THE LODGE ROOM OVER SIMPKIN'S STORE by Lawrence N. Greenleaf, 33 degee, Grand Master of Masons in Colorado, 1880.
The plainest lodge room in the land was over Simpkin's store,
Where Friendship Lodge had met each month for fifty years or more.
When o'er the earth the moon, full orbed, had cast her brightest beams,
The brethren came from miles around on horseback and in team,
And Ah! what hearty grasp of hand, what welcome met them there,
As mingling with the waiting groups they slowly mount the stair,
Exchanging fragmentary news or prophecies of crop
Until they reach the Tiler's room and current topics drop
To turn their thoughts to nobler themes they cherish and adore
And which were heard on meeting night up over Simpkin's store.
To city eyes, a cheerless room, long usage had defaced
The tell-tale line of lath and beam on wall and ceiling traced.
The light from oil fed lamps was dim and yellow in its hue
The carpet once could pattern boast, though now `twas lost to view;
The altar and the pedestals that marked the stations three
The gate post pillars topped with balls, the rude carved letter G,
Were village joiner's clumsy work, with many things beside
Where beauty's lines were all effaced and ornament denied.
There could be left no lingering doubt, if doubt there was before,
The plainest lodge room in the land was over Simpkin's store.
While musing thus on outward form the meeting time drew near,
And we had glimpse of inner life through watchful eye and ear.
When Lodge convened at gavel's sound with officers in place,
We looked for strange, conglomerate work, but could no error trace.
The more we saw, the more we heard, the greater our amaze
To find those country brethren there so skilled in Mason's ways.
But greater marvels were to come before the night was through,
Where unity was not mere name, but fell on earth like dew,
Where tenets had the mind imbued, and truths rich fruit age bore,
In the plainest lodge room in the land, up over Simpkin's store.
To hear the record of their acts was music to the ear,
We sing of deeds unwritten which on angel's scroll appear,
A WIDOW'S CASE--Four helpless ones--Lodge funds were running low--
A dozen brethren sprang to feet and offers were not slow.
Food, raiment, things of needful sort, while one gave loads of wood,
Another, shoes for little ones, for each gave what he could.
Then spake the last: "I haven't things like these to give-- but then,
--Some ready money may help out" and he laid down a ten.
'Were brother cast on darkest square upon life's checkered floor,
A beacon light to reach the white--was over Simpkin's store.
Like scoffer who remained to pray, impressed by sight and sound,
The faded carpet `neath our feet was now like holy ground.
The walls that had such dingy look were turned celestial blue,
The ceiling changed to canopy where stars were shining through.
Bright tongues of flame from altar leaped, the G was vivid blaze,
All common things seemed glorified by heaven's reflected rays.
O! Wondrous transformation wrought through ministry of love-
-Behold the LODGE ROOM BEAUTIFUL!--fair type of that above.
The vision fades--the lesson lives--while taught as ne'er before,
In the plainest lodge room in the land--up over Simpkin's store.
Saturday, November 3, 2007
A FRIENDLY HAND SHAKE
A FRIENDLY HAND SHAKE
It is a wonderful feeling to meet a stranger and one of you introduces yourself to the other and get the grip. At that moment you feel you are not strangers at all. In the past years I have had this happen to me on many occasions and I still get a thrill. I think one of the best ways to make friends is if you see someone who seems to be alone, walk up to him and introduce yourself. If he is a Mason he will be glad and so will you, if he is not he will appreciate your friendly gesture. This I learned from my father many years ago.
If you have not been practicing this, you should, for you will enjoy this experience.
---Exchange
It is a wonderful feeling to meet a stranger and one of you introduces yourself to the other and get the grip. At that moment you feel you are not strangers at all. In the past years I have had this happen to me on many occasions and I still get a thrill. I think one of the best ways to make friends is if you see someone who seems to be alone, walk up to him and introduce yourself. If he is a Mason he will be glad and so will you, if he is not he will appreciate your friendly gesture. This I learned from my father many years ago.
If you have not been practicing this, you should, for you will enjoy this experience.
---Exchange
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Here sleepeth now a fellow who Was always on the Square."
It matters not whate'er your lot Or what your task may be, One duty there remains for you One duty stands for me. Be you a doctor skilled and wise, Or do your work for wage, A laborer upon the street, An artist on the stage; Our glory still awaits for you, One honor that is fair, To have men say as you pass by: "That fellow's on the Square." Ah, here's a phrase that stands for much 'Tis good old English too, It means that men have confidence In everything you do, It means that what you have you've earned, And that you've done your best, And when you go to sleep at night Untroubled you may rest. It means that conscience is your guide, And honor is your care; There is no greater praise than this: "That fellow's on the Square." And when I die I would not wish A lengthy epitaph; I do not wish a headstone large, Carved with fulsome chaff, Pick out no single deed of mine, If such a deed there be, To 'grave upon my monument, For those who come to see, Just this one phrase of all I choose, To show my life was fair: Here sleepeth now a fellow who Was always on the Square."
The Try Square
The Try Square
Masonry is not simply a ritual; it is a way of living. It offers us a plan, a method, a faith by which we may build our days and years into a character so strong and true that nothing, not even death, can destroy it. Each of us has in his heart a little try-square called conscience, by which to test each thought and deed and word, whether it be true or false. By as much as a man honestly applies that test in his own heart, and in his relations with his fellows, by so much will his life be happy, stable and true.
Courtesy is a mark of good breeding. It commands respect. It is the polish that welcomes the customer, cheers the fellow worker, and makes the day easier for everyone.
Masonic Exchange
Masonry is not simply a ritual; it is a way of living. It offers us a plan, a method, a faith by which we may build our days and years into a character so strong and true that nothing, not even death, can destroy it. Each of us has in his heart a little try-square called conscience, by which to test each thought and deed and word, whether it be true or false. By as much as a man honestly applies that test in his own heart, and in his relations with his fellows, by so much will his life be happy, stable and true.
Courtesy is a mark of good breeding. It commands respect. It is the polish that welcomes the customer, cheers the fellow worker, and makes the day easier for everyone.
Masonic Exchange
"The Old Masters Wages"
"The Old Masters Wages"I met a dear old man today Who wore a Masonic pin, It was old and faded like the man Its edges were worn quite thin I approached the park bench where he sat To give the old brother his do I said, "I see you've traveled east He said, "I have, have you" I said, I have and in my day Before the all seeing sun I played in the rubble with Jubala Jubilo, and Jubalum. He shouted, don't laugh at the work my son It's good and sweet and true And if you've traveled as you said You should give these things a due. The word, the sign, the token, The sweet Masonic prayer, The vow that all have taken Who have climbed the inner stair. The wages of a Mason are never paid in gold but the gain comes from contentment when you're weak and growing old. You see I've carried my obligations For almost fifty years It has helped me through the hardships and the failures full of tears. Now I'm losing my mind and my body Death is near but I don't despair I've lived my life upon the level And I'm dying upon the square. Sometimes the greatest lessons Are those that are learned anew And the old man in the park today has changed my point of view. To all Masonic brothers The only secret is to care May you live upon the level.
May you part upon the square.
May you part upon the square.
Which type of a Mason are you?
A Masonic Story
A salesman breaks down in a remote country lane, a farmer in the adjacent field comes over and they discover that they are "Brothers".
The salesman is concerned as he has an important appointment in the local town: "Don't worry says the farmer you can use my car, I will call a friend and get the car repaired while you go to the appointment".
Off goes the salesman and a couple of hours later he returns but unfortunately the car is awaiting a part which won't arrive until the next morning.
"It's not a problem," says the Farmer, "use my telephone and re-schedule your first appointment tomorrow, stay with us tonight and I'll see that the car is done first thing!"
The farmers' wife prepares a wonderful meal and they share a glass of fine single malt during an excellent evening, the salesman sleeps soundly and when he awakes there is his car, repaired and ready to go.
After a full breakfast the salesman thanks them both for the hospitality. As he and the farmer walk to his car he turns and asks "my brother, thank you so much but I have to ask, did you help me because I am a Mason?"
"No" was the reply, "I helped you because I am a Mason".
Which type of a Mason are you?
A salesman breaks down in a remote country lane, a farmer in the adjacent field comes over and they discover that they are "Brothers".
The salesman is concerned as he has an important appointment in the local town: "Don't worry says the farmer you can use my car, I will call a friend and get the car repaired while you go to the appointment".
Off goes the salesman and a couple of hours later he returns but unfortunately the car is awaiting a part which won't arrive until the next morning.
"It's not a problem," says the Farmer, "use my telephone and re-schedule your first appointment tomorrow, stay with us tonight and I'll see that the car is done first thing!"
The farmers' wife prepares a wonderful meal and they share a glass of fine single malt during an excellent evening, the salesman sleeps soundly and when he awakes there is his car, repaired and ready to go.
After a full breakfast the salesman thanks them both for the hospitality. As he and the farmer walk to his car he turns and asks "my brother, thank you so much but I have to ask, did you help me because I am a Mason?"
"No" was the reply, "I helped you because I am a Mason".
Which type of a Mason are you?
Famous Masons In America
This is a work in progess, if you see any corrections or additions please e mail meHiramhunter @ aol.comthanksDavidwww.hiramhunter.com
Famous Masons of America
Abbot, Bud - Comedian Abbott, Robert Sengstacke - Founder/publisher Chicago DefenderAbbott, Sir John J.C. - Prime Minister of Canada 1891-92Acuff, Roy - SingerAdams, Sherman - Governor of New Hampshire and US Congressman Aguinaldo, Emilio - President of the Philippines, he declared their independence in 1898Aldrin, Edwin E. - AstronautAldrich, Nelson Wilmarth - U. S. SenatorAlfond, Harold - Owned Dexter Shoe Company Allen, Charles H. - First Governor of Puerto Rico Allen, Ira - Known as the 'Father of Vermont'Allen, Richard - Founder/first bishop AME ChurchAlthouse, Monroe - Director, Ringgold Band of PennsylvaniaArmstrong, Louis - Jazz Musician Arnold, Benedict - Revolutionary War GeneraArnold, Eddie- SingerArnold, General Henry "Hap" - Commander of the Army Air ForceAshbrook, John M -Politician Ashburn, Richie - Sports Philadelphia PhilliesAustin, Stephen F. - Father of TexasAutry, Gene - ActorBach, Johann Sebastian - ComposerBach, Karl Phillip Emanuel - court organist for Friedrich the GreatBadyna, Keith R.- International Martial Arts Hall of Fame Baldwin, Henry - Supreme Court JusticeBallatine, Carl – McHale’s Navy comic Balfour, Lloyd - JewelryBartholdi, Frederic A. - Designed the Statue of LibertyBarty, Billy - ActorBasie, William "Count" - Orchestra leader/composerBaylor, Robert E. B. - Founder Baylor UniversityBeard, Daniel Carter - Founder Boy ScoutsBell, Lawrence - Bell Aircraft Corp.Bennett, Viscount R.B. - Prime Minister of Canada 1930-35Berlin, Irving - EntertainerBlack, Hugo L. - Supreme Court JusticeBlair, Jr., John - Supreme Court JusticeBlake, James Herbert Eubie -composer/pianistBlatchford, Samuel - Supreme Court Justice Bolivar, Simon -revolutionaryBorden, Sir Robert L. - Prime Minister of Canada 1911-1920Borglum, Gutzon & Lincoln - Father and Son who carved Mt. RushmoreBorgnine, Ernest - ActorBowell, Sir Mackenzie - Prime Minister of Canada 1894-96Bowie, James - AlamoBradley, Omar N. - Military leaderBradley, Thomas - Mayor of Las Angeles, CABrant, Joseph - Chief of the Mohawks 1742 - 1807 Bricker, John -Politician Brooks, Foster - Comedian Brown, Joe E. - Actor Brown, Judge Joseph -(lawyer judge) TVBuchanan, James - President of the U.S. Bunche, Ralphe -worked for United Nations, initiated peace accord Middle EastBurnett, David G. - 1st President of the Republic of TexasBurns, Robert - The National Poet of ScotlandBurton, Harold H. - Supreme Court JusticeButala ,Anthony -Singer Byrd, Admiral Richard E. - Flew over North PoleByrd, Robert - Senator from WVByrnes, James F. - Supreme Court Justice Caey, Harry - ActorCalvo, Father Francisco - Catholic Priest who started Freemasonry in Costa Rica 1865 Canute, Yakima - Cowboy, StuntmanCarson, Christopher "Kit" - Frontiersman, scout and explorerCasanova - Italian Adventurer, writer and entertainerCatton, John - Supreme Court Justice Chennault, Maj. General Claire E. - Flying Tigers leader, WWII GeneralChagrin, Jean François - Designer of The Arc De Triomphe in Paris, FranceChristenson,Larry -Sports Philadelphia Phillies pitcherChrysler, Walter P. - Automotive fameChurchill, Winston - British LeaderCitroen, Andre - French Engineer and motor car manufactureClark, James -explorer Clark, Mark - American WWII Airborne GeneralClark, Roy - Country Western StarClark, Thomas C. - Supreme Court JusticeClark, William - ExplorerClarke, John H. - Supreme Court JusticeClemens, Samuel L. - Mark Twain - writer Clinton, Dewitt-governor New YorkClower, Jerry - Late ComedianCobb, Ty - Baseball PlayerCody, "Buffalo Bill" William - Indian fighter, Wild West ShowCohan, George M. - Broadway starCole, Nat 'King' - Great ballad singerCollodi, Carlo - Writer of PinocchioColt, Samuel - Firearms inventorCombs, Earle Bryan - Baseball Hall of Fame Cosby, William H -entertainer, actor, philanthropistCraig ,John -Ambassador Crockett, David - American Frontiersman and Alamo fameCrosby, Norm - Comedian and entertainer Cushing, William - Supreme Court Justice Davis, Jefferson - President CSADavis, Ossie - Actor, Director and PlaywrightDeMille, Cecil – Movie ProducerDempsey, Jack - SportsDesaguliers, John Theophilus - Inventor of the planetariumDevanter, Willis Van - Supreme Court JusticeDewey, Thomas - Presidential CandidateDiefenbaker, John G. - Prime Minister of Canada 1957-63Dickens, Little Jimmy- Singer Dirkson, Everett -PoliticianDole, Robert - Former Senator from KansasDoolittle, General James - Famous Air Force PilotDouglas, William O. - Supreme Court JusticeDow, William H. - Dow Chemical Co.Doyle, Sir Author Conan - Writer - Sherlock HolmesDrake, Edwin L - American Pioneer of the Oil industryDubois, W.E.B. - Educator/author/historianDunant, Jean Henri - Founder of the Red Cross Ebsen, Charles (Buddy) Jr – ActorEdward VII - King of EnglandEdward VIII - King of England who abdicated the throne in less than 1 yearEllington, Duke - Composer, Arranger and StylistEllington, Edward K. "Duke" - Orchestra Leader/composerEllsworth, Oliver - Supreme Court Justice Elway, John - former quarterback for the Denver BroncosEvanko, Col. Paul J Commissioner Pa. State Police 1994-2002Ervin Jr, Samuel J. - Headed "Watergate" committeeEvers, Medger Wiley - Civil Rights LeaderFaber, Eberhard - Head of the famous Eberhard Fabor Pencil CompanyFairbanks, Douglas - Silent film actorField, Stephen J. - Supreme Court JusticeFields, W.C. - ActorFisher, Geoffrey - Archbishop of Canterbury 1945 - 1961Fitch, John - Inventor of the SteamboatFleming, Sir Alexander - Invented PenicillinFord, Gerald R. - President of the U.S. Ford, Glen - ActorFord, Henry - Pioneer Automobile Manufacturer Ford, John - Director Forten, James - Abolitionist/manufacturerFortune, Timothy Thomas - JournalistFranklin, Benjamin - 1 of 13 Masonic signers of Constitution of the U.S.Fulton, Robert - Inventor of 1st Submarine and Steam powered warshipMfume, Kweisi -President of the NAACP Gable, Clark – ActorGarfield, James A. - President of the U.S. Garvey, Marcus - Community Leader, founder of the Black Star shipping lineGatling, Richard J. - Built the "Gatling Gun"Gentry, Teddy -the bass player and singer for the country group "ALABAMA"George VI - King of England during W.W. IIGibbon, Edward - Writer - Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire Gibson, Hoot - Actor Gidron, Richard - president, Dick Gidron CadillacGilbert, Sir William S. - Was the librettis for "Pirates of Penzance"Gillett, King C. - Gillett Razor Co. Gleason, Jackie - ActorGlenn, John H. - First American to orbit the earth in a space craftGodfrey, Arthur - ActorGoldwater, Barry - Former Senator from Arizona, Presidential CandidateGray, Harold Lincoln - Creator of "Little Orphan AnnieGreen, Rev. Al- Minister/ SingerGrissom, Virgil - AstronautGrock - Swiss Circus ClownGuillotin, Joseph Ignace - Inventor of the "Guillotine" Hall, Prince--First black American freemasonHampton, Lionel--Orchestra leader/composerHancock, John - 1of9 Masonic signers of Declaration of IndependenceHarding, Warren G. - President of the U.S.Hardy, Oliver - Actor - ComedianHarlan, John M. - Supreme Court JusticeHawkins, Augustus F. - US Congressman from CaliforniaHayden, Josef - Composer Hayden, Lewis - Abolitionist, Community Leader Hayes, Woodrow "Woody" - Coach Ohio State Hearns, T. P. -ComedianHedges, Cornelius - "Father" of Yellowstone National ParkHelms, Jesse, -. SenatorHenry, Patrick - PatriotHenson, Josiah - Inspired the novel "Uncle Tom's Cabin" Henson, Matthew - explorerHerbert, James - "Eubie" Blake, composer/pianistHilton, Charles C. - American HotelierHoban, James - Architect for the U.S. CapitalHoe, Richard M. - Invented the rotary press, revolutionizing newspaper printing Holden, William - ActorHooks, Benjamin L- past President of NAACPHoover, J. Edgar - Director of FBI Hornish, Sam Jr.-- Indy Racing League Driver (IRL Champ)Hornsby, Rogers - An original member of the Baseball Hall of FameHoudini, Harry - MagicianHouston, Sam - 2nd&4th President of the Republic of Texas Howard, Morris "Moe" & "Curley" Howard - ComediansHusky, Ferlin - Country Music PerformerHutton, Timothy - Actor Ives, Burl - SingerJackson, Andrew - President of the U.S.Jackson, Reverend Jesse - MinisterJackson, Robert H. - Supreme Court Justice James, Daniel "Chappie" --General U S Air ForceJenner, Edward - Inventor - VaccinationJohnson, Andrew - President of the U.S. Johnson, Ben - Actor, Johnson, James -founder Jet magazine Johnson, John A "Jack"--Heavyweight boxing title holder, 1908-1915Johnson, John H.--Publisher EBONY and JET magazinesJolson, Al - Fame as the first 'talking picture' the Jazz Singer Jones, Absalom -founder AME churchJones, Anson - 5th President of the Republic of TexasJones, John Paul - Naval CommanderJones, Melvin - One of the founders of the Lions International Juarez, Benito - First Native-American President of Mexico Just, Ernest - Co-founder of Omega Psi Phi fraternityKemp, Jack - Former Congressman, Quarterback for Buffalo BillsKerner, Otto - Former Gov. IllinoisKey, Francis Scott - Wrote U.S. National AnthemKhan III, Aga - Statesman King, Don (boxing promoter)King Kalakauna- King of Hawaii circa 1875King Kamekame'a IV, Hawai'ian King, consolidated the islands to one kingdomKipling, Rudyard - WriterKirchmayer, Johannes (John) - wood carverLa Guardia, Fiorella H. - La Guardia Airport, Mayor of New York 1930's & 40'sLafayette, Marquis de - Supporter of American Freedom Laird, Ill:. Melvin, longtime Congressman & Sec of DefenseLake, Simon - Built first submarine successful in open sea.Lamar, Joseph E. - Supreme Court JusticeLamar, Mirabeau B. - 3rd President of the Republic of TexasLand, Frank S. - Founder Order of DeMolayLeazer, Gary - Investigated Freemasonry for Southern Baptist Convention and later joined Lee,Gen. Robert E. - Military Lee,Lighthorse Harry - Revolutionary War General Lejune,Maj. Gen.John A. honorary president of the Third Army Masonic Club and Rhode Island Overseas Lodge in post-WWI GermanyLemay, Curtis - GeneralLewis, Meriwether - ExplorerLevy, Uriah, Military, Shipping magnate and fiancier of American Revolution Lincoln, Elmo - First actor to play Tarzan of the Apes (1918)Lindbergh, Charles - AviatorLipton, Sir Thomas - Founder Lipton Tea Company Liszt, Franz -musicianLivingston, Robert - Co-Negotiator for purchase of Louisiana TerritoryLloyd, Harold C. - Entertainer Lott, Trent -PoliticianMacadam, John - Invented "blacktop pavement"MacArthur, General Douglas - Commander of Armed Forces in PhilippinesMacDonald, Sir John A. - Prime Minister of Canada 1867-73 & 1878-91Mandrell, Irby - father of the Mandrell Sisters - Country Entertainers Marciano, Rocky (boxer)Marshall, George C. - US Military LeaderMarshall, James W. - Discovered Gold at Sutter's Mill California 1848Marshall, John - Chief Justice U.S. Supreme Court 1801 - 1835Marshall, Thurgood - Associate Justice, U.S. Supreme CourtMathews, Stanley - Supreme Court Justice Mattus, Reuben- the founder of Haagen-Dazs ice cream.Mayer, Louis B. - Film producer who merged to form Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Mayo, Dr. William and Charles - Founded the Mayo Clinic Mays, Benjamin - educator/former president Atlanta UniversityMaytag, Fredrick - MaytagMcKinley, William - President of the U.S.Mecherle, George Jacob - Founder, State Farm InsuranceMenninger, Karl A. - Psychiatrist famous for treating mental illnessMesmer, Franz Anton - practiced Mesmerism which led to HypnotismMetcalfe, Ralph H. - Olympic ChampionMichelson, Albert Abraham - Successfully measured the speed of light in 1882Minton, Sherman - Supreme Court JusticeMix, Tom - U.S. Marshal turned actor. Stared in over 400 western filmsMonroe, James - President of the U.S.Montgolfier, Jacques Etienne - Co-developer first practical hot-air balloonMoody, William H. - Supreme Court Justice Morgan, Garrett -invented gas mask, traffic light, "third rail" for modern subwayMorris, Dr. Robert - Poet and Founder of the Order of Eastern StarMozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - Composer Muhammad, Elijah -Nation of IslamMurphy, Audie - Most decorated American Soldier of WWII.Naismith, James - Inventor of BasketballNelson, Samuel - Supreme Court JusticeNew, Harry S. - Postmaster General who established AirmailNewton, Joseph Fort - Christian Minister Nitschke, Ray -Sports Green Bay Packer defenseNunn, Sam - U.S. SenatorOlds, Ransom E. - American automobile pioneerOtis, James - Famous for "Taxations without Representation is Tyranny"Paisley, Brad - Country SingerPalmer, Arnold - Golf ProPapst, Charles F. - Coined the term "Athletes Foot"Paterson, William - Supreme Court JusticePeale, Norman Vincent - Founder of "Guidepost" and MinisterPeary, Robert E. - First man to reach the North Pole (1909)Penny, James C. - RetailerPershing, John Joseph - Decorated American Soldier Peters, Steven A. - Leader of the Wampanoag Community Pijper,Willem -foremost 20th century Dutch composer Pike, Albert - Confederate General and Masonic Historian, Pike, Zebulon - Pike's Peak named after him Pinchot,Bronson -Actor Pippen, Scottie - Sports NBAPitney, Mahlon - Supreme Court JusticePoinsett, Joel R. - U.S. Minister to Mexico who developed the flower: PoinsettiaPolk, James Knox - President of the U.S. Potier, Sidney-Actor, directorPowell, Adam Clayton -politician, reverend Pryor, Richard –ComedianPullman, George - Built first sleeping car on train.Pushkin, Aleksander - Russian Poet Randolph, Asa Philip -international brotherhood of sleeping car portersRangal, Charles B. - U.S. Congressman from New YorkReed, Stanley F. - Supreme Court JusticeRendell, Edward G. - Current Governor of PennaRevere, Paul - Famous American Richards, Michael - Actor, Kramer on Seinfeld Rickenbacker, Eddie - Great American Air Force AceRidgeway, Matthew - US Military LeaderRingling Brothers - All 7 brothers and their father were Masons. Roebling, John - architect Brooklyn Bridge and Frederick Olmsted, & Central Park.Robinson, Sugar Ray - American BoxerRogers, Roy - American cowboy and screen starRogers, Will - ActorRoosevelt, Franklin D. - President of the U.S.Roosevelt, Theodore - President of the U.S. Ross, Lawrence Sullivan- Brigadier General Confederate Army, President of Texas A&MRutledge, Wiley B. - Supreme Court Justice Salieri, Antonio-musicianSalten, Felix - Creator of BambiSanders, Bishop Carl J. - United Methodist ChurchSanders, Harland - founder KFCSanta Anna, Antonio Lopez de General of the Mexican Army Sarnoff, David - Father of T.V.Savitt, Bill - Hartford jeweler Sax, Antoine Joseph - Invented the Saxophone (1846) Schomburg, Arthur - Historian, Founder of the Schomburg Collection.Schoonover, George - Founder of "The Builder" Scott, Randolph- ActorScott, Sir Walter - WriterSellers, Peter - ActorSexson, Mark - Minister & Founder: Intl. Order of Rainbow for GirlsShakespeare, William - Writer Shire, Harold - Former Deputy District Atty. of Los Angeles County, CEO of Shire Aeronautical Corp., Presidential advisor to Reagan & Bush administrations Sharpton, Reverend Al -politicianSibelius, Jean - Composer (Finland) Sitting Bull _American IndianSkelton, Red - Entertainer real name was Richard BernardSmith, John Stafford - Wrote the music that became the US National Anthem. Smith, Joseph founder of the Mormon Church Smith, Wesley (Masonic researcher)Sousa, John Philip - Led the U.S. Marine Band from 1880 - 1892Schatz, Jerry - Child Actor, stage name Jerry Tucker, Our Gang, Hi NeighborStanford, Leland - Drove the gold spike linking the intercontinental railroad & Founded Stanford UniversityStarr, Bart- Sports Packer Quarterback Stetson, John B, Founder of Stetson Hats Stevenson, Robert Louis - AuthorStewart, Potter - Supreme Court Justice Steward, Redd - Country Music PerformerSteele, Bob - famous radio broadcaster for 50 years on WTIC Radio Still, Andrew T. - American Physician who devised treatment of OsteopathyStokes, Carl B. - First Black elected Mayor, Cleveland, OhioStokes, Louis - U.S. Congressman from OhioStone, W. Clemment - Insurance MagnateStratton, Charles "Tom Thumb" - Entertainer Sutton, Percy - BankerSwayne, Noah H. - Supreme Court JusticeSwift, Johathan - Wrote Gulliver's Travels Switzer, Carl - "Alfalfa" Our Gang ComediesTaft, William Howard - President of the U.S. Taylor, Dub - ActorTeets, John W. - Chairman and President of Dial CorporationThomas, Danny - Actor, EntertainerThomas, Dave - Founder of Wendy’s RestaurantThomas, Lowell - Brought Lawrence of Arabia to public notice Thurmond, Strom –PoliticianThurston, Howard - Last of the great vaudeville magicians.Tillis, Mel - Country SingerTirpitz, Alfred Von - German Naval officer responsible for submarine warfareTodd, Thomas - Supreme Court JusticeTower, John -Politician Towns, Edolphus - CongressmanTravis, Colonel William B. - AlamoTrimble, Robert - Supreme Court JusticeTruman, Harry S. - President of the U.S.Vinson, Frederick M. - Supreme Court JusticeVoltaire - French writer and philosopherWadlow, Robert Pershing - Tallest human on record being almost 9 feet tallWainwright, Jonathan Meyhew - General U. S. Army, Hero of Battan Waldon, Alton - Former CongressmanWallace, Governor George C. - Presidential Candidate who was nearly assassinatedWallace, Lewis - Wrote "Ben Hur" Warderick, Al-Tareik rapper "Lords of the UndergroundWarner, Jack - Warner Brothers FameWarren, Earl - Supreme Court JusticeWashington, Booker T. - Educator/Founder Tuskegee InstituteWashington, George - President of US, 1stWayne, John - ActorWebb, Matthew - First man to swim the English Channel (1875)Wesberry, Dr. James P. - Former Exec. Dir./Editor Southern Baptist Publication SundayWhiteman, Paul - "King of Jazz" Williams, Bert - Actor, Comedian Williams, Rev. Hosea- Civil rights Activist Williams, Tex- Country singer Williamson, Harry A -author/Masonic historianWilde, Oscar - WriterWoodbury, Levi - Supreme Court JusticeWoods, William B. - Supreme Court JusticeWootton MD, Percy - President American Medical Association (1997- )Wright, Orville & Wilber - Inventors of flightWyler, William - Director of "Ben Hur"Young, Andrew - Former Mayor of AtlantaYoung, Cy - Cy Young AwardZanuck, Darryl F. - Co-founder of 20th Century Productions in 1933Ziegfeld, Florenz - His Ziegfeld's Follies began in 1907
Famous Masons of America
Abbot, Bud - Comedian Abbott, Robert Sengstacke - Founder/publisher Chicago DefenderAbbott, Sir John J.C. - Prime Minister of Canada 1891-92Acuff, Roy - SingerAdams, Sherman - Governor of New Hampshire and US Congressman Aguinaldo, Emilio - President of the Philippines, he declared their independence in 1898Aldrin, Edwin E. - AstronautAldrich, Nelson Wilmarth - U. S. SenatorAlfond, Harold - Owned Dexter Shoe Company Allen, Charles H. - First Governor of Puerto Rico Allen, Ira - Known as the 'Father of Vermont'Allen, Richard - Founder/first bishop AME ChurchAlthouse, Monroe - Director, Ringgold Band of PennsylvaniaArmstrong, Louis - Jazz Musician Arnold, Benedict - Revolutionary War GeneraArnold, Eddie- SingerArnold, General Henry "Hap" - Commander of the Army Air ForceAshbrook, John M -Politician Ashburn, Richie - Sports Philadelphia PhilliesAustin, Stephen F. - Father of TexasAutry, Gene - ActorBach, Johann Sebastian - ComposerBach, Karl Phillip Emanuel - court organist for Friedrich the GreatBadyna, Keith R.- International Martial Arts Hall of Fame Baldwin, Henry - Supreme Court JusticeBallatine, Carl – McHale’s Navy comic Balfour, Lloyd - JewelryBartholdi, Frederic A. - Designed the Statue of LibertyBarty, Billy - ActorBasie, William "Count" - Orchestra leader/composerBaylor, Robert E. B. - Founder Baylor UniversityBeard, Daniel Carter - Founder Boy ScoutsBell, Lawrence - Bell Aircraft Corp.Bennett, Viscount R.B. - Prime Minister of Canada 1930-35Berlin, Irving - EntertainerBlack, Hugo L. - Supreme Court JusticeBlair, Jr., John - Supreme Court JusticeBlake, James Herbert Eubie -composer/pianistBlatchford, Samuel - Supreme Court Justice Bolivar, Simon -revolutionaryBorden, Sir Robert L. - Prime Minister of Canada 1911-1920Borglum, Gutzon & Lincoln - Father and Son who carved Mt. RushmoreBorgnine, Ernest - ActorBowell, Sir Mackenzie - Prime Minister of Canada 1894-96Bowie, James - AlamoBradley, Omar N. - Military leaderBradley, Thomas - Mayor of Las Angeles, CABrant, Joseph - Chief of the Mohawks 1742 - 1807 Bricker, John -Politician Brooks, Foster - Comedian Brown, Joe E. - Actor Brown, Judge Joseph -(lawyer judge) TVBuchanan, James - President of the U.S. Bunche, Ralphe -worked for United Nations, initiated peace accord Middle EastBurnett, David G. - 1st President of the Republic of TexasBurns, Robert - The National Poet of ScotlandBurton, Harold H. - Supreme Court JusticeButala ,Anthony -Singer Byrd, Admiral Richard E. - Flew over North PoleByrd, Robert - Senator from WVByrnes, James F. - Supreme Court Justice Caey, Harry - ActorCalvo, Father Francisco - Catholic Priest who started Freemasonry in Costa Rica 1865 Canute, Yakima - Cowboy, StuntmanCarson, Christopher "Kit" - Frontiersman, scout and explorerCasanova - Italian Adventurer, writer and entertainerCatton, John - Supreme Court Justice Chennault, Maj. General Claire E. - Flying Tigers leader, WWII GeneralChagrin, Jean François - Designer of The Arc De Triomphe in Paris, FranceChristenson,Larry -Sports Philadelphia Phillies pitcherChrysler, Walter P. - Automotive fameChurchill, Winston - British LeaderCitroen, Andre - French Engineer and motor car manufactureClark, James -explorer Clark, Mark - American WWII Airborne GeneralClark, Roy - Country Western StarClark, Thomas C. - Supreme Court JusticeClark, William - ExplorerClarke, John H. - Supreme Court JusticeClemens, Samuel L. - Mark Twain - writer Clinton, Dewitt-governor New YorkClower, Jerry - Late ComedianCobb, Ty - Baseball PlayerCody, "Buffalo Bill" William - Indian fighter, Wild West ShowCohan, George M. - Broadway starCole, Nat 'King' - Great ballad singerCollodi, Carlo - Writer of PinocchioColt, Samuel - Firearms inventorCombs, Earle Bryan - Baseball Hall of Fame Cosby, William H -entertainer, actor, philanthropistCraig ,John -Ambassador Crockett, David - American Frontiersman and Alamo fameCrosby, Norm - Comedian and entertainer Cushing, William - Supreme Court Justice Davis, Jefferson - President CSADavis, Ossie - Actor, Director and PlaywrightDeMille, Cecil – Movie ProducerDempsey, Jack - SportsDesaguliers, John Theophilus - Inventor of the planetariumDevanter, Willis Van - Supreme Court JusticeDewey, Thomas - Presidential CandidateDiefenbaker, John G. - Prime Minister of Canada 1957-63Dickens, Little Jimmy- Singer Dirkson, Everett -PoliticianDole, Robert - Former Senator from KansasDoolittle, General James - Famous Air Force PilotDouglas, William O. - Supreme Court JusticeDow, William H. - Dow Chemical Co.Doyle, Sir Author Conan - Writer - Sherlock HolmesDrake, Edwin L - American Pioneer of the Oil industryDubois, W.E.B. - Educator/author/historianDunant, Jean Henri - Founder of the Red Cross Ebsen, Charles (Buddy) Jr – ActorEdward VII - King of EnglandEdward VIII - King of England who abdicated the throne in less than 1 yearEllington, Duke - Composer, Arranger and StylistEllington, Edward K. "Duke" - Orchestra Leader/composerEllsworth, Oliver - Supreme Court Justice Elway, John - former quarterback for the Denver BroncosEvanko, Col. Paul J Commissioner Pa. State Police 1994-2002Ervin Jr, Samuel J. - Headed "Watergate" committeeEvers, Medger Wiley - Civil Rights LeaderFaber, Eberhard - Head of the famous Eberhard Fabor Pencil CompanyFairbanks, Douglas - Silent film actorField, Stephen J. - Supreme Court JusticeFields, W.C. - ActorFisher, Geoffrey - Archbishop of Canterbury 1945 - 1961Fitch, John - Inventor of the SteamboatFleming, Sir Alexander - Invented PenicillinFord, Gerald R. - President of the U.S. Ford, Glen - ActorFord, Henry - Pioneer Automobile Manufacturer Ford, John - Director Forten, James - Abolitionist/manufacturerFortune, Timothy Thomas - JournalistFranklin, Benjamin - 1 of 13 Masonic signers of Constitution of the U.S.Fulton, Robert - Inventor of 1st Submarine and Steam powered warshipMfume, Kweisi -President of the NAACP Gable, Clark – ActorGarfield, James A. - President of the U.S. Garvey, Marcus - Community Leader, founder of the Black Star shipping lineGatling, Richard J. - Built the "Gatling Gun"Gentry, Teddy -the bass player and singer for the country group "ALABAMA"George VI - King of England during W.W. IIGibbon, Edward - Writer - Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire Gibson, Hoot - Actor Gidron, Richard - president, Dick Gidron CadillacGilbert, Sir William S. - Was the librettis for "Pirates of Penzance"Gillett, King C. - Gillett Razor Co. Gleason, Jackie - ActorGlenn, John H. - First American to orbit the earth in a space craftGodfrey, Arthur - ActorGoldwater, Barry - Former Senator from Arizona, Presidential CandidateGray, Harold Lincoln - Creator of "Little Orphan AnnieGreen, Rev. Al- Minister/ SingerGrissom, Virgil - AstronautGrock - Swiss Circus ClownGuillotin, Joseph Ignace - Inventor of the "Guillotine" Hall, Prince--First black American freemasonHampton, Lionel--Orchestra leader/composerHancock, John - 1of9 Masonic signers of Declaration of IndependenceHarding, Warren G. - President of the U.S.Hardy, Oliver - Actor - ComedianHarlan, John M. - Supreme Court JusticeHawkins, Augustus F. - US Congressman from CaliforniaHayden, Josef - Composer Hayden, Lewis - Abolitionist, Community Leader Hayes, Woodrow "Woody" - Coach Ohio State Hearns, T. P. -ComedianHedges, Cornelius - "Father" of Yellowstone National ParkHelms, Jesse, -. SenatorHenry, Patrick - PatriotHenson, Josiah - Inspired the novel "Uncle Tom's Cabin" Henson, Matthew - explorerHerbert, James - "Eubie" Blake, composer/pianistHilton, Charles C. - American HotelierHoban, James - Architect for the U.S. CapitalHoe, Richard M. - Invented the rotary press, revolutionizing newspaper printing Holden, William - ActorHooks, Benjamin L- past President of NAACPHoover, J. Edgar - Director of FBI Hornish, Sam Jr.-- Indy Racing League Driver (IRL Champ)Hornsby, Rogers - An original member of the Baseball Hall of FameHoudini, Harry - MagicianHouston, Sam - 2nd&4th President of the Republic of Texas Howard, Morris "Moe" & "Curley" Howard - ComediansHusky, Ferlin - Country Music PerformerHutton, Timothy - Actor Ives, Burl - SingerJackson, Andrew - President of the U.S.Jackson, Reverend Jesse - MinisterJackson, Robert H. - Supreme Court Justice James, Daniel "Chappie" --General U S Air ForceJenner, Edward - Inventor - VaccinationJohnson, Andrew - President of the U.S. Johnson, Ben - Actor, Johnson, James -founder Jet magazine Johnson, John A "Jack"--Heavyweight boxing title holder, 1908-1915Johnson, John H.--Publisher EBONY and JET magazinesJolson, Al - Fame as the first 'talking picture' the Jazz Singer Jones, Absalom -founder AME churchJones, Anson - 5th President of the Republic of TexasJones, John Paul - Naval CommanderJones, Melvin - One of the founders of the Lions International Juarez, Benito - First Native-American President of Mexico Just, Ernest - Co-founder of Omega Psi Phi fraternityKemp, Jack - Former Congressman, Quarterback for Buffalo BillsKerner, Otto - Former Gov. IllinoisKey, Francis Scott - Wrote U.S. National AnthemKhan III, Aga - Statesman King, Don (boxing promoter)King Kalakauna- King of Hawaii circa 1875King Kamekame'a IV, Hawai'ian King, consolidated the islands to one kingdomKipling, Rudyard - WriterKirchmayer, Johannes (John) - wood carverLa Guardia, Fiorella H. - La Guardia Airport, Mayor of New York 1930's & 40'sLafayette, Marquis de - Supporter of American Freedom Laird, Ill:. Melvin, longtime Congressman & Sec of DefenseLake, Simon - Built first submarine successful in open sea.Lamar, Joseph E. - Supreme Court JusticeLamar, Mirabeau B. - 3rd President of the Republic of TexasLand, Frank S. - Founder Order of DeMolayLeazer, Gary - Investigated Freemasonry for Southern Baptist Convention and later joined Lee,Gen. Robert E. - Military Lee,Lighthorse Harry - Revolutionary War General Lejune,Maj. Gen.John A. honorary president of the Third Army Masonic Club and Rhode Island Overseas Lodge in post-WWI GermanyLemay, Curtis - GeneralLewis, Meriwether - ExplorerLevy, Uriah, Military, Shipping magnate and fiancier of American Revolution Lincoln, Elmo - First actor to play Tarzan of the Apes (1918)Lindbergh, Charles - AviatorLipton, Sir Thomas - Founder Lipton Tea Company Liszt, Franz -musicianLivingston, Robert - Co-Negotiator for purchase of Louisiana TerritoryLloyd, Harold C. - Entertainer Lott, Trent -PoliticianMacadam, John - Invented "blacktop pavement"MacArthur, General Douglas - Commander of Armed Forces in PhilippinesMacDonald, Sir John A. - Prime Minister of Canada 1867-73 & 1878-91Mandrell, Irby - father of the Mandrell Sisters - Country Entertainers Marciano, Rocky (boxer)Marshall, George C. - US Military LeaderMarshall, James W. - Discovered Gold at Sutter's Mill California 1848Marshall, John - Chief Justice U.S. Supreme Court 1801 - 1835Marshall, Thurgood - Associate Justice, U.S. Supreme CourtMathews, Stanley - Supreme Court Justice Mattus, Reuben- the founder of Haagen-Dazs ice cream.Mayer, Louis B. - Film producer who merged to form Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Mayo, Dr. William and Charles - Founded the Mayo Clinic Mays, Benjamin - educator/former president Atlanta UniversityMaytag, Fredrick - MaytagMcKinley, William - President of the U.S.Mecherle, George Jacob - Founder, State Farm InsuranceMenninger, Karl A. - Psychiatrist famous for treating mental illnessMesmer, Franz Anton - practiced Mesmerism which led to HypnotismMetcalfe, Ralph H. - Olympic ChampionMichelson, Albert Abraham - Successfully measured the speed of light in 1882Minton, Sherman - Supreme Court JusticeMix, Tom - U.S. Marshal turned actor. Stared in over 400 western filmsMonroe, James - President of the U.S.Montgolfier, Jacques Etienne - Co-developer first practical hot-air balloonMoody, William H. - Supreme Court Justice Morgan, Garrett -invented gas mask, traffic light, "third rail" for modern subwayMorris, Dr. Robert - Poet and Founder of the Order of Eastern StarMozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - Composer Muhammad, Elijah -Nation of IslamMurphy, Audie - Most decorated American Soldier of WWII.Naismith, James - Inventor of BasketballNelson, Samuel - Supreme Court JusticeNew, Harry S. - Postmaster General who established AirmailNewton, Joseph Fort - Christian Minister Nitschke, Ray -Sports Green Bay Packer defenseNunn, Sam - U.S. SenatorOlds, Ransom E. - American automobile pioneerOtis, James - Famous for "Taxations without Representation is Tyranny"Paisley, Brad - Country SingerPalmer, Arnold - Golf ProPapst, Charles F. - Coined the term "Athletes Foot"Paterson, William - Supreme Court JusticePeale, Norman Vincent - Founder of "Guidepost" and MinisterPeary, Robert E. - First man to reach the North Pole (1909)Penny, James C. - RetailerPershing, John Joseph - Decorated American Soldier Peters, Steven A. - Leader of the Wampanoag Community Pijper,Willem -foremost 20th century Dutch composer Pike, Albert - Confederate General and Masonic Historian, Pike, Zebulon - Pike's Peak named after him Pinchot,Bronson -Actor Pippen, Scottie - Sports NBAPitney, Mahlon - Supreme Court JusticePoinsett, Joel R. - U.S. Minister to Mexico who developed the flower: PoinsettiaPolk, James Knox - President of the U.S. Potier, Sidney-Actor, directorPowell, Adam Clayton -politician, reverend Pryor, Richard –ComedianPullman, George - Built first sleeping car on train.Pushkin, Aleksander - Russian Poet Randolph, Asa Philip -international brotherhood of sleeping car portersRangal, Charles B. - U.S. Congressman from New YorkReed, Stanley F. - Supreme Court JusticeRendell, Edward G. - Current Governor of PennaRevere, Paul - Famous American Richards, Michael - Actor, Kramer on Seinfeld Rickenbacker, Eddie - Great American Air Force AceRidgeway, Matthew - US Military LeaderRingling Brothers - All 7 brothers and their father were Masons. Roebling, John - architect Brooklyn Bridge and Frederick Olmsted, & Central Park.Robinson, Sugar Ray - American BoxerRogers, Roy - American cowboy and screen starRogers, Will - ActorRoosevelt, Franklin D. - President of the U.S.Roosevelt, Theodore - President of the U.S. Ross, Lawrence Sullivan- Brigadier General Confederate Army, President of Texas A&MRutledge, Wiley B. - Supreme Court Justice Salieri, Antonio-musicianSalten, Felix - Creator of BambiSanders, Bishop Carl J. - United Methodist ChurchSanders, Harland - founder KFCSanta Anna, Antonio Lopez de General of the Mexican Army Sarnoff, David - Father of T.V.Savitt, Bill - Hartford jeweler Sax, Antoine Joseph - Invented the Saxophone (1846) Schomburg, Arthur - Historian, Founder of the Schomburg Collection.Schoonover, George - Founder of "The Builder" Scott, Randolph- ActorScott, Sir Walter - WriterSellers, Peter - ActorSexson, Mark - Minister & Founder: Intl. Order of Rainbow for GirlsShakespeare, William - Writer Shire, Harold - Former Deputy District Atty. of Los Angeles County, CEO of Shire Aeronautical Corp., Presidential advisor to Reagan & Bush administrations Sharpton, Reverend Al -politicianSibelius, Jean - Composer (Finland) Sitting Bull _American IndianSkelton, Red - Entertainer real name was Richard BernardSmith, John Stafford - Wrote the music that became the US National Anthem. Smith, Joseph founder of the Mormon Church Smith, Wesley (Masonic researcher)Sousa, John Philip - Led the U.S. Marine Band from 1880 - 1892Schatz, Jerry - Child Actor, stage name Jerry Tucker, Our Gang, Hi NeighborStanford, Leland - Drove the gold spike linking the intercontinental railroad & Founded Stanford UniversityStarr, Bart- Sports Packer Quarterback Stetson, John B, Founder of Stetson Hats Stevenson, Robert Louis - AuthorStewart, Potter - Supreme Court Justice Steward, Redd - Country Music PerformerSteele, Bob - famous radio broadcaster for 50 years on WTIC Radio Still, Andrew T. - American Physician who devised treatment of OsteopathyStokes, Carl B. - First Black elected Mayor, Cleveland, OhioStokes, Louis - U.S. Congressman from OhioStone, W. Clemment - Insurance MagnateStratton, Charles "Tom Thumb" - Entertainer Sutton, Percy - BankerSwayne, Noah H. - Supreme Court JusticeSwift, Johathan - Wrote Gulliver's Travels Switzer, Carl - "Alfalfa" Our Gang ComediesTaft, William Howard - President of the U.S. Taylor, Dub - ActorTeets, John W. - Chairman and President of Dial CorporationThomas, Danny - Actor, EntertainerThomas, Dave - Founder of Wendy’s RestaurantThomas, Lowell - Brought Lawrence of Arabia to public notice Thurmond, Strom –PoliticianThurston, Howard - Last of the great vaudeville magicians.Tillis, Mel - Country SingerTirpitz, Alfred Von - German Naval officer responsible for submarine warfareTodd, Thomas - Supreme Court JusticeTower, John -Politician Towns, Edolphus - CongressmanTravis, Colonel William B. - AlamoTrimble, Robert - Supreme Court JusticeTruman, Harry S. - President of the U.S.Vinson, Frederick M. - Supreme Court JusticeVoltaire - French writer and philosopherWadlow, Robert Pershing - Tallest human on record being almost 9 feet tallWainwright, Jonathan Meyhew - General U. S. Army, Hero of Battan Waldon, Alton - Former CongressmanWallace, Governor George C. - Presidential Candidate who was nearly assassinatedWallace, Lewis - Wrote "Ben Hur" Warderick, Al-Tareik rapper "Lords of the UndergroundWarner, Jack - Warner Brothers FameWarren, Earl - Supreme Court JusticeWashington, Booker T. - Educator/Founder Tuskegee InstituteWashington, George - President of US, 1stWayne, John - ActorWebb, Matthew - First man to swim the English Channel (1875)Wesberry, Dr. James P. - Former Exec. Dir./Editor Southern Baptist Publication SundayWhiteman, Paul - "King of Jazz" Williams, Bert - Actor, Comedian Williams, Rev. Hosea- Civil rights Activist Williams, Tex- Country singer Williamson, Harry A -author/Masonic historianWilde, Oscar - WriterWoodbury, Levi - Supreme Court JusticeWoods, William B. - Supreme Court JusticeWootton MD, Percy - President American Medical Association (1997- )Wright, Orville & Wilber - Inventors of flightWyler, William - Director of "Ben Hur"Young, Andrew - Former Mayor of AtlantaYoung, Cy - Cy Young AwardZanuck, Darryl F. - Co-founder of 20th Century Productions in 1933Ziegfeld, Florenz - His Ziegfeld's Follies began in 1907
A WEALTHY MAN’S PENNEY
A WEALTHY MAN’S PENNEY I'll never again pick up a penny without thinking of this! Several years ago, a friend of mine and her husband were invited to spend the weekend at the husband's employer's home. My friend, Arlene, was nervous about the weekend. The boss was very wealthy, with a fine home on the water-way, and cars costing more than her house. The first day and evening went well, and Arlene was delighted to have this rare glimpse into how the very wealthy live.The husband's employer was quite generous as a host, and took them to the finest restaurants. Arlene knew she would never have the opportunity to indulge in this kind of extravagance again, so was enjoying herself immensely. As the three of them were about to enter an exclusive restaurant that evening, the boss was walking slightly ahead of Arlene and her husband. He stopped suddenly, looking down on the pavement for a long, silent moment. Arlene wondered if she was supposed to pass him. There was nothing on the ground except a single darkened penny that someone had dropped, and a few cigarette butts. Still silent, the man reached down and picked up the penny. He held it up and smiled, then put it in his pocket as if he had found a great treasure. How absurd! What need did this man have for a single penny? Why would he even take the time to stop and pick it up? Throughout dinner, the entire scene nagged at her. Finally, she could stand it no longer. She causally mentioned that her daughter once had a coin collection, and asked if the penny he had found had been of some valuable.A smile crept across the man's face as he reached into his pocket for the penny and held it out for her to see. She had seen many pennies before! What was the point of this? "Look at it." He said. "Read what it says." She read the words "United States of America." "No, not that; read further." "One cent?""No, keep reading.""In God we Trust?""Yes!""And?" "And if I trust in God, the name of God is holy, even on a coin. Whenever I find a coin I see that inscription. It is written on every single United States coin, but we never seem to notice it! God drops a message right in front of me telling me to trust Him? Who am I to pass it by? When I see a coin, I pray, I stop to see if my trust IS in God at that moment. I pick the coin up as a response to God; that I do trust in Him...For a short time; at least, I cherish it as if it were gold. I think it is God's way of starting a conversation with me. Lucky for me, God is patient and pennies are plentiful! When I was out shopping today, I found a penny on the sidewalk. I stopped and picked it up, and realized that I had been worrying and fretting in my mind about things I can not change. I read the words, "In God We Trust," and had to laugh. Yes, God, I get the message. It seems that I have been finding an inordinate number of pennies in the last few months, but then, pennies are plentiful! And God is patient.
Proper Ring Position
When I first received my Master Mason ring I too asked, "What is the right way to wear my ring?". I was told to wear it, "With pleasure to yourself, and honor to the fraternity.
I'M DRINKING FROM MY SAUCER
I'M DRINKING FROM MY SAUCER-- Author UnknownI've never made a fortuneand it's probably too late now,But I don't worry about that muchI'm happy anyhow.And as I go along life's wayI'm reaping better than I sow,I'm drinking from my saucer'cause my cup has overflowed.Haven't got a lot of richesand sometimes the going's tough,But I've got loving ones around meand that makes me rich enough.I thank God for many blessingsand the mercies God's bestowed,I'm drinking from my saucer'cause my cup has overflowed.O, remember times when things went wrong,My faith wore somewhat thin,But all at once the dark clouds brokeand sun peeped through again.So Lord, help me not to gripe aboutthe tough rows that I've hoed,I'm drinking from my saucer'cause my cup has overflowed.If God gives me strength and couragewhen the way grows steep and rough,I'll not ask for other blessingsI'm already blessed enough.And may I never be too busyto help others bear their loads,Then I'll keep drinking from my saucer'cause my cup has overflowed.
Are You A Mason Poem
This poem was written by Bro. Reverend Dr. Magill, Rector of St. Paul'sChurch in Peru, Illinois. It reportedly was written shortly after a lady askedhim "Are You a Mason?" It is thought to have been written in the mid tolate 1800's."Are You a Mason?"I am one of a band,Who will faithfully stand,In the bonds of affection and love;I have knocked at the door,once wretched and poor,And there for admission I stood.By the help of a friend,Who assistance did lend,I succeeded an entrance to gain;Was received in the West,By command from the East,But not without feeling some pain.Here my conscience was taught,With a moral quite fraught,With sentiments hold and true;The onward I traveled,To have it unraveled,What Hiram intended to do.Very soon to the East,I made my request,And "light" by command did attend;When lo! I perceived,In due form revealed,A Master, and Brother, and Friend.For the widow distressed,There's a cord in my breast,For the helpless and orphan I feel:And my sword I could draw,To maintain the pure law,Which the duties of a Mason reveal.Thus have I revealed,(Yet wisely concealed),What the "free and accepted" will know.I am one of a band,Who will faithfully stand,As a Brother, wherever I go.
The Masonic Funeral
The Masonic FuneralA new Worshipful Master in a small Georgia town spent the firstfour days making personal visits to each of the members, inviting themto come to his first Lodge meeting. The following Thursday the Lodge was all but empty. Accordingly, theWorshipful Master placed a notice in the local newspapers, stating that,because the Lodge was dead, it was everyone's duty to give it a decentMasonic burial. The funeral would be held the following Mondayafternoon, the notice said. Morbidly curious, a large crowd turned out for the "funeral." Infront of the Altar, they saw a closed coffin, smothered in flowers.After the Chaplain delivered the eulogy, he opened the coffin andinvited his Brethren to come forward and pay their final respects totheir dead Lodge Filled with curiosity as to what would represent the corpse of a "deadLodge," all the Brethren eagerly lined up to look in the coffin. Each"mourner" peeped into the coffin then quickly turned away with a guilty,sheepish look. In the coffin, tilted at the correct angle, was a large mirror. Remember the obligation we all took my brethren attend and supportyour Lodge!!!! Author Unknown
Thanks For Your Time !
A young man learns what's most important in life from the guy next door.It had been some time since Jack had seen the old man. College, girls, career, and life itself got in the way. In fact, Jack moved clear across the country in pursuit of his dreams.There, in the rush of his busy life, Jack had little time to think about the past and often no time to spend with those important to him. He was working on his future, and nothing could stop him.Over the phone, his mother told him, " Mr... Belser died last night. The funeral is Wednesday."Memories flashed through his mind like an old newsreel as he sat quietly remembering his childhood days."Jack, did you hear me?""Oh, sorry, Mom. Yes, I heard you. It's been so long since I thought of him.I'm sorry, but I honestly thought he died years ago," Jack said."Well, he didn't forget you. Every time I saw him he'd ask how you were doing. He'd reminisce about the many days you spent over "his side of the fence" as he put it," Mom told him."I loved that old house he lived in," Jack said."You know, Jack, after your father died, Mr.Belser stepped in to make sure you had a man's influence in your life," she said."He's the one who taught me carpentry," he said. "I wouldn't be in this business if it weren't for him. He spent a lot of time teaching me things he thought were important...Mom, I'll be there for the funeral," Jack said.As busy as he was, he kept his word. Jack caught the next flight to his hometown. Mr. Belser's funeral was small and uneventful. He had no children of his own, and most of his relatives had passed away.The night before he had to return home, Jack and his Mom stopped by to see the old house next door one more time.Standing in the doorway, Jack paused for a moment. It was like crossing over into another dimension, a leap through space and time.The house was exactly as he remembered. Every step held memories. Every picture, every piece of furniture....Jack stopped suddenly."What's wrong, Jack?" his Mom asked."The box is gone," he said."What box? " Mom asked."There was a small gold box that he kept locked on top of his desk. I must have asked him a thousand times what was inside. All he'd ever tell me was 'the thing I value most,'" Jack said.It was gone. Everything about the house was exactly how Jack remembered it, except for the box. He figured someone from the Belser family had taken it."Now I'll never know what was so valuable to him," Jack said. "I better get some sleep. I have an early flight home, Mom."It had been about two weeks since Mr.. Belser died. Returning home from work one day Jack discovered a note in his mailbox. "Signature required on a package. No one at home. Please stop by the main post office within the next three days," the note read.Early the next day Jack retrieved the package. The small box was old and looked like it had been mailed a hundred years ago. The handwriting was difficult to read, but the return address caught his attention. "Mr. Harold Belser" it read. Jack took the box out to his car and ripped open the package. There inside was the gold box and an envelope. Jack's hands shook as he read the note inside."Upon my death, please forward this box and its contents to Jack Bennett. It's the thing I valued most in my life." A small key was taped to the letter. His heart racing, as tears filling his eyes, Jack carefully unlocked the box. There inside he found a beautiful gold pocket watch. Running his fingers slowly over the finely etched casing, he unlatched the cover. Inside he found these words engraved: "Jack, Thanks for your time! -Harold Belser.""The thing he valued most...was...my time."Jack held the watch for a few minutes, then called his office and cleared his appointments for the next two days. "Why?" Janet, his assistant asked. "I need some time to spend with my son," he said. "Oh, by the way, Janet...thanks for your time!""Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take but by the moments that take our breath away,"Send this letter to all the people you care about, if you do so, you will certainly brighten someone's day and might change their perspective on life, ...........for the better.To everyone I sent this to, "Thanks for your time"
The Meeting of Famous Masons
The Meeting of the Famous Masons(A bit of Imagination is required)INSTALLATION NIGHT AT THE CELESTIAL LODGE As we are all well aware, and as is pointed out in the North East Angle Lecture in the Canadian Rite Ritual, it cannot be denied that we always had many members of rank and affluence. Over the centuries many well known men have been members of our Noble Craft. For a few moments, please allow your imaginations to run wild and consider what may take place at the Installation of The Celestial Lodge, otherwise known as the Grand Lodge Above. Even though it was late fall, there was a warm breeze blowing and the sun was setting behind the Lodge Hall. Gathered in the parking lot filled with their works were Bros Henry Ford, Ransom Olds, Walter Chrysler, John Willys and Andre Citroen. The only vehicle missing was Bro Hart Massey's tractor. Greeting members in the entrance hall was Bro Cliff Arquette of Charley Weaver fame and Bro Ed Wynn. In the boardroom, a group of senior DeMolays were gathered including Bros Walter Disney, Chet Huntley, Wendell Corey, Van Johnson, Robert Cummings, John Steinbeck, Fred McMurray and John Cameron Swayze. King Gillette, razor in hand, passed the lodge caretaker who was having a minor problem with his vacuum cleaner, which was quickly cleared up with the help of its inventor, Bro Frank Hoover, while at the other end of the hallway Bros Emmett Kelly, Clyde Beatty and all seven of the Ringling Bros were discussing the Shrine Circus. Taking a quick look into the Banquet Hall, Bros John Molson, Frederick Pabst and Joseph Schlitz were busy rolling in some kegs of beer for Bros Sam Bronfman, late President of Seagrams Distillers, who was setting up the bar for the Festive Board to follow the Ceremony. Bro Colonel Harland Sanders was cooking up a storm in the kitchen and it was an easy guess as to what the evening meal would consist of . The orchestra members for the dance to follow the Banquet were tuning. Members of this All-Star group included leader Paul Whiteman, WC Hardy, Nat King Cole, Irving Berlin, George M Cohan, Cyril Stapleton, Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, Count Basie and Al Jolson. Tonight's performance would be M.C.ed by Bros Arthur Godfrey and Danny Thomas. Magical Bros Harry Houdini and Harry Blackstone were setting up their props while Bros WC Fields, Oliver Hardy, Bud Abbott, Harpo Marx, and Foster Brooks were fine tuning their comedy routines for tonight's show which was being produced by Bros Cecil B DeMille, Flo Ziegfeld, Louis B Mayer, Hall Wallis and DW Griffiths. A number of sports celebrities were gathering together, including Bros Abe Saperstein, creator of the Harlem Globetrotters, who was explaining his version of the game to Bro James Naismith, the inventor of the game. They were joined by baseballers Bros Charles Ebbetts, Ty Cobb, Branch Rickey and Cy Young, the first pitcher to be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. A little further along the hall was an array of masons dressed in knee breeches, lace cuffs and powdered wigs, others in tuxedos, including Bros Kit Carson, Davey Crockett and Buffalo Bill Cody, clad in their familiar buckskins, Chiefs Crazy Bull, Tecumseh and Joseph Brant in their native attire. Most colourful are the military uniforms of Lord Nelson, Lord Cornwallis, Captain James Cook, the Duke of Wellington and John Paul Jones. I was gazing in awe at these members of Celestial Lodge, when the Grand Master, MW Bro Harry Truman, appeared from the preparation room accompanied by Bros John Jacob Astor, Luther Burbank, JC Penney, Adlai Stevenson and Jennings Bryan. Bro John Diefenbaker had just signed the Tyler's Register with one of Bro John Shaeffer's pens. He was accompanied by Bros Robert Borden and RB Bennett. fellow Canadian Prime Ministers, and by Bro Joe Smallwood of Newfoundland. At this time, the Tyler, Bro J Edgar Hoover, informed the brethren that the meeting was about to come to order. On entering the lodge room the brethren were greeted by the Inner Guard, Bro Paul Revere. Seated already were polar explorers, Robert F Scott of England and Bro Richard E Bird of the United States, together with Matthew G Perky and Canada's Henry Larsen. Bro Charles Lindbergh could be seen in deep conversation with Bros Hap Arnold, Gus Grissom, Eddie Rickenbaker and Charles Kingsford-smith. From the Junior Warden's station came a burst of laughter. Bro Will Rogers had brought broad smiles to the faces of the Royal personages gathered around him, including George 1, Frederick the .Great, Gustav V of Sweden and George VI. To the right of the Junior Warden's chair, architect Sir Christopher Wren was joined by Statue of Liberty sculptor, Frederic Bartholdi. Bros Norman Vincent Peale and Peter Marshall, who would assume the Chaplain's duties this evening, were in conversation with the DuPonts, Peter and Victor, and the Rothschilds, James and Nathan. Gathered around the Secretary's desk, Bro Rudyard Kipling was discussing the evening's proceedings with Bro Robert Burns, who was to give one of the Charges assisted by Bro Mark Twain. Also taking part were Bros Conan Doyle, Walter Scott, Samuel Johnson, Alexander Pope and Robert Service. The Grand Organist, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, was discussing last minute changes with Bros Gilbert and Sullivan. Bros Clark Gable, Peter Sellers, Wallace Beery, Douglas Fairbanks and Brian Donleavy were discussing boxing with champions Jack Dempsey, Jack Johnson and Sugar Ray Robinson. Another small group, in the persons of Bros John Wayne, Hoot Gibson and Tom Mix, were listening to Bro William Thaddeus Phillips, also known as Butch Cassidy. The founding members, Bros George Washington, Sir John A MacDonald, Guiseppe Garibaldi, Benito Jaurez, John Hancock and Ben Franklin were seated in the East. They have been joined by Sir Stamford Raffles, founder of Singapore. The Generals, Omar Bradley, Jimmy Doolittle, George C Marshall, John Pershing and Douglas McArthur, take their seats next to Franklin Roosevelt and Winston Churchill. The Lodge Treasurer, Bro Henry Knox was busy collecting dues from Bros Thomas E Dewey and William McKinley. The Master, MW Bro HRH The Duke of Connaught, has rapped the gavel to call the Lodge to order and it is now time for us to depart. With one last took at this brilliant assembly, one wonders what the public's perception of Freemasonry might be if they were able to visit such a lodge. IN GOD WE TRUST
Are You A Master Mason ?
Are you a Master Mason?I have been a Mason for a year now," remarked theYoung Brother to the Old Past Master. "While I finda great deal in Masonry to enjoy and like thefellows and all that, I am more or less in the darkas to what good Masonry really is in the world. Idon't mean I can't appreciate its charity or itsfellowship, but it seems to me that I don't getmuch out of it. I can't really see why it has anyfunction outside of the relationship we enjoy inthe Lodge and the charitable acts we do." "I think I could win an argument about you," smiledthe Past Master. "An argument about me?" "Yes. You say you have been a Master Mason for ayear. I think I could prove to the satisfaction ofa jury of your peers, who would not need to beMaster Masons, that while you are a Lodge member ingood standing, you are not a Master Mason." "I don't think I quite understand," puzzled theYoung Mason. "I was quite surely initiated, passed,and raised I have my certificate and my goodstanding card. I attend Lodge regularly. I do whatwork I am assigned. If that isn't being a MasterMason, what is?" "You have the body but not the spirit," retortedthe Old Past Master. "You eat the husks anddisregard the kernel. You know the ritual and failto understand its meaning. You carry the documents,but for you they attest but an empty form. You donot understand the first underlying principle,which makes Masonry the great force she is. Andyet, in spite of it, you enjoy her blessings, whichis one of her miracles. A man may love and profitby what he does not comprehend." "I just don't understand you at all. I am sure I ama good Mason." "No man is a good Mason who thinks the Fraternityhas no function beyond pleasant association in theLodge and charity. There are thousands of Masonswho seldom see the inside of a Lodge and,therefore, miss the fellowship. There are thousandswho never need or support her charity and so nevercome in contact with one of its many features. Yetthese may take freely and largely from the treasurehouse which is Masonry. "Masonry, my young friend, is an opportunity. Itgives a man a chance to do and to be, among theworld of men, something he otherwise could notattain. No man kneels at the altar of Masonry andrises again the same man. At the altar something istaken from him never to returned, his feelings ofliving for himself alone. Be he ever so selfish,ever so self-centered, ever so much anindividualist, at the altar he leaves behind himsome of the dross of his purely profane make-up. "No man kneels at the altar of Masonry and risesthe same man because, in the place where the drossand selfish were, is put a little of the mostDivine spark which men may see. Where was the self-interest is put an interest in others. Where wasthe egotism is put love for one's fellow man. Yousay that the 'Fraternity has no function.' Man, theFraternity performs the greatest function of any institution at work among men in that it provides acommon meeting ground where all of us be ourcreed, our social position, our wealth, our ideas,our station in life what they may, may meet and understand one another. "What caused the Civil War? Failure of one peopleto understand another and an inequality of menwhich this country could not endure. What causedthe Great War? Class hatred. What is the greatestleveler of class in the world? Masonry. Where isthe only place in which a capitalist and laborer,socialist and democrat, fundamentalist andmodernist, Jew and Gentile, sophisticated andsimple alike meet and forget their differences? Ina Masonic Lodge, through the influence of Masonry."Masonry, which opens her portals to men becausethey are men, not because they are wealthy or wiseor foolish or great or small but because they seekthe brotherhood which only she can give. "Masonry has no function? Why, son, the function ofcharity, great as it is, is the least of the thingsMasonry does. The fellowship in the Lodge,beautiful as it is, is at best not much more thanone can get in any good club, association, ororganization. These are the beauties of Masonry,but they are also beauties of other organizations.The great fundamental beauty of Masonry is all her own. She, and only she, stretches a kindly andloving hand around the world, uniting millions in abond too strong for breaking. Time has demonstratedthat Masonry is too strong for war, too strong forhate, too strong for jealousy and fear. The worstof men have used the strongest of means and havebut pushed Masonry to one side for the moment; notall their efforts have broken her, or ever will! "Masonry gives us all a chance to do and to be; todo a little, however humble the part, in making theworld better; to be a little larger, a littlefuller in our lives, a little nearer to the G.A.O.T.U. And unless a man understands this,believes it, takes it to his heart, and lives it inhis daily life, and strives to show it forth toothers in his every act unless he live and loveand labor in his Masonry. I say he is no MasterMason; aye, though he belong to all Rites and carryall cards, though he be hung as a Christmas treewith jewels and pins, though he be an officer inall Bodies. But the man who has it in his heart andsees in Masonry the chance to be in reality what hehas sworn he would be, a brother to his fellowMasons, is a Master Mason though he be raised buttonight, belongs to no body but his Blue Lodge, andbe too poor to buy and wear a single pin." The Young Brother, looking down, unfastened theemblem from his coat lapel and handed it to the OldPast Master. "Of course, you are right," he said,lowly. "Here is my pin. Don't give it back to meuntil you think I am worthy to wear it." The Old Past Master smiled. "I think you wouldbetter put it back now," he answered gently. "Noneare more fit to wear the Square and Compasses thanthose who know themselves unworthy, for they arethose who strive to be real Masons.
The Sea Captain
~ The Sea Captain ~I sailed my ship for many a day / across the stormy sea,Many a ruffian I have carried / and never refused but three.They met me on a summer day, / and saw my gallant ship,And sought a passage to the other side / upon a hurried trip.They offered all the dough they had, / mixed with a little sass,That made me kinda hesitate, / and ask them for a pass,They deemed a pass unnecessary / for men of their degree,And insisted that I take my ship / and sail it out to sea.An old man who was standing by, / and noted what they said, Saw them kick me in the ribs / and strike me on the head.He heard them say they'd steal a boat / and put it out to sea, And sail away to the other side / to some strange countr'ee.But no! The coward of the bunch / the one you'd think was brave, Suggested that they turn again / and hide in a mountain cave.And as the day went slowly by / I heard the truth in time, I found that they were murderers / and guilty of a crime.So as I sail my sturdy ship / until my life has ceased, I know not whom my friends may be / unless they've traveled East Anonymous
The Silent Summons
A member of a certain Lodge, who previously attended meetings regularly, stopped going. After a few months, the Worshipful Master decided to visit him. It was a chilly evening, and the Worshipful Master found his brother at home alone, sitting before a blazing fire.Guessing the reason for the Worshipful Master's visit, the brother welcomed him, led him to a comfortable chair near the fireplace and waited. The Worshipful Master made himself comfortable, but said nothing.In the grave silence, he contemplated the dance of the flames around the burning logs. After several minutes, the Worshipful Master took the fire tongs, carefully picked up a brightly burning ember and placed it to one side of the hearth, all alone. Then he sat back in his chair, still silent.His host watched all of this in quiet contemplation. As the one, lone ember's flame flickered and diminished, there was a momentary glow, and its fire was no more. Soon, it was cold and dead.Not a word had been spoken since the initial greeting. The Worshipful Master glanced at his watch and chose this time to leave. He slowly stood up, picked up the cold, dead ember, and placed it back in the middle of the fire. Immediately, it began to glow once more, with all the light and warmth of the burning coals around it.As the Worshipful Master reached the door to leave, his host said, with a tear running down his cheek, "Thank you so much for your fiery summons, my brother. I'll be back in our Lodge next meeting." I don't know who the author was, but I want to pass his/her worthy work along ! Hope you enjoyed David
The Test
The Test Author UnknownSeveral years ago, the story is told of a Mason who always wore his Masonic ring and lapel pin when in public. On some occasions, he rode the bus from his home to the downtown area. On one such trip and when he sat down, he discovered the driver had accidentally given him a quarter too much change. As he considered what to do, he thought to himself, "You'd better give the quarter back. It would be wrong to keep it." Then he thought, "Oh, forget it, it's only a quarter; who would worry about this little amount." Anyway, the transit company gets too much fare; they will never miss it. Accept it as a 'gift from God' and keep quiet. When his stop came, he paused momentarily at the door, then he handed the quarter to the driver and said, "Here, you gave me too much change." The driver with a smile replied, " I noticed your Masonic ring and lapel pin. I have been thinking lately about asking a Mason how to join. I just wanted to see what you would do if I gave you too much change. You passed the test. Can you tell me how to become a Mason?" When the Mason stepped off the bus, he said a silent prayer, "Oh God, Grand Architect of the Universe, I almost sold you and my beloved Masons out for a mere quarter." Our actions are the only Masonic creed some will ever see. This is a really almost scary example of how people watch us as Masons and may put us to the test even without us realizing it! Always be diligent, whether it be at the theater, restaurant, grocery, service station or just driving in traffic. Remember, whether it be a lapel pin, a ring, or an emblem on the car, you carry the name of our great fraternity on your shoulders whenever you call yourself a Mason. You never can tell who might be watching!
Masonic Ladies Slipper
(This article first appeared in the July 1986 issue of the Scottish Rite Journal.) The Masonic Blue Slipperby Clyde H. Magee, 32° Are you familiar with the Masonic blue slipper? It is a small lapel pin in the shape of a blue slipper. Over the years it has been my habit to ask my wife and my daughters to wear one of these slippers on a coat or dress when traveling alone away from home. What is the meaning of this blue slipper and why should female relatives of Masons wear one? Some 50 or 60 years ago, while I was still living at home, a widowed lady who was a cousin of my Dad's came to visit our home. She vacationed with us for several weeks every summer. She always wore this blue slipper pin. Her late husband was a Mason. The pin that she wore made a lasting impression on me. Through my curiosity and questioning, she told me it was a Masonic pin and served to identify her as a Masonic widow. She declared that Masonic men gave her extra attention while traveling, especially on the railroad (conductors, etc.). To find out the meaning of this pin, let us go back in history to Boaz' time - the Book of Ruth. It will be remembered that Elimelech, his wife, Naomi, and their two sons, Mahlon and Chilon, fled to the land of Moab to escape the famine in their homeland of Bethlehem-judah. Things went well for a while. Then life fell apart for them. Elimelech died. The two sons married Moabite girls-Orpha and Ruth. Again tragedy struck. Mahlon and Chilon died. This left Naomi a widow in a foreign land with two widowed daughters-in-law from the land of Moab. In time of trouble, people think of home and more importantly of God. Naomi found out that the famine back home had subsided, and there was grain and food again. So she confided with Orpha and Ruth that she would journey back home and be among her kinsmen. Certain laws, rules, or customs governed her thinking at this time. Of first consideration was the fact that Naomi was too old to bear a son for her daughters-in-law to marry. Even if she could, the daughters-in-law would not wait for the son to grow up. So the girls should remain among their own people. The girls resisted and started to go with Naomi. Orpha was finally convinced she should stay in Moab. But Ruth remained steadfast and went with Naomi to her homeland. Naomi and Ruth arrived back in Bethlehem-judah at harvest time. The Scripture passage on which this is based is well-known. "And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God: Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the Lord do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me." This passage of Scripture is unsurpassed as a declaration of love and devotion of one person for another. It has been said that it would made a good marriage vow. But, to me it is a different type of devotion. Naomi also had to take into consideration another law. When Elimelech died, his next of kin was duty bound to redeem his possessions and take care of his widow and her family. Since Naomi was getting old, Ruth tried to earn a livelihood. While gleaning in the fields, she was seen by Boaz. And when he found out about her (that she was Naomi's daughter-in-law, etc.), he arranged special treatment for her. She could work with his girls in the field, and the young men were warned not to bother her. Since Boaz was not married and was kin to Naomi, Naomi decided that she should somehow make Boaz understand his duty to Elimelech's family. So Naomi advised Ruth to bathe and anoint herself and go to the threshing floor after dark and lay at the feet of Boaz. Boaz awoke at midnight and discovered her there. So as not to create a scandal, he gave her some barley and asked her to leave before dawn so that watching eyes would not recognize her. Business among the tribe of Bethlehem-judah took place at the gate of the city. So Boaz sat down at the gate the next day because he knew there was a kinsman more closely related to Elimelech than he. So when the kinsman came by, Boaz called him aside and asked 10 men of the elders of the city to sit with them. Boaz bargained with his kinsman. The kinsman said he would redeem Elimelech's property. But, when he found out that he would have to take care of Naomi and Ruth, he reneged and told Boaz he would not redeem or protect Elimelech's interest. He would leave it to Boaz. The passage from Scripture for these events is the following: "And the kinsman said, I cannot redeem it for myself, lest I mar mine own inheritance: redeem thou my right to thyself; for I cannot redeem it. Now this was the manner in former time in Israel concerning redeeming and concerning changing, for to confirm all things; a man plucked off his shoe, and gave it to his neighbor: and this was a testimony in Israel." So the kinsman drew off his shoe and gave it to Boaz. Boaz held it up for all in the gate to see. He asked them to be witnesses that he became Naomi's protector, Ruth's husband, and a redeemer of Elimelech's property. Thus, today we have the little blue slipper as an emblem of the protective influence of Masons for their wives, widows and daughters.
The Masonic Forget Me Not
Masonic History of THE FORGET-ME-NOT in Germany. DAS VERGISSMEINNICHT It all started back in the year 1933, when Adolph Hitler declared that all secret organizations were harmful to his criminal plan for world conquest. Not only were the Jews and Catholics murdered, but also ordered the Masonic hatchet man to conduct the bloody purge that was to come. At the time, there were 85,000 Masons of good standing in Germany. Eichmann secretly issued strict orders that every single one of them would be put to death. Needless to say his orders were carried out and 80,000 Masons met an untimely death. The other 5,000 German Masons, for some reason had not had their names on on the books of the Grand Lodge, and their lives were spared. That was only because Eichmann did not know who they were. Immediately the remaining 5,000 went underground. They hid all of their Masonic records and also stopped wearing Masonic rings and pins. They adopted a little flower, the Forget-Me-Not. Therefore they communicated in this way without the Nazi's ever finding out. Ironically, this was Hitler's favorite flower and was impressed that men would wear this symbol as a tribute to him ! Eichmann never found out the true meaning of this pretty little flower called the Forget-Me-Not. This symbol of Freemasonry is still used in Germany in memory of those who were murdered trying to live up to the teachings of the Masonic Order. This certainly was a real tragedy, and from all documents and accounts, this story is true.As early as the year 1934, soon after Hitler's rise to power, it became apparent Freemasonry was in danger. In the same year, the German Grand Lodge of the Sun in Bayreuth (one of the pre-war German Grand Lodges), realized the imminent problems facing them and elected to wear a little blue flower, the Forget-Me-Not, in lieu of the traditional Square and Compasses, as a mark of identity for Masons. It was felt the new symbol would not attract attention from the Nazis, who were in the process of confiscating and appropriating Masonic Lodges and property. Masonry had gone underground and it was necessary that the Brethren have some readily recognizable means of identification.Throughout the entire Nazi era, a little blue flower in the lapel marked a Brother. In the Concentration Camps and in the cities a little blue Forget-Me-Not, distinguished the lapels of those who refused to allow the light of Masonry to be extinguished.In 1947, when the Grand Lodge of the sun was reopened in Bayreuth by Past Grand Master Beyer, a little Blue pin in the shape of a Forget-Me-Not, was proposed and adopted as the official emblem of the first Annual convention of those who survived the bitter years of semi-darkness, bringing the Light of Masonry once again in the Temple.At the Annual Convent of the United Grand Lodge of Germany, A.F.&AM. In 1948, thepin was adopted work under adverse conditions. At the Grand Master's Conference in the United Staes, Dr. Theodor Vogel, the Grand Master of the newly-formed UGL, A.F. & AM. presented one of the pins to each of the representatives of the Grand Jurisdictions with which the UGL, A.F. &AM. enjoyed Fraternal relations.Thus did a simple flower blossom forth into a meaningful emblem of the Fraternity and become perhaps the most widely worn pin among Freemasons in Germany, Most German Lodges present this pin and it's history to their newly raised Master Masons.Many members of National Sjourners, Inc. have served in the U.S. Armed Forces in Germany and have learned to love and respect DAS VERGISSMEINNICHT and what it stands for.
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