missouri freemason magazine - v52n04 - 2007 fall

T H E M I S S O U R I

FREEMASONVolume 52 No. 4 FALL 2007

©

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

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98 Fall 2007 THE MISSOURI FREEMASON

THE MISSOURI FREEMASONVOL. 52 NO. 4 Official Publication of the Grand Lodge of Missouri FALL 2007

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

©

CONTENTS100 Biography

101 Lamar Masonic LodgeMember HelpingVictims of Katrina

102 Masonic Reflections:Standing on the Promises

104 The Cowan and theEavesdropper

105 Kit Carson:Frontier Freemason

109 Missouri Rainbow

111 Missouri Demoly

113 Point/Counterpoint

115 The Masonic Homeof Missouri

117 Forging on with theassistance of the MasonicHome of Missouri

120 Masonic Service Awards

124 The Work Of Our Craft

We almost couldn't breathe. Well… OK, I suppose that's an exaggeration.Let's just say it was dusty… and hot. Every Scottish Rite building, everyLodge, even your own Lodge has a place like this. In this particular case, it wasthe area behind the stage at the St. Joseph Scottish Rite building. We wereback there cleaning out the building so Missouri Western State Universitycould move in as our new tenant but, hey, that's another story. The area inback of the stage was where much of the precious substance of the past hadgone to become, in a way, debris. We didn't haul it all out, but moved enoughto make room for the precious debris of the future. There were old programs,books, electrical parts, aprons, wreaths, mystery items and… pictures. Dozensof pictures.

"Hey," someone said, "Look at this one!" He pulled out a dilapidated framewith cardboard backing falling from it and held up an indistinguishable scene.Some of the guys closer to the print thought it was interesting and they movedit into the light of the next room. As we each looked at it, we saw new things.And on second look, we each again found more new things. It was a singlescene, but within that scene was a representation of nearly every step of theMasonic journey. On one of those second looks, someone discovered it alsocontained York Rite symbolism. It was, in short, a fascinating piece.

It was so fascinating, in fact, we have included it as the cover for this issue.The item itself is an 1875 print from the Pettibone Manufacturing Company ofCincinnati, Ohio – now defunct. In times past brothers received these printsto commemorate their journey from Entered Apprentice through the York Ritedegrees, with places on the print to record the brother's name and the dates ofall degrees.

Appropriately, this nineteenth century print, which was moved from thedarkness of the backstage area into the lighted next room for viewing is enti-tled, "From Darkness to Light." We hope you enjoy it along with the remain-ing items in this issue.

FROM THE EDITOR’S KEYBOARD

Steve Harrison, Editor

Committee on Masonic PublicationsM. Robert Berger, Grand MasterBruce R. Austin, Deputy Grand MasterRocky E. Weaver, Senior Grand WardenLarry C. Reynolds, Junior Grand WardenRonald D. Miller, Grand SecretaryE. Otha WingoSteven L. Harrison, Editor, Chairman

EditorSteven L. Harrison P.O. Box 1120Kearney, MO 64060-1120816-628-6562 / Call for [email protected]

The Missouri Freemason (USPS 573-920) is theofficial publication of the Grand Lodge, AncientFree and Accepted Masons of the State of Missouri,and is published four times yearly. Articles to beconsidered for publication should be submitted toThe Missouri Freemason, P.O. Box 1120, Kearney,MO 64060-1120, not later than the first day of themonth preceding publication in February, May,August, and November.

Unless otherwise indicated, the views expressedin this magazine are those of the authors and do notnecessarily reflect the opinions or policy of theGrand Lodge A.F.&A.M. of Missouri. The Editorreserves the right due to limitations of space, toaccept, reject, subedit and rearrange materialsubmitted for publication. Pictures submitted forpublication will not be returned.

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

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

SUBSCRIPTIONS: The Missouri Freemason ismailed to every member of this Masonic Jurisdictionwithout charge. Domestic subscriptions elsewhereare $8.00 annually.

PERMISSION TO REPRINT: All recognizedMasonic publications have permission to reprintoriginal articles from The Missouri Freemasonwith credit to the author and the publication.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS (Important): Whenever amember changes his mailing address withoutnotifying his Lodge Secretary and a mailing of theFreemason magazine occurs, the Post Officecharges the Grand Lodge 75¢ per undeliverableFreemason.

PLEASE, contact your Lodge Secretary with youraddress change so that the Grand Lodge can thenbe notified. GRAND LODGE OF MISSOURI

GRAND LODGE OF MISSOURIINTERNET ADDRESSES

E-Mail to the Grand Lodge [email protected]

The Grand Lodge web pagewww.momason.org

Phone: 573-474-8561

Please note the change of address for the Missouri Freemason:

P.O. Box 1120, Kearney, MO64060-1120

THE MISSOURI FREEMASON Fall 2007 99

Brethren,My travels this year have taken

me from Coast-to-Coast: Oregon,New York, Illinois to Texas. In theseplaces, I have met some of the finestmen I have ever had the pleasure ofrubbing elbows with. However,some of them have been the mostobstinate, and continue to hide theirheads in the sand. We, in Missouri,have been progressive with ourMoChip program, our C2A, as wellas, our change in proficiency.

Our membership is climbingwhile several of the other jurisdic-tions are showing great loses, even asMasonry is receiving the Best PublicRelations we have ever had--with themovies “National Treasure” and the“DiVinci Code” in front of the public.With our MoChip Program, we havebeen invited by all segments of ourpopulation to participate in theircommunities to help their children.We have received great T.V., Radioand Newspaper exposure because ofthis. I, again, want to thank Rt. Wo.Bro. Nick Cichielo and Rt. Wo. Bro.John Hess for their tireless work forour fraternity.

I along with other Grand Lodgeofficers visited Prince Hall GrandLodge and we were treated royally.We were informed that Recognition

has been granted by all but thirteenJurisdictions, and the balance ofthese are in the Southern Portion ofour country--Just another example ofJurisdictions having their heads inthe sand.

Several weeks ago we had ameeting in Columbia with all of theappended bodies in attendance. Wediscussed a statewide calendar,whereby all of the bodies will notifythe Grand Lodge of any upcomingevents and put that date in stone so

that we can cooperate with each oth-er and stop stepping on each other’stoes. If there is any special event thatshould be on this calendar, pleasenotify the Grand Lodge.

I have had numerous inquiriesabout the time and date of openingLodge at Green Tree Tavern in Ste.Genevieve, MO. Rt. Wo. Bro. JohnBroyles has picked August 11th asthe date, the time approximately 1:00P.M. The Lodge will be opening indue form with a business meetingheld as it was 200 years ago, alongwith an explanation to the publicoutdoors. It should be an interestingtime as this is our heritage, and weare indebted to John for his hardwork and dedication to the craft.

Brethren, it is hard to believe thatthis Grand Lodge year is coming toan end, but I would like to expressmy sincere appreciation to everyonethat has made this year so memo-rable.

Fraternally,

Robert Berger

The Work Of Our Craft

Wallace Masonic Lodge #456 of Bunceton, Mis-souri is honored to have four generations of theNelson family as members of the Lodge.

From left to right: Travis Nelson (05/21/07), Mark Nel-son (05/16/07), Richard (Dickey) Nelson (0l/17/1950)and Richard L. Nelson (01/17/1997).


Senior Grand MarshalRandall M. Berger

RWB Randall M. Berger was born July 8, 1969 in St.Louis Missouri. He graduated from Parkway North HighSchool in 1987. He graduated from St. Louis College ofpharmacy in 1992 with a BS in pharmacy and is currentlyemployed as a pharmacist at Williams Pharmacy in Uni-versity City, Missouri. He has been at that location for 6years.

Prior to that, he was employed asPharmacy Manager at Hart Food andDrug in O’Fallon, Illinois, and beforethat was a staff pharmacist for Inter-lock Pharmacy Systems, a long termcare pharmacy. During his 12 yearsas a pharmacist, he has gained valu-able knowledge in health care fromboth the clinical and institutionalsides of medicine. He has alsolearned how to work with the public,treat people equally, and show respectto all. His career in pharmacy hashelped make him a better Mason.

Masonically, Brother Bergerreceived his Blue Lodge Degrees inBen Franklin Lodge No. 642 in 1992.His petition to Ben Franklin was hiscollege graduation present to hisfather. He wasted no time in gettingactive and was appointed Jr. Deacon in 1993. He servedthe Lodge as Master in 1997 and earned the Grand LodgeAchievement Award. He was appointed DDGM for divi-sion B of the 61st Masonic district by MWB Steven Toybesin 1998. In 2003 MWB Stanley Thompson appointed himas Grand Orator. He has also served on the Grand LodgeLong Range Planning Committee, Reception of Distin-guished Guests Committee, and College Lodge Committee.

In addition to Grand Lodge offices and committees,RWB Berger received the honorary KCCH in St. Louis in1999, when he also served as Commander of the Councilof Kadosh. In November 2005, he received the honorary33rd Degree Inspector General in Joplin. He currentlyheads up the 23rd degree in the Valley of St. Louis. He has

also served as president of the Scot-tish Rite Cathedral PreservationCommittee as well as the Scholar-ship Committee.

He is a past president of theWardens and Masters Club, a found-ing member of The Cornerstones, amember of the Grand Masters Con-secration Breakfast Committee, amember of Keystone Chapter RAM,Jerimiah Council of Cryptic Masons,Allied Masonic Degrees, MoolahShrine (member of the ceremonialcast), and Demolay Honorary Legionof Honor.

In 1998, he took dual member-ship with Rose Hill Lodge No. 550,and was on the merger committeewhich merged Rose Hill and PolarStar Lodge No. 79. He had the hon-or to be the Lodge’s First Master and

was honored to sign the Charter as such. In the newlodge’s first year, RWB Berger led it to the Truman HonorLodge Award as well as the 5% membership award.

RWB Berger currently resides in Clayton Missouri andhas been there for 3 years. He is very close to his motherand father Barbara and M. Robert, his 2 sisters Jeri andRobin, as well as his 6 nieces and nephews, Tyler, Scott,Sydney, Cameron, Carly, and Abby.

All of the officers of Sedalia Lodge #236, Sedalia,are current members of the Missouri Lodge ofResearch.

Officers in picture (L to R ) Ralph E Britz, SS; James R.Hamilton, Marshall; Kenneth W. Norton, SD; David W.Wiedeman, Treas.; David E. Miller, SW; GeorgeMcConnell, Chap.; H. H. Luetjen, WM; Robert D.Weikal, Sec.; Robert P. Melby, JW; Donald O. Walker,Tyler; Gregory W. Harrell, JD and William D. Talley, JS.

The Work Of Our Craft


When Lamar Masonic LodgeMaster Ed Belcher first met CliveSquibb, he felt there was somethingspecial about him.

Clive and his wife Beverly hadmoved to Lamar and he wanted totransfer from his Lodge in Mt. Ver-non to one close to his new homeand found Lamar Lodge 292 AF&AM.

That was about six monthsbefore Hurricane Katrina ravagedNew Orleans and the Mississippicoast including the towns ofD'Iberville and Biloxi.

Just a few weekends ago, rightafter Fathers Day, three members ofLamar Lodge loaded up a 20 ft. cattletrailer full of medical equipment gar-nered by lodge member Dr. TuckerJoustra (who recently became a Mas-ter Mason) and drove it to a clinic inD'Iberville.

The trailer was pulled by a recentacquisition of Ed Sprinkle, DistrictDeputy Grand Master of the 33rdDistrict and Master of JerusalemLodge at Jericho; a dual wheel GMCDuramax crewcab pickup. It hadbeen fitted with a camper shell fur-nished by Rick Brasher and was filledwith medical supplies which neededto stay dry.

Also included in the trailer weresupplies donated by the Lamar VFWconsisting of wheelchairs, walkersand crutches.

The clinic is a free clinic whichministers to people in the D'Iberville-Biloxi area and is operated by LamarLodge member Clive Squibb and Bev-erly.

The story goes back two years.After the Squibbs had settled into lifein Lamar, they decided to becomefulltime RVers and hit the roadSouth. They are both retired LPNsand Paramedics (EMTP).

Clive said they arrived the onGulf Coast at the end of the secondweek after the storm (Sept. 16, 2005)and they have been there ever since.

He said they didn't intend tostay so long but they saw such over-whelming needs that would not bemet if they didn't help.

The clinic was in operation whenthey arrived but since then they havebeen the driving force, which keeps itgoing, "When we looked aroundthere didn't seem to be anyone thereto take over the day-to-day opera-tions and recruit staff."

The Clinic serves those who wereaffected by the storm: the under-

insured, the uninsured, and thosewith urgent medical needs. The Clin-ic also provides free medications tothose in need.

The Clinic is staffed entirely byvolunteers: doctors, dentists, nurses,and other personnel. It operatesstrictly on donations of money, med-ications, supplies, equipment, andservice.

Clive said they strive to ministerto the whole patient, physically,mentally, and spiritually, "Everyonewho enters the Clinic door on equalground no matter his or her social oreconomic status."

The Clinic is the result of a lot ofhard work by volunteers, generousdonations of numerous people,groups and organizations, and lots ofprayers, which have been answeredtwo and three fold, Clive says.

It is now operated out of a modu-lar home, which was donated new bya manufacturer.

Lamar Lodge's recent involve-ment in helping the Clinic mighthave been such an answer

It started when Ed Belcher washelping out with Lodge secretaryduties and getting the dues state-ments out. He remembered Cliveupon seeing his name and addressand put a note in saying the Lodgemissed them and asked what theywere doing.

Along with his dues, Clive sent adescription of what all he was doingwith the clinic.

Since Clive was a member ofLamar Lodge, Belcher felt the mem-bers would want to help and took itup at the next meeting that theLodge might want to donate somemoney.

Dr. Joustra was at that meetingand suggested they send medicalsupplies and equipment instead as inmany cases such clinics need suppliesand equipment more than money. Hesaid he had access to some equip-

LAMAR MASONIC LODGE MEMBER HELPING VICTIMS OF KATRINA

by Doug Davis | Lamar (Mo) Lodge #292

Lamar Masonic Lodge #292 members who took a load of medical supplies and equipment to theGulf Coast to help victims of Hurricane Katrina are shown in the D'Iberville Masonic Lodge.From left, Clive Squibb, Lamar Lodge #292 member and director of the free clinic, Henry Tafn-er, local member Hewitt Barton I, Ed Sprinkle, Ed Belcher, and local lodge member Hewitt Bar-ton II ( father and son members).

continued 127


MASONIC REFLECTIONS: STANDING ON THE PROMISES

by Dr. J. C. Montgomery, Jr., P.G.M.

Most Freemasons will tell you that they never forget the night of their "raising," and many will recall the name ofthe Brother who conducted that important ceremony. "I was `raised' by So-and-So," they will say. It is especially touch-ing when it involves family members - fathers "raising" sons (or visa versa), or brothers with brothers. It certainly cre-ates a new and stronger family tie.

This recollection was renewed recently for the author when he accompanied Grand Master Robert Berger and GrandChaplain Harvey Soule on the former's official visit to Charleston Lodge No.407, the home lodge of Deputy Grand Mas-ter Bruce Austin. It was in that lodge that I received the Sublime Degree of Master Mason on December 27, 1940. TheWorshipful Master was my father, the Reverend J. C. Montgomery (Sr.).

There was this difference, however. Father chose not to "raise" me; instead he elected to give the obligation. The sec-ond section and the charge were conducted by R. W. Bros. John B. Prosser and Robert L. Fowlkes, District Grand Lec-turer and Master, respectively. But what also stuck in my mind through these sixty-six plus years was the memory oftwo brethren grinning at me and gripping my hand after lodge and saying, "Boy, he obligated you with a vengeance!"

I have often thought about those words, at once spoken so teasingly and yet with great respect for the ritual. Fatheralways gave Masonic work with dignity and superior enunciation. Or was it because I was young (just turned twenty-two) and unmarried? But this momentary and friendly levity has stayed with me through the years as a reminder of theseriousness and the importance of the "solemn obligations" we assumed in the several Masonic degrees. Never a com-munication ends without the Master saying in the closing charge, "Remember that around this altar you have promised... "

Standing on the promises ... The line from an old hymn seems appropriate. Our obligations, civil and religious aswell as Masonic, are more than just words, rather the very fiber of our lives. Indeed such a fidelity is one of the goldenchains binding together and strengthening civilized society. Dr. Marvin Pope of Yale University has written:

"The security of a society depends that its members speak the truth in critical situations and keep their promises inmatters of serious import."1

This spring after a grandson's college graduation I had the privilege of attending a very moving ceremony in whichone of his friends was commissioned a second lieutenant in the Marines. I swelled with pride and other emotions as thisfine young man repeated after the Naval Captain the oath administered to all new officers. Many of the words rang abell:

" I, _____ _____.do solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against allenemies, foreign and domestic, that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same, that I take this obligation freely,without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion, and that I will well and… faithfully discharge the duties of theoffice on which I am about to enter. So help me, God."

I was touched because in this dangerous world not only this young officer's life but even the life of others rests onthose words.

I later told Captain Buchanan of this article and wondered which came first, the military obligation or the Masonic,because we know of the affinity between Freemasons and the military services in modem Western history. Did thewords of one creep into the other?

Of course, for many who are reading this there was that time when we raised a hand and assumed a similar obliga-tion as I did at Jefferson Barracks on June 30,1941, and repeated a similar military obligation and an officer may havesmiled and said, "You're in the Army (or whatever branch of service) now." As I reflect on it, within six months I hadtaken two obligations - Masonic and military - which were to change my life forever.

Oaths, obligations, swearing to (or by), public promises, are very ancient. There are instances of them in the Bibleand other historic records. They were regarded as sacred, whether sworn to the Almighty or to the gods of the people.One of the most famous, of course, was the Hippocratic Oath for physicians which was prefaced:

"I swear by Apollo, Asclepias, Hygeia, and Panacea, and I take to witness all the gods, all the goddesses, to keepaccording to my ability and my judgment, the following Oath."2

Although this oath has been updated and replaced by many other statements, other cultures have had their share ofobligations pertaining to that profession.

The common life of our developing civilization has indeed been bound together by the duty to truth and call toresponsibility of oaths. Obviously our heads of government and elected leaders assume their positions with solemn andpublic obligations. The brief but high drama of a presidential swearing-in is always a hinge of our nation's history. In

continued next page


lesser but still important episodes of our community life,who would do without the witness oath or even a per-functory but vital act, the notarized statement? Even sign-ing tax forms is a de facto oath.

The Scriptures contain many examples of oaths,which one might discover by use of a Bible dictionary orconcordance. In his essay on "Oaths," Dr. Pope notes theirusual common elements: (1) invocation of the Deity; (2) itis accompanied by symbolic acts; (3) the swearer layshold of some sacred or potent object; (4) accompa-nied by a curse or penalty for non-compliancebecause the swearer speaks his own name.Does this not sound precisely like the assump-tion of a Masonic oath?

Henry Wilson Coil tells us in his MasonicEncyclopedia3 that the Anti-Masons often criti-cize the Fraternity simply because of the oath.Likewise because the candidate swears to keep thesecrets before he knows what the secrets are. Theyregard the ceremonies as impious and superstitious.Also the oath is attended by penalties. The criticsmistakenly say that Masons regard their oath assuperior to civil law although Masons know thattheir obligations to secrecy do not extend to heinouscrimes.

The foes of Freemasonry generally make their cap-stone argument the assertion that the New Testamentquotes Jesus as forbidding oaths (Matt. 5:34; 23:16-22). However better Bible students tell us that theGreat Teacher was warning against vain oaths; ratherthat a person's life and character ought to be such that anoath is unnecessary, perhaps the equivalent of "his word ishis bond." Psalm 15 tells us that the righteous "who shallabide in God's sanctuary "includes "those who stand bytheir oath even to their hurt (NRSV)." The Apostle Paulthrice makes promises of truth (II Cor. 1:23; Gal. 1:20; Phil.1:8), which Biblical and legal scholars call "asservations,"affirmations which would be accepted as the equivalent ofan oath.

The penalties of Masonic promises are historicallyfound in many places and in other connections, such asthe fealty oaths of the Middle Ages. As Paul Bessel tells usin his book, Masonic Questions & Answers4, "Sometimeswe retain tradition just for the sake of tradition". He goeson to say, "No Mason or former Mason is ever harmedphysically, even if he violates his Masonic obligations."Nonetheless the recreant Mason may face reprimand, sus-pension or expulsion should he knowingly or willinglyviolate his solemn obligations. The loss of Masonic friend-ships, fellowship, and other benefits as well as the dam-age to his reputation may prove more hurtful than anyphysical penalty.

Do we need to renew our obligations, our promises?At every meeting of National Sojourners, that fine militar-ily-related and concordant Masonic body, members sub-stantially re-affirm the vows they took when they were

Issue DeadlineWinter, 2007 October 1, 2007Spring, 2008 January 2, 2008Summer, 2008 April 1, 2008Fall, 2008 July, 1, 2008

The Missouri Freemason

DEADLINES

received into the Chapter. Might it not be helpful if once ayear a Blue Lodge had a night of re-dedication in whichthe Master Masons once again repeated their promisesmade on those special nights (or days)? They were bettermen for having taken them. They would be better men forsaying them again, voice joined to voice, side by side,hearts knit together in the old words that are ever newand that ennoble our characters.

Standing on the promises. Somewhere I have readthat the Hippocratic Oath was a model for the good life.

The same might be said of our Masonic obligations.When the incoming Worshipful Master is being

installed, the installing officer says to him, "Youagree to be a good man and true and strictly toobey the moral laws." This is the essence of ourpromises, as we become Apprentice, Fellowcraftand Master Masons. The Craft assists us: but we

know that our ultimate hope lies elsewhere: andthus we utter the words which might well become adaily prayer: "So help me, God, and enable me to keep

steadfast in the due performance of the same."MWB J.C. Montgomery served as Grand Mas-

ter of the Grand Lodge of Missouri in 1978-1979.He is a Fellow of the Missouri Lodge of Research,where he also served as Master. He is a former

editor of the Royal Arch Mason International Jour-nal as well as the Missouri Freemason magazine. A

33rd degree Scottish Rite Mason, MWB Montgomeryhas been recognized as an outstanding Masonicauthor. He holds a doctor of divinity degree from Cen-

tral Methodist College and is a retired UnitedMethodist Minister.

1 "Oaths," The Interpreter's Dictionary of the Bible, Vol. 3, p. 572.2 In the Greek pantheon Apollo was, among other things, the god

of physical beauty, i.e., health; Asclepias was the son of Apollo and thegod of medicine; Hygeia, the goddess of health; and Panacea the god-dess of all healing. Hippocrates (4"' century B.C.E.) H\has been called"The Father of Medicine," although there were many physicians in cen-turies before.

3 P. 452, Rev. Ed., edited by Allen E. Roberts.4 P. 23. Among other things, Bessel is well known for his Mason-

ic education web site.

continued from previous page


THE COWAN AND THEEAVESDROPPER

By Kevin Hampton

Funk and Wagnell’s describes the Cowan as someonewho builds walls or fences without mortar, also known asa “dry diker”.

The Eavesdropper: Someone who listens secretly toconversation.

In Freemasonry these words have a different mean-ing.

In the operative days of Masonry the Tyler’s dutieswere quite different. Workmen upon the structures heldtheir meetings in a building erected for them—the lodge.Operative Masons of the day had secrets of great value tothe craftsmen, the Master knew the geometrical methodof “trying the Square”, all of those who presented their“Masters Pieces” and had also satisfied the Master’s of theCraft of their proficiency were given the Masters Wordthat would enable them to travel to, and attain work inforeign countries as builders and earning themselves Mas-ters wages. The Tiler of these days was charged with pro-tecting the Lodge and these secrets.

When Speculative Masonry made its appearance,they added those secrets that only Masons possessed.Of course, several people desired to obtain thesesecrets any way possible. These were divided into twoclasses the “Eavesdropper” who listened under theeaves of a building to the conversations within andthereby receive “the droppings from the roof”, andthe Cowan, the person who impersonates a Masonor, also a partially instructed Mason.

To trace the origin of the word Cowan - itmay have come from the French word “conyon”meaning a coward or a” Base man”, or from aSwedish word “ kujon” meaning a silly fellow.As far back as 1589 {Schaw Manuscript}appears a passage: “That no Mas-ter or Fellow of the Craft shallreceive any Cowan to work inhis society or company. Norsend none of his servants towork with Cowan.” Mackeytraces the word to Scotland.In Scott’s Rob Roy, AllanInverach says “She does notvalue a Cawmill mair as aCowan.” Scottish use of theword Cowan is a term of con-tempt, a mason who builds drywalls, without mortar, or an uninstructed Mason.

In the days of operative Masonry, the Tyler of theLodge may well have been armed with a sword to defendhimself and the lodge in which his fellows were meetingfrom the encroachment of Cowans and Eavesdropperswho wanted the secret of the square and the word of a

Master Mason without serving a prescribed time as anapprentice and laboring to produce a suitable “MastersPiece.”

Today’s Tyler keeps the Cowan away by simply refus-ing to admit those he does not know. If they still desire tobe admitted through the tiled door, they must be eithervouched for by a Brother of the Lodge, or they mayrequest a committee. The sword of the modern Tiler is butan emblem of his authority; as the gavel is the symbol ofthe Master of the Lodge.

Some Cowans move through the West Gate, and areduly and truly prepared, initiated, passed, and raised tothe Sublime Degree of Master Mason and never becometrue Master Masons.” How can this happen?” you ask.

This happens when the investigation commit-tee and the Brothers of the Lodge do not heedthe symbolism of the Tyler’s sword. Some of usBrothers know of some Brothers that would

have been better left among the uninitiated andprofane. They represent poor judgment begin-

ning with the investigating committee, and thenof the Lodge. Had all of the Brothers used their

symbolic Tyler’s sword, investigated the petitioneras the Tyler does the "would be entrant" to the

lodge, these Cowans would not be admitted andbecome a determent to the Lodge and the Fraternity.

The Eavesdropper is not really feared in modernMasonry as our Lodges are seldom built so that any-

one can listen to what goes on within. The modern day“Eavesdropper” is the innocent profane who is told

more than he should hear; usually by the too enthusias-tic Brother Mason. In the monitorial charge of an Entered

Apprentice, we are told “Neither are you to suffer yourzeal for the institution to lead you into argument withthose who, through ignorance, may ridicule it.”

In closing, I would like to point out the admonition ofthe emblem of the Book of Constitutions - guarded by theTyler’s sword as it applies here. “We must be ever watch-ful and guarded of our words and actions, particularly

before the enemies of Freemasonry”. Let everyone of uswear the Tyler’s sword in our hearts and set the zealof circumspection on our tongues, and let us guardthe west door from the Cowans as loyally as the

Tyler guards the Lodge. Remember that every Profanewho learns more than he should is an “Eavesdropper.”Only by doing so, may the integrity of our beloved Orderbe preserved; the honor, glory and the reputation of ourFraternity be firmly established; the world convinced ofits good effects, and the Brotherhood become a shiningbeacon; which attracts the good men who will make thisFraternity and World of ours a better place for all ofMankind.

Kevin Hampton is Junior Warden of Kearney Lodge#311, where he was raised to the sublime degree of Mas-ter Mason in February, 2006. He is also a member of theScottish Rite, Valley of Kansas City, where he serves asCaptain of the host, Lodge of Perfection.


Born near Richmond, Kentucky onChristmas Eve, 1809, Brother Christo-pher Houston "Kit" Carson was raisednear Franklin, Missouri, where his par-ents, Lindsay and Rebecca, movedwhen he was still an infant. His familylived on land owned by Daniel Boone'ssons, and the families became closeover the years. Growing up to becomean American frontiersman, trapper andIndian-fighter of the old west, Carson'sshort life was filled with adventuresthat grew into legends.

• He was once framed andarrested for murder, but his reputationwas so impeccable the town sheriffhelped him stage an escape so Carsoncould track down and apprehend thereal killer.

• After mounting a campaignagainst gambling in his town, TomPhillips, a friend of Carson, incurredthe wrath of pro-gambling gang mem-bers. The gang attempted to lynchPhillips but, at the last second, as thenoose tightened, Carson saved hisfriend's life by shooting the rope thatwas to hang him.

• He used himself as bait to lurea murderer out of the lawless Texasbadlands and back into the hands ofthe law.

• At six-foot two inches, he wasa bare-knuckle, two-fisted fighter whoseldom, if ever lost, even when his

opponents were bigger or when he wasoutnumbered.

These are the escapades of whichlegends are made, and while each hasbeen attributed to Carson, not a singleone is true.

Despite the fact that Carson's lifeis clouded in legend, some of his realadventures make the legends looktame.

Carson had a tough childhood.When he was only eight years old, hisfather was killed in a logging accident.His widowed mother, burdened with abrood of fifteen children, remarriedthree years later. She considered herson Kit unruly and eventually appren-ticed him to a saddle maker. Young Kitdespised the work, and he did whatmany sixteen year-olds might consider.He ran away. John Workman, the sad-dle maker to whom Carson was bound,placed an ad in the local newspaperoffering a less than impressive one centreward for the return of the boy.Meanwhile, Carson found a wagontrain headed for Taos, New Mexico andescaped with a price on his head.

He held a variety of jobs over thenext several years but mainly workedas a trapper as he traveled west to Cali-fornia and north to the Salmon River inIdaho with another famed frontiers-man, Thomas "Broken Hand" Fitz-patrick. During this trip, Carson andhis party had countless, sometimes dai-ly confrontations with Native Ameri-can tribes.

Upon returning to Taos in 1833,Carson barely escaped with his lifewhen a band of Comanche attacked hisparty. One account has it that thequick-thinking Carson had the mem-bers of his party slit the throats of theirmules. The smell of blood spooked theComanche's horses and gave the party

enough time to slip away under thecover of darkness.

Traditionally, at the end of eachtrapping season, mountain men gottogether at gatherings to blow offsteam and make up for a summer ofloneliness and seclusion in the moun-tains. It was at one such gathering in1835, The Green River Rendezvousnear present day Daniel, Wyoming,where Carson met a young Arapahoegirl named Waa-nibe (a name whichmeant singing grass or singing wind).Carson was attracted to Waa-nibe, aswas a burly, uncouth French trappernamed Joseph Chouinard. The pairargued over the girl and eventuallyfought a duel. Although wounded, Car-son won the duel and the hand of hisnew bride. Three years later theaccount of this duel became the firstmention of Carson in a book.

His next few years were filled withtragedy. Carson was devastated when,in 1839, Waa-nibe died from childbirthcomplications. In 1842, his youngestchild died after falling into a pot of boil-ing water and his second wife, aCheyenne woman named Making-Out-Road, divorced him.

The 1950's television series, TheAdventures of Kit Carson, lionized hislegend. Other than his name and thefact he traveled around most of thewest, little else in the series bears muchresemblance to reality. For example, inthe series, Carson's traveling compan-ion was a colorful, womanizing Mexi-can who provided much of the comicrelief in the show. It is one of the manyexamples of how Carson's real life actu-ally outpaced the legend. In 1842, Car-son met John Charles Frémont, whomhe would accompany on three expedi-

Kit Carson's Hawken rifle, presented to Montezuma Lodge upon his death. The inscriptionreads, "Presented to Montezuma Lodge #109, AF&AM by Brother Kit Carson, May, 1868." Pho-to courtesy Montezuma Lodge #1.

Brother Christopher Houston "Kit" Carson.

KIT CARSON: FRONTIER FREEMASONBy Steve Harrison, PM

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tions over the next several years. Car-son became Frémont's guide as the twosurveyed the west and led parties onthe Oregon Trail. Unlike Carson's trav-eling companion in the TV series, how-ever, Frémont chronicled their travelsin three reports to Congress and, infact, nearly became the president of theUnited States.

Carson came to know Fré-mont in a chance meeting on aMissouri River steamboat trip.Frémont, an explorer and mili-tary officer, was planning anexpedition west and was look-ing for a guide. He learned ofCarson's expertise and the twoimmediately hit it off. By theend of the year they had com-pleted their first expedition andhad surveyed and mapped theSouth Pass of the Oregon Trailin Wyoming.

For the remainder of hisdays, Carson fought a near-los-ing battle to settle down intothe life of a family man. Afterreturning to Taos, at 33, he metand married his third wife, 15-year old Maria Josefa Jaramillo. Onlyfive months later, however, Frémontconvinced Carson to accompany himon a second expedition to map the areabetween the Rocky Mountains and thePacific. Shortly after returning fromthe second expedition, Frémont talkedCarson into going on yet a third trip.The third expedition allegedly was tomap the source of the Arkansas River.However, upon reaching the Arkansas,Frémont suddenly and unexpectedlyheaded for California. Whether thiswas Frémont's idea or not is debatable,but the Mexican war loomed and Cali-fornia was one of the prizes.

In May, 1846, the United Statesdeclared war on Mexico. The followingmonth, Carson and Freemont assistedsettlers in Sonoma in defeating Mexi-can troops there. The war was won ayear later and Frémont became territo-rial governor of California. Another USgeneral, Stephen Watts Kearny out-ranked Frémont, and felt he was thelegitimate governor. Carson got caughtin the middle of the squabble between

the two. He eventually met with Pres-ident James K. Polk and presented Fré-mont's side of the story. Polk said heagreed with Carson and then immedi-ately turned around and had Frémontcourt marshaled. This single experi-ence gave Carson a distaste for politicsand politicians for the remainder of hislife. In an odd twist, Polk later par-doned Frémont citing his distinguished

service in California. A decade laterFrémont was the first Republican can-didate for president.

After the Mexican war, Carsonreturned to Taos. Frémont's expedi-tions and the books about them hadmade Kit Carson famous. But in 1849,when Frémont offered him the chanceto go on a fourth journey, the travel-weary Carson turned him down. Forthe next dozen years, he shared asomewhat normal home life with Jose-fa. Although he was illiterate, he wasfluent in Spanish and several NativeAmerican dialects. Owing to this, Car-son was appointed Indian Agent to theUte tribe.

Carson is nearly universally consid-ered to be one of the best Indian Agentsof his time. He fought for Native Amer-ican rights so intensely he had manydisagreements with his immediatesuperior, Territorial Governor DavidMeriwether. In one of their more aus-picious spats, Carson insisted tribesshould not have to travel to meet with

Meriwether at his ego-soothing coun-cils, since they typically suffered dis-crimination and harm on these jour-neys. Hearing this, Meriwether chargedCarson with disobedience, insubordina-tion and cowardice and had him arrest-ed. Carson judiciously softened hisapproach with Meriwether and man-aged not only to get out of jail, but alsokeep his post for several more years.

Finding himself unbur-dened by constant travel forthe first time in his life, Broth-er Carson joined the Freema-sons in 1854. He became amember of Montezuma Lodge#109, chartered by the GrandLodge of Missouri, and wasraised on December 26, 1854,two days after his 45th birth-day. In the same year, theUnited States named him anational hero.

Five years later, in Novem-ber 1859, Carson and a groupof other Freemasons peti-tioned the Grand Lodge ofMissouri to charter a Lodge inTaos, New Mexico. Upon itsinception, he became the firstJunior Warden of Bent Lodge

#204. He then served as Senior War-den and was almost certain to becomeMaster the following year when, at theage of 51, the United States Civil Warcalled him to duty once again.

During the Civil War, Carsonserved as a Colonel in the Union armyand commanded Fort Craig in southernNew Mexico. With the defeat of theConfederate forces in New Mexico in1863, Carson resigned his commission.Unfortunately, General James Carltonrefused to accept his resignation.Instead, the General ordered him toremove the troublesome Navajos in thearea to the Bosque Redondo reservationin eastern New Mexico.

The Navajos had long been a war-ring and vicious force, preying on othertribes in the area. When Carson set outon his mission, other Native Americantribes in the area, glad to assist in theeradication of their Navajo enemies,joined him. Carson was not timid incarrying out General Carlton's orders.He conducted a relentless scorched-

Brother Christopher "Kit" Carson, possibly taken in New Yorkwith additional brothers and acquaintances. Standing: Bro.Edward H. Bergman, Bro Charles P. Cleaver, Dr. Basil Norris,Col. H.N. Enos, Col. McClernand, Col. J.C. McFarin; Seated: Bro.L.H. Rucker, Bro. Carson, Bro. James H. Carlton. Photo courtesyMontezuma Lodge #1.


continued next page


earth campaign, which soon forced the Navajos to surrender.From that point, he led them on a grueling 350-mile journeyback to the reservation.

This journey from Canyon deChelly in northeastern Ari-zona back to Bosque Redondo is more commonly known asThe Long Walk. Modern historical revisionists have attempt-ed to vilify him for his part in it. To the Navajo, Carson wasindeed a villain. To other Native Americans and the UnitedStates government, he was a hero. As a reward, the UnitedStates cited Carson for gallantry and subsequently promoted

him to BrigadierGeneral.

The militaryassigned Carson tocommand FortGarland in south-ern Colorado, buthe soon resigned,citing ill health.Once again a civil-ian, he moved hisfamily to Bog-gsville, Coloradoand expanded hisranching business.

Early in 1868,Carson wasappointed Superin-tendent of Indianaffairs for the Col-orado territory. Inthe spring of thatsame year, he fellill while in Wash-ington, D.C. Hemade his way backto Bent's Fortwhere his preg-nant wife Josefamet him. She hada successful deliv-ery, but subse-quently died ofchildbirth fever.Carson was devas-tated. He neverrecovered emo-tionally or physi-cally. On May 23,1868, 58-year-oldKit Carson knewhe didn't havemuch time. That

evening, he ate a steak dinner, retired to his rocking chair, lithis pipe, and slowly bled to death from the effects of a rup-tured aorta.

Although Carson's grave in Taos, NM lists hisage at death as 59 years, he actually died sev-en months short of his 59th birthday. He isburied next to Josefa, his wife, who precededhim in death by one month.

Brigadier General Christopher "Kit" Carson.Photo courtesy Montezuma Lodge #1.

Kit Carson and Mrs. WhiteThe Man Meets The Myth

In 1849,thirty-nine yearold Kit Carsonhad completedhis three expedi-tions with JohnCharles Frémontand was back inTaos, New Mexi-co attempting tosettle into amore mundanefamily life withwife Josefa. Fré-mont's booksabout the expe-ditions hadmade Carsonfamous, and thetrue-life adven-

tures chronicled in Frémont's books had inspired fictionalaccounts by other authors. Carson wasn't just well known;he was a living legend.

One afternoon, he was riding with a band of soldiers.They came upon an abandoned Apache camp. Here, Carsonfound the body of Ann White, who had been killed just min-utes before his arrival. Among Mrs. White's effects, soldiersfound a copy of the just published dime novel, Kit Carson byCharles Averill. The book detailed the larger-than-lifeadventures of Carson - woodsman, hunter, guide, mountainman and Indian fighter.

Carson could picture Mrs. White reading the book incaptivity, knowing her superman was nearby and expectingrescue at any moment. He felt he had failed her and cursedKit Carson the legend. The image of Mrs. White's body andhis inability to help plagued Kit Carson for life. He spoke ofthe event in his memoirs:

"We finally came in view of the Indian camp. The com-manding officer ordered the men to charge, but the orderwas too late for the desired effect. In about 200 yards of pur-suing the Indians, the body of Mrs. White was found, per-fectly warm, had not been killed more than five minutes.Shot through the heart with an arrow, she evidently knewthat someone was coming to her rescue, it was apparent thatshe was endeavoring to make her escape, when she receivedthe fatal shot."

"In camp was found a book, the first of which I had everseen, in which I was made a great hero, slaying Indians bythe hundred, and I have often thought that as Mrs. Whitewould read the same knowing that I lived near, she wouldpray for my appearance and would be saved. I did come, buthad not the power."

Later, when the soldiers suggested giving the book toCarson, he replied, "If you do, I'll burn the damn thing."continued next page


In 1865, Brent Lodge #204 surrendered its charter andCarson re-affiliated with Montezuma Lodge. Today, NewMexico's Montezuma Lodge #1 includes Carson as a part ofits history and is the caretaker of a few Carson artifacts.

As far as his involvement in the tragic Long Walk is con-cerned, history will always hold two points of view on KitCarson: villain and hero. It is an issue that will never beresolved and, in the final analysis, perhaps we can only befair to Brother Kit by letting him speak for himself, "I am notsure if I did right or if I did wrong, but I always did what Ithought was best."

Bibliography• Harvey Lewis Carter, "Dear Old Kit": The Historical Christopher Car-son with a New Edition of the Carson Memoirs (Norman: Universityof Oklahoma Press, 1968)• http://nmmasons.org/history_files/page0006.htm, Kit Carson, TheMan – The Mason• http://www.answers.com/topic/kit-carson• Encyclopedia Britannica, Christopher Houston Carson• http://www.legendsofamerica.com/HC-KitCarsonBio.html• http://www.southernnewmexico.com/Articles/Southeast/De_Baca/Fort-Sumner/BosqueRedondo-destination.html•http://www.pbs.org/weta/thewest/people/a_c/carson.htm•Biography.com, Kit Carson• http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa3951/is_200407/ai_n9452440,"KIT CARSON AND HIS THREE WIVES: A Family History"• http://www.virtualology.com/KIT-CARSON.COM/, "Kit Carson, 1809- 1868"• Alpha Video, "The Adventures of Kit Carson" Volume 1 (c) 2005,Original distribution, 1951• The History Channel, "Carson and Cody, Hunter Heroes" (c) 2003,A&E Television Networks.

SAMUEL SMITH STEWARTSCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED

Thirty students attending colleges and various institu-tions in the United States in the upcoming academic year(2007-2008) have received scholarships from the SamuelSmith Stewart Fund. The Grand Lodge of Missouri sup-ports the educational endeavors and commends theseindividuals for their drive and determination to continueforth to seek higher education.

It is through our youth that we as a nation will grow.In Stewart’s spirit the Masonic Fraternity continues itscharitable giving of more than $1.5 million each day tocauses that range from operating children’s hospitals, pro-viding treatment for childhood language disorders, fund-ing medical research, providing care to Masons and theirfamilies at Masonic Homes, and contributing to local com-munity services.

Dr. Samuel Smith Stewart who died on May 4, 1960,was an active member of the Masonic Fraternity, whichestablished the scholarship program in his name. It washis paternal grandfather, Lt. General Alexander PeterStewart that inspired this scholarship due to his devotionto education as the Chancellor of the University of Missis-

sippi where he provided the leadership that helped restoregrowth to both enrollment and faculty.

Dr. Stewart, a 33 Degree Scottish Rite Mason by theaction of the Supreme Council of the Southern Jurisdictionof the United States of America, founded a trust under theterms of which the ultimate beneficiary was the GrandLodge of Missouri. The gift was to be used solely as afund, endowment, foundation, eleemosynary (charity)and/or for free educational purposes. It was a memorial tohis parents, Alphonso Chase Stewart and Elizabeth SmithStewart, and was the basis for the creation of the SamuelSmith Stewart Trust Scholarship.

The Scholarship recipients are Missouri high schoolstudents Brian Wideman, Jon Emery, Alexa Broyles,Samantha Stutzman, Addie Duncan, Andrea Gioia,Heather Coffel, Ashley Bugbee, Diana Auirre, DeedraHaney, Amanda Craft, Ashleah Gilmore, Jason Bals, JesseDavison, Brittany Harrison, Stacie Ellis, Anna Garvin, PailTalimonchuk, Heather Steelman, Angela Jarvis, BenjaminCreech, Dane Sosniecki, Abby Higgins, Alyssa Elliot,Hilary Thomas, Lea Probst, Jessica Bockelman, SaraBroyles, Ashley Slay, and Courtney Hayes.

For further information on the Grand Lodge of Mis-souri please refer to our Web site, www.momason.org, orcontact the Public Relations Director, Nicholas R. Cichielo.

L to R, Scholarship recipents who attended the banquet in their honor.Kara Dobbs, Courtney Hayes, Brittany Harrington, Anna Garvin, Ben-jamin Creech, Most Worshipful Grand Master M. Robert Berger,Heather Steelman, Dane Sosniecki, Jason Bals, Paul Talimonchuk.

Regional School of InstructionRegion C

RWB Michael Armstrong

November 17, 2007Sedalia Lodge #236

Sedalia, Missouri, 9:00 AM


• • http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/style/longterm/books/

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kit_Carlsonht p://t

chap1/bloodandthunder.htm


"EVERYDAY HEROES NEEDED!"Once upon a time there was young Rain-

bow Girl who was active in her local Assembly. Every year sheloved going to the annual Rainbow celebration called Grand Assembly. You

see, back then, there were over 80 Missouri Rainbow Assemblies…AND there werenearly 120 Grand Officers, Grand Pages and Grand Representatives. This meant there was

a TON of new friends to make and old acquaintances to renew every year. Well, she held officesin her Assembly and finally became the Worthy Advisor — which made HER eligible for a GrandOffice. In 1974 she was appointed Grand Service. She was elected to one office and then another.In 1977, she was elected the 51st Missouri Grand Worthy Advisor. She chose the theme “God’sGreatest Gift” reminding everyone His greatest gift is FAITH. Her name was Dorleta Oetting. MissOetting had a fabulously busy term as Grand Worthy Advisor. While she was sad to see it come toa close, she still had college to finish. She received her degree and married a man named Michael.They have since had three children…and I am the oldest of them!

My name is Niki Lodholz and I am the new, 81st, Grand Worthy Advisor in the State of Missouri.Wow…30 years later, I’m following my Mother in this great Order! AND, I am the first Grand Wor-thy Advisor to do so! That’s kind of like a grand slam, winning basket/goal shot and tiebreaker over-time touchdown all rolled into one!

Now, before I go any further, I’d like to salute Samantha Stutzman, our Junior Past Grand WorthyAdvisor. Samantha had a wonderful year. Her term was entitled “A Dream is a Wish your HeartMakes.” Samantha has been ALL OVER Missouri representing our Order. Her travels have included:being part of a HUGE delegation from Missouri attending our biennial Supreme Assembly—this timein Oklahoma City. (This was just a month after her installation.) Samantha served as the SupremePage to the Acting Supreme Worthy Advisor. She was smiling the whole time so I know she had ablast! Just days after returning from Oklahoma, she helped hostess a Grand Officers’ Retreat in Salemand just days after that enjoyed, with her Grand Officers, the Masonic Youth Day in Columbia. Therewas a hoedown themed visit in Mexico, and then a kite-flying picnic (visit) in Lamar. There was a “redcarpet” reception in Harrisonville (which was also a visit AND a combined Grand WorthyAdvisor/State Dean reception), a kite-making competition (for her visit) in Piedmont and, finally,Wentzville was instituted prior to her visit there. She encouraged us at the Grand Officers’ Competi-tion in Columbia and danced the night away at the DeMolay Knights State Youth Officers’ Dance. Sheenjoyed bringing greetings at Grand Lodge, Grand Chapter, Grand Court and even the SupremeWhite Shrine’s sessions—back in Oklahoma. Of course, she had fun going to some of DeMolay’sState Conclave and the Job’s Daughters’ Grand Bethel…and has had fun when members of thosegroups have been present with her. Throughout all these events, the State Dean (Mrs. Kim Best,also from Samantha’s home--Harrisonville Assembly) and Samantha have been collecting donateditems and money for their combined State Service Project—the Make a Wish Foundation of Mis-souri. In December, 2008, Samantha hopes to finish her college work to become a labor anddelivery room nurse. Good luck and farewell, Samantha! Good job!

So-o-o-o on July 2, 2007, I was elected to serve as Missouri’s Grand Worthy Advisor.What huge heels I have to fill! (Samantha’s AND Mom’s!!) “Everyday Heroes” is my term’sdedication. The State Dean of our Grand Cross of Color I will be serving with is MelissaFelkner from Lamar. Our State Service Project is to help the foster children in the stateof Missouri. We will be working with the Children's Division of Family Services aswell as the foster parent organizations. We want to collect new and "like new"clothing, toys, school supplies, and personal items for children 0-18 years of age.These items will be donated to the kids’ stores (and “closets”) in St. Louis, Spring-field, and Kansas City. We will also work directly with the Supervisors in coun-ties where we have assemblies to arrange more direct contact with foster chil-

dren in order that girls might see the direct effects of their service, by donat-


Robert Berger, Most Worshipful Grand Master, presented Amanda Ogan,Liberty Assembly #31, International Order of the Rainbow for Girls, theGrand Master's Masonic Youth Award at Missouri's Grand Assembly onJuly 1, 2007. Amanda has been a member of Liberty Assembly for fiveyears and previously, a Rainbow Pledge for two years. Amanda is a greatasset to the Assembly by taking her responsibilities seriously. She hasserved two previous terms as Worthy Advisor and is on the line again.Amanda served on a MOCHIP committee in Richmond this past Maywhere she worked side-by-side with Masons from Richmond Lodge #57,Ray Lodge #223, Ada Lodge #44, Angerona Lodge #193 and Orrick

Lodge. She has accepted the position of Assistant Pledge Mother for Lib-erty Pledges and received her Grand Cross of Color on May 19, 2007. Amanda is a friend to all and is

an inspiration to Liberty Assembly, which received the honor of being named "Assembly of the Year, 2007" atGrand Assembly.

ing items to a particular child/foster family, sending cards for special occasions, andperhaps even tutoring—we’ll see what the needs are and see what we are able todo. The point is: ALL of us have the ability and potential to be a HERO in some-one’s life.

Now, a little about me… I am a 2006 graduate of Kirkwood High School whereI was active in the Pep Club and also a member of the Varsity Soccer and FieldHockey teams plus a Hockey Cheerleader. I am currently attending the Universityof Indianapolis and am majoring in Sports Marketing. I have continued my soccer"career" at U-Indy but now play on a co-ed team for fun. I am an active member ofSt. Louis Assembly #3 (Mom's the Mother Advisor!) and Kirkwood Order of theEastern Star. In 2004 I received the Membership Award from Supreme Assemblyand am the 2005 recipient of the Grand Commander's Youth Award. In my sparetime I enjoy spending time with family and friends as well as participating in manysports and watching Cardinals Baseball and Blues Hockey.

Missouri Rainbow continues to receive awesome support from our adult bod-ies as well as a strong presence of DeMolay and Job’s Daughters as the occasion(usually a dance!) arises. Times have changed since Mom held this office. We nowhave 22 assemblies on the roles and I have just over 40 Grand Officers, Grand Pagesand Grand Representatives…BUT 22 assemblies still means many adults givingtime, energy and money to make our assemblies and their agendas possible—and22 assemblies means bunches of Rainbow Girls still coming to meetings and otherevents—local and all over the state. AND, I’m excited to report that our Pledgepopulation took a surge forward this past year so now we're looking forward tohaving dozens of “little sisters” (ages 8 to 11) to “grow up” into Rainbow Sisters.

Please find your nearest Rainbow Assembly and volunteer to help with SOME-THING. They need you. I’m asking you to do this just once…or maybe twice. Itruly need YOU to be one of our “Everyday Heroes” this 2007-2008 “grand” year.

Finally, please tell me “hello” and introduce yourself when you see me some-where this year!

Make a Difference…YOUR One Candle may Light a Thousand!

Miss Niki Lodholz2007-2008 Grand Worthy AdvisorState of Missouri

GRAND MASTER'S MASONICYOUTH AWARD


Burning bright within the young men of MissouriDeMolay are the morals and teachings of our MasonicFamily. It is because of these teachings and the close rela-tionships we have as a family that each of our organiza-tions is starting to flourish!

Missouri DeMolay is well on its way to becoming yetagain the number one Jurisdiction in DeMolay Interna-tional. Missouri DeMolay recently held not only our StateConclave, but also hosted the DeMolay InternationalSupreme Council Session and Congress in St. Louis, Mis-souri. We are now in the middle of our summer months

and things are getting busy. We have many eventsplanned ranging from more Initiations, the awesomeDeMolay Leadership Training Conference, the Annualsoftball tournament, visitations, DeMolay Day at SixFlags, and, or course, the Grand Master’s Masonic YouthDay. We hope to see each one of our Brother Masons at anupcoming function.

At our Annual State Conclave we had over 650 DeMo-lays, Squires, Sweethearts and adult leaders in attendance.Our young men competed in several categories of ritual,including individual parts and team competitions. Ourmembers from around the state did a fantastic job. Over-all in the ritual competitions Kirkwood Chapter came outahead of the rest, winning the majority of the competi-tions. Along with Kirkwood Chapter, many other Chap-ters won several awards and honors. Excelsior Chapterfrom Jackson, Missouri won the honor of Chapter of theYear by initiating members, participating in civic projectsas well as instituting the new Divine Chapter in PoplarBluff. Carondelet Chapter was honored as the MostImproved Chapter of the Year.

Brother Ronald Miller, Grand Secretary, received ourMason of the Year honor and our DeMolay Hall of Fame

inductee was Brother Ronald Krueger. Without these twobrothers' hard work and dedication, Missouri DeMolaywould have had a harder time reaching its goals. For a fulllist of our award and honor recipients feel free to checkout at our website, www.modemolay.org.

At our opening session we were pleased to welcome25 new brothers to our wonderful organization. Theseinitiates helped push Missouri to over 80 initiates for theyear as well as becoming number one in membershipgrowth for the year. We thank all of the Masonic Familywho helped make this year's Conclave a success.

As the host state of the DeMolay InternationalSupreme Council Session and Congress, Missouri wel-comed over 700 young men, advisors, and visitors to St.Louis for a week filled with brotherhood, fun, and busi-ness. As the opening ceremony kicked off the activities,brothers from Mineral Area Chapter and Excelsior Chap-ter attended at the altar and presented the flag of ourCountry for all our International Brethren. They did a fan-tastic job. Brother Justin Woods, our Deputy State MasterCouncilor, and I represented Missouri DeMolay among 98other International Delegates to discuss business and tovote for our new 41st International Officers. We repre-

sented Missouri with the dignity and honor that anymember of DeMolay would give. During Thursday of thesession, the 100 members of the DeMolay Congress(DeMolay Delegates) as well as several advisors headed offto the St. Louis Shrine Hospital where we proceeded toperform several tasks for them. These included painting,staining, cleaning, cooking and even some yard work.The Shrine Hospital was extremely happy with the workperformed and was surprised at the number of young menthat came to work.

At the session this year, Missouri had the honor to

BURNING BRIGHT IN THE YOUTH TODAY!


have three of our advisors unanimously voted to becomemembers of the International Supreme Council: DadRalph Sturdevant, Active Member, Dad Roger Salyer,Active Member, and Dad Rodney Pensel, Deputy Member.Also, our Executive Officer, Dad Robert Cockerham waselected to serve as the Grand Junior Councilor of DeMolayInternational. If all goes well, this means that Dad Cock-erham will be serving as the Grand Master of DeMolayInternational in 2009, at the 90th Anniversary of DeMolayInternational in Kansas City, Missouri.

Missouri DeMolay also received many awards andhonors for the best and most outstanding performance inboth membership and communications from DeMolayInternational. Newly inducted into the DeMolay Hall ofFame was Illustrious Brother Ronald A. Seale, 33° Sover-eign Grand Commander, Southern Jurisdiction, U.S.A., forhis continued guidance and support of DeMolay as well ashis life long accomplishments inside and out of our orga-nizations.

As many others agree the highlight of the sessionswere the Squires Induction performed by the State Squiresunder the direction of Dad Tom Thomason, and theDeMolay Degrees performed by Missouri DeMolay underthe direction of Dad Steve Pelak and members of MineralArea Chapters Advisory Council. We were happy to wel-come two new brothers from Progression Chapter into ourOrder.

Missouri DeMolay will be having several of its annual

events. On July 15, we will be hosting our Bi-State Mason-ic Youth event with Illinois at the always fun Six Flagsover Mid-America, where we look to have over 200 youngmen in attendance. The DeMolay Leadership TrainingConference will be held at the YMCA Trout Lodge in Poto-si, beginning July 21, 2007. In early August, we will haveour 3rd Annual Masonic Youth Softball Tournament,where all 3 Masonic Youth Organizations get together fora day of fun and softball. We are especially looking for-ward to the Masonic Youth Day on August 11th. We areonce again anticipating another day of fun and fellowshipamong all of our organizations at the Masonic Complex inColumbia. Last year was such a great success we are look-ing to do all that is needed to help make this day grow.

Missouri DeMolay is thankful to be part of such anoutstanding Masonic family, which believes in workinghand-in-hand with the Masonic Youth to assist in thegrowth and the prosperity of our organizations. We lookforward to igniting the fire of DeMolay in the youth of ourcommunity and keeping it burning bright! We hope withthe continued support we can light the fire of the MissouriMasonic family.

Fraternally,Cory C. MeyerState Master CouncilorJurisdiction of MissouriOrder of DeMolay

Masonic troubadour Howie Damron has seen a resur-gence in his singing career with the overwhelmingpopularity of his ballad, "The Masonic Ring."Recently, Missouri DeMolay Executive Robert W.Cockerham, sharing a mutual interest with Dam-ron, invited him to his home to show him hisguitar collection. "I couldn't believe it," quippedDamron, "He had me autograph a guitar that'sworth more than my truck!"

While visiting with Bro. Howie, Bro. Bobasked him why he didn't try to write a similarsong for DeMolay. One thing led to anotherand the pair began collaborating on the song.After several months of phone conversations andemails, Bro. Damron came up with a moving trib-ute to the order.

In June, DeMolay from around the world gath-ered in St. Louis to induct Southern Jurisdiction ScottishRite Supreme Commander General Ronnie Seale into theDeMolay Hall of Fame. As one of the highlights of theceremony, Bro. Damron debuted his DeMolay song.Because of Bro. Cockerham's involvement, Bro. Damronrefused to perform the song without his help. He invited

Bro. Bob onto the stage and asked him to be his "musicstand," a duty he accepted enthusiastically and performedflawlessly.

Bro. Howie belted out the inspiring new song, whichthe crowd received enthusiastically, and with a stand-ing ovation. When the cheering stopped, Bro. Damronannounced he will be recording it and it will be avail-able commercially later this year. Bro. Damron's web-site, http://www.buckeyewild.com, features all of hismusic as well as information about his life and singing

career.

DEMOLAY BALLADDEBUTED IN ST. LOUIS

Bro. Howie Damron sings his new DeMolay song, assisted by his"music stand," Bro. Bob Cockerham.


Editor's note: One of our Missouri brethren sent us an article expressing his belief that theindividual member is responsible for maintaining communication with the lodge. Brother RonaldSeale, in a letter to a long time Scottish Rite member, believes the organization should have donemore to communicate to the individual. With differing, but not mutually exclusive points of view,these brothers together have some important things to say to us about maintaining the relationshipbetween our Masonic bodies and individual members.

WHAT WE HAVE HEREIS A FAILURE

TO COMMUNICATEIt is 7:30 p.m. It is time to open. The presiding officer

arrived only five minutes ago; four of his nine officers arenowhere to be found, including me. He will have to draftthe three sideliners to fill in where he can, and just moveon. Thus is a sign of the times.

For years, most all anyone has ever complained aboutin our fraternity (besides membership, membership,membership) is a lack of communication. We want toknow what is going on, we complain about the Secretarybecause he doesn't tell us, he keeps information from us.We cannot afford a monthly reminder or even a newslet-ter, and the Secretary doesn't want the bother. The pre-siding officer is too busy to take real charge, he has threekids, a wife, a new job, and has no idea what he is doing.I know this because you should hear what the old has-beens say about him. No one ever calls me to remind meof a meeting, and I don't bother to write it down in my cal-endar book. I wonder where that calendar book is any-way.

However, it is ME who has not communicated. It isME, the member, who accepted the position of an officerin this organization. I took an oath that I didn't really payattention to. I want to remember to try to find that instal-lation ceremony so I can read through it again and let itsoak in, but I don't; I forget about it before I get home.

It is ME the member who fails to communicate withthe Secretary and/or any officers to tell them that I amsick or having personal problems. It is ME the memberwho doesn't study and learn my parts of the ritual. It isME the member who shows up five minutes before ameeting (sometimes), and unprepared. It is ME the mem-ber who moves and doesn't tell anyone resulting in no onebeing able to find me, my eventual suspension because Idon't get dues notices and therefore never pay my dues,and then it is ME who complains because I blame this fra-ternity who is supposed to look after me! It is ME, themember, who talks about the way things used to be, or

SECOND CHANCESMy Dear Scottish Rite Brother,

Welcome back! Thank you fortaking the time to write to me. Iwas saddened to receive yourfirst brief letter informing meof your decision to terminateyour membership in ScottishRite. Unfortunately, your sto-ry is not unique, but we areworking every day, confident inthe hope that fewer men like youwill feel compelled to submit a resig-nation to their Grand Commander.

You have been very successful in yourprofessional and personal lives. As an attor-ney—still in active practice at ninety-plusyears, you have served your profession withintegrity and distinction and serve on theboards of your local bar associations. As acitizen, you have been honored in recogni-tion of your civic-minded spirit and of yourdedication to making your community a bet-ter place to live and work. As an alumnus,you serve on the board of your law school.As a husband and father, your family hasbeen central in your life.

While I was still in elementary school,you became interested in Masonry andjoined your Blue Lodge. Thereafter, youdecided that perhaps Scottish Rite held thepromise of additional Light. And so, whileJFK yet occupied the White House, you con-tinued your Masonic journey by becoming amember of the Scottish Rite.

A span of forty plus years passed, a life-time for some, between the time you affixedyour signature on your petition and the timeyou submitted your resignation. What hap-pened? Well, we—not you—dropped theball.

POINT/COUNTERPOINT

continued next page


should be. It is ME the member who is not willing to showmy pride in this great fraternity by letting others knowthat I belong. It is ME who doesn't talk to my wife abouthow much it really means to me to belong to this organi-zation, and that I want to continue to belong even if I getsick, wanting her to continue with my dues.

It is ME who refuses to get an endowed mem-bership because I really only care about right now,not how strong the fraternity will be after I amgone, I'm selfish, I want my money now, for ME.It is ME the member who is too proud to let "theBrothers of my choosing" know that I need help,aide, and assistance, because I am embarrassed.

What I have found within me is a failure tocommunicate. I need to have a good long sit downwith me! I really need to get my attention, kind oflike my father might have done so long ago, whenI was trying to ignore him. I need to own up to myresponsibility, I need to give time, support, encour-agement, and money when I really can. I need toget serious about my ritual, education, and mypride in my choosing this organization.

I need totake "owner-ship" in myorganization.After all, I aman owner, ajoint owner. Ineed to com-municate withmy brothers,ever remem-bering myM a s o n i clessons inbrotherly love,not envy or jealousy. I need to keep my Secretaryinformed of where I am, if I move, if I change my phonenumber, if I change my email address. As an officer, I needto communicate regularly with my presiding officer, let-ting him know anytime I will be unable to attend a meet-ing or function, so he is prepared ahead of time. I need tohave a good long discussion with my wife, letting herknow how much this organization means to me, and whatto do if something happens to me. I need to try to be a lit-tle more humble, and at the same time take "ownership"in my organization, dressing like I have pride in myself. Ineed to be much less critical of others and take advicewhere I can get it. I need to quit blaming others for myown failure to communicate. I am a member, and I "own"this organization, it's long past time that I started actinglike it!

DAP

You waited all those years to be included, to be givena responsibility, a role to fulfill or something to do for ourorganization. But we never called. To be sure, we wereglad to see you at the Reunion as a candidate because yourpresence added to our large class and thus made us feelsecure. But we never called. Never wondered where youwere or, more importantly, why you weren't with us. And

the years passed. With each passingyear it became harder for you to takethe initiative and return. And harderfor us, because, to be sure, we forgotwho you were.

As Sovereign Grand Commander, Iapologize to you for our neglect. Wewere content to make you a member,not a brother.

Fortunately, upon further reflec-tion and conversation with well-informed brethren, you let us knowthat you decided to stay and continue

your Scottish Rite membership. Thankyou for giving us another opportunity! Secondchances are redemptive, and I knowthat your trust will not bemisplaced. I look for-ward to hearing fromyou after your nextvisit to your valley.Tell them I sent you.

Fraternally,

Ronald Seale

Ronald Seale is the SovereignGrand Commander of the ScottishRite, Southern Jurisdiction. BrotherSeale recently published this letter inthe Scottish Rite Journal, and it isreproduced here with permission.



One of the stories critical to the exhibit Reflected Val-ues, opening at the end of this year is that of how theKnights Templar raised the money to start the MasonicHome.

The story begins in 1875 when the Grand Lodge ofMissouri first discussed founding a home for needyMasons and their families. M.W. Brother John Ralls wasimpressed by the work of the Grand Lodge of Kentuckyand he resolved that a committee be formed to study itssuccess. By 1883, little progress had been made causingM.W. Brother Charles C. Woods to chastise the attendeesof the Sixty-third Annual Communication with the fol-lowing words: “ To give a loaf of bread to a starving wid-ow, and spend a hundred dollars on a banquet, is not char-ity of a very pronounced character. The amount we spendduring a single year in caressing defunct oysters, or burn-ing incense to the social penates in the shape of costly cig-ars, would build a ‘Home’ that would go down in posteri-ty, a perennial blessing.” Woods went on to serve as thesecond Superintendent of the Home.

The project went through a series of reviews andcommittees until, in 1886, a core group ofMasons decided that it was time to open thedoors. They had a problem though; theydid not have enough money. To over-come this hurdle, the group proposedtwo things: raise money from themembership and hold a public event.To raise money from the member-ship, the full Home Board recom-mended three steps. First was foreach lodge, Chapter, Council andCommandery to appoint a “Commit-tee who will see each and everyMason within its jurisdiction, andsecure individual pledges.” Next wasfor the lodges to “organize a system ofsocial entertainments, lectures, etc., sayfor St. Johns’ days, and by that means real-ize something for the Home.” And third,they predicted the critical role the Order of the

Eastern Star would play in the suc-cess of the Masonic Home.

The second idea was to invite thepublic to an event and charge admis-

sion. The event was based on theKnights Templar’s practice of military

drill and marching band music. CharityDay was the brainchild of John D. Vincil,

Grand Secretary, Home Board member, minis-

Medal worn by John D. Vincil designating him aspart of the coordinating committee. Othermedals received by him in the course of hisduties as the Grand Secretary from 1877 until1901. The Grand Lodge of Missouri ownsthese fine items.

RESOURCEFUL IDEAS LEAD TO FOUNDING OFMASONIC HOME

Lodge activities, parades, KT drills raise initial capital By Cindee Herrick | Special Project Curator

John D. Vincil continued next page


ter and holder of a doctorate in divinity. Working withVincil, was M.W. Brother John R. Parson. Parson was theChair of the committee to plan the St. Louis GrandEncampment. Parson’s lifelong commitment to the Homeearned him the title of Father of the Home. The plan wasto devote the second to last day of the 23rd Triennial Con-clave of the Knights Templar to public displays. Thou-

sands of Knights Templar from all over the United States performed complex military drill patterns. Two thousand menplayed band music. Over one hundred thousand people attended the event. It was held on Wednesday, September 22at the Old Fairgrounds on a beautiful fall day. The Old Fairgrounds were at Grand Boulevard and Natural Bridge Avenue.

To fully understand the scope of this event, one has only to read the newspapers. In 1886, the Grand Encampmentwas worthy of daily, multi-page coverage in the St. Louis papers. The Post Dispatch and the Globe-Democrat began cov-erage on Saturday, September 18, with two page spreads of biographical sketches of the Grand Commanders fromthroughout the United States. The papers prepared their readers for the 50,000 Knight parade that was scheduled forTuesday, September 21 by describing the military patterns spectators could expect during the close order drill demon-strations.

Knights Templar parades with close order drill demonstrations and Commandery bands began in St. Louis. In 1868,the Grand Encampment was held in St. Louis and, at that time, the organizers coordinated the first public events. Thecommunity residents loved the parade and a tradition was born. Every three years from then on, when the Comman-deries met in a city around the United States, the hosting Commanderies coordinated a parade. Every three years, hun-dreds of thousands of people lined the streets to watch the sharply dressed men perform. In 1886 the local hosts usedthe public’s love of a good drill team and marching band to raise the money to start the Masonic Home of Missouri.

Knights Templar parade in St. Louis, 1886, to support the founding ofthe Masonic Home. This rare photograph of the actual parade post-poned until Thursday, September 23, captures the mounted Comman-deries leading the marching Commanderies. Knights Templar wore thedistinctive chapeau head covering derived from the chapeau de bras of18th century military uniforms. The photograph was found on theback of a souvenir owned by the New Masonic Temple, St. Louis.

Banner made from participant ribbons from the 1886 Knights TemplarTriennial in St. Louis. Many Commanderies designed chest ribbons fortheir members to wear at the Grand Encampment. Stamped onto silkor embroidered onto grosgrain silk, they added a touch of color to thenavy blue frock coats. An enterprising seamstress crazy quilted themtogether to make this distinctive wall hanging. Purchased on eBay bythe Masonic Home of Missouri.

Medals worn by members of the committees and by attending knights.These medals belong to the New Masonic Temple, St. Louis.



FORGING ON WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THEMASONIC HOME OF MISSOURI

The Masonic Home of Missouri would like to shareCecil and Betty Hurt with you. To watch them together, isto see how much love and devotion a couple can have.They have had a wonderful life together, and they haveallowed us to share a bit of it with you.

Cecil Hurt was a young man working in Florida, whenhe felt it was time to go home for a visit. He arrived homeon the train on February 22, 1946. His father was a layspeaker, and there was an event at the church thatevening. Cecil’s mother encouraged him to attend theevent telling him that “there was going to be a pretty littlegirl attending.” Betty sang and played the piano in herfamily’s Gospel Quartet. Normally, they would not havebeen able to attend the church event, because Betty’sfather would be working. However, this particular eventwas scheduled on the holiday, so her father had the nightoff. Cecil and Betty meet that night, and they were mar-ried a year later on May 17, 1947.

Six month’s after their wedding, Cecil preached hisfirst sermon. He went to pastor his first church in Sep-tember 1949, South Friendship General Baptist Church.He also attended Oakland City College in Evansville, Indi-ana. In 1951, their lives changed again when Cecil’s uncleencouraged him to attend the Methodist Conference in St.Louis, Missouri, with him. Cecil was assigned his firstMethodist Church in Whitewater, Missouri. It was inWhitewater where he took yet another path that wouldchange his life – he jointed Whitewater Lodge No. 417.Cecil also continued his education at Southeast MissouriState at Cape Girardeau.

The family was blessed with a baby daughter, DiannaLouise, on August 31, 1956. They did not think they would be able to have any more children. On December 21, 1965a little boy was born in Evansville, Indiana. He was only three days old when Cecil and Betty met and fell in love withhim, and they were able to adopt Cecil Bradley. After 20 years of marriage, God blessed them with a little surprise. OnJanuary 9, 1968, they had another baby girl, Martha Joyce or “Jo” for short.

They have two grandchildren, David Scott Carlye, II and Charles William C Eckert. The “C” in Charles name standsfor Cecil, and there is no period after the “C”. This is because Harry S Truman does not have a period after his middleinitial. Cecil mentions this proudly, as he also discusses President Truman Masonic membership.

Cecil is very proud of his many Masonic accomplishments, and he shared some of the many high points. Cecil joinedthe Lodge in Whitewater and Betty joined Morley Chapter. Cecil followed Betty into Morley Chapter three years later.He joined the Scottish Rite, Valley of St. Louis, in 1960. He was a member of the Scottish Rite Choir, past President ofthe Choir, member of S.R. “Speakers Bureau”, worked in the degree work at the “Reunions” (both speaking and non-speaking parts), member of “Out-State Membership” and chairman several years. Cecil became a Shriner in 1968. In1969, he was appointed Grand Chaplain, which he was appointed to for 17 consecutive years. In 1973, Cecil was Knight-ed K.C.C.H. (Knighted Commander of Court of Honor). In 1974, he was given the H.L.O.H. (Honorary Legion of Honor)from the International Order of DeMolay. In 1976, “Sesquicentennial Year” he was first Vice-Chairman of Membershipfor the Valley of St. Louis. In 1978, he was installed as Worshipful Master of Senath Lodge No. 513, and he received“Merit of Honor” from the Shrine. He is a Life Member of Hadi Shrine, Evansville, Indiana, which was his “home-town”.A good friend bestowed this honor on him. In 1979, he was coroneted 33rd Degree, Honorary and was chosen as theOrator of the Class. In 1980, he was selected as the sponsor of the December 27th Class of New Members of the Scot-tish Rite. In 2005, Cecil received his 50-year pen at Whitewater Lodge No. 417. Cecil is also very proud that he wasGrand Chaplain at the cornerstone laying of the Truman Building in Jefferson City, Missouri, and many additional cor-

continued next page


ner stones throughout the state. Betty said, “The Masonic Lodge and Scottish Rite enhanced his ministry. He would gethome late from Masonic activities, and I would worry how he would preach the next morning, but it would always beone of his best.”

Betty was active in her Eastern Star work particularly in the music. She said, “I was always stuck at the piano, andI loved it.” Betty also taught music lessons for 38 years. She “tried to be a good minister’s wife and a good Masonic wife.”The children always helped to keep things going while Cecil was away.

When Cecil retried, they did not have a home. They could move anywhere, but they decided to go to St. Louis. Cecilwanted to stay active in the Scottish Rite, so they found an apartment within an easy drive. When you talk with Ceciland Betty, their love for their children, the Masonic fraternity, and his ministry is very powerful. Betty said it best, “whata life!” They just celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.

In the last few years things have changed for Cecil and Betty. Due to health issues, Cecil and Betty needed to moveto an independent living facility. Cecil’s health was declining. Cecil and Betty realized that they needed to move, butthey could not afford it. Betty said, “We just did not save enough. We knew we had his pension and Social Security,but without help from the Masonic Home of Missouri we could not pay the rent. We could not survive without theMasonic Home of Missouri’s help. We are not embarrassed by the help we receive, we are grateful!”

The Masonic Home of Missouri is grateful to Cecil and Betty for allowing us to help them and share their story. Theyare a truly inspiring couple.

We've had a busy spring scheduleand now look forward an eventfulsummer.

Residents able to get out andabout appreciate chapters and lodgessupplying transportation for them tobe a part of their activities: meetings,installations, receptions and the like.

A few are also able to make it tochurch on Sunday because someonevolunteers to provide a ride.

These kind acts are realized to beeven more special when we drive bya gas station and see the rising priceof fuel. This always triggers memo-ries of by-gone days:

"I remember when fuel was 17cents a gallon. We thought it horriblewhen it went to a quarter!"

"Time was, a fella'd pump the gasfor you, clean your windows, checkunder the hood, and fill the tires ifthey needed it!"

"Remember the free stuff you'dget? I wouldn't have had [china,glassware, towels…] if it wasn't forthose giveaways."

Folks were so busy with theirown "doings" we ended up cancelingour first fishing trip of the season.We're looking forward to two otherchances to participate in the Missouri

Department of Conservation's UrbanFishing Program.

Exciting news! The folks inSedalia asked us to come for a visit inJuly. They'll help us maneuver lunchat Ryan's, then, if we have time, we'llhave a short historical tour of thetown.

Residents truly enjoytime out of the building–most especially whenit's getting away withfamily or friends.Many residents are ofthe generation whenSunday's entertainmentwas a country drive (andperhaps a picnic or othertreat along the way).

We try to get out for a drive oncea week (in addition to getting out formedical appointments, the weeklytrip to Walmart and short-triperrands).

Sometimes, it's a "stay in thebus" tour of a local park reserve, a vis-it to old haunts (The Plaza, CliffviewDrive, Swope Park…) driving to seefeatures of the bi-annual "HomesTour", how folks in local neighbor-hoods planted their flower beds, ortraveling the back country roads to

admire the general scenery, crops andlivestock (we can hardly wait 'til wecan go out to Pleasant Hill and pickup some fresh sweet corn and homegrown tomatoes).

Other outings have us going outfor a treat to a local ice cream parlor,coffee house or sweet shop.

We've also learned of a newpast time called "letterboxing."International letterboxingweek was June 18-24.

This activity combinesartistic ability and treasurehunting. Clues are provided

online (www.atlasquest.com)to various sites (we're keeping

to the Lee's Summit/Kansas Cityarea, but you can go just about any-where in the country and some for-eign countries as well).

Follow the clue to an historic siteor local attraction. Some are difficult(you may even have to dig them up),but others are easily found, kidfriendly and handicapped accessible.It's fun solving the clues to find thesite, driving to the location, followingmore clues to find the letterbox andstamping the "passport" that tracksour progress.

We're thinking about setting up

MASONIC HOME OF MISSOURI KANSAS CITY RESIDENTS “GEAR UP FOR SUMMER”



our own letter box just to see if any-one would find and visit it.

In addition to all these happen-ings, we've got our everyday routineand special happenings with enter-tainment (check out the Masonic

Home web site for some specifics)and treats from lodges and chapters(maybe it's just coincidence that OakGrove will be here with ice creamduring "Ice Cream Days").

We'll celebrate World Juggling

Day early by learning how to jugglefrom an international professional.

Residents help staff recognize"Recess at Work Day" by encouragingthem to enter in to the fun.

Residents also recognize that none of these thingswould be possible if not for the generous support oftheir brothers and sisters in lodges and chaptersthroughout the State, and for the unity of groups likethe 19th District as they provide support with theirannual pancake breakfast. They would like to takethis opportunity to say:

NEW RESOURCE GUIDETO BE DISTRIBUTEDAbout 3 years ago the Masonic Home of Missouri Dis-

tributed Resource Guides to all the Masonic Home Repre-sentatives and Secretaries in each lodge and in each ofthese directories were a listing of resources specific to theMasonic District you are in.

After reviewing those books it has become apparentthat several of the resources and numbers have becomeoutdated and with wanting to provide the most up to dateinformation possible to the members; the Masonic Homehas reviewed and revised all of that information; that willbe made available at Annual Communication in Septem-ber.

In order to receive your updated materials we ask thatyou stop by the Masonic Home’s Booth where you will beissued two copies specific to your Masonic District. Allindividuals will be asked to sign for their designatedcopies, so that we can have a record of who has receivedthis information. We ask for your patience with thisprocess and hope the information we are providing is ben-eficial to your lodge, its members and families. Shouldyou not have a representative attending we will be mail-ing out copies that were not picked up concluding GrandLodge Annual Communication.

Thank You.

RATE ADJUSTMENT

For more information regardingthe KANSAS CITY FACILITY,

please contact KATHRYN JOHNSON at 1-816-763-6667 or 1-866-763-6667

Effective July 1, 2007,the new rates for the

Masonic Home of Missouri Assisted Living Facility in

Kansas City, Missouri will be:

Private Rooms $2,266.00Suites $2,678.002nd Person in Suite $515.00

MASONIC YOUTH DAY 2007Masonic Complex in Columbia, MO

Saturday, August 11th, 2007 — 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Appropriate Casual Dress — Wear Organization's shirt

Food: Hamburgers, Hotdogs, Chips, Soda, Funnel Cakes,Snow Cones, Cotton Candy, Popcorn

Fun: Voleyball, Horseshoes, Washers, Mexican Golf, WaterBalloons, Chicago Softball, Music, Prizes!!


Bro Donald E. Stech (center) ofGeorge Washington Lodge #9received his 50-year jewel on June26, 2007. RWB Joe Johnson (left)presented Bro Stech with his jeweland certificate. Bro Stech was initi-ated into the fraternity in 1957.In addition, WB Bill White receivedhonors from George WashingtonLodge #9 for 60 years of service toMissouri Freemasonry on June 12,2007. RWB Marion Briggs (WorshipfulMaster) presented our brother with aplaque denoting our gratitude forpast and continued contributions tothe fraternity. WB White celebratedhis 90th birthday on June 23, 2007and remains an active member inGeorge Washington Lodge.

On June 5, 2007, Fayette Lodge presented Bill J. Criglerwith his 50-year pin and certificate from the Grand Lodgeof Missouri. Pictured are front row (l to r) MWB M. RobertBerger, Bro. Crigler, WB Kenneth Gebhardt, RWB RandallM. Berger; back row (l to r) RWB Richard L. Smith, RWBHarvey R. Soule.

At the May 1 meeting of KirksvilleLodge #105, Brother Rollie D. Smithwas presented with his 50-year pinand certificate from the GrandLodge of Missouri. Pictured L to Rare his daughter, Susie Patton, Rol-lie, his son, John Smith, and makingthe presentation Right WorshipfulBrother Robert M. Barrett.

On April 3rd, at Camden Point Lodge #369, Camden Point,MO, past master Simeon Turner was presented his 50-yearpin at an open communication of the Lodge. Pictured areBro Turner and his wife Kay. RWB Larry Cook, DDGM of the17th District, conducted the presentation ceremony.

WB Nelson G. Morgan (right) washonored by George WashingtonLodge #9 on June 26, 2007 for 65years of service to the fraternity. WBMorgan was initiated into Freema-sonry in 1942 and, at 95 “yearsyoung,” remains one of the mostactive members of Missouri Freema-sonry. WB Morgan is a multiplemember of Waynesville Lodge #375and has authored publicationsabout Freemasonry. RWB Joe John-son (left) conferred the honor andpresented our brother with a plaquedenoting his contributions tofreemasonry.

50 Year Members: On Thursday May 24th, 2007 at the annual Family Night dinner of Farmington Lodge #132. Wor-shipful Master Terry Duckett (center) presented two 50-year membership pens to Right Worshipful Brother Harold J.Richardson and Worshipful Brother Walter Ellis. Pictured above are Worshipful Master Duckett, Right Worshipful BrotherRichardson (right) and Worshipful Brother Ellis (left).


After serving as Grand Marshall of a Lexington HeritageDay Parade, United States Congressman Ike Skeltonreceived his 50-year Masonic Pin at his home Lodge, Lex-ington #149, on June 9, 2007. The ceremony was con-ducted at the same altar & Bible that Congressman Skel-ton received his oath as a Master Mason. Past GrandMasters M/W Brother Glenn E. Means (2001-2002) servedas Worshipful Master, and M/W Brother Stanley Thomp-son (2003-2004) served as Senior Deacon. DDGL StanMassey was Chaplain.Brother Skelton made several complementary remarksregarding the Masonic Fraternity. He humorously notedhow quickly time had passed since taking his oath withthose many Masons he named, who were members in1957.A fellowship period followed with refreshments, and a lotof reminiscing between the Congressman and membersof Lexington #149, as well as with members of the other26 Lodges who were represented at this grand occasion.For proper handling, congratulatory letters should bemail to, Bob Hagidorn, Office of Congressman Skelton,514 B NW Highway 7, Blue Springs, MO. 64014.Pictured: US Congressman Ike Skelton addresses thecrowd after receiving his 50-year pin and certificate.MWB Glenn Means, who made the presentation, is seat-ed in the background.

Irondale Lodge #143 honored Bro. Ronald Jarviswith a bountiful dinner on November 4, 2006. At anopen meeting at 7PM, Bro. Jarvis was given a verytouching presentation in honor of his 50 years ofcontinuous membership and service with a certifi-cate and Jewel from the Grand Lodge of Missouri.RWB Cecil Isaac of Potosi Lodge #131 assisted byhis son made the presentation. There were approx-imately 30 members and friends in attendancealong with some of his family. His wife, Ina, pinnedthe jewel on him. Two of his daughters, Mrs. Rhon-da Bay of DeSoto, Mrs. Kerry Jarvis of Pevely, Bro.Albert Ives and wife Bette of Irondale and specialfriend Mrs. Beverly Moore of Park Hills attended.Bro. Jarvis was very honored and pleased with theevening. He wishes to thank everyone who wasinvolved in any way making it a very memorableaffair.

Bro. Jerry J. Dennington of Dexter Lodge #532received his 50-year pin and certificate from theGrand Lodge of Missouri on May 16, 2007. Ever-green Lodge #259 of Riverside, CA made the pre-sentation on behalf of the Grand Lodge of Missouri.His family was present for the ceremony.


Several members of DeSoto Lodge 119 have received 50Year and 25-year pins. On March 22, 2007. We had fourmembers who reached 50 years in masonry at ourlodge. They are Bros. Roy Welshon, Harold Gibson,Harold Donnell, and Bro. Dean Mcgee who will receivehis in May 2007. We had one Bro., Bob Miller, whoreached the 25-year mark. Pictured are Bro. Bob Miller (onthe Left) and Bro. Roy Welshon.

St. Francisville #588 A.F. & A.M. Masonic lodge presentedfive fifty-year jewels and certificates on Sunday June 3rd.Receiving their fifty year pin from left to right are GeraldMiller, A.J. Humes, Jack Brotemarkle, Dail White andLeroy Ronner. Bro. Shawn McAfee served as Master forthe ceremony. Br. Daniel McAfee served as Senior Dea-con and Br. Joe Humes served as Chaplain. The eventwas well attended by family and friends. The five recipi-ents reminisced with those present about some of theirmemories in the lodge and with each other. After theceremony all enjoyed cake, ice cream and fellowship.

St. Francisville Lodge #588 A.F. & A.M. has thirty one 50-year members. Pictured are: Back Row, Keith Zinnert, A.J.Humes, Dail White, & Ed Ronner 2nd row, Earl Moughler, BillRagan and Ansel Lipper front row, Gerald Miller, JackBrotemarkle, Russell "Jack" Murphy, Bill Jutte, & Earl Hunziker.50 year members not pictured are Roland "Guy" Bar-rows, Floyd Baum, Prentiss Faw, Thomas Gutting, VernonGutting, Robert Hinman, Delbert Huckey, Orie Inlow, JohnJutte, John Kircher, Chiswell Lentz, Wayne Meinhardt,James Noble, Forrest Phillips, James Ragan, WinstonWalker, Donald Young, Frederick Zinnert & Gale Zinnert.The picture was taken June 3rd as the lodge honoredfive new 50-year pin recipients.

On April 15, 2007, Hebron Lodge #354, presented threefifty-year pins. They were presented by MWB Elmer Rev-elle, assisted by RWB Ronald Miller as Senior Deaconand RWB Donald Fairley as Chaplain. The three arebeing pined by their wives from left to right: Bro. DonaldMurphy, Bro. Aubrey Bastian and Bro. Richard Coil, withRWB Ronald Miller observing.

WB Willard Fritts received his 50-year pin and certificatefrom The Grand Lodge of Missouri from Meramec Lodgeon March 19, 2007. His daughter Brenda Waterhouse,wife Violet, RDGL Norman Harrison and WM Joseph Kellerwere present for the ceremony.


On May 19, 2007, Bro. Cecil Y. Isaac, DDGL, presented a50-year pin and certificate of the Grand Lodge of Mis-souri to Bro. Albert Ives and Bro. Raymond Nixon for fiftyyears of service.

On September 9, 2006, Lanes Prairie Lodge #531AF&AM in Vichy, Missouri, honored Brother Gerald A.Lindstrom with a presentation of his 50 year Jewel andCertificate of the Grand Lodge of Missouri. Bro. Lind-strom received his degrees in Pajarito Lodge #66 inLos Alamos, New Mexico. He transferred to LanesPrairie Lodge #531 on January 10, 2004. It was a mem-orable night for Bro. Lindstrom and for Lanes PrairieLodge #531. Cake and treats were served later in theFellowship Hall. Right Worshipful Brother Jim Small-wood, DDGM, made the Presentation. It was his lastOfficial Presentation as DDGM of the 29th District.

On October 28, 2006, Travis Graham received his 50-year pin and certificate from the Grand Lodge of Mis-souri at Wakanda Lodge #52, Carrollton, MO. His wifeDonna is shown presenting his pin.

On June 10, 2007, Nelson Brooks received his 50-yearcertificate and pin from Osage Lodge No. 303, Nevada,MO. PDDGM Lawrence Cripps made the presentation toNelson. His wife, Ella Mae, presented the Jewel.


RWB John Broyles, Junior Grand Steward, and MWB M.Robert Berger, Grand Master lead a delegation of broth-ers from Monroe Lodge #64 in the cornerstone dedica-tion ceremony for the new Monroe City Hall, Monroe, Mis-souri on June 3, 2007. Several grand officers and broth-ers from other area lodges were present.

At Alpha Lodge #659's annual Widow's Dinner, guest Nor-ma Sacks is served by Becky Olds of North Kansas CityRainbow Assembly #55.

Alpha Lodge #659 hosted its annual Widow's Dinner inApril, catered by North Kansas City Rainbow Assembly#55. Pictured front (l-r) Guests: Nancy Lee and Judy McBath.Looking on (l-r) Delaney Mose, Tom Smith, WM, Shelby Baker,Becky Olds, Crystal Terry, and Bob Chester, PM.

On May 15, 2007, Hebron Lodge #354, held its annualPast Master's Night, when Past Masters fill the chairsand brothers reminisce and socialize. In 2007 theywere from left to right: (Front row) Edward Spurting2005-2006, Dennis Herndon 1981, Gerald Chaney1993, Gerald Kelley 1990, Richard Mills 1995-1997,Donald Fairley 1986, Donald Woods 1954 and FrankWilfley 1960-1961. (Second row) Richard Schremp1985, Randell Barnes 1982, Gregory Miller 1988, Grow-er Fannin 1997-1998, Charles Minney 1994-1995, JaredPrice 1979 and Darrell Knipp.


Warrenton Lodge #609 sponsored a Chips program onJune 9, 2007. Thirty-four Volunteers processed over 90children. Grace Chapter #323, Eastern Star, servedlunch. WB Phillip Carey and J.R. Latta assisted in settingup the computers and helping the volunteers.

Wallace Masonic Lodge #456 of Bunceton, Missouri ishonored to have seven new members, who becameFreemasons on June 13th, 2007. From left to right in the firstrow: Bill Bryan, Mark Nelson and James Shiverling. Second row:Mike Bryan, Brad Pfeiffer, Nash Mckenzie and Troy Thruman.

Perseverance Lodge #92, Louisiana, MO has

CANCELLED its Grand Master'sbreakfast originally scheduled for

Saturday, October 20, 2007 due to ascheduling conflict. We sincerely

regret any inconvenience.

Pictured above is Joseph A. (A.J.) Humes with his sonJoseph B Humes and his grandson Chris Humes all ofWyaconda. Grandfather, son and grandson are all Mas-ter Masons and members of St. Francisville Lodge #588of Wayland.

John L. Erfurdt Jr., right, was named the Mason of the Yearby Hope Lodge #251 during its installation of officersSaturday, July 28. Also pictured is Terry D. Coppotelli,Worshipful Master, who made the presentation.

On July 22nd, the Windsor Chapter OES#102 presented Windsor Masoniclodge with a complete set of OfficerJewels and Collars.

Receiving the Masters jewel WM DarrinMoorer presented by his mother W.M.Maureen Wallace, A Great Masonicfamily.


Boonville Wal-Mart manager, Dennis Raney presented agrant for $500 Cooper Lodge #36 to help to fund the MOCHIP program, which is sponsored by the Masonic Chil-dren’s Foundation of the Grand Lodge of Missouri. Pic-tured with Raney are Lodge Master Roy Cary and DeMo-lay leader Jeff Koa, co-chairs of the Boonville event. This service provides families with a child’s informationthat is required by the AMBER ALERT program. This isdone at the Lodge Hall in Boonville, and other Lodges,with absolutely no charge to the family. Each day near-ly 2,000 children are reported missing or abducted in theUnited States. This packet of information can be madeimmediately available to law enforcement services asthe search begins for the missing child. To date morethan 25,000 children have gone through the programwith Masonic Lodges. The next MO Chip program in Boonville will be March 29,2008. A big thanks goes to John Hess, who heads up theCHIP program for the Missouri Grand Lodge and helpsthe Lodges put on the program.In a separate event, on behalf of the Cooper Lodge #36and Boonslick Shrine Club, Master Roy Cary presentedClark Williamson of Boy Scout Troop #67 with a check for$300, during the end of the year dinner at the Lodge Hall.

On Saturday April 21, 2007 Linn Creek Lodge #152held a 75-year rededication ceremony by laying acornerstone commemorating 75 years at its locationin Camdenton. The Lodge was first chartered in 1855and was located in Linn Creek. During the Civil Warthe charter and all records were lost or destroyed.The lodge was again chartered in 1869. Due to thecreating of the Lake Of The Ozarks, the town of LinnCreek was flooded. A new Lodge Temple was con-structed in Camdenton and was finished in 1932.That Temple is the location of Linn Creek Lodge #152today. Shown in the photograph are seated: Mrs. MarianRudolph, Bro. John T. McCrory whose father, John S.McCrory was the first Mason raised in the new tem-ple in 1932, and Most Worshipful Brother JamesNoland Jr., Past Grand Master of the Grand Lodge ofMissouri and member of Macks Creek Lodge #433,and Keynote Speaker. Standing l to r. Brother Gene Oitker, Master of Cere-monies; First row: Bryon Lovell, Worshipful Master; RightWorshipful Brother James Portwood, Secretary; BrotherMark Wilbarger, Senior Steward; Brother Charles Phelps,Junior Steward; Brother Bill Gansemer, Senior Warden;Worshipful Brother Larry Clemens, Treasurer; Second row:Brother Gary Bowling, Junior Deacon; Brother JimmyBrashear, Senior Deacon; Brother Kelly Luttrell, Junior War-den; and Brother Robert Leonard, Tyler.

A man may work from sun to sun,A woman's work may ne'er be done,The secretary's work, they say,Is done when in the ground he lay.


continued from 101

It’s official! The good Brothers ofWestport Lodge #340 are now dulyand truly members of Swope ParkLodge #617 as of July 1, 2007. WBGus Egner (left) turned in West-port’s charter to DDGM DennisAbernathy (right) as WM Gary Dry-er looks on. We had an outstandingevening, beginning with a superbgrilled dinner put on by our WilliamF. Kuhn DeMolay chapter. Theyoung men grilled hamburgers, hotdogs, brats and chicken served withall the trimmings.

Thirty Brethren were in atten-dance to witness this historicaloccasion. The 62 new Swope ParkLodge brethren gave the SwopePark Treasurer a check in theamount of $ 16,615.39, which willgo along way supporting our chari-table activities and help defray thecost of maintaining our building. Asof the merger, Swope Park Lodgehas 298 members of record.

RWB Jack Clark, PM York Lodge,was instrumental in bringing about

the merger of York Lodge #563 intoSwope Park in 2002, and is a mostexcellent example of merged mem-bers bringing strength and vitalityinto a Lodge though their active par-ticipation. RWB Larry Cameronheaded the committee making theWestport merger a success. BothWB Dryer and RWB Cameronechoed the sentiments of the Lodgeas a whole in welcoming thesebrothers. We are certain they willactively participate on committeesand serve as officers as their health,time and energies permit. Theybring a wealth of Masonic experi-ence and will contribute new ideason how we can all best serve our fra-ternity and community.

In accepting the Charter, RWBand DDGM Abernathy stated, “MayGod bless everything you do togeth-er as a Lodge of Masonic Brothers."

Pictured above, to commemorate thisoccasion, were (left to right, frontrow) Westport Lodge #340, WBJeptha Woods, WB David Blaisdell,WB Richard Edwards and WB GusEgner. (Back row, left to right) SwopePark Lodge RWB Jack Clark, RWBLarry Cameron, WM Gary Dryer,DDGL Paul Miller and DDGM DennisAbernathy

WESTPORT LODGE NUMBER 340

ment and supplies that he was going to donate and the Lodge voted to accept those and ship them to the Clinic.Belcher got together with Sprinkle and Lodge Past Master and Junior Deacon Henry Tafner about the possibility of

Lodge members driving the supplies and equipment to the coast instead of hiring someone to do it.All they asked was for the Lodge to pay for the fuel and their food. They would have a place to stay with the help

of Squibb. It turned out a local condominium owner furnished them space in their facility without charge. The three of them left Lamar about 3 a.m. June 22 and arrived about three or four in the afternoon, "It took us 12

hours to go down there and 16 to get back because we got lost and made some wrong turns!"Belcher said Lamar Lodge will probably be helping again in the future but that will be up to the next lodge master

and membership as his turn as master is coming quickly to an end.Clive said the Clinic has many needs but a primary need is a dentist, "We have a complete dental room set up, includ-

ing dental x-ray. The need for dental services is alarming!"They need physicians to donate whatever time they might have available. He said one day or one month or anything

in-between.They can always use two to three nurses per day. Duties include triage (vital signs and history taking), assisting doc-

tors as needed as so forth.Medications/samples are needed as they fill 85 to 100 prescriptions any given day, "We also have critical needs and

maintain a critical needs list.As in any business, money is always a need in order to maintain services. "We maintain our day-to-day operations

and expenses strictly on donations."We are dedicated to doing the Lord's work," Clive said, "We are his hands and feet for it is in His name that mira-

cles are performed and prayers are answered."Clive and the Clinic can be reached by phone at (228) 396-5876 or (228) 861-8437.

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

To Improve Myself In Freemasonry

DARWIN & FREEMASONRYDarwin was a practicing physician, a poet, and a scientist.

He founded the Philosophical Society and became a Freemasonin the famous Canongate Kilwinning Lodge No. 2 at Edin-burgh, Scotland. As master of this lodge, with close ties tomajor European Freemasons of the day, Darwin was an impor-tant name in Masonic circles. His son Robert, also a physician,was a prominent Freemason. He made a name for himself as amedical practitioner, at which he made a small fortune, and asa writer of verse with scientific and evolutionist themes.According to Alan Moorehead (Darwin and the Beagle, 1969),he was a much respected, though somewhat controversial fig-ure. Coleridge coined the word “darwinising” to describe hisrather wild theorizing. Among his works was a virtuallyunknown poem, Zoönomia, or The Laws of Organic Life (1794-1796), quite famous at the time, from which the followingsample is taken:

Hence without parent by spontaneous birthRise the first specks of animated earth;From Nature’s womb the plant or insect swims,And buds or breathes, with microscopic limbs.Organic life beneath the shoreless wavesWas born and nurs’d in Ocean's pearly cavesFirst forms minute, unseen by spheric glass,Move on the mud, or pierce the watery mass;These, as successive generations bloom,New powers acquire, and larger limbs assume;Whence countless groups of vegetation spring,And breathing realms of fin, and feet, and wing.Clearly Darwin’s mind was more scientific than poetic, for

the poem contains a system of pathology and he was knownas one of England’s most prominent naturalists, who devel-oped the main outlines of the theory of evolution from hisexperimental farm. Although Darwin did not develop hisviews into a scientific theory, they were the expression of anaturalist doctrine that accepts that nature has creative power.

If all this seems unfamiliar to you, I must confess now thatI am talking about Dr. Erasmus Darwin, grandfather of the

more familiar Charles Robert Darwin, author of the historictreatises on evolution, who was neither a physician nor aFreemason, who studied botany at Cambridge, and who madethe famous five-year scientific exploration on The Beagle, iden-tifying and classifying plants and animals, which resulted infour books: The Voyage of the Beagle (1845), On the Origin ofSpecies by Means of Natural Selection (1859), The Descent ofMan (1871), and The Expression of the Emotions of Man andAnimals (1872).

Although Erasmus Darwin hoped to have his son Robertdevelop and publish his theory, it was his grandson Charleswho undertook the task of developing what is now called Dar-winian Evolution, which of course made him both famous andnotorious.

Elbert Hubbard (1856-1915), prolific writer, publisher,artist, philosopher, and prodigious exponent of the arts, inSelected Writings (IX.224), wrote: “There is only one man inAmerica putting forth any claim to intellectuality who derides,today, the Darwinian theory. That man is William JenningsBryan.”

Bryan, a presidential candidate who lost twice to McKinleyand once to Taft, was better known as Wilson’s Secretary ofState. His Masonic membership was Lincoln Lodge No. 19,Lincoln, Nebraska, and later Temple Lodge No. 247 in Miami,Florida.

Hubbard also stated in a speech at Roycroft : “I thankCharles Darwin and Herbert Spencer, Englishmen, for liberat-ing theology from superstition.” (Selected Writings (1922), IV,16)

“Simple, yet at times controversial, misunderstood and mis-used for social goals, the theory remains unchallenged as thecentral concept of biology, Charles Darwin, reluctant revolu-tionary, profoundly altered our view of the natural world andour place in it.” (From the American Museum of Natural His-tory: www.darwinlibrary.amnh.org)

Dr. E. Otha Wingo DDGL [email protected]

missouri freemason magazine - v52n04 - 2007 fall

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