand Lodge of Indiana:   What is Freemasonry?
(Video will open in a separate window/tab.)

FAMOUS MASONS

---

This is by no means a complete list. This list also includes Prince Hall Masons.

From The American Revolution (other than Presidents): Benjamin Franklin, John Hancock, Paul Revere, John Paul Jones, LaFayette, Rufus King, James Otis, Baron von Steuben, Joseph Warren, Benedict Arnold (well, you can’t win them all)

Political Leaders: Winston Churchill, Simon Bolivar, Edmund Burke, Benito Juarez, Edward VII, George VI, Bernardo O’Higgins, Jose’ de San Martin, Francisco de Paula Santander, Jose’Rizal, Jose’ Marti, Pandit Nehru, Lajos Kossuth, Jonas Furrer, Guiseppe Mazzini, Eduard Benes, John A. MacDonald, Aaron Burr, George McGovern, Barry Goldwater, Estes Kefauver, Adlai Stevenson (not the governor of Illinois, but his father who was Vice President in 1892), Thomas E. Dewey, Alf Landon, Hubert H. Humphrey, Wendell Wilke, W.E.B. DuBois, William Jennings Bryant

Military Leaders: Omar Bradley, John J. Pershing, Douglas McArthur, General Winfield Scott, Captain Eddie Rickenbacker, Jimmy Doolittle, General Mark Clark, General George C. Marshall

Republic Of Texas: Sam Houston, Stephen Austin, Davy Crockett, Jim Bowie, William B. Travis (and, it should be added, General Santa Ana)

Fine Arts: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (and his father, Leopold), Ludwig von Beethoven, Jean Sibelius, Franz Liszt, Josef Haydn, Irving Berlin, Gutzon Borglum, Charles W. Peale, Alfons M. Mucha, John Philip Sousa, both Gilbert & Sullivan, George Gershwin, George M. Cohen, Count Basie, Nat King Cole, Giacomo Meyerbeer, Signmund Romberg

Actors: John Wayne, Red Skelton, Clark Gable, W.C. Fields, Will Rogers, Burl Ives, Roy Rogers, Danny Thomas, Ernest Borgnine, Oliver Hardy, Tom Mix, Audie Murphy, Gene Autry, Wallace Beery, Eddie Cantor

Industry & Labor: Henry Ford, Samuel Gompers, Walter P. Chrysler, John Wanamaker, S.S. Kresge, J.C. Penney, John Jacob Astor, John L. Lewis

Adventurers: Lewis & Clark, Charles A. Lindberg, Kit Carson, Roald Amundsen, Adm. Richard Byrd, Commodore Robert Peary

Philosophers: Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Gotthold E. Lessing, Voltaire (Francois Marie Arouet)

Athletes: Bob Feller, Tris Speaker, Ty Cobb, Paul “Dizzy” Trout, Harry Carey, Dell Rice, Jimmy Fox, Joe Tinker (of “Tinker to Evers to Chance”), Jack Dempsey, Arnold Palmer, Jack Arthur Johnson

Astronauts: Edwin E. “Buzz” Aldrin, Jr., Leroy Gordon Cooper, Donn F. Eisele, Virgil I. Grissom, Edgar D. Mitchell, Walter M. Schirra, Jr., Thomas P. Stafford, Paul J. Weitz, James B. Irwin, John Glenn.

Writers: Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain), Sir Walter Scott, Rudyard Kipling, Robert Burns, Wassily I. Maikow, Heinrich Heine, Jean P.C. de Florian, Leopoldo Lugoner, Antonio de Castro Alves, James Boswell, Alexander Pushkin, Arthur Conan Doyle, Johnathon Swift, Oscar Wilde

Law: John Marshall, Earl Warren, Thurgood Marshall

Medicine: Drs. Alexander Fleming, Jules Bordet, Antoine DePage, Edward Jenner, Charles and William Mayo, Karl and William Menninger

Science: Hans C. Orsted, Jons Jakob Frk. von Berzelius, Alfred Edmund Brehm, Luther Burbank, Johan Ernst Gunnerus, Albert Abraham Michelson, Gaspard Monge, C.F.S. Hahnemann, Pedro N. Arata, Alexandre Gustave Eiffel, Alexander Fleming, James Smithson

…as well as Harry Houdini, Norman Vincent Peale, David Sarnoff, Thomas J. Watson, Giuseppe Garibaldi, Cecil J. Rhodes, Marvin Zindler, and many, many more.

ABOUT FREEMASONRY – An Overview.

---

Freemasonry, also known generally as Masonry, is the oldest and largest fraternity in the world. No other organization has a man walk into a room full of strangers, anywhere on earth, and immediately receive welcome and honor as a friend and Brother. Many Masons are well-known throughout history.   (see some examples

)

Many have written over 100,000 books and innumerable articles on and about our Fraternity.  Take a moment to read Bro. Artur Nistra’s “WHO ARE THE FREEMASONS?” (PDF-file). He is a Brother hailing from Jacksonville, FL.

Freemasonry does not recognize differences in race, color, creed, or station, and our history and traditions date from antiquity. We have two purposes: 1) inspire members to live by the tenets of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth, and 2) endeavor to build a world where justice, equality, and compassion shine for all human kind.

While we founded our philosophy upon religious principles, we do not serve as a religion nor as a substitute for one. We do not solicit membership but rather welcome men who have good morals and profess a belief in a Supreme Being. Any man who sincerely wishes to serve in our fraternity need only ask a member to receive a petition

.

When a man seeks a Masonic Lodge, he enters an opportunity for personal development, character building, and the nuturing of leadership potential. Through one’s Masonic journey, and his association with our brethren, a Freemason learns the skills and understanding needed to support his community and strengthen his family.

Medieval guilds of stone masons, who constructed the large European cathedrals, serve as the model for Freemasonry. Consequently, our moral symbolism draws from the art and science of those builders. As they labored to build an expression for a community’s faith, so Freemasons today labor within their communities to build a finer place to live.

Our earliest Masonic documents date to the close of the Thirteenth Century. Present Masonic practice and structure, however, emerged only some three hundred years ago. Lodges of Freemasons began to accept men of prominence and learning, those who did not work stone. In A.D. 1717, four British lodges met and formed the first Grand Lodge and elected a Grand Master to lead it.

Perhaps the civic service of Freemasonry becomes no more evident than with the laying of cornerstones for public buildings. In these ceremonies, Freemasonry reminds itself (and all citizens) of our moral convictions and our dedication to others, which remain necessary for any well ordered and compassionate society.

---

Here are some commonly and frequently asked questions about our fraternity:

1. Is Masonry a religion?

Masonry is a fraternity, not a religion. Masonry acknowledges the existence of God, but Masonry does not tell a person which religion he should practice or how he should practice it. That is a function of his house of worship, not his fraternity.

Sometimes people confuse Masonry with a religion because we call some Masonic buildings “temples.” But we use the word in the same sense that Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes called the Supreme Court a “Temple of Justice.” Neither Masonry nor the Supreme Court is a religion just because its members meet in a “temple.”

2. Why is Masonry so secretive?

It really isn’t secretive, although it sometimes has that reputation. Masons certainly don’t make a secret of the fact that we are members of the fraternity. We wear rings, lapel pins, and tie clasps with Masonic emblems like the “Square and Compass.” Masonic buildings are clearly marked, and are usually listed in the phone book. Lodge activities are not secret as events are often listed in the newspapers, especially in smaller towns. But there are two traditional categories of secrets. First are the ways in which a man can identify himself as a Mason: grips and passwords that are unique for any fraternity. Second are Masonic ceremonies, which are private (for members only) but are not secret.

3. Why does Masonry use symbols?

Symbols allow people to communicate quickly. When you see a red light, you know what it means. When you see a circle with a line through it, you know it means “no.” In fact, using symbols is probably the oldest method of communication and teaching.

Masons use symbols for the same reasons. Certain symbols, mostly selected from the art of architecture, stand for certain ethics and principles of the organization. The “Square and Compass” is the most widely known symbol of Masonry. In one way, this symbol is the trademark for the fraternity. When you see it on a building, you know that Masons meet there.

Lodge Address:

3325 – 1st Street North East, St. Petersburg, FL
next to the Masonic Home. (Map and Directions)
(727) 896-6032.

Mailing Address:

Northside Lodge #283, F&AM
P.O. Box 7067
St. Petersburg, FL  33734

WHEN WE MEET

Business / Stated Communications:   1st and 3rd Monday of every month.

Degree / Special Communications: 2nd and 4th Monday of every month.

Covered Dish Dinner: 5th Monday of the month.

---

If you personally know of anyone who might be a good Mason,
download and hand him a petition.

---

The Installation Ceremony of Officers for 2013 will be on Saturday, January 5, 2013, at 2:30 pm.

The Officers-Elect are:

• Worshipful Master -elect:    Stephen Pitts
• Sr. Warden -elect: Jack Keith
• Jr. Warden -elect: John Gunter
• Treasurer -elect: W:. Claude Pitts (incumb.)
• Secretary -elect: W:. Roy Tyrrell (incumb.)

 

The Deacons and Stewards and other officer appointments will be announced soon.