Scottish Rite Trestleboard

OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2010 ORIENT OF LOUISIANA Volume 12 Issue 5

Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE Mountford, and there was a Rev. Mountford living in the area Whence Came You? at that time, who had a school for the training of boys in cer- tain crafts. Yarker claimed that he knew an operative mason by by the name of Eaton, who was a member of St. Ninian's Lodge, John L. Belanger, 33 ° and the Secretary of St. Ninian's Lodge No. 66 (S.C.) has con- Daily this question is asked by Masons without the slight- firmed that there had been Eatons in that lodge for several est thought as to its real meaning. "Whence came you?" Who generations, all of whom had been operative masons, and the can really answer the question? last-named of which had joined that lodge from Ashton under Equally baffling and profound is the question "What came Lyme, near to where Yarker lived.) you here to do?" With Stretton as the leader, they then revived two former Simple as these questions appear, they search every nook Guild Lodges (i.e. Leicester Lodge No. 91 and Mount Bardon and cranny and sound every depth of every philosophy, every Lodge No. 110) and used one to work the old operative cer- mythology, every theology, and every religion that has ever emonies and the other to serve as a sort of Correspondence been propounded anywhere by anybody at any time to explain Circle, with the intention of attracting members. In this they human life. succeeded for, by 1907, Mount Bardon Lodge had eighty-two In my opinion each person may have his own answer to members, many of whom were distinguished in various walks "Whence Came you". However, your ideas may change after of life as well as in freemasonry, and more than a few who you read this paper. We must first start off to understand our lived abroad, e.g. Isaac Henry Vrooman Jnr. and Charles Hope roots "Operative Masonry": Merz who lived in the USA , John Gavin Purser who lived in In the early part of the 20th century two Masonic writers Ireland, and S. Clifton Bingham who lived in Christchurch, caused a minor ripple to disturb the placid waters of English New Zealand. freemasonry, and Masonic research in particular. The men con- The cause of their enthusiasm for operative masonry was cerned were Clement Edwin Stretton, a consultant engineer that they both considered it superior to speculative freemasonry, who lived in Leicester and wrote hundreds of book, academic which they claimed was a pale imitation of the other, and some papers and newspaper articles concerning railways and free- of those differences arose from the fact that, in Guild ma- masonry; and John Yarker, who lived in Manchester and wrote sonry: even more books, academic papers and newspaper articles, but Lodges were presided over by three Grand Master Masons. is now best remembered for one book in particular, The Ar- Members sat in a lodge which was orientated the opposite way cane Schools, published in 1909, which is a giant of a book! from normal, with the three Grand Master Masons sitting in the West. It is impossible in a paper as short as this to do justice to the Its members operated on a 7-degree system, the two poles of background and commitment of these two men, so it is hoped which were indentured apprentices as 1º and the three Grand that it will be sufficient if anyone seeking further information Master Masons as VIIº. is simply directed to the Internet or their nearest Masonic li- Apprentices were indentured at the age of 14 and had to prove brary. Both, however, eventually attained high rank, although their ability by 'test pieces' as they progressed through a 7 year both were subjected to personal criticism and, in my opinion, system of training. died disappointed men. Lodges had existed for hundreds of years and used methods which The cause which united them was their firm belief that were universal. modern speculative freemasonry did not suddenly emerge in Lodges were known as 'Assemblages' throughout England, and some of them had an underground vault, with a plumb-line reach- 1717, which some would like us to believe, but was the linear ing down 'from Heaven' and a letter 'G' in the ceiling, denoting descendant of operative freemasonry (and 'Guild' masonry in Geometry. There was also a central pedestal in the vault, which particular) which had been around for hundreds of years. Their stood on seven steps, denoting the Seven Liberal Arts and Sci- reasons for being so certain were that, as a boy, Stretton had ences. undergone training as a guild operative mason in a quarry in Finally, that it was the operative masons who built St. Paul's Ca- Derbyshire, and Yarker had known operative masons person- thedral under Sir Christopher Wren, who was himself an opera- ally, some of whom had been operative masons for generations. tive mason. To a large extent, both of these claims have been verified. All of these claims have been scrutinized as a result of which Stretton claimed to have been sent for training to a Tor Quarry it can be confirmed that: in Cromford, and it has been confirmed that, at the period The Operative lodges were presided over by three Grand quoted, there was a Tor Quarry in Cromford. He also claimed Master Masons each of whom carried a rod of either 3,4 or 5 to have been indentured by someone named Montford or continued on page 13 1 Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE Louisiana Scottish Rite Trestleboard Master Craftsman Program Published bimonthly by the LODGE of the NINE MUSES #9, F&AM Louisiana Scottish Rite Foundation BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA P. O. Box 64 Shreveport, LA 71161 ANNUAL TABLE LODGE FRIDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2010 Editor Steve Pence CAMELOT CLUB 105 Bay Hills Drive DOWNTOWN BATON ROUGE Benton, LA 71006 TOP OF THE CHASE BANK BUILDING Tel: H: 318-965-9977 The following members have recently SECURE UNDERGROUND PARKING E-mail: [email protected] completed the first course and have re- ceived or should shortly recieve their cer- HOSPITALITY BEGINS AT 6:00 PM Louisiana Scottish Rite Trestleboard is published bi- tificates and lapel pins. DINNER BEGINS AT 7:00 PM monthly by the Louisiana Scottish Rite Foundation. Any article or views expressed in this publication are those Shreveport LIMITED SEATING only of the writer and do not reflect the official position Robert E Bazzell RESERVATIONS REQUIRED of the Louisiana Scottish Rite. The editorial policy of ASSIGNED SEATING (request seating this publication grants free reign to the Editor, within the Lake Charles together if groups) lines of Masonic principles and teachings. Articles and Michael B Ford pictures submitted become the property of this publica- tion. THREE MEAL SELECTIONS $75.00 PER PERSON Permission is granted to use contents of this Trestle- John J Babin, III board for Masonic purposes, as long as credit is given to the source. Monroe SPEAKER FOR THE EVENING: Editorial Staff Robert Shawn Owens R W Thomas W. Jackson Editor: Executive Secretary, World Conference Steven A. Pence, 33° of Grand Lodges Valley of Baton Rouge: Order of the Amaranth Past Grand Secretary, Grand Lodge of Shane C. Crump, 32° The Order of the Amaranth is a be- Pennsylvania Valley of New Orleans: nevolent and philanthropic, social and Author, Scholar, Educator, Scientist, Ion Lazar, 32° KCCH fraternal order having for its purpose, Valley of Shreveport: Big Game Hunter, Fire Fighter, Deputy service to humanity. To the members, this John F. Ayer, 32° KCCH Sheriff Valley of Lake Charles: means the opportunity to build upon the Winner of the Freedom Foundation's Darrell L. Guillory, 32° strong foundation of Truth, Faith, Wis- Defender of Freedom Award C. Clifford Heath, 32° KCCH dom and Charity, and to offer among its Valley of Monroe: members Fraternal Love and Service. It Beryl C. Franklin, Ph.D., 33° CONTACT: means the hand of Fraternal Friendship W. Naresh Sharma, WM Allegiance to those in distress and during times of 19414 Creek Round Drive The bodies of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite sorrow and sickness. It means the of Freemasonry, sitting in the Orient of Louisiana, ac- Baton Rouge, LA 70817 strength, courage, and inspiration to knowledge and yield allegiance to the Supreme Council 225/753-1114 of the Thirty-third degree for the Southern Jurisdiction achieve a piece of mind and a degree of of the of America (Mother Supreme Coun- happiness that comes in serving a cause CHECKS MADE TO: cil of the World) whose See is at Charleston in the State greater than ourselves. Most of all, it of South Carolina, and House of the Temple, Washing- LODGE OF THE NINE MUSES #9 ton, D.C., of which means opportunity to enjoy those close DRESS: LODGE MEMBERS, TUX & fraternal ties of mutual respect and un- GLOVES; MEN, TUX OR DARK SUIT; Ill. Ronald A. Seale, 33° derstanding to enrich our lives with LADIES, COCKTAIL DRESS Sovereign Grand Commander friendship upon which no value can be and placed. Complimentary Wine for souvenir Fir- Ill. William J. Mollere, 33°, The extent of the charitable work is ing Glass included with meal. Sovereign Grand Inspector General manifold. The Order's main philan- Orient of Louisiana thropic project is the Amaranth Diabetes Ill. Charles L. McCarty, 33° Foundation, administered by a Board of Personal Representative for Valley of New Orleans Directors elected from the membership Calendar of Events Ill. Ballard Smith, 33°, PGM Personal Representative for Valley of Shreveport of the Supreme Council. This last year Orient of Louisiana Ill. Richard B. Smith, 33° the members of Amaranth gave almost Conference of the Orient Personal Representative for Valley of Lake Charles $500,000 dollars for diabetes research. In Baton Rouge November 13 Ill. C. Daniel Smith, Jr., 33° addition, members of the Order support Reunions Personal Representative for Valley of Baton Rouge the Shriner's hospital, Make a Wish Baton Rouge Oct 23-24 Ill. Woody D. Bilyeu, 33°, GM Foundation, American Cancer Society, Monroe Oct 23 Personal Representative for Valley of Monroe DeMolay, Rainbow Girls and Job's La Bonne Marie M: W: Woody D. Bilyeu, 33° Daughters and a host of other worthy Houma Oct 11 and Grand Master of Masons in Louisiana charities. Unity Lodge #267 2 Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE The Louisiana Scottish Rite Foundation

Scholarship Awards graduate student with a wide variety of Contributions The Louisiana Scottish Rite Founda- clinical interests. Lindsey loves work- The Foundation is so very blessed by tion is proud to announce that the fol- ing with children and adults and says her the continued financial support from lowing Scholarships have been awarded: reward comes from "understanding the within the Fraternity as well as from those Speech & Language Scholarships positive changes I can bring in the lives from outside. of others. It is only fitting that these supporters Louisiana State University-Shreveport The Foundation is truly blessed to be recognized. have these wonderful young women at our Paula Pedeaux Louisiana Scottish Rite Foundation Kelli Millet facility in Baton Rouge. Kristy Holmes In Memory of Trellis Ledbetter Beryl C Franklin University of Louisiana-Lafayette John M Dark Allyse Kasie Lawson Kala Zaunbrechen In Memory of Jean Jean John M Dark Louisiana State University Baton Rouge In Memory of C J Ozane Katie Marie Halpen D W Jessen & Associates Lindsey Lee Porche In Memory of Ora Lee Katie Halpen Southeastern Louisiana University Beryl Franklin Hammond Jason R Sager Hannah Kay Smith

University of Louisiana-Monroe Andrea Parks Tiffany Nobles Sarah Lingefelt

Graduate Profiles There are two wonderful graduate Students this summer at the Baton Rouge Lindsey Porche Scottish Rite Learning Center. Katie Halphen graduated from the University of Mississippi in 2005 with a B. A. in Business Administration. After working for Crocs Inc. for three years she decided to pursue a career in speech-language pa- thology. She took courses in Commu- nication Disorders at the University of Foundation Officers 2010-2011 Southern Mississippi while volunteering S. Bruce Easterly President at the Children's Center and DuBard William V. King Vice President School for Language Disorders. She is E. Louis McGee Treasurer currently in her 2nd semester of gradu- Robert C. Joyner Secretary ate school in Communication Disorders William J. Mollere Chairman at Louisiana State University and hopes Gary L. Gribble Executive Director to eventually work with children who Harry E. Moseley Board Member have special needs. William H. Brown Board Member Lindsey Porche graduated from I. C. Turnley, Jr. Board Member Roswell High School in Georgia in 2003. Charles K. Watts Board Member She obtained her undergraduate at LSU Neal R. Crane Board Member in Baton Rouge and is now a 2nd year John L. Atkinson President Emeritus 3 Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE New Olreans and together with the Acadia Militia and Ger- A Bicentennial Celebration man Coast Disciplined Provincial Militia captured Ft. Bute on by Bayou Manchac (an extributary of the Mississippi River) and William J. Mollere, 33° SGIG then Baton Rouge (renamed "New Richmond" by the British), American history is full of wonderful stories of Masonic a strategic site with the first high ground upriver; then to Mo- activities. Many are associated with the Revolutionary War bile Bay where the British Fort fell in 1780. The Spanish thus period from 1776-1781, and again until the adoption of the secured all of which had been a part of the North Constitution in 1789 which truly made one nation from 13 semi- American British possessions. While these battles are all rec- independent States. Many historians race forward to 1836 for ognized by the Sons of the (SAR), little the second independent nation formed at Washington-on-the- is told of these battles in American Revolutionary War history Brazos when the Republic of Texas was proclaimed. These books. two independent countries, once joined, are looked upon as In 1803, President , through his Ambas- forming great American traditions that shaped our nation and sador Robert Livingston, a Freemason, secured from became one united country which prospered and came to be for $15,000,000, the territory drained by the Mississippi River envied around the world. Yet, sandwiched between these two to the west of the United States, and the Isle of Orleans which independent nations was another independent nation that has included New Orleans. Emperor Napoleon, purported to be a been forgotten and over-looked, the - Freemason, had regained the former Spanish possessions by 200 years ago this year, it had its own "Betsy Ross", a Consti- treaty in 1800 with his brother Joseph, the new King of Spain, tution and a President. a known Freemason. This transaction, called the "Louisiana The United States of America declared its independence in Purchase", more than doubled the size of the United States. 1776 and defeated Great Britain in a war that manifested itself However, the transaction did not include the Spanish-held ter- in battles and campaigns written about mainly on the eastern ritory of Florida. That piece of land extended from the Missis- coast of the North American continent. Most forget that battles sippi River eastward and was bounded on the north by the 31 were fought elsewhere including British territories outside of N latitude and on the south by Bayou Manchac, which flowed the traditional eastern coastal areas. Most also forget that while out of the Mississippi River and then into the Amite River, France supported the United States (and young Freemason, into Lake Maurepas, into Lake Pontchartrain and finally into Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette, came to learn the art the Gulf of Mexico, the territory to its south was called the Isle of war at the side of Illustrious Brother George Washington), of Orleans. Several important Spanish sites occupied the west- the Spanish, led by a seasoned soldier who was a ern Florida territory, namely Fort San Carlos (the new name of and very anti-Masonic, also aided in fighting the British on New Richmond - Baton Rouge), and upriver, the Feliciana area the North American continent. With the United States' entry - Bayou Sara and St. Francisville, commercially important ports into the world of independent nations, thirteen semi-indepen- for transshipment of cotton. While the Spanish collected tolls dent states finally came together and formed a Union and be- for river traffic stopping at these sites, relations between the gan expanding into areas won during the war with Britain, Spanish and Americans did not have many negative business, mainly on the western side of the Appalachian Mountains. political or military issues. However those Americans who had However, the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers, important to the com- secured Spanish Land Grants in the Feliciana area bristled merce of the new country drained into the Mississippi River, under corrupt and inept Spanish rules and regulations. the western boundary of the United States. The Mississippi President Jefferson had the Louisiana Purchase divided at was bounded on the west by Spanish territory and other areas the 33 N latitude (today the boundary of Louisiana and Ar- ceded by France in 1762 at the end of the Seven Years' War kansas) with the northern territory called the "Louisiana Ter- (referred to as the French and Indian War); and near the mouth ritory" with St Louis as the capital, and the southern territory on the eastern side, by British territory that included Florida, called the "" with New Orleans as the capi- and which Spain regained by assisting the Americans during tal. The President appointed William C. C. Claiborne, a Free- the Revolutionary War. Then, at the mouth of the River, Spain mason, as Governor of the Territory of Orleans. Governor controlled the Isle of Orleans, which included the Jewel of North Claiborne had General Wilkinson, a Freemason, as the mili- America, the port city of New Orleans. Commerce came down tary commander for the Territory who commanded troops and the Mississippi River on American flatboats and keelboats and militia within the area. From 1803 until 1812 when statehood materials were off-loaded at the docks in New Orleans near was granted to the Territory of Orleans and it became the eigh- the main square by the cathedral, transported several blocks teenth state admitted to the Union as the State of Louisiana, across the "French Quarter" to Basin Street onto ocean-going something else occurred, another country was formed. vessels docked at Bayou St. John, and then the vessels left by The western part of Florida, from the Perdido River, just way of Lake Pontchartrain and into the Gulf of Mexico and on west of Pensacola to the Mississippi River was a Spanish re- to their destinations. These several extra steps in transporting gion governed from Baton Rouge, and it included the ports of were due to the fact that the mouth of the Mississippi River Biloxi and Mobile, both of which were growing in importance was almost shallow, full of sediment and incapable of having as settlers from the Mississippi Territory, north of the 31 lati- large ships navigate upstream. tude used these ports for commerce and industry. Many of the During the Revolutionary War, the Spanish under Gover- settlers had been use to having little or no governmental regu- nor Don Bernardo de Galvez, in 1779, led their forces from lations as their American territories were loosely governed from continued page 12 4 Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE Valley of New Orleans News The Oldest Scottish Rite Valley in the World - Chartered April 7, 1811 Albert Pike was Grand Commander of Grand Consistory of Louisiana From April 1857-January 1859 Meets on the first Wednesday of every month Recent Valley News resentative and Chief Executive, Ill. Bro. Our Valley has had a very busy sum- Charles L. McCarty, 33º is bringing to- mer. Family Day on July 11th was, once gether several pioneering initiatives again, a great success. There was fun for aimed at increasing fellowship and the whole family, great and plentiful food knowledge: Clubs, Classes, group trips, on the extra-large, full-service buffet, live fund-raisers, and more. music provided by the Shrine Band, and Among these new offerings to our so much more. membership, our Valley now has a Our Valley owes a tremendous debt of monthly Esoteric Class and Discussion gratitude to the valiant, tireless, and ever- Forum, which is being conducted by our present Knights of St. Andrew who spear- Master Craftsman Director of Education, headed the massive volunteer effort that Bro. Ion Lazar, 32º KCCH. Any Mason New Orleans Scottish Rite Temple made this family event such a great suc- is welcome to participate, you are all in- 619-621 Carondelet Street cess. The members of this ancient and vited! The date is always announced at New Orleans, LA 70130-3503 the stated Valley meetingpreceeding the Secretary: Lloyd A. Hebert, 33° honorable Order of Knights of St. Andrew Tel: 504-522-3789 Fax: 504-527-5982 are 32nd Degree members who have a Class, for further details please call us at Email: [email protected] burning passion and enthusiasm for Scot- (504)522-3789 or contact Bro. Ion Lazar WebSite: www.nolascottishrite.com tish Rite and who selflessly volunteer to via email at [email protected]. The Class 2010 Membership Fees were due help with Valley projects ranging from delves deeply into the veiled meaning of public events to Reunions to membership our Rituals and of our ancient symbols on December 31, 2009 development. Any member is eligible for and attempts to use a group format to Calendar of Events this distinguished group - even KCCH answer the question: "What does it all Stated Communications 7:30 PM and 33 Brothers can serve as emeriti or really MEAN? We hope that all our mem- Advisory Conference 5:00 PM ° Wednesday, October 6th liaison members. This year's Venerable bers will decide to avail themselves of this new resource as they chart their own Degree exemplification Master of St. Andrew is Bro. Quentin J. course along the Masonic journey. Wednesday, November 3rd Buras 32°, who as we all know is a liv- ing example of dedication, service, and Fraternally, Annual Thanksgiving program fraternal good will. Bro. Buras was there Ion Lazar, 32ºKCCH Branson Trip November 6th to oversee all logistical aspects of this Wednesday, December 1st traditional event. Christmas program August 4th marked a very special oc- casion for our Valley. We had a very suc- cessful ceremony and gala dinner honor- ing our 25-year and 50-year Scottish Rite members. Our General Secretary and Chief Administrator, Ill. Bro. Lloyad A. Hebert, 33º presented each honoree in attendance with a beautiful Certificate along with our collective Congratula- tions. Seeing so many loyal Scottish Rite members share their experiences and of- fer their mentorship to the younger mem- bers marked a very special and solemn continued page 10 moment for all of us. In Memoriam As we approach our Fall Reunion on Wallace P Ansardi September 25th, we enter a new period Gottlieb Kogel of increased activity marked by the emer- William R Levering gence of new and innovative Programs Louran D McQuaid for our Valley. Our SGIG's Personal Rep- Travis B Smith continued next column 5 Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE Valley of Shreveport News Chartered October 26, 1913 Meets on the second Tuesday of every month Valley News plified throughout the year during our The meetings and programs presented regular meetings. Of course there were this year have a feeling of renewed en- those that said that this had been tried in ergy and purpose. If you haven’t visited other areas without success or more com- the Valley on any second Tuesday, then monly known as “tried that didn’t work”. unfortunately you have missed a great The majority of members weren’t buying experience. Attendance numbers have into that old thought process and indi- increased for all of the meetings. cated that it may have been tried in the The programs have included a presen- past, but not with the current leadership Shreveport Scottish Rite Temple tation by Kathy Rushworth, Chief of and membership. The idea was not to 725 Cotton Street Communications for the Shreveport Fire diminish the candidate’s Scottish Rite ex- perience, but to enhance it by allow- Shreveport, LA 71101-9713 Department; an informative presentation ing time to discuss and involve the new Secretary: Gary L. Gribble, 33 on the Haynesville Shale’s economic im- ° Masters of the Royal Secret in the pre- Tel: 318-221-9713 Fax: 318-226-0843 pact; 50 Year Membership Certificates, sentation. This also fulfills the promise Email: [email protected] Master Craftsman Certificates and En- of providing additional Masonic knowl- Web: www.shreveportscottishrite.com dowed Membership Certificate presenta- tion Night; a presentation of the Scottish edge during our meetings. This may be Give a Living Legacy! Donate to Knight of St. Andrew 29th Degree and implemented next year. the Shreveport Scottish Rite most recently the Feast of Tishri. There The old Temple continues to receive Foundation were two Reunions held to introduce new upgrades and remodeling, as funds avail themselves. A substantial increase in the CALENDAR OF EVENTS members to the University of Freema- Tuesday, October 12th sonry. number of rentals has provided much of the revenue for maintenance. The Cen- Regular Meeting 6:30 PM A truly stunning violin performance by Catie and Emily Owens was enjoyed turion Club, started from a suggestion of Tuesday, November 9th by over 100 members and guests. These the town hall meeting, accepts donations Open Meeting 6:30 PM to that are designated for renovations and Tuesday, December 14th operation of the building. The donors are Regular Meeting 6:30 PM recognized on a new plaque and receive Election of Officers a beautifully designed lapel pin. Note: Advisory Conference meets at 4:30 pm Great meals have been provided before each meeting. through the Guest Chefs program. Mem- bers have graciously volunteered to pre- pare and cook meals for our meetings and The KCCH Club meets during the same L:R - Emily and Catie Owens monthas District Lodge at 5:30 pm. young ladies started their musical lives Reunions. ten years ago, practicing the art of the The Louisiana Scottish Rite Founda- violin. Both Catie and Emily attend the tion added an additional classroom to the Centenary Suzuki School of Classical Shreveport Speech and Language Center Music and were taught by Mrs. Laura that not only allows additional children Crawford. They are now under the in- to be helped, but also increased the num- struction of Dan Santialices. Oh yes, ber of graduate students receiving a schol- Catie is 16 and Emily is 14. A repeat per- arship award to three. formance has been mentioned. Come join us and experience the en- A successful town hall meeting was ergy and enthusiasm for yourself. You held to get the members’ input and ideas may even have the opportunity to visit to strengthen financial, attendance and with a brother you haven’t seen in awhile. membership goals. Many of the ideas have been implemented with additional IN MEMORIAM ones to follow. One of the repeated ideas John R Barron was to continue to have a two-day reunion Leo R Chadwick but schedule it once a year and to have a Thomas M Purvis one-day reunion with the Degrees exem- Robert A Wells 6 Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE Valley of Lake Charles News Chartered October 16, 1923 Meets on the third Wednesday of every month

Personally Speaking On The Road Looking toward autumn, we enjoy cooler weather, football season, and then the holidays. Autumn also indicates the return to school for many students and their parents. We as Scottish Rite Ma- sons like to say that the Scottish Rite is "the university of Freemasonry." That is because the twenty-nine degrees of the Scottish Rite address moral, intellectual, spiritual, chivalrous, and philosophical Lake Charles Masonic Temple issues relating to the first three degrees 717 Hodges Street in Masonry. Sadly, too many who receive L:R - Richard Smith, 33°, Danny Kaye Kellum, Lake Charles, LA 70601 the Scottish Rite degrees fail to do their Mack Herbert Perdue and William J Mollere, 33° Secretary: Donald Blake Ford, 32° "homework" that goes along with their SGIG Tel: 337-436-1676 Fax: 337-436-1673 "university" studies. Aurora Lodge #193, New Iberia was Email: [email protected] The nearly boundless amount of ma- an excellent host for our “On The Road” terial that has been written about Free- 2010 Membership fees were due meeting. Brethren from the area prepard masonry is a source of continuing educa- and served a wonderful meal. Several December 31, 2009 tion that will afford a devotee on the quest members from Lake Charles took advan- CALENDAR OF EVENTS for more light a lifelong pathway to more tage of transporation by charter bus and Wednesday, October 20th knowledge. Masonry is both academic many others drove over for the meeting. Feast of Tishri and spiritual. We advance our knowledge The brethren met in the lodge room, Wednesday, November 17th and at the same time we improve our prac- where Illustrious William J. "Bill" Annual Thanksgiving Dinner tice of the virtues in our goal of becom- Mollere, 33° SGIG in Louisiana was wel- Wednesday, December 15th ing a perfect Elu. comed and given the private grand hon- So my brother, make a pledge to "re- Election of 2011 Officers ors. Brother Mollere addressed the breth- turn to school" this fall. Read a book, a ren and commended them on the annual Back Door Lunch: Last Friday of ev- research journal, or a little used lecture trip in August to bring Scottish Rite meet- ery month.(Except November & Decem- in the monitor and become familiar with ings into the Valley so more brethren may ber) its lesson. Take that lesson and volun- attend a meeting that would not normally 2010 Officers teer to do a program in your lodge. The attend. Lake Charles Lodge of Perfection: master is charged with giving the lodge Brothers Mack Herbert Perdue and Venerable Master: Noland R Gamble, 32° KCCH "good and wholesome information." So Danny Kaye Kellum from Aurora Lodge Senior Warden: Daryl G Johnson, 32º KCCH assist him in that work by becoming a #193 were presented with their Patents Junior Warden: Harry C Northrop, 32º, KCCH regular speaker on any topic in Freema- as Master of the Royal Secret 32° Ma- Lake Charles Chapter Rose Croix: sonry. You and your lodge brethren will sons. Among the many items displayed Wise Master: Harry C Northrop, 32° KCCH benefit by becoming better informed and in Aurora Lodge, it was noted that a char- Senior Warden: Ricky A Venable, 32º KCCH we will be practicing what we preach as Junior Warden: Donald R Verret, 32° KCCH ter issued from the Valley of Lake Charles we improve ourselves in Masonry. Lake Charles Council of Kadosh: in 1962 to the Scottish Rite brethren in Fraternally, Aurora Lodge for a Scottish Rite Club in Commander: William B Powell, 32° KCCH Richard B Smith, 33° st New Iberia. The offer was made to reis- 1 Lt. Commander: Daryl G Johnson, 32° KCCH Personal Representative 2nd Lt. Commander: Richard D Morgan, 32º KCCH sue the charter in 2012, if the current Lake Charles Consistory: brethren wanted to reopen the Scottish Master of Kadosh: Murray C “Bo” House, 33° Rite Club in their area. The meeting Prior: Herrin J Ducote, 33º closed with peace and harmony prevail- Prreceptor: Ricky A Venable, 32º KCCH Treasurer All Bodies: ing and a sense of renewal for the fel- Clarence L Callihan, 32° KCCH lowship that we shared. Secretary All Bodies: IN MEMORIAM Donald Blake Ford, 32° Director of Work Billy Ray Vice, 32° Gregory L Bruce, 32° KCCH 7 Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE Valley of Baton Rouge News Chartered October 20, 1955 Meets on the second Monday of every month

Reflection We are in the last quarter of the year and are rapidly at the end of this year. It seems almost unbelievable how fast this year has moved. I hope each of you has had a good Baton Rouge Scottish Rite Temple year. With the Gulf oil spill, many mem- 14598 Florida Boulevard bers are without work. I do hope all is Baton Rouge, LA 70819 returning to a degree of normalcy when Secretary: Jimmie D Ducan, 32 KCCH ° this article reaches you. Tel: 225-275-0668 Fax: 225-273-0750 It may never be a good time to men- Email: [email protected] Representative Notes tion dues payments, but we have a lot of 2010 MEMBERSHIP FEES ARE Well, we are now heading down the members who have not paid their 2010 NOW PAST DUE home stretch for the 2010 year in the dues. If anyone has financial burdens and Valley of Baton Rouge. On Monday, need help, please make the office aware CALENDAR OF EVENTS Dinner 6:30 Meeting 7:30 October 11, the Baton Rouge Valley will of this and we will do everything we can Monday, October 11th be having its regularly scheduled meet- to help. ing at Unity Lodge No. 267 in Houma, Let me close by saying there are many On the Road - Feast of Tishri Louisiana. The brethren in that area will members we have not seen for quite some Fall Reunion Oct 23-24 be hosting and presenting the annual time. When you have time, we welcome Monday, November 8th Feast of Tishri event. A meal will be all of you to come by and have a cup of Annual Thanksgiving program served at 6:30 P.M. with the meeting at coffee with us and exchange stories or just Advisory Conference meets at 6pm on the 7:30 P.M. Unity Lodge No. 267 is lo- chew the fat. A few days ago, a member 4th Monday of every month. cated on Bayou Black Drive, Houma, La. I had not seen for quite some time came We will be organizing a caravan to the to visit. We both enjoyed seeing each meeting; contact the office at 225-275- other and had a long conversation about our experiences in the Scottish Rite. La Bonne Marie 0668 for more details. On Saturday, October 23, we will be It has been my pleasure to have the La Bonne Marie will host the meet- having our fall reunion. It will be a one opportunity to serve as your General Sec- ing for the Valley of Baton Rouge on day event and we will confer the five retary and will continue to remain active October 11th in Houma at Unity Lodge obligatory degrees (4th, 14th, 18th, 30th, in the Valley. Fraternally, #267. La Bonne Marie will be hosting and 32nd). Additionally, at lunch we will B J Guillot, 33° "The Feast of Tishri." A meal will be be honoring our 50 year members, so served at 6:30 pm with the meeting start- come out and support these brethren. ing at 7:30. All members of the Scottish Illustrious Brother Beverly J. Guillot, General Secretary Appointment are welcome to attend. And who knows, our General Secretary, recently an- Deputy Grand Master, R. W. and Ill. there just might be someone there you nounced his retirement from the Beverly Joseph Guillot, 33°, has served have not seen in a while! Secretary's position. As Brother Bev is the Valley of Baton Rouge as General the current Deputy Grand Master of the Secretary for five years and has decided State of Louisiana, and next year will the responsibilities that he will assume potentially be a VERY busy year for him, if elected Grand Master of the Grand we wish him the best of luck and want to Lodge in February will be very time con- thank him for his numerous years of ser- suming. In order to perform his duties vice to the Valley. continued page 10 Brethren, please plan on attending In Memoriam your Lodge and Valley events. We only Charles W Beard can get out of an organization what we Robert S Leake put into it. Danny Smith, 33° William H Lebo Personal Representative James H Morgan, 33° 8 Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE Valley of Monroe News Chartered November 13, 1971 Meets on the first Thursday of every month

October Meeting November in Monroe The regular meeting at the Monroe Over the past few years, the Monroe Scottish Rite Temple on October 7th is Scottish Rite Bodies have demonstrated one you don't want to miss. You and your their Patriotism and the support of the entire family will enjoy a musical pro- Armed Forces by having a special Ban- gram of knee-slapping, toe-tapping and quet for all Veterans in our area. We in- hand-clapping music (Bluegrass that is) vite the various service organizations such and it will be another chance to enjoy as the American Legion, Veterans of For- Monroe Scottish Rite Temple the Brotherhood of the Scottish Rite. As eign Wars, Disabled American Veterans, 205 University Avenue you know, a light supper will be served Purple Heart Chapters and those veter- Monroe, LA 71203-3701 at 6:00pm with the program to start ans who are not a affiliated with a ser- Secretary: Robert C. Joyner, 33 ° shortly after the brief business meeting vice-oriented club. We also extend an in- Tel: 318-343-6388 Fax: 318-343-5492 of the Bodies. This will be a program you vitation to those patriots at the Northeast Email: [email protected] will enjoy and remember for some time. Louisiana War Veterans Home and usu- 2010 Membership fees were due by Come enjoy it with us! ally have a good contingent from there. December 31, 2009 This year the Veterans Night will be held in conjunction with our regular CALENDAR OF EVENTS meeting of The Monroe Scottish Rite Dinner with Ladies 6:00 PM Bodies at 6:00 P.M. on November 4, 2010 Program 7:00 PM at the Monroe Scottish Rite Temple at 205 Thursday, October 7th Fall Fund Raising University Avenue in Monroe. We look forward to having a good crowd so come Bluegrass Music On Friday October 8th the Monroe show our Veterans that we appreciate all Fall Reunion October 23 Scottish Rite Bodies will have a fund- raiser to aid in the support and mainte- they have done to ensure our Freedom in Thursday, November 4th this great country of ours. Let's show that 25 & 50 year members recognized nance of the Monroe Scottish Rite Temple at 205 University Avenue. This we truly believe that "Freedom is not Veterans Program Free", and that their sacrifices are heart- Thursday, December 2nd is a day of camaraderie, Brotherhood, good fun and work. The Kitchen crew can warming to us! Annual Christmas program Fraternally, use all the help we can get to have a suc- Election & Installation of Officers Beryl C Franklin, 33° cessful event. We have many jobs for al- most any individual that will pitch in and help. This includes dishing up the plates, getting orders ready-to-go, carrying sacks Fall Reunion of BBQ to the front of the dining room BRETHREN, only a short time left for where those folks drop by to carry-out you to secure petitions for the Scottish delicious products of the culinary experts Rite Reunion at Monroe Scottish Rite at the pits and in the Kitchen. If you are Bodies on October 23rd. Have you a not a "specialist", we can use you and Brother Mason who has not proceeded keep you relatively busy at less rigorous through the degrees of the Scottish Rite endeavors. In the letter you received from in search of More Light? Talk to your the Venerable Master, Ill. Brother Joe Blue Lodge Brethren about the benefits Baker, 33°, PGM a call went out for all of becoming a Master of the Royal Se- the members, who could, to come out, cret! Don't be selfish (that's not Masonic) and enjoy the fellowship and at the same and keep the Fellowship camaraderie, time, give back to the Bodies and Breth- Brotherly Love, Interesting Programs and ren some of the inestimable gifts you a nice meal each meeting night to your- have received in your quest for light in self! Share it with a Blue Lodge Brother Scottish Rite Freemasonry. We will ap- by giving him a petition when you talk preciate your help and your purchase of IN MEMORIAM to him. Let him see for himself why you the tickets enclosed in the Venerable James Watson Kennedy, 32° like the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry! Master's letter. Archie Thigpen, 32° 9 Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE continued from page 5 continued from page 9 New Orleans Valley News: Monroe Valley News-Fall Reunion: Personal Representative’s Message as Grand Master, Ill. Guillot felt he needed to resign as Gen- Masonry is a way of life, its Pillars are Faith, Hope, and eral Secretary. The duties of General Secretary are more than Charity. Faith in God that he is good, wise and merciful and a five day a week job - in addition to being present in the office not a Tyrant. Faith in ourselves that each have the power to do during regular operating hours and regular Scottish Rite meet- good by being honest and sincere, the secret of all success.Hope ings and activities, the General Secretary attends local Lodge in the ultimate annihilation of Evil in the universe that shall meetings bringing information on Scottish Rite, attending spe- make all men one family. . cial meetings, area conferences, Advisory Conferences, Re- Charity taught to us by Faith and Hope for those who differ gional Meetings and national events. Meeting with the Sover- with us in opinion, for them and for their faith, and even for eign Grand Inspector General (SGIG), Ill. William Mollere, their errors; that charity which relieves the necessities and dis- 33°, Ill. Guillot explained his situation over a luncheon and tress of men, and with open hand gives the suffering and des- the resignation was accepted with regret. Thereupon, a search titute comfort. Charity teaches us to judge and do unto others began for a new General Secretary. A man who had business as we should wish them to do unto us; To be Trustful, to be experience, capable of managing an office and a staff, working Hopeful, to be Indulgent. Masonry is not speculative but op- well with people, learning new systems and techniques unique erative. It is work not meant for the lazy and luxurious, the to the Scottish Rite system of operation and being computer indifferent or selfish. It is voluntary and occupies itself with literate - all for little or no reimbursement and an abundant what is near at hand. lt is made to be the order of the People love and copious free time for Scottish Rite. Ill. Guillot sup- and has exerted its influence on the side of civil and Religious plied the SGIG with a list of a dozen men whom he felt met the liberty. So as we study the history of those in the glorious past qualifications and might be interested in serving. It was a who have lived and fought under our banner, we are proud to great starting point and following screening and talking and say that Masonry is an obligation and has been a forerunner of interviewing those suggested, one individual seemed to be the Civilization. It was in our Temples that men were taught the most qualified, interested and one who was too busy with other great principals of Liberty and free thought. The Constitution Masonic functions - just the right, or Rite, person - a busy man of the United States of America is a great example of the free- is always the right man. W. Bro. Jimmie Dean Dunkin, 32°, dom in which we believe and were so placed there by our fore KCCH, was selected and agreed to become the new General fathers. Secretary for the Valley of Masonry is not a secret organization but an organization Baton Rouge, effective Oc- with secrets. Secrets of how to live, to do good, to be honest tober 1, 2010. Bro. and sincere, to be trustworthy and charitable. To be able to Dunkin is a three time Past meet on the level and part on the square as every member does. Master of Trinity Union Whether he be a King or the family gardener, all Brother Ma- Lodge #372, Secretary of sons meet on the level as true and trusted Brothers. We are Hurd Merrill Lodge #454, selective in our membership as it is voluntary and no one is District Grand Lecturer of ever asked to join. We do investigate those who ask us to, their the 13th Masonic District, motives and past life. After the results of the investigation it is active in the 13th and 19th properlpresented to the members for a secret ballot with peace Districts Certificate Asso- and harmony prevailing. The same is true in Masonic Lodges ciations, active in Degree all over the world and separates the good from the bad. work, happily married to It is in our Lodges that civilized men can unite in harmony, a successful real estate agent, with whom he shares two beau- Christians, Jews, and Arabs because we do not intend to ex- tiful daughters and five perfect grandchildren. Retired, an plain or settle the great mysteries of faith. Masons trust in God active Baptist, he began his Masonic career years ago as an and Hope. It draws no swords to compel others to adopt as it Istrouma Chapter DeMolay in Baton Rouge. The Brethren of waits with patience to understand the mysteries of nature and Baton Rouge look forward to Bro. Dunkin serving as General nature's God hereafter. Every Mason must believe in the exist- Secretary, and all wish Ill. Guillot the best, and a most suc- ence of God and that the soul of man is mortal and at death, cessful term as Grand Master. our souls are separated and will return to God who gave it. In closing, if all men obeyed the mild and gentle teaching of Masonry, the world would be a paradise, while intolerance and persecution makes it hell. God Bless America. * *Source- Scottish Rite Monitor Master Craftsman CLASSES on the veiled meaning of our ancient Symbols are now being taught monthly in our Valley and are open to members and their guests. If you wish to par- ticipate please call us at (504)522-3789 or email us at [email protected] Fraternally Yours, Charles L. Mc Carty, 33º SGIG's Personal Representative Valley of New Orleans, LA 10 Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE CENTER NEWS Baton Rouge Scottish Rite Childhood Learning Center The Baton Rouge Scottish Rite Learning Center was estab- lished in February of 2001 to serve the needs of young chil- dren who are unable to effectively communicate. Over the past decade, Louisiana State University graduate clinicians have provided therapy to over 200 children who have severe articu- lation disorders, neurological disorders, developmental delays, fluency problems, language disorders and delayed onset of speech. Many of these children have been discharged from therapy, free of their initial communication deficits. Others go on to receive services in the elementary school setting. One of our goals is to make speech/language screenings and evalu- ations available to many needy children who may not have in- surance or whose insurance does not cover speech/language Dr. Mendoza works with Abram on an Eye-Gaze computer, which services. was rented through a generous donation to the Center. Over the years, Dr. Mendoza's interest in profound com- munication disabilities has led to many developments in the Baton Rouge program including an equipment lending pro- gram, LSU Graduate Seminar, and Music Enrichment Program. In 2005, the generosity of the Baton Rouge Masons led to a Communication Aid lending program for Amyotrophic Lat- eral Sclerosis (ALS) patients. This program enables patients to borrow donated devices rather than wait for Medicaid or Medicare funding to go through. Dr. Mendoza also teaches a Non-Speech Communication Graduate Seminar for LSU stu- dents during the fall semesters. Students come to the Center to learn about different types of nonverbal clients and the equip- ment that helps them communicate. The Baton Rouge Clinic is also currently offering some of our children after-school "Music Enrichment". A number of recent studies have demonstrated that music can have a pro- found, positive effect on speech and communication. This pro- gram will be carried out by High School Juniors and Seniors. Although this project is in its initial stages, Dr. Mendoza is hoping to obtain a foundation grant and carry out research re- Graylon is being evaluated using an Ipad that has communica- garding the effects of this program on the communication skills tion applications installed. of our Scottish Rite clients. The changes in the Baton Rouge Scottish Rite have enabled a variety of individuals with mild to severe communication problems to access therapy, equipment, and novel intervention programs. We are very thankful to our members and the Ma- sonic community for their ongoing support. Joe Stroud, 33º Administrator Baton Rouge Childhood Language Center

11 Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE continued from page 4 tal. It was all a very Masonic affair. A Bicentennial Celebration: Troubles were not over for the new little country, for Con- the new Washington federal governing authorities, and Span- gress began debating what to do about the "Free State of West ish rules were not popular. Spanish government was generally Florida". On October 27, 1810, President Madison declared corrupt, and rumors that Napoleon was going to retake Louisi- West Florida to be a part of the Louisiana Purchase and or- ana made the settlers more contemptible of the Spanish. Sev- dered Governor Claiborne to take possession of it. Governor eral uprisings were dealt with by the Spanish under Governor Claiborne sent word to Governor Holmes in Mississippi to send Don Carlos de Lassus, who in 1807 had succeeded a generally militia from Natchez to assist in claiming West Florida. Presi- well-liked Governor Don Carlos de Grand Pre'. In 1809 Don dent Skipwith resisted President Madison's declaration when Carlos sent two trusted agents, Philip Hickey and George General Wilkinson arrived and announced that he and his coun- Mather, both Freemason, to investigate whether unrest was trymen would die defending their Lone Star flag. However growing. Both reported back to Governor Lassus that all was negotiations, together with a company of infantry, lowered the well. Lone Star flag in St. Francisville on December 7, 1810 and Alexander Stirling, a Scotsman and Freemason, who owned replaced it with the United States flag. Baton Rouge also re- 10,000 Acres in the Feliciana area north of St. Francisville sisted until Governor Holmes arrived with 300 troops and on gathered several hundred men together at his Egypt Plantation December 10, 1810 the United States flag rose over Baton Rouge in June 1810 and planned what action would be best suited for the first time. Thus, 200 years ago this September, the against the Spanish. The result was to draft a constitution and Republic of West Florida existed for barely three months. Presi- code of government, and in July 1810, farmers, businessmen, dent Madison renamed the entire West Florida area the County former soldiers all gathered at St. John's Plains, east of St. of Feliciana. Debate in Congress continued over where West Francisville and adopted the constitution and code - copies were Florida should be placed, in Orleans or Mississippi. Congress published in late July in both the Natchez Chronicle and the in late 1811 passed a bill granting Orleans Territory statehood Louisiana Gazette in New Orleans. Strangely, the action was as Louisiana, but not including West Florida. On December not much more than saying to the Spanish, "Go away and leave 12, 1811, the citizens of St Francisville, upon hearing of the us alone and we will remain your loyal subjects!" Each gath- Congressional action, tore down the US flag and replaced it ering began with a pledge of allegiance to King Ferdinand VII. with the Lone Star flag once again. Troops arrived the next However, Governor de Lassus' advisors urged him to arrest the day and removed the Lone Star and replaced the US flag. On leaders and impose harsh military control. The messages from April 12, 1812, the Territory of Orleans became the State of the Governor to the Spanish garrison in Pensacola asking for Louisiana; four days later, Congress added the portion of West reinforcements were intercepted and the leaders decided to act. Florida, west of the Pearl River to Louisiana, again calling it Governor Claiborne had been quietly watching all of these ac- the County of Feliciana, and the remainder was given to the tivities from New Orleans and sent messages to President James Mississippi Territory; it later was divided in half and added to Madison, a Freemason, requesting advice on whether to inter- the States of Mississippi and Alabama, giving both Gulf ac- cede and annex West Florida. He even corresponded with Gov- cess. ernor Holmes of the Mississippi Territory in Natchez, a Free- Governor Claiborne was named first Governor of the State mason, on coordinating actions with militia from that Terri- of Louisiana. His family's coat-of-arms included the pelican tory. On September 22, 1810, Stirling, Hickey, Mather, Will- tearing at its breast to feed its young (a Rose Croix symbol), iam Barrow, Rueben Kemper, John Rhea, John Hunter Johnson, and he designed the new State Flag of Louisiana which has the John Mills, Thomas Lilley, Philemon Thomas, Daniel Raynor, mother pelican tearing at its breast to feed its three babies. He Lewellyn Griffith, Fulwar Skipwith and Isaac Johnson, most belonged to Perfect Union Lodge #1 in New Orleans. General purported to be Freemasons, decided that it was time to act Wilkinson, moved to St Louis, was named Governor of the and issued a call to arms. Melissa Johnson, Isaac's wife, pre- former Territory of Louisiana (renamed the Missouri Territory), sented the men with a newly made flag, a blue banner with a and assisted in forming the Grand Lodge of Missouri; he be- gleaming single five-pointed white star in the center! A sym- longed to Concorde Lodge #3 in New Orleans. President Madi- bol under which the Feliciana area planters had gathered un- son, a member of Hiram Lodge #59 in , served two der the five points of fellowship, the Lone Star flag. terms and is remembered mainly for the when The following day, the Bayou Sara Horse, part of a 75-man Washington, DC was captured and burned by the British. He force commanded by Brigadier Philemon Thomas, entered Fort also pardoned, on Governor Claiborne's recommendation, some San Carlos in Baton Rouge and captured it, including Gover- of the pirates such as and his brother, a supposed nor de Lassus, without loss of a single man; however the Span- Freemason, for assisting in the , com- ish suffered six deaths including the son of former Governor manded by General Andrew Jackson, who served as Grand Grand Pre'. The blue flag with the single white star was raised Master of the Grand Lodge of Tennessee in 1822. Governor de and the Republic of West Florida was declared independent of Lassus, a non-Mason, was convicted, in-absentia, by a Span- Spain. Officially, September 26, 1810 is recognized as the ish court, and sentenced to death for losing West Florida, and date of independence and the Lone Star flag was adopted as accepted the hospitality of Governor Claiborne, and lived to a the official flag and Fulwar Skipwith was named President, ripe old age safely in New Orleans. Fulwar Skipwith was named and senators and representatives were elected, a militia of 600 the Justice of the Peace for the Baton Rouge Area. Many of the men was authorized and St Francisville was named the Capi- leaders from the Feliciana Area became prominent in Louisi- continued page 13 12 Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE continued from Front Page continued from page 12 Whence Came You?: A Bicentennial Celebration: units in length so that, by working together and using ana becoming , Senators, Congressmen, Generals, Pythagoras's Theorem, they could produce perfect right-angled all proudly belonging to Freemasonry, and helping found St triangles, which are vital to the stability of any structure. In Albans Lodge #28 , Feliciana Lodge #31, St James Lodge #47, fact, the three Grand Master Masons did all their work as a and Olive Lodge #52. triad, thus giving rise to the "Rule of Three". Furthermore, Yet, the story of the Lone Star flag was not over. In 1833, York Lodge No.236 still has one of those rods in its archives, Freemason Stephen F. Austin, the Father of Texas, met with 33 which bears the names John Barron, William Barron and John Masons at 829-833 Ursulines Street in New Orleans to plan Drake, the date 1663, and the word 'Yorke'. If further proof is the liberation of Texas from Mexico. John Holland was Grand needed, one has only to look at the Orders of the Royal and Master of Louisiana. From 1836 to 1839, the first flag of that Select Masters, or the Allied Masonic Degrees, both of which other Republic, Texas, the "Burnett Flag", was a blue flag with acknowledge their operative origins and, in some of their cer- a single five-pointed white star in the center. In 1839, the red emonies, are presided over by three officers in the same way as and white sections were added. Holland Lodge #1 received its the three Grand Master Masons. warrant (charter) from Louisiana following the Battle of San As far as the orientation of lodges is concerned, it is my Jacinto, near present-day Houston. Again, in January, 1861, belief that all lodges should be orientated west-to-east, because in Jackson, Mississippi, the Secession Convention voted to that would be in full accord with Chapter 1 of the Book of withdraw from the Union. A man came running into the con- Kings and Chapter 2 of the Book of Chronicles which explain vention hall waiving a blue flag with a single five-pointed white that the entrance to the Temple was in the east. Besides, how star in the center. (Five southern states adopted the flag as else can a Master of any kind see the rising sun, his Senior their official emblem prior to the adoption of the Stars and Warden see the setting sun, and the Junior Warden see the sun Bars.) That evening, an observer at the event, penned the words at its meridian? to the song "Bonnie Blue Flag", dedicated to the "Poet Laure- The idea of a seven-fold system of degrees is not as ridicu- ate of Arkansas, Albert G. Pike, Esquire". The song became lous as it at first seems, especially if the 1st and 2nd degrees the second most popular song of the Confederacy, after "Dixie". are equated to the Craft; the 3rd, 4th and 5th degrees are The popular words to Dixie were not the original words, but equated to the Mark, the 6th degree to the Harodim or Past words rewritten by the Poet Laureate of Arkansas, Albert G. Master's degree, and the 7th degree to the Royal Arch. All Pike, another famous Freemason! those degrees were worked in operative lodges, and later in Salve Frater! lodges under the Grand Lodge of All England (i.e. the Antients). Bill Mollere, 33° SGIG Apprentices were indentured at 14 and that is now more a matter of record than a tale of something which might or might not have happened. In that connection, Robert Whitfield's Sources: History of the Lodge of Industry No. 48 (which was originally Allen, C. S., "The Story of the West Florida Rebellion" Ars Quatuor Coronatorum, vol XXVII. an operative lodge) is relevant, as that particular lodge contin- Arthur, Stanley C., "The Story of the West Florida Rebellion", 1935, St ued to indenture young apprentices right up to and including Francisville Democrat, Pioneer Publishing 1775, by which time it had become a regular lodge adminis- Bice, David A., "The Original Lone Star Republic: Scoundrels, Statesmen tered by the Grand Lodge of England. and Schemers of the 1810 West Florida Rebellion”, 2004, Heritage Publish- ing There can be no doubt that operative lodges existed for Black, John Paddy - Personal memories of Plains Lodge during the 150th hundreds of years, and that is proved by the existence of so Anniversary. many copies of the Ancient Charges which were used in initia- Borne, Clayton, J, III, "The Story of Early Freemasonry in Louisiana - Per- tion ceremonies. And that they used methods which were uni- fect Union Lodge #1". Coil's Masonic Encyclopedia, McCoy, New York,1961. versal would seem to be proved by the fact that the architects Conrad, Marc, Research on Gov. Claiborne's Family coat-of-arms, 2008. of Ancient Egypt were sometimes referred to as 'rope stretch- Cox, Isaac J. "The West Florida Controversy", 1967 reprint. ers' because they used ropes knotted into lengths of 3,4 and 5 Denslow, W. R., "10,000 Famous Freemasons". units in the same way as the three Grand Master Masons used Grand Lodge of Louisiana, F&AM, Proceedings - 1900, 1965, 1997. Greene, Glen L., "Masonry in Louisiana, 1812- 1962", New York, 1962. their rods measuring 3,4 and 5 units, to create right-angled Gayarre', Charles, "History of Louisiana", New York, 1867, Chap 5. triangles. Jordan, Glenn, "Let There Be Light - A History of Freemasonry in Louisi- In some places the Guild of Operative Masons built a vault ana-1763-1989". underneath their lodge, with a plumb-line reaching down from "Livingston, Robert R. Chancellor", Encyclopedia of World Biography, 2004 Park, Donald E., "The Republic of West Florida and the Bonnie Blue Flag", Heaven, and a letter G in the ceiling, and an underground vault LA College, SRICF, Sept 21, 2002. with a central pedestal, would now seem undeniable given the H E Sterk & B Thompson, "Philemon Thomas and the West Florida Rebel- advent of the Royal and Select Masters and the Allied Ma- lion", 1961, Florida Historical Quarterly sonic Degrees, both of which depend on those things for their Poll, Michael R., "A Foundation Study of the Grand Consistory of Louisiana 1811-1815", Louisiana Lodge of Research, Vol 1. continued existence. Underground vaults are also common in Roehl, Theodore, "History of Louisiana Lodge #102", 1933. Royal Arch temples, and were illustrated on the Tracing Boards Scot, James B., "Outline of the Rise and Progress of Freemasonry in Louisi- which were at one time used in Royal Arch ceremonies. ana, 1923". It was the operative masons who built St. Paul's Cathedral, Thompson, Edward N., "Holland Lodge #1, Louisiana's Gift to Texas", Loui- siana Lodge of Research, Vol 1. continued page 14 13 Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE Eventually, some time after the second World War, the op- continued from page 13 Whence Came You? eratives did take off again, by then as a national organization under the lengthy title of the 'Worshipful Society of Free Ma- and the architect was Sir Christopher Wren, who was an op- sons, Rough Masons, Wallers, Slaters, Paviors, Plaisterers and erative mason. This is proved by two plaques within the Ca- Bricklayers' (which was the name under which the Guild op- thedral, one of which commemorates 'Sir Christopher Wren - eratives of Durham were Chartered in the 1638). To most founder of this church', and another which reads 'Remember people 'though, they were (and still are) usually referred to as the men who made shapely the stones of St. Paul's Cathedral 'the Operatives'. So, calculating from 1913 when they started; 1675-1708. Edward Strong, Thomas Strong, and all who la- by 1943 there were two Assemblages, by 1963 there were three, bored with them. This tablet was erected by the Worshipful by 1973 there were six, by 1983 there were eleven, by 1993 Company of Masons'. Both Strongs were operative masons from there were thirty-four, by 2003 there were sixty, and by 2013 Gloucestershire who served the Company of Masons with dis- (the society's Centenary year) we will have in excess of one tinction. The most compelling evidence in support of Sir Chris- hundred Assemblages. That is certain because we already have topher Wren as a mason is provided by Professor Allan Beaver Assemblages in England, France, Belgium, Spain, Canada, who, in a paper delivered in 2008, wrote that "The facts re- Brazil, India, China, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia and lated form an evidential framework in which 70 originators, shortly ( in August this year) in South Africa and we have al- writing independently over a period of 130 years, cannot pos- ready been notified of further interest and enthusiasm in some sibly have colluded. It borders on the ridiculous to cast doubt areas where they have already requested more Assemblages. on evidence, which has survived over 300 years, that Sir Chris- One country, of course, seems to be conspicuously absent from topher Wren was a Freemason' and he concludes his paper with that list, but that isn't because no one this side of the Atlantic the comment that "the stench of unhealthy skepticism has per- is interested in operative freemasonry but because, for over vaded Masonic research for far too long". ten years, freemasons from the USA have been regularly mak- Having explained the above, Stretton and Yarker's next step ing the long journey to and from an Assemblage in Canada in was to intensify their public-speaking engagements on the sub- order to progress as operatives and ultimately have their own ject of operative freemasonry, and to increase the amount of Assemblage. But I shouldn't provoke you any further about this material they contributed to newspapers and Masonic publica- because, in reality, that objective has already been achieved tions. In fact, they attracted so much interest and attention and, in 2008, Bryn Athyn Quarry Assemblage was constituted that it was eventually decided to revive another of the old in Allentown, Pennsylvania. So, the USA does now has an As- Guild lodges, and the one decided upon was in Westminster, semblage and is not really missing from the list at all. And, if London where, on 21st May 1913, Channel Row Assemblage you would care to be brought totally up-to-date on that sub- was constituted at the Bijou Theatre, near Trafalgar Square. It ject, only one month ago, three more Assemblages were con- was constituted by Dr. Thomas Carr who, by profession, was stituted in the States, which were Solar White Quarry Assem- a doctor and barrister, and it had ten members. blage in Monroe, North Carolina; Texas State Capitol Assem- It would be wrong to suggest that progress thereafter was blage in San Antonio; and Trinity Church Assemblage in New meteoric, because it wasn't. For instance, Yarker died in 1913, York, so the U.S. is now doing very well indeed Stretton died in 1915 (and Lodges 91 and 110 died with them) If, however, you will permit me a moment of irony, you and two World Wars and The Depression took care of every- might like to note that, in 1912, i.e. one year before the forma- thing else. A second Assemblage was formed in the 1930s but tion of Channel Row Assemblage in London, Dr. Charles Hope that had to close-down in 1943 because it was located in an Merz, a distinguished American freemason who was mentioned area to which - 'for security reason' - travel was prohibited at the start of this talk, was authorized by Stretton to open an (i.e. for the development of radar). Channel Row Assemblage operative Assemblage in Sandusky, Ohio and made a start by continued, however, and gradually attracted a membership of creating the necessary administrative team to do it, with J. the highest quality, including doctors, lawyers, university lec- Raymond Shute as the Grand Clerk. Sadly, the War got in the turers, actors, authors, army officers and politicians. The only way, so it never came to anything. But, if it had, things could real crisis which occurred, if it can be called a crisis, was in be very different today. If it had taken off, the chances are that 1916 when there was a move to transform the Assemblage into today, the United States would be the dominating country in- 'The Worshipful Society of Free Masons for Operative Re- stead of England! search'. But this was not agreed and it was resolved to con- Either way round, I do not think that Brothers Stretton and tinue 'working' the operative ceremonies rather than just talk- Yarker have a lot to be disappointed about. After an uncertain ing about them. In due course, however, those members who and controversial start, the Society they created has stood the were drawn to research did set up a society for that purpose test of time, and that is something they should feel good about. which went by the name of the Masonic Study Society and, The existence of such a Society constantly causes its members not surprisingly, most of its founder members were drawn from to think about and question their origins, and that can only be Channel Row Assemblage, such as Sir John Alexander good for freemasonry. Cockburn, J. S. M. Ward, Henry T. Cart De Lafontaine, Rt. Now with this information you may be able to know the Hon. Sir Frederick Pollock, Bernard H. Springett, Samuel Blaze answer to the question of "Whence came you" yes, you guessed Wilkinson, Dudley P. Hutchings, and Langford H. MacKelchen it "Operative Masonry." Fraternally, . The close connection between the Operatives and the Ma- John Belanger, 33° sonic Study Society continues to this day. Valley of Baton Rouge 14 Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE Freemason's recommitting himself to that "spiritual temple" THE FINALWORD completion, himself, and to making Scottish Rite Freemasonry strong and cherished "in the hearts of men and among nations." The Perfect Elu Obligation commits every Scottish Rite Free- mason to a new beginning, rebuilding his character, ideals, and commitments to his GOD, his family, his neighbor and himself; to caring for others, the widows, orphans, the less fortunate, all Brothers in need; the language used daily toward others and to GOD, never taking His name in vain, in thought, word or deed, ever again! Actions in daily work places and interaction to co-workers, inferiors and superiors, giving one's Word to others, the commitment, all promises taken on bended knee and with the right hand on a Book of Sacred Law - all in the Perfect Elu. The symbolism of the bended knee before GOD Ill. William J. Mollere, 33° and using the right hand. Do you remember? Once upon a Sovereign Grand Inspector General time, you promised all of these - are you living the promises? Elu translates as "Elect", the Perfect Elect of Freemasonry “Harvest Time” - the Elect or Electors are titles used in other countries for the In the Old Testament, one finds that the Jewish People were Legislators, Representatives, Leaders. As a Perfect Elu, each told to celebrate with GOD special times of the year - there are Scottish Rite Freemason is defined as leading, representing, twelve holidays celebrated in the Jewish calendar, a lunar or holding high the standards and being strong, steadfast, reli- moon-based calendar. The ones most familiar to non-Jewish able and the best one can be, trying everyday to be better than people are Passover near Easter; Chanukah near Christmas; himself, improving daily, influencing all around him to also Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, the Jewish New Year and the improve themselves through example. holiest, the Day of Atonement, celebrated a week apart usually Each year when the Feast of Tishri is held, a refection table in late Summer or early Fall; and then there is Sukkot, the is prepared - symbolically a heavy oaken table with stout legs Jewish Thanksgiving, Festival of the Tabernacle or Harvest capable of holding a great feast - a place defined for restora- Festival. Scottish Rite Masons know Sukkot as Tishri because tion of body, mind, and spirit - a taking of refreshment or nour- it is celebrated during the Jewish month of Tishri - the Feast of ishment - food and drink together. Again, the symbol of strong, Tishri is the Obligatory Day of the Lodge of Perfection usually steady, reliable is used. The ceremony concludes with a series celebrated in each Scottish Rite Valley in October. The story of toasts: to the Government, to the Supreme Council and Grand is found in the "Forms and Traditions of the Scottish Rite", the Commander, to the Grand Lodge and Grand Master, to the little purple book that all Valleys possess and that each Mem- SGIG, to departed Brethren, and to all Brothers around the ber should own or certainly read. world - all followed with prayer thanking GOD. The Tishri ceremony is supposed to be a joyful gathering of My dear Brothers, it is Harvest Time again - Scottish Rite the people to celebrate the harvest and thank GOD for yet an- Freemasons gather at the end of a long, hot summer and re- other year's blessing. Originally, in Leviticus, GOD tells Moses flect on the symbolism of recommitment to Masonic ideals, to gather the people while still wandering in the Wilderness promises and commitments - Reunions are held in our five and live in tents or booths for seven days to remember their Valleys and Members gather to refresh, to renew friendships, escaping from Egypt. The Jewish people then began using it exemplify Degrees, support new Members who come to learn, as their harvest festival and had little booths with different to participate and join in the Harvest of Brotherhood, and to types of food - grains, vegetables, fruit - and the products such remember. Tishri is more than a day or an evening with some as wine, olive oil, flour and dried products that would last Toasts following a meal and meeting; Tishri is a period for through the winter and into spring when new crops were planted recommitting to the promises that we made to become the Elect and early growth harvested. Later, Solomon used the holiday of Freemasonry, a time of renewal, of thinking back to that to celebrate the completion of the Temple - the Festival of the symbolic completion of our personal Masonic Temple, our self Tabernacle, Tishri, meant a celebration of completion, renewal improvement through practicing the lessons, principles and and thanksgiving. holding fast to the Obligation taken in sincerity - Tishri, Ma- Louisiana Scottish Rite uses two versions of the Tishri ritu- sonic Thanksgiving is also an ingathering of Brotherhood. The alistic presentation; the more popular version called the Spo- blessings bestowed by our GOD, to live in this great, free coun- kane Ritual, presumably from the Washington State Valley try, practice our own form of religion, work when and where where it originated. The setting is in a courtyard with King we can, live where we want, enjoy travel without hindrance, Solomon greeting representatives of each of the Twelve Tribes and become what the talents given to us allows us to become - who bring the harvest products of their area and offer them as Tishri is that period of Masonic Thanksgiving that we as the a blessing before the King and to GOD - a Thanksgiving offer- Perfect Elect must never forget to observe. ing. The Obligatory Observance in each Valley is symboli- Thank you for continuing to be a Thankful practicing, par- cally a concluding part to the Lodge of Perfection Degrees and ticipating, involved and Elect Scottish Rite Mason especially the Fourteenth Degree, Perfect Elu, which uses the Bill Mollere, 33° S.G.I.G. story of the completion of the Temple as the completion of a 15 Louisiana Scottish Rite Foundation Non-Profit Org. Louisiana Scottish Rite Trestleboard U.S. Postage Post Office Box 64 Paid Shreveport, LA 71161 Baton Rouge, LA Tel: 318-221-9713 Permit No. 2408

October - November 2010 Issue 10-05

Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE Mission Statement Baton Rouge Scottish Rite Childhood Did You Know? It is the mission of the Scottish Riteof We have a procedure for balloting: Learning Center P.O. Box 15766 Freemasonry, SJ, to improve its members Article IV, Section 26: and enhance the communities in which Allows the Sovereign Grand Inspec- Baton Rouge, LA 70895-5766 Telephone: (225) 275-0668 they live by teaching and emulating the tors General and Deputies of the Supreme principles of Brotherly Love, Tolerance, Council, in their discretion, to reduce by Admiral E. A. Barham, 33° Scottish Rite Childhood Learning Center Charity, and Truth while actively embrac- not more than one-half the fees for young ing high social, moral, and spiritual val- men who petition for, are elected, and in 205 University Avenue Monroe, LA 71203-3701 ues including fellowship, compassion, due course complete our Degrees prior to and dedication to God, family and coun- their thirty-first birthday. In these cases Telephone: (318) 343-6388 Southeastern Louisiana Regional try. the Subordinate Bodies shall be required STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES to pay the Supreme Council only the pro- Scottish Rite Childhood Learning Center ← Fulfill the promise of additional Ma- portionate fees as follows: Lodge of Per- sonic knowledge through education and fection, $6.00; Chapter of Rose Croix, Southeastern Louisiana University Scottish Rite Temple training. $3.00; Council of Kadosh, $3.00; ← Build a Positive Public Image of Free- Consistory, $3.00; 32 Patent, $7.00, To- 619 Carondelet Street New Orleans, LA 70130 masonry and the Scottish Rite. taling $22.00 (rather than $31.00). This ← Support and expand our philanthropic became effective in 1972. Telephone: (504) 522-3789 Shreveport Scottish Rite Childhood activities. Learning Center ← Provide a framework for effective lead- Scottish Rite Temple ership to ensure the stability and long- 725 Cotton Street term success of the Fraternity. Shreveport, LA 71101 ← Provide a financial process to ensure Telephone: (318) 221-9713 the stability and long-term success of the Fraternity. Southwestern LouisianaRegional Scottish Rite Childhood Learning Center University of Louisiana-Lafayette Lake Charles Masonic Temple 717 Hodges Street Lake Charles, LA 70601 16