168Th Grand Master Table of Contents Meet the Maxwells ------4 Let Them Eat Cake ------19

January 2015

Connecticut’s 168th Grand Master Table of Contents Meet the Maxwells ------4 Let Them Eat Cake ------19

Grand Historian’s Corner ------5 St. Alban’s Lodge No. 38 ------21

George Washington’s Journeys ----- 6 Hospitality Lodge No. 128 ------23 Volume - 10 Number - 7 William Lee Breed Pierpont Award --- 7 Village Lodge No. 29 ------24 Publisher Lest We Forget ------8 Inside the Door ------25 THE GRAND LODGE OF CONNECTICUT AF & AM Grand Chaplin’s Corner ------9 Ivanhoe Lodge No. 107 ------26 Publications Committee John A. Birdsell Pierpont Award –-10 Fayette Lodge No. 69 ------26 Theodore J. Nelson Chairmen Frank Way Editor An Example For Us All ------11 Bro. Stephen B. McPherson ------28 Margret Steeves Marketing Jean P. Maheu Sales A Hidden Gem ------13 Timing is Everything ------29 Carl Anderson Called by the Grand Architect ----- 15 What’s Behind One Mason’s Support Robert Dorr

James R. Case Award ------16 of Masonicare ------31 Correspondent Michael L. Castroll Coastal Lodge No. 57 Awards ------17 Shepherd Salem Lodge No. 78 -----31 Design Masonic Family Day Coming ------18 Die Zauberflöte ------32 Kate Mertens

Connecticut Freemasons is the Boosters ------33 Contributors official publication of the Grand Lodge JOHN A. AMARILIOS of Connecticut AF & AM. All original STEVEN J. ANGELO articles are subject to editing. All checks for payments and donations should be BRUCE R. BELLMORE made out to Grand Lodge Publications Letters and advertisements may JOHN A. BIRDSALL and mailed to the Grand Lodge office be sent to the Editor Frank Way at DAVID R. BLYTHE, SR. at PO Box 250, Wallingford, CT 06492. [email protected] or 860-659-7426. BILL BREED All submissions are required by the THOMAS A. BURKE Connecticut Freemasons (USPS 025- 15th of the month prior to the next MARJE CHICK 514) is published monthly, except August issue. Please note: The Grand Lodge The Grand Lodge AF & AM of AF & AM of Connecticut, does not DAVID COLE Connecticut, 69 Masonic Avenue, P.O. endorse any of the products or services JAMES W. D’ACOSTA Box 250, Wallingford, CT 06492-0250. contained herein nor imply any war- RICHARD F. DENNO Periodicals Postage paid at Wallingford, ranty of the goods, services, or claims JASON ANDREW DOLCE CT and additional mailing offices. advertised. While every effort is made ROBERT G. FITZGERALD POSTMASTER: Send address changes to ensure the accuracy of all advertise- to Connecticut Freemasons, ments, Connecticut Freemasons will CHARLES B. FOWLER, JR. c/o The Grand Lodge AF & AM of only be liable to reprint, at no charge, RYAN HOWARD Connecticut, P.O. Box 250, any correction due to typographical PAT KALINAUSKAS Wallingford, CT 06492-0250. error. GARY A. LITTLEFIELD STEPHEN B. MCPHERSON EDWARD C. PAGE JOSEPH J. PORCO ADAM RAIDER JIM WILSON

2 CT Freemason • January 2015 Connecticut’s 168th Grand Master Thomas M. Maxwell by Francis G. Way On a cold and rainy November Saturday, Brother Thomas McCauley Maxwell II was installed as the 168th Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Connecticut, A.F.& A. M. At 11:30 a.m. on November 1, in the anteroom adjacent to the lodge room of Manchester Lodge No. 73, Brother Simon R. LaPlace, Most Worshipful Grand Master, opened a special communication of the Grand Lodge assisted by Brother Bradley K. Cooney, acting as RW Grand Senior Warden, Brother Theodore J. Nelson, RW Grand Junior Warden, Brother Robert G. Fitzgerald, RW Grand Secretary acting as RW Grand Senior and Junior Deacons, and Brother F. Matthew Heinrich, Jr., acting as Grand Tiler. Following an opening prayer, the Lodge No. 57. MW Brother Yohe then outlined his plans, hope and intentions Grand Lodge was called from labor presented the new Grand Master with for the coming months. He wrapped on the Master Mason degree to the Grand Master’s collar. up his remarks by thanking all present refreshment, after which they retired With the installation ceremony nearly for attending, and then, after asking all to the lodge room where 100 brethren complete, Installing Marshall MW non-Masons to be excused, he called the and guests waited for the installation Brother Read made the proclamation in Lodge from refreshment to labor on the ceremony to begin. the South, West and East. This was met Master Mason degree. Most Worshipful Grand Master with extended applause from the Craft. Brother Charles W. Yohe, MW Past LaPlace, presiding in the East, pre- MW Grand Master Maxwell made Grand Master, led the Craft in Grand sented the gavel of his authority to the brief remarks, relating how honored Honors to the new Grand Master. Installing Most Worshipful Past Grand he was to be installed, and remarking With no other business on the agenda, Master, Brother Charles W. Yohe. on the support he had received from Grand Master Maxwell closed the Most Grand Master LaPlace then retired to a his wife, Nancy, the brethren of Hiram Worshipful Grand Lodge in Ample standing ovation from the Craft. Lodge No. 18 and the members of the Form. The installing suite consisted of Past several Rites to which he belongs. He Most Worshipful Grand Masters, with Brother Charles W. Yohe as Installing Installation Speech as M.W.G.M. Master, Brother Robert W. Read as November 1, 2014 Installing Grand Marshall, and Brother Gail Nelson Smith as Installing Grand Manchester Lodge, No. 73 altered and is of great concern to me Master. As your 2014 Grand Master, I am and to many of you. Under my lead- The installation of the Grand Master, truly honored to serve you in this ership as your Grand Master, YOUR Brother Thomas M. Maxwell followed capacity. I believe that the leadership Grand Lodge will listen attentively to the usual ritual. He was conducted to and decisions of the Grand Lodge of YOUR voices and honor YOUR con- the altar for the purpose of prayer and Connecticut must include and reflect cerns. We will restore and emphasize was then obligated. His lady, Nancy the values, desires and opinions of the two-way communication, compassion, Maxwell, was escorted to the center of Craft. It is YOU who will shape the harmony, trust, fairness, tradition, the lodge room to present the new Grand destiny of our Grand Jurisdiction. I truth and brotherly love between YOUR Master with his hat and gavel. She, in trust that we will use this opportunity Grand Lodge and the Craft as a whole. turn, was presented with a bouquet wisely to chart the future of the Craft. We will work together as one team to of red roses by Brother Kenneth S. The internal calculus of harmony restore our valued traditions and spirit Bickford, Worshipful Master of Coastal in our Grand Jurisdiction has been Continued on p age 21

CT Freemason • January 2015 3 M.W.G.M. Thomas M. Maxwell, II And His Lady Nancy by Michael Castroll concurrently pursued and earned two Thomas McCauley Maxwell was Master’s Degrees in counseling and born on September 29, 1940 in San educational psychology from Fairfield Marcos, Texas. He was the oldest of University. three children born to Jeanette and In the fall of 1972, Tom moved out Thomas Maxwell. His brother James of the classroom, becoming a full and his sister Mary Evelyn rounded out time adviser in Wilton High School’s the family. Counseling & Psychology Department. Tom’s father served our nation as a His work involved personal crisis pilot in the Army Air Force during the intervention and emphasis on college Second World War in the European testing and strategic planning. He was a Theater of Operations. Upon his return member of the National Honor Society home, he brought his family to nearby Advisory Board, and he was an adviser Waco. There Tom grew up. for special education, and liaison to all He joined the Cub Scouts at age military branches. He was made an seven and it was to have a profound honorary member of the Class of 2001 impression on him. Scouting became a by the United States Naval Academy part of his life, and still is today. Tom at Annapolis, Maryland. Tom retired graduated from Waco High School, from Wilton High School in 2006. and went on to Texas A. & M. where he M.W.G.M. Thomas M. Maxwell In 1974, Tom began a counseling and His Lady Nancy earned his Bachelor’s Degree. practice, which is still active today. Tom entered the American Foreign At one point, Tom was adopted by a Tom’s love for scouting is well known Service for a tour of forty months as Hindi family. Between his tour in the and well documented. He is an Eagle an American Peace Corps Volunteer Peace Corps and the trek back home Scout, and has received the Order in 1963. It was an eye opening expe- he covered over thirty countries, and of the Eagle. He acknowledges that rience. He received his training at the logged enough miles to circle the world scouting helped him survive in his days University of Northern Illinois and three times. Tom felt all of that would in the Peace Corps, as well as the trek the University of Hawaii At Waipo make anyone feel very humble, as well across three continents. Still, one event Valley on the Island of Hawaii. Tom as very good inside. stands out. was entered into the survival program. He also was an eye witness to many An unfortunate, and nearly tragic From there, Tom was sent to Viet of the atrocities of the world. Many event occurred on May 29, 1994, that Nam, Cambodia and Thailand. He was of the countries that Tom visited are vaulted Thomas Maxwell into the deployed in Malaysia and Nepal, where among those underdeveloped nations public eye and earned him a pres- he taught math and physics at Sekolah where a caste is a dead end street for tigious award for heroism. He was Menengale Pertukangan (Technical most people. These countries con- working at the Memorial Day Coffee High School), and worked in rural com- sider child labor a part of everyday Shop near exit 10 on I-84, when he wit- munity development. He also taught life. By his own admission, some of nessed a serious motorcycle accident. math at a school for the blind, where he Tom’s experiences during these four After calling 911, he ran to the scene translated a math book into the Malay years of his life may be too gory for the and found Bruce and Lynn Gerais lying language and typed it out in Braille. All casual reader, but they definitely left unconscious and seriously injured. of this was done for one student. During an indelible impression. Tom encoun- Fearful of possible spinal injuries, Tom his Peace Corps career, Tom studied tered many different cultures as well made sure they were not moved and Mandarin and Malay. For three years, as a wide variety of foods and means had helpers hold their heads to prevent Tom lived in a small thatched hut, of preparation. These experiences movement. He used his knowledge of with a dirt floor and windows with no definitely influenced his life values, First-Aid until the ambulance arrived, glass or screens. There was no running spiritual, and career development. He and it is believed that Tom was largely water, electricity, or indoor plumbing, brought home a lot of memories and responsible for their recovery. For his After his tour with the Peace pictures. After a year on the road, Tom quick thinking that saved two lives, Corps was over in 1967, Tom began arrived home in 1968. Tom was honored by the Boy Scouts his journey home, creating another Once home he wasted no time in of America, and presented with the adventure. He backpacked and motor- seeking a full-time teaching position. Heroism Award. cycled alone across Southeast Asia, He headed north to New England Brother Thomas M. Maxwell, II Asia, the Khyber Pass, the Middle East, and secured a job teaching math and North Africa, and Western Europe. physics at Wilton High School. He Continued on page 22 4 CT Freemason • January 2015 Grand Historian’s Corner January 2015 At the historic semi-annual com- This Grand Historian munication of the Grand Lodge session urges all lodges to in October, one of the items that was appoint Historians. unanimously approved was the merger of Eastern Star Lodge No. 44 and Ionic Lodge No. 110. This Grand Historian not him who is houseless pull down searched through the archives and the house of another, but let him work found the story of Joseph Metcalf diligently and build one for himself, and the first meetings of Eastern Star thus by example assuring that his own Lodge. shall be safe from violence when built.” It met in Lebanon for a time and, Lincoln made that speech on March 21, in fact, that town is where the lodge 1864, 150 years ago. started in 1798. Joseph Metcalf had a Two hundred years ago, Stephen large room on the second floor of his Titus Hosmer was not present in the colonial house and brothers met there Grand East as he had been Grand until other quarters were secured. One Mater for years and would eventually story is that Brother Metcalf’s daughter be reelected. The Deputy Grand Master, was somewhat of a tom-boy and liked John R Watrous, the Colchester phy- to climb trees. On one warm afternoon, sician and aide to General Wooster, the lodge was at labor in the room, and declined “further advancement to any the windows were opened to receive office in the Grand Lodge”. Solomon some of the fresh air with the slight of St John’s Church, for his excellent Cowles from Farmington succeeded breeze. The daughter, being a curious discourse delivered this day likewise to him and presided over the business teenager, wondered about the goings on make him a present of a pair of black section of the Grand Lodge. Watrous and the many men who came to visit. silk gloves.” had been elected Grand High Priest She climbed into the tree and onto one In October of the same year, it was of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch of the larger limbs so that she could voted that Brother Bronson be given a Masons in 1807 and was continuing in hear what was going on. Eventually she pair of silk stockings as a compensation that position, which he held for 10 years. was discovered and questioned. She for his sermon in lieu of silk gloves.” As The petition from Brothers in Sharon remembered some of the degree and knee breeches were worn by the gentry was continued and the Brothers from there was some discussion about what of the day, long silk stockings and low Putnam Lodge No. 46 asked to meet to do. While there is no record of her shoes with silver buckles (sometime alternately in Pomfret and Woodstock being punished by her father, or any- rather large) were part of the necessary but were denied that opportunity. thing of a serious nature happening attire for refined gentlemen. While Interestingly, a previous motion the to her, as she later married and had a today, silk stockings might be con- prior year to require an examination of family, she was not on record as being sidered a joke, it was most likely fully “Masters to Be” was repealed. It would made a Mason. appreciated by the pastor as his com- have been interesting to read the ver- There were a few other incidents of pensation as rector for two different batim transcripts had they existed to a similar nature in Connecticut which parishes was a mere $250. No mention hear why it was repealed but the pro- will be discussed in future columns. is made of why gloves were not given. ceedings offer little clue. The lodge made a pilgrimage to the Abraham Lincoln was not a Mason, December is the time when cellar hole of Metcalf’s house in 1998 on but some of his comments and speeches Worshipful Masters appoint their team the 200th anniversary of the lodge. The reflected the fraternalism embedded in for the new year. This Grand Historian land had been acquired as a hunting the craft’s teachings. Take this one, “Let urges all lodges to appoint Historians. preserve and it was October and those who visited wore bright orange jackets. The lodge was opened, short speeches made and then closed with a large stump acting as an altar. That historic occasion was presided over by the bicentennial Worshipful Master (MW Gail Nelson Smith). Gifts were sometime presented to speakers (sometime ministers) who led the service on the day celebrating the Holy Saints John. On June 28, 1798, the records of Harmony No, 42 show that it was “voted that Brother James Smith be a committee to return thanks of this lodge to Rev. Tillotson Bronson, rector

CT Freemason • January 2015 5 George Washington’s Journeys Through Out State by Ryan Howard Located on the boarder of “What we have done Wallingford and Durham lies a path for ourselves alone dies in the TriMountain state park known with us; what we have as the “Washington Trail.” It once went done for others and the from Wallingford center all the way to world remains and is Durham through some pretty rugged terrain. immortal” The trail is named after General Albert Pike George Washington, who traveled this path through the forest on two different occasions. Once in 1775 the remnants of the post that once held during the beginning of the American the plaque. After further research I Revolution, he stopped at Mill Hill discovered that the plaque had been in Wallingford to meet with General stolen sometime between 2006 and James Wadsworth. He then stopped 2007. I found this very disappointing at Swathal’s tavern where it is said and wanted to do something about it he obtained fresh horses for his men. before a site that was important to our Brother Washington’s second visit Brother, a General of the Revolution, through central Connecticut on this and our first President, was lost to time. trail was in 1789 on a trip to visit the I am writing this article to ask the colonies after his first presidential The post that once held the plaque Grand Lodge of the state of Connecticut inauguration. commemorating Washington’s Trail, for help in creating a committee on this I found this site appealing because of matter. One that will be able to help in the importance it held to Washington’s right. After turning onto Howd Road, the research, and production of a new journey through our state. After doing I traveled a few miles, passing a nice plaque to commemorate Washington, some searching on the internet I little tree farm on my right and then I as well as one to hold a ceremony upon learned there was once a plaque located found the pull-off area for parking. its installment. at the crossing of the “Washington The plaque used to be mounted “What we have done for ourselves Trail” and the blue blazed Mattabesset on a concrete post located near the alone dies with us; what we have done hiking trail. I wanted to try to find the intersection of the two trails, right in for others and the world remains and is spot that once held a plaque commem- between a notch of Fowler Mountain immortal” Albert Pike orating Brother Washington so I set and TriMountain. Hiking up several Fraternally yours out for a hike. hundred vertical feet, then down into Ryan Howard - Warren lodge #51 Heading south out of Middletown the notch I found the intersection of Ed. Note: Brother Ryan Howard, who on Route 17, I drove into Durham and Washington’s Trail. I searched for a has written articles as the Traveling started looking for Howd Rd on the quite some time but was unable to find Man, relating his travels to various lodges in our state, has traveled to a new destination for this article. He has found an item of interest, off the beaten path, that harkens back to an historic Mason held in high esteem, and has a request of our Grand Lodge as well.....

6 CT Freemason • January 2015 William Lee Breed Brother William Lee Breed was born April 8, 1935, in New York City, growing up in Dutchess County and graduating from Franklin D. Roosevelt High School in June 1952. How many attended school there in those times we do not know, but current student popu- lation is over 3000. Brother Bill attended Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York for one year. He was then selected for the Regular Naval ROTC program and attended the University of Louisville, graduating in 1957 with a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering degree. Years later, in 1973, the University awarded him a Master of Engineering degree, with specialization in Electrical Engineering, based on a re-evaluation of the five-year program and subse- quent experience. Brother Bill was Commissioned as an Ensign, USN upon graduation from the University of Louisville in 1957. What followed was a career in the Navy, which is rather lengthy. Suffice Sigma Xi. rank of Commander. it to say that starting in the Weapons Ordered to command of the USS Awards include: Navy Commendation Department on a “tin can” (Destroyer), FAIRVIEW (EPCER 850) stationed in Medal, Navy Unit Commendation (2 he progressed over his 22 year Navy New London, CT. The FAIRVIEW had awards), Navy Expeditionary Medal, career to be qualified to command a been converted to support test and eval- National Defense Service Medal, and nuclear submarine. uation of new systems and to conduct Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (2 While at the University of Louisville, acoustic research. While in command, awards). he met, wooed, and, in 1959, married was selected by Admiral Rickover to his wife, Charlene “Scotty” Breed. As attend Nuclear Power School to fill the Retirement from Navy often happens, this resulted in children. need for mid grade officers to man the Upon retirement, Bill went to work Their son, William S. Breed, is married ever growing FBM fleet. for Analysis & Technology, Inc., in to Patricia Witzcak. They are proud Upon completion of nuclear training Virginia Beach, VA to continue efforts parents of twin sisters, Alina M. and and submarine school, served on USS in the test and evaluation field. Was Grace E. Breed, born 1 March, 2005. TRITON (SSN 586) as Operations a charter member of the Tidewater Brother Breed also has two daughters, Officer and on the USS THOMAS Chapter of the International Test and Susan E. Breed and Deborah L. Breed. JEFFERSON (SSBN 618) as Executive Evaluation Association. Contributed Officer. While serving in submarines, to the preparation of product specifi- Naval Career Details supported the Cold War, participating cations, test and evaluation plans, test Ordered to the USS JOHN A. BOLE in two special operations and five stra- reports and preliminary tactics for use (DD-755) stationed in Sand Diego, CA. tegic deterrent patrols. Also qualified of new systems. Provided reports to Served in the Weapons Department, for Command of Submarines. OPNAV NAVSEA, US Coast Guard, US made three western Pacific patrols, After a two-year tour at the US Navy, and several of the Navy Labs. In crossing the equator and the Naval Academy as an instructor for March 1990, moved to Pawcatuck, CT International Date Line, and became Naval Engineering and basic ther- to follow the work that was being done the Weapons Officer before detaching modynamics, was assigned to the by the Naval Undersea System Center, in June 1960. Operational Test and Evaluation Force, in Newport, RI. Spent nearly 10 years Attended the Naval Postgraduate stationed in Norfolk, VA. Primary focus conducting land based testing of the School in Monterey, CA, earning a was on test and evaluation of new or USS SEAWOLF (SSN 21) submarine Master of Science degree in Engineering modified submarine combat and hull, combat systems. Finally retired after Electronics. Selected for the Society of mechanical and electrical systems. After 22 years of service, retired at the Continued on Page 12

CT Freemason • January 2015 7 Lest We Forget by David R. Blythe Sr., of Jerusalem, which portrays the 16, 1876. In 1983, the Valley of Hartford Valley Secretary 15th and 16th degrees, the Chapter of was granted a charter to form Nathan Masonry needs and desires men Rose Croix, responsible for portraying Hale Consistory. In 1991 the corner- of good character to help carry on the 17th and 18th degrees, and the stone of the current building was laid its works. It has not merely survived Consistory of Sublime Princes of the and the Valley moved to Newington, for centuries, but has actually grown Royal Secret, which portrays the 19th Connecticut. stronger. While the roots of Masonry through the 32nd degrees. This year the Valley of Hartford, can be traced back to the Middle Ages, The Valley of Hartford traces its marks the 150th anniversary of the it was not until 1717 that the first Grand history to July 7, 1864 when nine founding of the Charter Oak Lodge of Lodge was established in London, members were granted dispensation Perfection, and is dedicating the Fall England and the fraternity celebrated by the Supreme Council, to form the class to its first Thrice Potent Master, 250 years in Connecticut in 2000. Yet Charter Oak Lodge of Perfection. The Brother Amos Pilsbury, 320. to this day, membership in the Masonic Hartford Council Princes of Jerusalem The vision for the future of the fraternity is an act of free will and a and Cyrus Goodell Chapter of Rose man must ask to join a Blue Lodge. To Croix received their charters on August Continued on page 9 be accepted the potential member must be of lawful age, be of sound mind and moral character, and be able to express belief in a Supreme Being. As the oldest, largest, and best known fraternal organization in the world, Freemasonry only opens its doors to those men who endorse its teachings. It is a fraternity with strong belief in family, community, pride in our country, and sound ethical and moral values. Its strength lies in the unity of conviction to these ideals. For Masons thinking of seeking more light in Masonry, both the York Rite and the Scottish Rite offer this opportunity to build on the basic teachings of the Blue Lodge. The Scottish Rite in the United States consists of a two jurisdictions, Northern and Southern. The Northern Jurisdiction, of which Connecticut is a member, consists of 110 Scottish Rite Valleys located in fifteen states. The earliest records trace the begin- nings of the Scottish Rite to Bordeaux, France, in about the middle of the eighteenth century. From there it was carried to French possessions in the West Indies and then to the United States. The first Supreme Council was established in Charleston, South Carolina in 1801. The Northern Supreme Council was founded in 1813 and is currently headquartered in Lexington, Massachusetts. A Scottish Rite Valley consists of from one to four constituent bodies or lodges. The Lodge of Perfection which portrays the 4th through the 14th degrees, the Council of Princes

8 CT Freemason • January 2015 Grand Chaplin’s Corner From Darkness to Light by Rev. Michael K. Skrocki so often that it can become easy to January in Connecticut can be gloss over it dreary and bitter cold. The days are The working tools of each degree still short and the weather can be can serve as a touchstone for our New fiercåΩe. It’s also the time of year when Year’s Resolutions. To look only at the we’re encouraged to reflect on the year tools of the Entered Apprentice Degree past and look forward to, and make we have an excellent starting point. plans for, the year ahead. Invariably We all have been taught that the twen- someone will ask us about our “New ty-four inch gauge is emblematical of Year’s Resolutions” and almost as the twenty-four hours of the day and invariably the answers that are given that it teaches us to divide our time. It have something to do with eating less reminds us to take care of not only our and exercising more, with spending own needs but of the needs of others less and appreciating what we already as well. Are we dividing our time in a have more. It’s a time for us to exercise healthy fashion? Do we take enough our good intentions. Sadly, more often time to rest and recuperate ourselves? than not, those good intentions seem to Have we taken the time out to care for last only so long and soon enough we’re a distressed worthy brother? Have the back to old habits. time to fulfill our obligations to Diety? Have we ever considered that Likewise the common gavel can reflect on how well we have lived up to Freemasonry also provides us with the be an instrument of reflection. How the ideals of our fraternity and our high tools and means of reflecting on the assiduous have we been in the year calling in the year now passed. If we past and making plans for improving? past in working to divest our minds are to truly become living stones, fit for If Freemasonry is indeed a “peculiar and consciences of the vices and super- that house not made with hands, then system of morality, veiled in allegory, fluities of life? Can we resolve to apply each of us can surely resolve to take the illustrated by symbols,” then we have it more diligently in the year to come? tools at our disposal and become better the very “tools” we need at our fin- We can, and perhaps should, take craftsmen of our souls and bodies in gertips. Perhaps, we hear that phrase each of the various tools in turn and the year to come. Lest We Forget Continued on page 9

Scottish Rite is that it must continue to be an organization effectively managed by highly motivated men with vision and leadership skills, is attractive to interested Masons of good character, well understood and embraced by the family, and which, though financial independence, ultimately makes a positive impact on the quality of life and the restoration of traditional moral values in a global society. This vision is summed up in the statement “We will strive to be a fraternity that fulfills our Masonic obligation to care for our members”

Information for this article was taken from various publications of the Grand Lodge of Connecticut, and The Supreme Council, A.A.S.R., NMJ.

CT Freemason • January 2015 9 JOHN A. BIRDSALL “Recognizing his tireless efforts to Union Chapter No. 7, R.A.M., Cushing the Order of DeMolay, the fraternity of John considers his Council No. 4, R.&S.M., and Columbia Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, the DeMolay experience to Commandery No. 4, K.T. In 1978, John Order of Eastern Star, various other be that which stands served as First Veil in the chapter, and Concordant Bodies, and the United out over the rest. Steward in the council. That is when States of America, it is indeed difficult John discovered the secretary’s chair to find one who has given more to the was just right for him. In 1989, John strengthening of the Masonic prin- became “a man for all seasons.” John ceded being secretary for two years to ciples and foundations than Brother received the Representative DeMolay serve as the Most Excellent High Priest. John A. Birdsall, especially when it Award from his home chapter, while he Never one to shirk from the challenge, comes to our Masonic youth.” was at home on liberty. he also served Cushing Council as John A. Birdsall was born September In 1985, John joined the Advisory Thrice Illustrious Master during the Council of Union Chapter in New same two years. London. The next year, John became Because of John’s efforts to keep the the Chapter Advisor. From 1986 until chapter going, he earned the Ephraim 2002, John was steadfast at his post, Kirby Award for Meritorious Service. keeping the chapter in line. During Two years later, John was called on that period, John was awarded the to receive the Philip J. Jones Award Chevalier Degree and the DeMolay for Meritorious Service to Cryptic Legion of Honor. John is also a recipient Masonry by the Most Puissant Grand of the William Campbell Award for his Council of Connecticut. service to Connecticut DeMolay. He Sir Knight John was installed as also served as an Area Governor, and Recorder of Palestine Commandery Director of Brotherhood Weekend -- No. 6, K.T., and was made an Honorary each for three years! Right Eminent Commander by Right Brother John A. Birdsall was raised to Eminent Grand Commander of the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason Connecticut Vincent Cowie, in 2001. on June 7, 1970, in Good Samaritan John is a life member of the Order of 30, 1946 to Leah and Robert Birdsall Lodge in Reading, Massachusetts. It High Priesthood, the Order of the Silver in Rockland, Maine. John met Karen was the twentieth anniversary of the Trowel, and the Knight Commanders Hetzel, and as fate brought them day his father was raised a Master of the Cross. together, they were married on August Mason in the same lodge. Then, there is the Order of 28, 1970 in Reading, Massachusetts. Being stationed aboard the U.S.S. Eastern Star. John and Karen went to On November 23, 1971 a son, John Fulton AS-11 in New London, the Massachusetts to join OES. The dis- Andrew, was born, and on March 25, next night he visited the Union Lodge tance to chapter meetings was dras- 1974, their daughter, Deborah, was building. Thankfully, there was a tically reduced when they found a brought into the world. brother from Massachusetts there to chapter in Norwich, where Karen John is also proud of his seven year help him work his way into the lodge. served as Worthy Matron with John as old dog, “Bingo,” who was named by his When he returned to the ship, he was Worthy Patron in 1986. John served as mother, as they both shared the same summoned to the electronic storeroom Patron for four more terms, and was birthday. where about twenty of his shipmates secretary for two terms. John joined Middlesex Chapter, were gathered, all brother Masons, to John’s commitment to community Order of DeMolay in Reading, welcome him to the fraternity. That is breathtaking. In 1977, when his son Massachusetts on February 14, 1961 was a lasting Masonic memory for wanted to be a Cub Scout, he found --- Valentine’s Day! John’s love of Brother John. a den that was active, but required DeMolay has never waned. He served In 1973, after a deployment in parental participation. He found as Second Preceptor, Electrician, and Florida, John returned to New himself serving as Den cub Master for Marshal. Then, duty called out to John England. He was exalted in Reading seven years. and he joined the U.S. Navy. John was Royal Arch Chapter, and knighted in As soon as J. Andrew was fourteen, a Seventh Preceptor personified, ever Reading Commandery, in Reading, he convinced him to join DeMolay mindful of all of DeMolay’s cardinal Massachusetts. In 1976, when his --where his boyhood commitment to virtues! During his travels, he helped brother was going through the York DeMolay began. the fraternity at every port. John worked Rite, his father arranged for him to be John also took much pride in with the Chicago Chapter, and then, he greeted in Wyoming Council, Royal & watching his daughter as she rose helped the Key West Chapter while his Select Masters. through the Brownies to become a ship was docked in sunny Florida. John Companion Birdsall affiliated with Continued on page 12

10 CT Freemason • January 2015 An Example For Us All – MWPGM Robert J. Stika (June 29, 1944 – October 6, 2014) By Richard F. Denno If we’ve heard it once, we’ve heard “Don’t take your it a thousand times, “Leaders lead by organs to heaven – example.” There can be no greater Heaven knows we example of that Most Worshipful Past need them here!” Grand Master Robert J. Stika, who passed away on October 6, 2014, at the age of 70. leader’s example. To learn more about Bob Stika’s 34 year Masonic career organ/tissue/eye donation, visit www. was one of distinguished service to donatelifenewengland.org and make the Freemason fraternity, culminating that lifesaving decision to register with his service as Connecticut’s Most online. In fact, as part of the online Worshipful Grand Master for the 2008- registration process, you can register 2009 year. It was both during his time ‘in memory’ of Robert J. Stika. Thanks as Grand Master, and upon his death to the electronic tracking capability of that he demonstrated his “measure as Donate Life New England’s website, we a man.” will be able to find out just how many In late 2008, he was approached by Brothers and friends of Bob registered several brothers who requested per- in his memory. You can still register in mission to form the Masonic Organ Bob’s memory online, even if you reg- & Tissue Donor Awareness Program. recently mentioned Bob’s donation with istered in the past. With this simple Bob enthusiastically endorsed the great admiration. ”My father informed gesture, we can show the Stika family program, that was introduced at the us of his decision to be an organ donor just how proud we were of his selfless March 2009 Grand Lodge session. It over a decade ago,” said Anne Stika. act of donation. is thanks to Bob Stika, and all the sub- Thanks to Robert’s desire to become Currently, there are over 123,000 sequent Grand Masters to follow, that a donor, the quality of life for others patients on the organ/tissue/eye donor our Masonic Organ & Tissue Donor will be greatly enhanced. Robert Sitka waiting list. Eighteen patients on that Awareness Program continues to was truly a leader who both “talked the list die each day, still waiting for the spread the lifesaving message of organ, talk” and “walked the walk.” During transplant that could have saved their tissue and eye donation throughout the his Masonic career, he was always con- lives. Please make that same decision Brotherhood and beyond. sidered a man of action; one who made that Bob Stika did a decade ago, and On October 6, 2014, the day Robert a decision and acted upon that decision. make a difference in the lives of others. Stika passed away, the generous As we begin a new year, filled with Remember, “Don’t take your organs donation of both of his corneas enabled promise and hope, it would be won- to heaven – Heaven knows we need two patients on the waiting list for derful if we all followed our former them here!” corneas to enjoy all the beauty our world has to offer. Tissue donated by Bob will be of immeasurable help in the recovery of burn victims. His wife, Sandy and daughter, Anne,

CT Freemason • January 2015 11 William Breed John A. Birdsall Continued from page 7 School system. Continued from page 10 24 years in test and evaluation for the After moving to CT, Brother Bill Navy, but not in the Navy. took up the hobby of Revolutionary Girl Scout. Then, he took much pride War Re-enactor, assuming the persona in her advancement in the Order of Past and Current of an ancestor. He joined the Sons Rainbow for Girls to become a state Activities: of American Revolution, serving as officer. Now, she has joined her parents During the at-sea years, activities Registrar of a newly formed Branch. at Star meetings, where they all make a outside the service were very few. Bill Raised as a Master Mason in George difference. served as a Lay Reader for St. David’s W. Wright Lodge No. 346 (now Atlantic Owing his duty to God, John taught Episcopal Church, Gales Ferry, CT. no. 2) in Norfolk, Virginia in 1974, Sunday School to a mentally chal- After moving to Virginia Beach and Brother Bill affiliated with Pawcatuck lenged man at Christ United Methodist no longer going to sea, Bill “got involved” Lodge No. 57 in 2004. He was a part Church of Groton in 1978. John was in the Boy Scouts of America, Tidewater of group of Brothers who consolidated also a trustee of the church. In 1996, Council as Scoutmaster, Committee three lodges into one viable body. He John transferred to Versailles U.M.C., member, and Unit Commissioner, and serves as Historian for Coastal Lodge where he has served as a trustee, Brotherhood Member of the Order No. 57 and received the William Egan member of the breakfast committee, of the Arrow. Participated in the BSA Craftsman Award in 2005. Following and on the finance committee. training program for leaders known the merger to form Coastal Lodge No. In recognition of John’s reverent as Wood Badge. He was instrumental 57, Bill has continued in his active ways. involvement to God, his family, his in founding a new Troop in his neigh- Brother Bill was recognized for ded- nation, and to the body of Freemasonry borhood as Scoutmaster and assisted ication as a volunteer in the CTCHIP – in his lodge, and the appendant outside his neighborhood as Unit Child Identification Program. This and concordant bodies. the Most Commissioner to establish a new troop. program provides a packet of identifi- Worshipful Grand Lodge of A.F. &A.M. Earned Scouter’s Key and Scouter’s cation material to parents to be used in of CT proudly presented him with the Training Awards. the event that child is lost or abducted. Pierpont Edwards Medal in Bronze for Bill also served on a Curriculum He received the Meritorious Service Distinguished Masonic Service. Review Committee for Virginia Beach Award in May 2009, Community John considers his DeMolay expe- Service Award, May 2012 and May rience to be that which stands out over the rest. Molding young men into future Master Masons he considers his greatest achievement. John told me, “It was when my son asked to join DeMolay. Now we go to chapter and lodge together.” At Union Lodge’s recent Awards Night, John said, “When people started taking their seats for dinner, I did not think anything of it when my wife and son arrived. Then, my daughter showed up with my son-in-law. I knew something was up. It sure was! Well done, good and faithful servant…

12 CT Freemason • January 2015 Masonicare’s Hidden Gem: the Leslie G. Wright Residence Are you retired and on a limited income? Do you ever worry about remaining independent at home but becoming isolated? Is it a burden keeping up with housekeeping and home maintenance? If so, you may want to check out a very special form of retirement living located on the Masonicare Health Center campus in Wallingford: the Leslie G. Wright Residence. Its 81 furnished apart- ments are available to seniors 55 years of age or older on a limited income. “These eligibility requirements ensure that the accommodations are within

“This is an amazingly warm and supportive environment that offers Exterior of Wright Building a lot for someone on a limited income,” Bro. Leslie G. Wright had been master of his lodge, Franklin No. 56, in his hometown of Bristol. After becoming a widower, he moved into the the means of seniors who qualify for former “Walker Dorm” on the campus of Masonicare in Wallingford. The Title 19 or the State’s Supplemental Walker Dorm was licensed by the state of Connecticut as a Residential Care Cash Assistance program,” says Maria Home. Bro. Leslie lived very simply and frugally. Oftentimes, Masonicare Cassesse, director of independent staff noticed he seemed in need of a new item of clothing or toiletry, and living at Masonicare Health Center. they would quietly secure it for him. Imagine everyone’s shock when, upon Over the years, the Wright Residence his passing at the age of 99 in 1995, he left over $7 million to Masonicare! has been home to hundreds of seniors His amazing generosity today is evidenced in the – rightly named – who’ve benefited from its three meals Leslie G. Wright Residence. It is a bright, modern and graciously appointed a day, laundry and housekeeping apartment building, allowing Walker Dorm residents to bid goodbye to the services, social activities and trans- old “Dorm,” a dated and environmentally challenging structure, and move portation to medical appointments. into their new home in 1998. “This is an amazingly warm and sup- “I had the pleasure of knowing Leslie Wright,” says Bro. Carl Anderson, portive environment that offers a lot VP for Mission Effectiveness. “Through his generosity, we are able to carry for someone on a limited income,” forward our charitable mission to ‘help, aid and assist.’” added Maria. “If you live in the Wright Residence, you have extended basic cable TV, spacious private bathrooms with grab bars, and climate control Meridien Chapter No. 8, OES. Anne yet, when needed, help is just a tele- and an emergency call-for-aid system describes in her own words what it’s phone call away.” in every apartment. Our residents also like to live at Wright: “ I have 85 friends Masonicare welcomes applications enjoy a country kitchen, greenhouse, to whom I can say, ‘Hello - How are you to move into the Wright Residence gardens and several lounge areas. And, today?’ As I go through the day, there from interested and eligible seniors. the full Masonicare health continuum are activities to which I can go - if I Applications from Masonically affil- is right outside your door: doctors, care to. Three times a day I can walk iated individuals receive priority therapists, audiology expertise and to a lovely dining room where meals consideration. opportunities to volunteer.” are served to me - no dishes to wash, If you or someone you know would Anne Damon moved into the Wright no menu to prepare and no cooking. I like more information or to come for Residence with her late husband can hear birds chirping in the beautiful a tour, please call the Masonicare Floyd in 2002. Floyd was a member tree outside my window but I can also HelpLine at 888-679-9997. of Compass Lodge No. 9 and Anne is a come and go as I please, bowling each member of Ashlar Chapter No. 116 and Tuesday, swimming each Friday - and

CT Freemason • January 2015 13 Grand Lodge Officers for 2014 - 2015

Back Row L – Richard C. Memmott, Sr., R.W. Grand Tiler, Rev. Carl H. Anderson, R.W. Grand Organist, Shane Dufresne, R.W. Grand Marshal, Benjamin A. Isaacson, R.W. Grand Senior Deacon, Stephen W. Petri, R.W. Grand Junior Steward, Creighton M. English, R.W. Grand Junior Deaco,ohn H. Spencer, R.W. Grand Senior Steward Anderson H. Zeidler Jr., Deputy Grand Secretary, Gary A. Littlefield, R.W. Grand Historian, Front Row L – R, Charles C. Maxson, R.W. Grand TreasurerMichael B. Dodge, R.W. Grand Senior Warden, Donald W. Dean, R.W. Deputy Grand Master, Thomas M. Maxwell II, M.W. Grand Master, Robert G. Fitzgerald, R.W. Grand Secretary, Theodore J. Nelson, R.W. Grand Junior Warden, Rev. Michael K. Skrocki, R.W. Grand Chaplain The Final Disposition by Frank Way have a clear idea of what bills he had prefer PasswordSafe). This After my father passed away, I was coming in each month. In retrospect, I software securely stores responsible for the disposition of all his should have had a more detailed con- their passwords, and can be affairs. That is a task that is most often versation with him about that. accessed with one master complicated by grief and sadness, but All of this serves to highlight the password. Make sure you know which can also be made more difficult need, when dealing with elderly what the master password is, by lack of organization or failing to parents or relatives, to really make sure or where it can be found. That communicate the location of important that their information is all accessible, will give you access to their documents and information. ideally in one place. To that end I offer online accounts so they can be My father was well organized, and I these tips: properly closed or transferred. knew enough to ask him where certain • Encourage your relative to pull • If your relative is a Mason, things were kept in our conversa- together all important papers – make sure you know where his tions as we neared the end of his life. wills, insurance policies, deeds, apron is, and what his wishes Still, there were unexpected bumps in etc. in one place and make are for a Masonic service or the road. memory of the location of sure you know where to find it. remembrance. These tips the documents was not quite exactly • Make a list of financial seem like common sense, but where I found them, and some of them accounts, if possible, with failure to do these little tasks were not there. His military discharge account numbers, contact can make it extremely when papers, for example, were not with the phone numbers and a loved one has passed. documents he referred to, but were addresses. Keep this with The conversation may be compli- instead with some papers put aside the other information. cated to have, but it is probably not by my late mother. She had needed to • If your relative has an online bad as you might think. In my father’s them when they were dealing with the presence (i.e. Facebook, email, case, once we talked and I had answers Veterans Administration regarding his accounts), discuss with them I needed, he viewed it all as one less hearing aids. They’d never made it back what they would like you do thing he had to remember to tell me, to his file folders. with their social media accounts and we could have the more important I had only helped him writing out and email. Ensure that they conversations, conversations which I checks for bills just before he was hos- keep their passwords in some will always remember and cherish. pitalized the final time, so I did not type of password keeper (I

14 CT Freemason • January 2015 We offer our condolences to the families and friends of these brothers who have been called by the Grand Architect of the Universe

Louis Ashen...... America-St. John’s 8 John P. Ireland...... Harmony 67 Mason P. Baber...... Warren 51 Joseph N. Kelly...... Hartford Evergreen 88 Walter D. Bennett ...... Fayette 69 Joseph A. Kowell...... Wyllys-St. John’s 4 Conrad J. Brede III ...... Hospitality 128 Emmett S. Kresge Jr...... Composite 28 Howard E. Brown...... Coastal 57 Andrew Ladd...... Wooster 10 Robert J. Campbell...... Hiram 18 Earl S. LaFountain...... Ansantawae 89 William B. Chamberlin Jr. . . . Frederick Franklin 14 Janus S. Luth...... Anchor 112 Frank A. Clark Jr...... Wyllys-St. John’s 4 Donald L. Lyman...... Coastal 57 Clarence E. Cyphers Jr,...... Meridian 77 William D. MacDermid Jr...... St. Paul’s 11 John J. Deschino...... King Solomon 7 George F. Merwin,Day...... Spring 30 John W. Dewey...... Temple 16 Donald A. Minton...... Temple 16 George A. Drew...... King Hiram 12 Henry G. Mohr...... Anchor 112 John G. Ewen...... Wyllys-St. John’s 4 Walter C. Mottram...... Corinthian 104 Douglas A. Finkelstone...... Corinthian 104 Charles W. Munson...... Harmony 42 Leigh J. Fluckiger ...... Fayette 69 Gary A. Nicholson...... Hospitality 128 Martin J. Gallus Jr...... Frederick Franklin 14 William F. Noble...... Valley 36 Malvin Gelber ...... America-St. John’s 8 Richard A. Olson...... Village 29 Philip H. Gesner ...... Annawon 115 John E. Perham...... Fidelity-St. John’s 3 Neil E. Goodrich Jr ...... Uriel 24 Jack W. Riling...... Ashlar-Aspetuck 142 William P. Goodrow...... St. Andrew’s 64 Leonard S. Rome ...... America-St. John’s 8 Edward Govan...... America-St. John’s 8 Richard M. Rukan...... Fidelity-St. John’s 3 Michael J. Groves...... Ivanhoe 107 Richard P. Sperry...... King Hiram 12 Michael Gualandi,...... Coastal 57 Norman C. St. Onge...... Compass 9 Richard W. Gunn...... Ansantawae 89 Robert J. Stika...... Somerset-St. James 34 Walter B. Gura,King ...... Hiram 12 Donald J. Tansey...... St. John’s 2 John R. Haigh...... Shepherd-Salem 78 Harold S. Way...... Union 31 Charles W. Hansen...... Wolcott 146 Raymond F. Widlak...... Wyllys-St. John’s 4 Robert S. Iliff...... Old Well-St. John’s 6 Erik P. Willis...... Moosup 113 Edward D. Ingraham Jr,...... Composite 28 John R. Witte Jr...... Washington 81 Sheldon A. Inkster...... Hiram 1 M.W.G.M.Announces Plan for Renewed Solidarity by Joseph I. Porco its members. Through the deployment of a new collaborative Keeping one’s word is one of the most impactful things communication process, emphasis will be placed on trans- one can do to build and maintain trust in relationships. This parency, harmony, fairness and brotherly love. The need for is unquestionably the case when one’s duty is to serve the improved methods of communication and transparency is interest of a large contingent of constituents. long overdue. True to the pledge made during both his acceptance and At the heart the Grand Master’s Plan for Solidarity is the installation speeches, Grand Master Thomas M. Maxwell II creation of a mechanism and venue that will promote harmony is delivering on his promise to establish a new avenue of two- and nurture the Craft’s ability to work together as one team to way, open communication between the Grand Lodge and all restore valued traditions, as well as the spirit of Freemasonry members of the Craft, one that will ensure that the voice of that was once esteemed and enjoyed by the Craft. the Craft will be heard and counted! MWB Maxwell will never shy away from his core prin- Under the Grand Master’s leadership and plan for ciples and will remain steadfast in his position that both the renewed solidarity, he and his officers will listen attentively leadership and decisions of the Grand Lodge of Connecticut to the voice of the Craft and honor the collective concerns of Continued on page 22

CT Freemason • January 2015 15 WB Arturo de Hoyos Receives James R. Case Award by Michael Castroll welcome our newest honoree. Worshipful Brother Arturo de WB Arturo de Hoyos took the podium Hoyos came to New Haven on Friday, and delivered his address. The topic of November 14 to receive the James his paper was “The Battle to Control Royal Case Fellowship from the the High Degrees of Freemasonry in Masonic Lodge of Research. the United States.” His dissertation Arturo de Hoyos was born in Provo, was most enlightening, and kept the Utah, in 1959. He is the son of Buna brethren glued to their seats for about Zwahler and Dr. Benjamin Federico de 45 minutes. The presentation was riv- Hoyos. He is an alumnus of Brigham eting and evoked much audience par- Young University. ticipation. After finishing his thought Arturo de Hoyos was raised to the provoking talk, he was presented Sublime Degree of a Master Mason with his citation by RWB Ronald M. in McAllen Lodge, and that was just Goldwyn, and his Fellowship Award the beginning of a sterling Masonic and Medal by Worshipful Master career. He is an honorary member of David Mason. WB de Hoyos’ response John Blair Lodge No. 187 of the Grand was pertinent and brief. An official Lodge of Virginia, and is a full member WB Arturo de Hoyos Receives visit by Philosophic Lodge of Research of Quator Coronati Lodge of Research James R. Case Award from was heightened by a presentation by No. 2076 of the United Grand Lodge RWB Bradley K. Cooney, W.M. John Forlenza-Bailey, and his of England. WB de Hoyos holds dual delegation, which included WB Chuck membership or honorary membership His knowledge of mythology, esoterica, 2.0 Landau, and WB Stephen M. Thal, in a host of other lodges and Masonic Kabbalah, folklore, history, publishing, who was pleased to introduce his most research societies too numerous to list genetics, and international relations recent four-legged companion, his in this publication. are just the tip of the iceberg. service dog Keenan. Companion de Hoyos was exalted He is the author or co-author of The Masonic Lodge of Research is in Hidalgo Chapter No. 434, R. A. M., several Masonic books, some of which nearly 49 years old, chartered in 1966. where he served as Most Excellent were co-authored with another Case In 1971, M.L.R.’s charter master, the High Priest in 1990; greeted in Fellow, WB S. Brent Morris. late RWB. Leon Rozene invited the late Hidalgo Council No. 353, R. & S. M., WB Arturo de Hoyos received a Grand Historian, RWB James Royal where heerved as Thrice Illustrious royal greeting upon his arrival at the Case to receive the plaudits of the lodge Master in 1989; and Sir Knight Arturo New Haven Masonic Temple, where for all of his work enlightening peers de Hoyos was knighted in Hidalgo the Masonic Lodge of Research played into Masonic history. Brother Rozene Commandery No. 94, K.T., serving as host for this gala affair, which started had a special medal cast. As the lodge Eminent Commander in 1992. He has with a dinner and later ended with was then meeting in Bridgeport, he been honored to with membership in another visit to the banquet hall for arranged for the Kline Auditorium to several Masonic invitational bodies; further discussion, coffee, fellowship, handle the huge numbers that attended. The K. Y.C.H., Allied Masonic Bodies, and a chance for WB de Hoyos to sell From 1979 until its revision in 2000, Red Cross of Constantine, and at least more of his books. the James Royal Case Award remained a dozen others. Worshipful Master David P. Mason dormant, until Brother Ron Goldwyn Brother de Hoyos is also a member turned the program over to RWB picked up the slack and renewed its of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Bradley K. Cooney, a past master of annual presentation. The roster of belonging to the Valleys of San Antonio, the Masonic Lodge of Research, who recipients reads like a Who’s Who of Texas, San Francisco, California, and served as Master of Ceremonies for the Freemasonry. Among those recipients Santa Fe, New Mexico. He is a member evening. from Connecticut can be found MWB of the Scottish Rite Research Society, He welcomed Most Worshipful Conrad Hahn, MWB Samuel B. and chairman of publications. Brother Grand Master Thomas M. Maxwell II, Walker, WB Raymond H. Dragat , de Hoyos is the Grand Archivist as well who took part in the program. Brother and, lo and behold, myself. How did as the Grand Historian of the Ancient Donald W. Dean, RW Deputy Grand that happen? Whatever the reason, it Accepted Scottish Rite, Southern Master, then spoke about RWB James is an honor beyond honors for anyone Masonic Jurisdiction. R. Case. Then, representing the past involved inresearch in Masonry. The It is not fair to say WB de Hoyos has a recipients of this prestigious award, next recipient will be revealed at number of interests, it is more accurate I was called upon to introduce and Masonic Lodge of Research’s annual to say he has a number of obsessions. meeting. 16 CT Freemason • January 2015 Coastal Lodge No. 57 Awards Ceremony by William L. Breed On November 22, 2014, Coastal Lodge No. 57 had the pleasure of Brother Thomas M. Maxwell II, Most Worshipful Grand Master of Masons in Connecticut, visiting the lodge for their annual awards ceremony. MWGM Maxwell was accompanied by the following suite of officers: RWB Theodore Nelson Grand Jr. Warden, RW Robert Fitzgerald Grand Treasurer, RWB John Spencer, Grand Junior Steward, MW Roger Read, Past Grand Master, RW Ron Magliano District Deputy, RWB Roger Cole, RWB George McPherson, RWB Edward Childs, RWB John Plante, RWB Arthur Richards, RWB Richard Miller, RW Ernest Greenwood, RW Richard Wingate, all Past District Deputies, Glenn Studwell, Associate Grand Marshall, WB Eric Donch, WB Mickey Reavis, Past Associate Grand Marshalls. Worshipful Brother Kenneth Bickford, Coastal Lodge’s Worshipful Here are three happy 50 year recipients, awaiting there certificate, WB Paul J. Stiephaudt, Brothers, Stanford N. Billings, Jr. and Edgar J. Wood. Master, greeted the brethren, wives and families, remarking, “The big lesson that every Master quickly learns Special Recognition was Scotty join him. The Grand Master is, no matter how well he’s planned, no given to the ladies who then read the personal history of matter how hard he’s worked, trained supported the lodge, Brother Breed and presented him with and rehearsed, there are events that the Pierpont Edwards Medal in Bronze occur that will inevitably take on a life as Mrs. Ruth Childs, for Distinguished Masonic Service. all of its own, causing those carefully Mrs. Amy Donch and The Grand Master’s work for the laid plans, his schedule for the year, Mary Ann Manley evening was not finished, as he awarded go right out the window. Coastal Lodge several 50 year pins, to WB Paul J. is especially blessed to have Brothers Stiephaudt, and Brothers Stanford N. counted among our ranks with the lady, Bonnie Bickford was the recipient Billings, Jr. and Edgar J. Wood. Each Masonic experience and time to fill of the Coastal Lodge Ladies Award. The also received a certificate and a per- those gaps, caused by the unexpected, Master’s Aware recipient was Brother manent dues card reflecting the fact and rescue the Master, me.” Trad Dart. that they are no long required to pay After thanking the ladies present, Mason of the Year was RWB C. A. annual dues. WB Bickford announced that the Duke and the Outstanding Masonic The memorable evening ended with brethren to be recognized by Coastal Service Award was present to RWB refreshment and fellowship in the Lodge had amassed a total of more Richard R. Miller. Special Recognition dining room. than 1400 years of combined Masonic was given to the ladies who supported service. Many brothers were recog- the lodge, as Mrs. Ruth Childs, Mrs. Trivia nized for a variety of Masonic service. Amy Donch and Mary Ann Manley Do You Know Brother Gary Myers received the were all presented with flowers for The Answer? Craftsman Award and Brother William various for help with baking, computer L. Breed received the Community generated programs and the general Service Award. housekeeping of the lodge. What custom in ancient Brother Kristopher Dorsett received At that point, the WB Bickford times was done to show the Ritualist Award for the year 2013 turned his gavel over to MWB Maxwell your sincerity of your while WB Mickey C. Reavis was recog- who called Brother William L. Breed intention when entering nized with the Ritualist Award for the to the East. MWB Maxwell then a new business? current year. The Worshipful Master’s requested that Brother Breed’s wife

CT Freemason • January 2015 17 On February 22nd, XL Center is the Center of CT Freemasonry by Thomas F. Mumford business operations of the Hartford annual event. The Hartford XL Center will become Wolf Pack, has the full support of our “The folks at the XL Center are giving the center of Connecticut Freemasonry Grand Master, MW Thomas M. Maxwell us a lot of flexibility in how this will on Sunday, February 22, 2015, II. MWB Maxwell said, “This is a great take place. We will have informational which is, not coincidentally, George opportunity to raise awareness within tables on the concourse, a Masonic Washington’s birthday. Brethren, the Connecticut community of the con- Color Guard during the National family, and friends are invited to cel- tributions that Freemasonry has and Anthem, contests to see which Lodges ebrate Freemasonry and to enjoy a continues to make. This is a family-ori- will sell the most tickets, Masonic Hartford Wolf Pack hockey game. ented event that will be fun for all and I trivia on the Jumbotron, recognition This event, spearheaded by Ilkka encourage everyone to join us for, what of all the Lodges in attendance and so Kortesluoma, Director of Sales at Global I hope becomes, the inauguration of an much more! Some things are still being finalized, which will be communicated to all the Brethren as soon as possible, but do mark this date of family fun!” Several contests are taking place centered around raising Masonic awareness. First, the Masters of the top twenty Lodges in ticket sales will be invited down onto the ice to create a human tunnel through which the Wolf Pack players will skate as they enter the rink. Also, the Lodge with the most ticket sales will be given the use of one of the two tables in the concourse to highlight their Lodge and their suc- cesses. Who knows, it may also entice a candidate to “knock on the door” of that Lodge. The day will be shared with a “Faith & Family” event. Individuals from that group will sing the National Anthem, but we have been invited to provide a Masonic Color Guard. During the game, the Jumbotron will display trivia and facts about Masonry. This trivia has not yet been determined, but WB Eric Charette, Chair of the Masonic Awareness Committee, said, “… is a really interesting idea... Fun facts like George Washington was a Mason, maybe list the presidents who were, etc. Many of these we can probably easily compile off of the education part of our website (masonic minutes). Occasionally have www.ctfreemasons.net or www.ctfm. net pop up as well so that people with smart phones can look it up if interested …” Bro. Eric’s committee is experienced at promoting events and will be invaluable to the success of the event. RWB Theodore J. Nelson, Grand

Spectrum which runs the day-to-day Continued on Page 9

18 CT Freemason • January 2015 Masonic Family Day with the WolfPack

Continued from page 8 as this at the XL Center dozens of times event promoting Freemasonry in Junior Warden, has taken a particular per year and has a method for making Connecticut will be Sunday, February interest in this inaugural event. Said these events work. He said, “We are 22, 2015 at 3:00 p.m. at the XL Center. Bro. Ted, “This could be something excited about promoting Freemasonry More details will be distributed to the really big! I think the craft will really in Connecticut along with the Hartford individual Lodges soon. Tickets are only get behind it and support it! Wolf Pack. Although not to the degree $15 each for lower level seating, with “What’s not to like?” continued our that Masons are involved, we also put $3 of each ticket going to a Connecticut Grand Senior Warden-Elect. “You the community and local charities at Freemasons Masonic Community have contests, families, fellowship the forefront of our mission. We are Action Charity. The Hartford Wolf and a hockey game! This looks like in the business of developing NHL Pack, the New York Rangers primary the beginning of an excellent tradition hockey players, but also try to get the developmental team, will be playing that will help keep Freemasonry ‘top of community involved in many of our the Pittsburgh Penguins farm team, mind’ in the Connecticut community. activities and fund raisers. When Eric the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins. I’m all for it and very excited about the Charette mentioned raising money for These two teams have created a rivalry possibilities!” a local charity that Freemasonry can that promises an exciting game. Although no event ever goes off get behind, we were very excited. We, Don’t miss this historic, inaugural without a hitch, having the expe- at the XL Center, are looking forward to event. To learn more or to get started, go rienced backing of the staff from this event. It works well with the Faith to https://XLCenter.Formstack.com/ Global Spectrum certainly helps.. Mr. & Family event that is also scheduled.” Forms/CT_Freemasons_Family_Day. Kortesluoma assists with events such And so the puck drop on this great Let Them Eat Cake by Arnie Grot, AGM the Lodge’s CTCHIP events. We know Some may view Inspection Night A wonderful example his work from previous degrees. A with less than serendipitous thoughts. of fellowship practiced Past Master was Junior Deacon for the However, when brotherly love prevails, by the Lodge is Jason, a degree. inspections are opportunities for rec- newly passed Fellowcaft The opening, the reception of the ognition, learning and fellowship. It is of the lodge, attending DD, the ritual and the closing were all in each individual Masonic Lodge, and the degree in support of excellent with crisp floor work and the the Masonic activities the lodge sup- officers relaying their lines with little ports, where the bulk of Freemasonry his father Michael who prompting needed. The stewards did occurs. was one of the three the first section lecture. The Masters The lodge’s strength (assessing, pro- initiated this night. and Wardens knew the proper response moting and enhancing it) is foremost when asked to give the Grand Masonic in the purpose of the inspection. Just of three past Grand Masters. Like Word and how to give it. Steve and I as a Lodge makes a man of good char- many lodges, its membership is aging recognized them for performing great acter better through Masonic ritual and attendance is down to the officers ritual. and learning, a lodge is made better and a handful of brothers on the side Manchester Lodge has an estab- through the inspection process with even on degree nights. They do have a lished mentoring program for its new the help of the District Deputy and his young and enthusiastic line of officers, brothers. WM Paige Howarth assigned Associate Grand Marshall. In District except where Past Masters serve as a mentor for each of the Entered Deputy and Associated Grand Marshal Junior Warden, Secretary, Treasurer, Apprentices. The Entered Apprentices training, it is taught that this process Chaplain and Tiler. A sign of future and mentors meet on the non stated is more than just the formal Inspection grownth is that four new petitions were communication Tuesday nights to view Night. read this night (three from the recent the video on the degree just taken and Prior to the official inspection of open house) with at least two more due to practice the first section lecture. Manchester Lodge No. 73, RWB Steven soon. Learning continued when Steve and McMahon, DD and I already had For the October 28 inspection, all I were given the opportunity to speak knowledge of the good work this lodge officers were in their roles for the EA during the closing of the Lodge. The was doing. We had previously visited degree, except for the Junior Deacon newly updated online Master’s Path this lodge on many occasions including who was balancing his time out of program and November 1 an EA and a MM degree and the lodge’s state with a previous commitment. Wardens Seminar (at Manchester awards night where we presented a 50 He was just awarded a Perfect Ashlar Lodge No. 73) were promoted to all year pin. Manchester Lodge No. 73 has certificate at the Grand Lodge October a rich history. It was the home lodge Communication. He also coordinates Continued on page23 CT Freemason • January 2015 19 Valley of Hartford’s Charter Oak Lodge of Perfection Celebrates 150 Years by Francis G. Way, 33º MSA chartering a Scottish Rite Valley are The Valley of Hartford’s Charter both time consuming propositions, so Oak Lodge of Perfection is observing it can be assumed that Brother Hunt its 150th anniversary this year, and was very busy indeed. to recognize the milestone they have Samuel L. Way is referenced in dedicated the 2014-2015 Scottish Rite the 1880 U.S. Census as residing class in honor of Amos Pillsbury, the in Hartford. He operated the Way first Thrice Potent Master. Hardware Company at 344 Main The Charter Oak Lodge of Perfection, Street, and was married to Kate N. the first constituent body in the Valley Way. of Hartford, was born on July 7, 1984. Edwin Garfield was a Master It began, as all Masonic bodies begin, Mechanic with the Hartford, by brethren petitioning for a charter. Providence & Fishkill Railroad. He But in order for them to petition the passed to the Celestial Lodge Above on Supreme Council, the brethren had Master, Ira W. Ford. Secretary and November 16, 1877. He is noted, in his to be Scottish Rite brethren. With no Albert P. Pitkin, Treasurer. Of par- obituary in the Annual Report of the Valley in the Hartford area, when and ticular note, the by-laws of 1878 (the American Railway Master Mechanics where were these men made Scottish earliest on record) required that all Association that “his character was of Rite Masons? candidates must have attained the rank sterling worth and that he was also a On September 28, 1863, in of Knight Templar. This requirement of man of much wit and humor.” Providence, Rhode Island, the Templar membership persisted either Ira W. Ford was a long time Hartford nine charter members of the Valley formally or informally until the 1940s. resident. A lengthy article preserved of Hartford, eight of whom were Amos Pillsbury lived until 1910. He by the Connecticut Historical Society Knights Templar from Washington was a member of St. John’s Lodge No. details the celebration of his 50th Commandery No. 1 KT in Hartford, 4, serving as Worshipful Master in wedding anniversary to his wife, Mary, “received their sublime and superior 1864. He also served a term as Grand in 1897. degrees and orders of Ineffable Junior Warden of the Most Worshipful Albert P. Pitkin was a descendant Masonry,” or, in modern terms, they Grand Lodge of Connecticut. In 1867, of colonial Governor William Pitkin received their 32nd Degree. he requested a dimit from St. John’s and part of one of the oldest families The nine charter members were: Lodge to become a charter member of in Connecticut. His career centered • Amos Pillsbury, Lafayette Lodge No. 100 and served as on furnaces and steam boilers. A a mechanic, age 34 their Worshipful Master in 1868. very detailed biography of his life can • Joseph K. Wheeler Joseph K. Wheeler was also a be found at http://www.rootsweb. a merchant, age 30 member of St. John’s Lodge No. ancestry.com/~ctharbio/Pitkin_ • Lucius E. Hunt, 4. A Past Eminent Commander of Albert.html. a merchant, age 34 Washington Commandery No. 1 KT, he Samuel Mumford is the mystery • Samuel L. Way, also served as the Grand Secretary of man on the list of charter members. a merchant, age 31 the Grand Lodge of Connecticut. In He was not made a Master Mason in • Edwin Garfield, his Scottish Rite career he served as any lodge in Connecticut. A Samuel a mechanic, age 48 presiding officer of the Lodge, Council Mumford is listed in an early City • Ira W. Ford, a merchant and Chpater (Council and Chapter Directory of Hartford, with an occu- age 47 were chartered in 1876), for a total pation of chemist, and when he passed • Albert P. Pitkin, of 12 terms, the second longest pre- on February 28, 1878 at age 65, the a mechanic, age 34 siding tenure of any Valley of Hartford funeral notice requested that “Newport • Enoch P. Savage brother. In 1865, he was coroneted a papers please copy.” That fact would a mechanic, age 39 Sovereign Grand Inspector, 33º. He indicate that he was from the Newport, • Samual Mumford died on October 10, 1894. Rhode Island area, and probably a On July 28, 1864, the Charter Oak Lucius E. Hunt was serving as member of the Scottish Rite there, but Lodge of Perfection was instituted the Major Commandant of the First as their records are not extant, that is under the direction of Ill. Brother Company, Governor’s Foot Guard a mostly just speculation. Nathan H. Gould, 33º, Deputy for prominent Hartford military orga- It has been said, by a prominent Rhode Island and Connecticut. An nization, from 1862 to 1865. During member of the Valley of Hartford, the election was held and Amos Pillsbury that term he became a Scottish Rite late Ill. Brother R. Stanley Penfield, was chosen as the first Thrice Potent Mason and helped start the Valley. Master, Joseph K. Wheeler as Deputy Commanding the Foot Guard and Continued on page 21

20 CT Freemason • January 2015 150 years of Continued from page 3 of my mother Lodge, Hiram Lodge, No. 18 – especially their Worshipful Perfection of Freemasonry that we once enjoyed Master, Brother Richard Gossinger and and value so much. It is my expec- his officers. And now I wish to express Continued from page 21 tation and with YOUR support that my deepest appreciation to the many when guided by these principles, we 33º, that “History may seem a bit dull at Brothers from our Lodges and Blue will move forward together as true times, but we should never forget that it Lodge Councils - the Shriners, York and equal Masonic Brothers should. is made by men acting out their dreams Rite and most especially the Scottish Teamwork is an invaluable equation and aspirations.” In the mid-1800s, Rite Bodies and their leaders for their in the calculus of solid leadership and ongoing strength, support, thoughts, nine men acted out their dreams and I pledge that I will lead a well-coordi- prayers, cards, phone calls and emails aspirations and began an organization nated team of Grand Lodge Officers – your steadfast love and support that still exists today. Through their as we serve you. I also pledge never gave me a steady flow of serene energy hard work and dedication, the Valley of to forget the words of every Senior and endurance. Again, I thank you Hartford was born, and in the 150 years Warden: “harmony being the strength from the bottom of my heart for your since that time, the hard work and ded- and support of all societies, more espe- presence in my life. Truly, I have been ication of countless other brothers have cially of ours”. When we lose harmony exceedingly blessed with a broad array nurtured and grown that organization – we lose strength and support among of friends in this great fraternity that into one of the finest Valleys in the ourselves and when we lose harmony we call Freemasonry! Northern Masonic Jurisdiction. within our communities, cities and And now - a new sun is breaking countries – it can and may well lead to through dawn and we are embraced social chaos and wars between nations. with a fresh and new kind of light. A Starting immediately, I will be trav- new era is about to begin and we must Perfect Ashlar eling extensively within our Grand … and we will labor together in this Jurisdiction exchanging ideas and new bright light and merge together as Awards at sharing the current and long range true and loving Masonic Brothers. We St. Alban’s plans of our Grand Lodge. I welcome will respect our differences and learn opportunities to visit your Lodges and to compromise from rigid positions to Lodge No. 38 Blue Lodge Council meetings – to hear core centers of mutual acceptance for your concerns and to absorb them into the betterment of Freemasonry and by Larry Anvik our short and long range plans. ourselves as men. We must cognitively At the St. Alban’s Lodge No. 38 In closing I would like to express practice the teachings and principles annual awards night last week, new my deepest appreciation to Nancy, my of our great Fraternity with harmony, names were added to the list of lodge wife of 44 years. Her unswerving love compassion, trust, fairness, tradition, Brothers who completed their Perfect and support have been my rock. I wish truth and above all - Brotherly Love. Ashlar Award. The Perfect Ashlar to especially thank my two attorneys Thank you, my Brothers and ladies Award has been a priority at St. Alban’s Raymond Savoy and Creighton English too. Nancy and I deeply appreciate lodge since it originated in 2011. Since who have labored long and hard in your presence today - thank you so that time there have been one or addressing my needs and the overall much for coming and being with us. more Brothers complete the rigorous best interests of our Craft. Over the last And now, will you all stand with me requirements for this award every year. ten months they have given broad and and bow our heads. May God bless all wise guidance and counsel – always As Brothers complete their work and of us, our loved ones, our nation and covering every detail and option. As qualify for the award, their names are our great Fraternity. So Mote it Be! Masonic Brothers and lawyers, they added to a perpetual award plaque that Fraternally, provided endless hours of dedicated Thomas McCauley Maxwell II resides in the lodge banquet room. labor and positive support – and for Most Worshipful Grand Master This year St. Alban’s is proud to rec- this, I am eternally grateful. ognize Brothers John Celotto and Val Next, I wish to thank the members Gomez as the latest additions for 2014. Past recipients include Mike Ganci, in 2011 and who is now the program mentor; Gordon Walters and John Kelley in 2012; and Jason Caruso, To Advertise in the Next Edition Peter Cianelli and Patrick Ferrebee in 2013. The lodge is also fortunate to of CT FreeMason have others who are on the path to add Call Jean 860-608-2796 or their names in 2015. Congratulations to Brothers John, Val and all past Call Ted 860-235-0770 recipients.

CT Freemason • January 2015 21 Meet The Maxwells Continued from page 4 they forged a path of their own, and Tom met. was raised to the Sublime Degree of they were married in Newtown, Nancy has French and Scottish her- Master Mason, in Hiram Lodge No. Connecticut, on April 8, 1970. They itage. Tom and Nancy’s middle son 18, in Newtown, in 1974. He served as have three grown sons. Thomas M. carries the name of Kirkpatrick. It Worshipful Master in 1979 and again in Maxwell III now lives in Seattle, came from Nancy’s grandparents. She 1990. He belongs to all of the York and Washington; Scott Kirkpatrick, who is very interested in genealogy. When Scottish Rite bodies He served as Most lives in California’s Napa Valley; and Nancy and Tom were touring Scotland, Puissant Grand Master of the Most Daniel, who lives in Dallas, Texas. they found that the Maxwell and the Puissant Grand Council of Connecticut. The Maxwells are members of Trinity Kirkpatrick castles were but a wee He is a holder of the Ill. Arthur M. Episcopal Church in Newtown. bit apart in mileage. Nancy is also a Mayflower descendant. She is proud to Brown, 33° Meritorious Service Award, Meet Nancy Maxwell and was coroneted a Sovereign Grand tell anyone who asks that she can trace Inspector General, 33° in the Scottish Nancy C. Maxwell was born and her family back to Richard Warren, a Rite. He is a past Commander-in-Chief raised in Pontiac, Michigan. While signer of the Mayflower Compact, who of Lafayette Consistory. On November attending a local college, Nancy and hailed from Shorditch St. Leonard, a 1, 2014, he became our 168th Grand one of her closer friends were chatting parish within Middlesex, England. Master. about where they would go, and what Nancy’s grandmother, a Kirkpatrick, When Tom came to Wilton, they would do when their college days had an affiliation with the Order of the Connecticut he found more than a live- were behind them. Eventually, Nancy Eastern Star. Unfortunately, that link lihood, he found a life. He met a fellow was accepted to teach French at Wilton is still missing. The search goes on. teacher, Nancy C. Rindsusz. Together, High School. That is where Nancy and So, here’s to Tom and Nancy M.W.G.M.Announces Plan for Renewed Solidarity

Continued from page 15 Solidarity (called G.P.S) is a commu- to remain clearly informed of the ideas, nication process that will effectively proposals, concerns and sentiments must include and reflect the values, engage and draw upon the collective of the Craft, and equally importantly, desires and opinions of the Craft! intelligence of the Craft. It does so in a enables the Craft to know the collective The Grand Master’s Plan for manner that allows the Grand Master opinions of its members. The G.P.S program has been under development for quite some time. It is a straight forward, focused and pur- poseful program which draws upon our core Masonic principles as well as key insights from Organizational Psychology. It is an established fact that organizations are empowered by processes that continually take a deep look at their present functioning and membership sentiment. Such organizations are better positioned to maintain harmony. Organizations and their leaders that fail to address membership sentiment do so at their own peril. An informative presentation on the G.P.S. program is available on the Grand Lodge of Connecticut’s website for all Master Masons to review and can be located under the News and Info tab. The Grand Master will be commu- nicating to all Lodges regarding this program and District Deputies will be delivering collateral material and instructions for participation

22 CT Freemason • January 2015 Hospitality Lodge No. 128 Raises First Two Master Masons by Francis G. Way The brethren of Hospitality Lodge No. 128 raised their first two Master Masons since being chartered, with suitable assistance from the brothers of Frederick-Franklin Lodge No. 14, on October 28 in Plainville, Connecticut. Brothers Alberto Dieguez and Douglas Maliszewski were not rushed through their degrees, but were immersed in lodge life and Masonic experiences along the way. An emphasis was placed on proficiency and participation, and both experienced passing their proficiency in open lodge. Each was active in the affairs of the lodge, and by the time their special arrived, both were well prepared. The evening began with a simple but tasty dinner of Shepherd’s Pie, degree. WB Manner had enlisted the who participated in the degree signed expertly prepared by Worshipful Frederick-Franklin brethren to put on them for Hospitality’s newest Master Brother Richard Fentner, Hospitality’s their “Builders Lodge” and Brothers Masons. While the most impressive Chaplain and resident chef. After Randal Hornady, Brian Beals and part of the evening may have been the dinner, the brethren retired to the Frank Dlugoleski did not disappoint. degree, perhaps the most memorable lodge room to begin their labors. Brethren from both lodges made up aspect for all involved was the feeling As it was Hospitality’s annual the corps of craftsman, led by Brother of brotherhood and warm fellowship inspection, the evening began with Ken Jones, and flawlessly performed shared by all in attendance. Much the reception of District Deputy Right their parts and floorwork as if they had like an Amish barn raising, these two Worshipful Brother Eric Hoy and been rehearsing for weeks. RWB Mark lodges came together, worked hard side Associate Grand Marshal Worshipful Parsiliti filled several roles and kept by side and raised two Master Masons Brother Steven Spencer. While the second half on track by acting as by performing an excellent degree. Worshipful Master Ric Manner may “degree director.” It certainly served as an example have been disappointed that RWB Brothers Dieguez and Maliszweski to all brethren that collaboration can Hoy did not take the gavel to preside were raised, lectured and welcomed be fun as well as mutually beneficial over the work of the evening, he did into the fraternity. Each was pre- when several lodges get together for a not show it and he expertly guided sented a Bible by the brethren of common purpose. the lodge through the first half of the Frederick-Franklin Lodge, and all Let Them Eat Cake Continued from page 19 attending the degree in support of discovering in themorning that the his father Michael who was one of the day of the inspection was also Steve’s Master Masons, most especially those three initiated this night. birthday. A cake was added to the after soon to be Master or Wardens. The Michael had questioned his son meeting refreshments prepared by the Perfect Ashlar application was given to and was so impressed by his expe- stewards. Indeed, it was a night of cele- each of the Entered Apprentices with rience that he subsequently petitioned brations among fellows and friends. an enumeration of upcoming oppor- the lodge. I travel with my camera to tunities for them, using WM Paige’s capture memories of our visits. Besides announcement of events as starting a photo of the Entered points, to do some of the 18 items (10 Apprentices with the Worshipful What is the oldest required) in the program immediately. Master, District Deputy and Associate Masonic lodge A wonderful example of fellowship Grand Marshall, a father and son photo in Connecticut practiced by the Lodge is Jason, a was taken. Perhaps the warmest senti- newly passed Fellowcaft of the lodge, ments were accorded RW Steve upon

CT Freemason • January 2015 23 Village Lodge Builds King Solomon’s Temple by the Brothers of Village Lodge No. 29 On Saturday, November 22, 2014, the Brothers of Village Lodge No. 29 assembled a representation of King Solomon’s Temple during their Master Mason degree for the benefit of their newest Master Masons. Brothers Brian Moakley, Jason Black, Kris Thompson, and Josh Bristol (pic- tured from left to right) were raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason as many a Brother and Fellow has done before them. However, in keeping with to build King Solomon’s Temple during creating an experience that they will a Village Lodge tradition, they wit- the degree, thus bringing the lessons of not forget. nessed the craftsman actually laboring the degree to life before their eyes and Notes For The Valley Of New Haven by Michael Castroll suspects should be in attendance, but the formal program closes, refresh- Happy New Year, everyone! We are that does not mean that everyone else ments will be served in the banquet off and running, again! I hope everyone should stay home. There could be more hall. This will also allow for all other celebrated a wonderful holiday season accomplished if more of you attended. questions to be answered and bonds of in style. By now, the floors and fur- On Monday evening, January 19, fellowship to form. The final event for niture should be cleaned up, decora- we will host a Candidate Information January is Friday evening, January 30, tions down, house sparkling clean, the Night. Gather up your prospects for when we will gather at the Owl Smoke egg nog drunk, the coffee perked, and our Spring Reunion, and bring them to Shop, for our Scotch and Cigar Night. everyone ready to go back to work. New Haven, where they will be intro- Enjoy a good whiff, and a great taste The Valley begins with a Stated duced to a series of vignettes from the of downtown New Haven. Do not feel Meeting on January 12, at 7:30 P.M. It Scottish Rite degrees. They will also rushed, but savor all of the quality the is at the New Haven Masonic Temple, learn about Scottish Rite charities like Valley of New Haven has in store for at 285 Whitney Avenue, New Haven. schizophrenia research, the Abbott you. If you are a brother of the Valley of We will do our housekeeping, and Scholarships, the Museum of National New Haven and have not recently par- hand out and receive petitions for our Heritage, and the 32º Children’s ticipated in our labors, come back and upcoming Spring Reunion. The usual Learning Centers for Dyslexia. After bring some prospects for our Spring Reunion, and “see it again for the first time.” You will be glad you did! We have been pleased over the years to support our DeMolay Chapters and Rainbow Assemblies. As a result, a number of esteemed and illustrious brothers have been numbered among us who began their Masonic journey as Masonic youth, such as Ill. Bruce R. Bellmore M.S.A. 33°, Carl G. Ek, Chris Earle, Ill. Kenneth B. Hawkins, Sr. 33°, Ill. Randy S. Stevens M.S.A. 33°, Ill. Gus Bodin 33°, Ill. Charles A. Buck, Jr. 33°, and Willis E. Copeland, Jr. M.S.A. These are just some of the shining examples resulting from our continued support of Masonic youth. See you in the Valley…

24 CT Freemason • January 2015 Inside the Door by Creighton English duty to serve the Craft. As part of this has brought “forth something to make Over the past twelve months I service I will keep the Craft informed greater struggle necessary.” have had the privilege to meet many of discussions at Grand Lodge officer The installation of MWB Maxwell brothers who have expressed a keen meetings, as well as visit Blue Lodge begins the transition from an admin- desire to elevate the behavior of the Councils, Lodges and functions. istration of strict authoritarian control Grand Lodge to the ideals found in the I am reminded of the words of over Lodges to one of leadership and fraternity’s several oaths, lectures and Brother Walt Whitman: “Now under- cooperation between Grand Lodge, Ancient Landmarks. On November 1, stand me well; it is provided in the Blue Lodges, and Brothers. The guide the installation of Most Worshipful essence of things that from any fruition for this leadership is found in the Brother Thomas M. Maxwell II, of success comes forth something to Constitution, Masonic Law, Practice, realized this desire of the Craft. make even greater struggle necessary.” Rules and Regulations. MWB Maxwell I have been appointed as Grand The Craft elected MWB Maxwell to has been working closely with Brothers Junior Deacon by MWB Maxwell, a serve and the Craft ensured his instal- Yohe and Smith to ensure an orderly privilege beyond any expectation. I lation. This event should not now be transition in the future succession of now sit inside the door! This honor relegated to historical record but rather Grand Masters. and privilege carries a corresponding serve as a clarion call that the Craft This is the first of several posts I Valley Of Hartford, A.A.S.R., David R. Blythe, Sr., 330, for 2015 is: Thursday, February 12, or Friday morning between 9:00 Valley Secretary 4th & 6th Degrees; ThursdayFebruary am and noon at (860) 666-0712 or Having planned a year-long Scottish 26, 16th Degree in banquet format; via e-mail at [email protected] for more Rite class, the Valley portrayed no Thursday, March 12, 18th Degree, information. Informational DVDs degrees in November and December. and finally Saturday, April 25, the are also available. Finally, a reminder Instead, on Friday evening, November 26th and 32nd Degrees. Pre-degree regarding inclement weather: should 14, the Valley sponsored a Family Life dinners are scheduled for all Thursday the Newington public schools close event. Members and family dined on a evening degree nights at at 6:00 p.m. for inclement weather, there will be no traditional turkey dinner at the Sphinx at the Sphinx Shrine Center. Thursday office hours that day, and a late opening Shrine facility and then witnessed a evening degrees start at 7:30 p.m. and may delay the start of office hours as performance of a masonic play entitled Saturday degrees start at 9:00 a.m., fol- well. “Treasures of Darkness.” Also that lowed by a luncheon after the degrees. Notifications of cancellations of evening, members of the spring class If you know of a fellow Mason who degrees, rehearsals or meetings will be were presented with their Scottish Rite would like to become a 320 Scottish on WFSB-TV3, WVIT-TV30, WTNH certificates. The degrees portrayals Rite Mason please have him contact the TV8 and FOX-61. will resume in February 2015. Valley Office any Monday, Wednesday, Other Family Life events slated this year included the Goodspeed Opera House production of “Holiday Inn” and a University of Hartford women’s baseketball game against the ladies of Sacred Heart University. These events wrapped up the fall schedule. As the winter season continues it is important to remember those brethren who may have lost a love one, are sick, or who are alone. Extend the hand of friendship and brotherly love and call or visit them to ease their burden. Upcoming in 2015 are more Family Life events such as the joint Scottish Rite-Sphinx Shrine event scheduled for Saturday evening, January 31st, and a spring bus trip to Lexington- Concord for a guided tour of that historical area, lunch at the 1716 Colonial Inn, and a visit to the Scottish Rite Heritage Museum. The degree schedule CT Freemason • January 2015 25 Ivanhoe Lodge No. 107 and the Masonic Club of Darien Support Wreathes Across America by John Amarilios Ivanhoe Lodge No. 107 and the Masonic Club of Darien, represented here by Past Master David Polett, shown with members of the local Daughters of the American Revloution chapter, presented checks from the lodge and club to the organizers of Wreaths Across America who placed wreaths in Darien’s Spring Grove Veterans’ Cemetery on December 13, 2014. Hundreds of wreaths were laid at the cemetery, in what has become an annual Darien Masonic tradition. Ivanhoe Lodge, along with other lodges in the lower southwestern part of the state have supported this tradition of remembrance for several years. It is part of a larger national movement which eventually hopes to place a wreath on all the graves of all veterans buried at our 410 National Cemeteries and 24 overseas facilities Fayette Lodge No. 69 Installation of Officers by Perne Maynard On Sunday, December 14, 2014, Fayette Lodge No. 69 conducted their annual installation of officers for the 2015 calendar year. On this day, however, history was made at Fayette, as the current Most Worshipful Grand Master Thomas M. Maxwell II and his suite of offices were present to witness the young, enthusiastic members of Fayette Lodge being installed. Also in attendance were Gail N. Smith, MWPGM and RWB Eric Hoy, District Deputy of District 3A. Right Worshipful Brother Dee AC Smith, a Past District Deputy from Fayette Lodge was the installing officer, and nine Past Masters also took part in the installation. Over 50 people were lights and benefits as the Master of can be found at: http://www.masonso- present to the new Worshipful Master Fayette Lodge No. 69 for the ensuing faction.org/2015-fayette-69-installa- Stephen W Paliocha, receive the rights, year. Many photos of this festive event tion-of-officers.html

26 CT Freemason • January 2015 Inside the Door Master inquired as to the state of the Brothers, Lodges and the Grand Craft and a lively discussion ensued Lodge. The Grand Master’s goal is to Continued from page 25 concerning communication between restore harmony, core values and alle- will make to the Craft relating the the Grand Lodge and the constituent giance based upon Christian values, ongoing discussions of the Grand Lodges. The discussion also iden- forgiveness and brotherly love. Lodge officers. This will allow the Craft tified concern over the unilateral The second meeting began with a to participate in the discussions and decision to abandon the nine districts. formal presentation of a program that have input, opinions and positions and It was observed that the continued MWB Maxwell plans to implement. further the transparency promised by participation in Blue Lodge Council The Grand Master’s “Plan for MWB Maxwell. meetings indicated a strong bond Solidarity” was presented by RWB Joe Since November 1, there have been among the Craft to the nine districts. Porco and RWB Anthony Raiani. The two Grand Lodge officer meetings. The meeting concluded with the Grand plan is designed to provide meaningful The first served to introduce existing Master restating his goal of restoring communication between Grand Lodge members to new members. The Grand meaningful communication between officers and constituent Lodges. The Many Valuable Lessons of Scottish Rite Masonry by John A. Amarilios, Membership as Freemasons dawns upon the for- Lafayette Consistory. It is a wonderful Chairman, Lafayette ConsistoryIn tunate men who awaken to this reality. opportunity to direct more light into each of the 29 unique degrees com- The Scottish Rite illustrates, through your life, and to accelerate your devel- prising the Scottish Rite, the brother the presentation of 29 degrees, many oping awareness and consciousness, by working his way through this path is facets that make up the promise obtaining the full promise and measure given another facet of the 3rd degree of the Master Mason degree. This of value, inherent in being a Master on which to reflect, ponder and work. coming year, consider accelerating the Mason! Degree work begins again this The intention of the degrees is to assist progress you are making on your own winter with the 4th Degree on Monday, the brother in directing his meditation personal rough ashlar by experiencing February 9, 2015. We hope to see you on another aspect of the full width and these degrees, including some that are there. breadth of the Master Mason degree. rarely seen, that will be performed in Every brother has the same opportunity when he is raised in his blue lodge. If, after taking the three degrees of Masonry, he is fortunate enough to stir and awaken the Master that resides within himself, he will then comprehend that a massive, seemingly unfathomable work has been laid out before him on the Trestleboard of his new life. The job can only be taken a step at a time, and the work of smoothing out the proverbial rough ashlar to one that is perfect is hard unheralded work. It is difficult, silent work that struggles con- tinuously against the ego and desires of the temporal personality and body. In this arduous manner the work goes on during the entire lifetime. A Mason’s work is never done accomplishing the perfection of the smooth ashlar requires a complete and unflinching devotion to the Great Work. By fits and starts, tumbles and crashes, bit by bit the evolving Mason attains greater consciousness and under- standing of what Life is really about. Every tiny improvement won by great effort, and the realization that this is what we are here to do and accomplish

CT Freemason • January 2015 27 Masonicare From the desk of Bro. Stephen B. McPherson Traditionally, December is a time for celebration and reflection. And Much of Masonicare’s this year was no different. As it has work involves helping been for many years, the lobby of the those with cog- Masonicare Health Center was alive nitive impairment, with the Festival of Trees so fabulously notably dementia and decorated by staff and volunteers. The Alzheimer’s disease. lobby of Masonicare at Newtown, too, was festive with beautifully decorated wreaths. Silent auctions in both loca- Connecticut Freemasons, I shared that tions raised thousands for the Quality I had had the opportunity to view the of Life funds to augment programs premier of the Glen Campbell docu- and resident needs during the holiday mentary, “I’ll Be Me.” In December and season. Masonicare also hosted its January, Masonicare will co-sponsor a Tree of Life remembrance events in screening of the film with LeadingAge late November and early December, Connecticut. This month’s screening bringing together families in Stamford, will be on Wednesday, January 21 at East Hartford and Mystic who had 6:30 at Masonicare at Ashlar Village. lost loved ones during the year. These The documentary takes place over the activities are a celebration of life and course of four years. Mr. Campbell our commitment to caring for those in wanted to raise awareness of those HelpLine at 888-679-9997. need. individuals and families struggling I encourage you to see this film Much of Masonicare’s work with the disease. It is an emotional and attend our screening. Through involves helping those with cognitive and, at times controversial, look at Mr. heightened awareness, we hope that impairment, notably dementia and Campbell’s journey and the progression additional research funding will result Alzheimer’s disease. In keeping with of the disease. Following the screening, and a cure for this terrible disease will our support of those affected by these a panel of experts will discuss their be just around the corner. diagnoses, Masonicare is partnering thoughts on it and answer audience with LeadingAge Connecticut to questions. For more information or Sincerely and fraternally broaden discussion and awareness of to reserve a seat, call the Masonicare the disease. In the November issue of Masonicare Annual Festival of Trees by Sandy Potter The Twenty-Sixth Annual Festival of Trees was held at Masonicare Health Center in December. The very popular event featured a silent auction of 60 unique, theme-decorated tabletop trees designed and trimmed by teams of Masonicare employees, volunteers, and residents. Auction proceeds support the Masonicare Charity Foundation’s Holiday Appeal, that provides festive parties and a present for every resident of Masonicare Health Center

28 CT Freemason • January 2015 Masonicare Timing is Everything by Sandy Potter The pendulum sways gently and methodically back and forth as the minutes effortlessly go by on the new grandfather clock that stands outside the Waterside dining room at Masonicare’s Ashlar Village. However, this “new” clock has quite a history… one that begins back in 1983. As the story goes, a local community resident purchased the clock as a kit. But as is often the case with kits that require such a huge assembly job, it ended up sitting in his basement for 25 years never touched. The kit was donated to Masonicare a handful of years ago but arrived in dismal con- dition with mildew and broken pieces from years of neglect. It was clear that reviving it would be quite a task and thus it sat idle in the Masonicare woodshop until resident Bro. Irving Pease took on the challenge. Irving, the son of a cabinet maker, can often be found in the workshop making items such as Christmas ornaments that he donates to be sold for the Ashlar Village employee scholarship fund. “I was tired of looking at it,” he explains. “So I decided it was now or never and I was going to do it myself.” The first two months were spent making repairs and sanding down the wood in order to get it back into workable shape. Then Irving began the assembly and finishing work, carefully coating it with layers of tung oil. The entire job took six months. “I was glad to get it over with,” Irving says with a smile. Now he and all the residents and staff at Masonicare’s Ashlar Village have the joy of seeing this beautiful clock used for the purpose it was intended. And, the reactions from his fellow residents are priceless! “Oh, they really like it, but they also stand in front of it and compare it to their watches so they can tell me it’s for eight years. Besides spending time a cable network recording high school three seconds slow or something!” he in the workshop, Irving volunteers as sporting events and racing events in jokes. a videographer at resident community Conn., Mass., and N.Y. Irving Pease and his wife, Madeline, meetings. He is originally from Somers, It’s safe to say that Irving rescued have been residents of Ashlar Village CT and spent many years working for this lovely treasure ‘just in time’

CT Freemason • January 2015 29 Masonicare Hospice Program of Masonicare Partners Recognized as a We Honor Veterans Partner East Hartford-based Masonicare see how we might serve them better. Partners Home Health & Hospice has “We also bring hospice care into many achieved full designation as a We Honor nursing homes in the area and have Veterans partner. The recognition begun an educational initiative to stress comes from the National Hospice and the importance of identifying someone Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO) who has served in the military,” notes which manages and certifies the four- John Roush, Volunteer Coordinator at level program in collaboration with the Masonicare Partners. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Marie Roman, Supervisor of Masonicare Partners Home Health Counseling Services, adds that & Hospice is the only hospice program Masonicare “has expanded our identi- in the state that has completed all four fication and outreach to our home care levels. patients which creates a possible early Statistically, one out of four American Our staff is trained to identify needs, intervention of care prior to end of life. deaths is a Veteran. In Connecticut, resources and any interventions related Ours is the first program in the country there are more than 230,000 Veterans, to Veterans’ issues. We also are trained that has incorporated the approach of most of whom are over the age of 64. in accessing the VA system and have looking beyond hospice to educate and The goal of the We Honor Veterans strategies that encourage Veterans to create Veterans awareness.” effort is to increase Veterans’ awareness access the system,” says Donna Dow, Masonicare hopes to roll out the We and access to quality care at the end of Hospice Clinical Director. Honor Veterans training statewide. life. One component of We Honor For more information or if you “When a case is opened, we find out Veterans is the involvement of specially are interested in volunteering, please if the patient is a Veteran and complete trained volunteers. Another involves contact John Roush at jroush@ a Military Checklist we developed. surveying the veterans in our care to masonicare.org or 860-290-6737

Tree of Life Exceeds Fundraising Goal A fundraiser organized by The Masonic Charity Foundation of Connecticut, the 2014 Tree of Life raised over $72,000 to benefit the home health and hospice programs of Masonicare, surpassing the goal of $68,000. The Tree of Life is an evening of music, words of inspiration and remembrance capped off with a non-denomi- national tree lighting ceremony. Tree of Life events were held in November and December in Stamford, East Hartford and, for the first time, Mystic. “We are so grateful to all who made gifts in support of this program and to all of our sponsors,” said Patricia L. Morgan, Director of Development at The Masonic Charity Foundation. “We were pleased by the response the Tree of Life received from the Masonic community, which continues to show its support for the work of Masonicare financially and in the form of volunteerism.”

30 CT Freemason • January 2015 Masonicare What’s Behind One Mason’s Support of Masonicare By Adam Raider like about living at the Health Center, Bro. Greg Wentworth, a member and they’ll tell us that they feel safe of The Masonic Charity Foundation’s and cared for. We feel good knowing Board of Directors, is a strong pro- that our gifts have helped make them ponent of corporate giving programs. more comfortable.” One example of this is corporate “That’s what I need to see and hear,” gift matching, in which the donor’s Greg says. “I want to see how the work employer can multiply a gift to a par- that I’m doing as a donor and board ticular charity, making it go further. member is benefiting the residents and Greg and his wife, Becky, take patients of Masonicare. In this case, advantage of the gift matching program we’re helping people who are nearing at Greg’s employer. In this way, the or have reached the end of their lives. Wentworths are able to double their That’s a real driving force for me.” Becky and Craig Wentworth donation to the Masonicare Annual Your gift to The Masonic Charity Appeal. New Masons are exposed to so much Foundation of Connecticut could In recognition of their generous material that they miss the depth of the enhance the quality of life for a support, Greg and Becky were honored services provided by Masonicare. But Masonicare resident or patient in need. as members of The Foundation’s Masons need to visit one of our facil- To find out how you can support The Builder’s Society. ities and see how things like a new set Foundation or to make a gift, please call “Becky and I have always enjoyed of dentures or eyeglasses are enhancing 203-679-5555 or 800-562-3952. You volunteering in our community and the quality of life for the residents. It’s can also donate online at masonicare. giving back,” Greg explained, “and my pretty cool. I think all Masons should org/mcf. If you’re interested in making involvement with The Masonic Charity take a tour of Masonicare Health a corporate matching gift, please con- Foundation is an extension of that. I’m Center or Masonicare at Newtown.” sidercontacting your human resources glad that we’re able to help out with our “I enjoy going to Masonicare Health department to make sure The Masonic time and also financially. Masonicare is Center and actually having an oppor- Charity Foundation of Connecticut an organization that has been around tunity to interact with the residents,” is on your employer’s list of eli- for over 100 years and it would be nice Becky adds. “We ask them what they gible nonprofit organizations to keep it going for another 100, certainly well beyond us.” Shepherd Salem Lodge One of the reasons Greg has an No. 78 Master Mason Degree interest in the long-term success of Masonicare is because his aunt, by Chip Schofield McAllister. Brother McAllister is Jeanette Bird, is a resident of Ashlar On Tuesday, December 9, 2014, the a member of the Naugatuck Police Village. Brethren of Shepherd Salem Lodge Department, an honor he shares “She tells me that she’s very happy No. 78 hosted a Master Mason Degree. with WM Chip Schofield, Worshipful there, very contented,” Greg said. “She The Brothers assembled together in the Brothers Brian Newman, Joseph has no worries. The biggest concern she dinning hall at 6:30 p.m., and a roast Heston, and Brothers Marc Robinson, has is what to order for dinner. She is chicken dinner was served. Raymond Savoy, Randy Ireland, and also a Foundation donor, and that was After dinner the brethren assembled Ryan Burns. Brother Dan Hernandez without any encouragement from me.” in the lodge room and the lodge was of Morning Star Lodge No. 47 was also A member of Washington Lodge No. opened on the Master Mason Degree raised that evening. 70, Windsor, Bro. Greg believes strongly by WM Chip Schofield of Shepherd At the conclusion of the degree, RWB Salem Lodge No. 78. Among the vis- that younger members of the fraternity Robinson called on MWGM Thomas iting brethren was MWGM Thomas need to learn about the work Masonicare Maxwell for final words. The Grand Maxwell who sat among the craft to is doing to care for seniors in need. Master offered the warm and fraternal watch the degree. The degree was con- “Masons need to know that greeting from the Most Worshipful Masonicare cares for a wide spectrum ferred by the Police Degree Team, with Grand Lodge and spoke about the of patients,” he said, “from home health RWB Marshall Robinson presiding in degree, complimenting the Police to rehab to dementia care to hospice. the East. Degree Team on great degree. He then It’s an entire continuum. I know some Two brothers from Shepherd Salem people learn about Masonicare right at Lodge were raised to the sublime wished the Brethren a happy holiday the beginning when they first become degree of Master Mason that evening, season. The lodge of Master Masons was Masons, but others might miss it. Placido Garcia and Christopher Colin closed in due form by RWB Robinson. CT Freemason • January 2015 31 Die Zauberflöte Mozart, Masonry, And The Magic Flute by Shawn Coulter, 32º and Strict Observance Rite. Both of He may be known as an infamous these recognized appendant masonic 18th century musical genius to the degrees along with the three familiar public, but to the fraternity he was a masonic degrees of Entered Apprentice, brother. Fellowcraft and Master Mason. Like Born Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart on most lodges in Vienna at that time, 27 January 1756 to Leopold Mozart the lodge “Zr Wohltätigkeit” (Charity) (1719–1787) and Anna Maria, née Pertl into which Mozart was received, (1720–1778), at 9 Getreidegasse in observed the Rite of Rectified and Salzburg. This was the capital of the Strict Observance. This structure had Archbishopric of Salzburg, an eccle- been introduced in 1754 by Baron Carl siastic principality in what is now Gothelff von Hund und Altengrottkau, Austria, then part of the Holy Roman who claimed its roots went back to the Empire. He was the youngest of seven Templars Order of Knights. Themes children, five of whom died in infancy. later included Rosicrucian and various Judging by the facts however, he was practices involving alchemy and exposed to Masonic influences from astrology. It was not uncommon for an early age. In I772 Mozart wrote an European fraternities of that period aria on a Masonic hymn. Later on a admission was presumably arranged to assume such legendary origins. journey to France in I778, he carried by Baron von Gemmingen, the Master Realistically it meant considering a letter of recommendation from of the lodge whose acquaintance themselves in a spiritual sense, heirs an Austrian Freemason to lodges in Mozart had made in Mannheim. Both of the ancient Mystery Schools and Paris. Freemasons were among his the lodges “Zur wahren Eintracht” and traditions of medieval Alchemical family members, colleagues, friends “Zur Wohltatigkeit” met at that time at and Hermetic ideas and practices. and many of his patrons. It must have the house of Joseph von Weinbrenner, Consequently, Freemasonry prolif- been a rather natural development “Zum roten Krebsen” (Red Crayfish) in erated in Austria, with there being six- therefore, when he himself joined the Pressgasse (press ally) in the center ty-six lodges in 1784. the fraternity, received as an Entered of Vienna. Already a recognized and admired Apprentice on December 14, 1784 at Unlike other European countries, composer living in Vienna by this time. “Zr Wohltätigkeit” (Charity) Lodge in in Austria the 1738 Papal Bull against The year of his initiation, “The Marriage Vienna. Rapidly progressing, being Freemasonry had never been strictly of Figaro”, his first great opera was passed to Fellow-Craft on March 26, enforced by the government. Anyone produced in Paris. Apparently greatly 1785, and raised to the sub-lime degree could adhere to both philosophical inspired by his fraternal experience, of Master Mason, April 22 of the same streams of thought simultaneously, he almost immediately orchestrated year. Allegedly, he is said to have “con- though cautiously. However, the ear- his “Freemason’s Funeral Music” and verted” his father, as well as the com- liest Viennese lodges in the 1740s and music for the opening and closing of poser Haydn to the Craft. 1750s did not survive long. Empress a Lodge. Next he composed the opera, The Viennese Brother Kulka and Maria Theresa was ruling and being “Don Giovanni”, and his three great Otto Erich Deutsch have research on one who was opposed to Masonry, symphonies - the E flat, the G minor and Mozart’s admission and membership. had ordered a Viennese Lodge raided the C major, along with a great number Studying documents of the lodge in 1743, forcing its Master and her of concertos and chamber-works. “Zur wahren Eintracht,” preserved at husband, Francis I, to flee capture His last great opera, The Magic Flute, the State Archives, concluding that via secret staircase. Typical was the “Die Zauberflöte,” opened in Vienna Mozart was admitted to the lodge “Zur Masonic milieu at the time of Wolfgang on the evening of September 30, 1791. Wohltatigkeit” and not, as had been Amadeus Mozart becoming a Master Mozart conducted the first two perfor- supposed by such earlier biographers Mason. mances, then was overtaken by illness. as Hermann Abert, into the lodge Eventually between the 1760s and He endured on while the opera had an “Zur gekronten Hoffnung.” Because of 1770s several lodges were formed. unprecedented run of more than one restrictions imposed on Masonry at The Craft in Vienna differed from hundred consecutive performances. that time by the emperor, these two Masonry elsewhere, being based on Legend relates that in his sick bed, a lodges had been united with others the French-derived Clermont system watch in hand, he followed in imagi- to form the lodge “Zur neugekronten with its Scottish Rite, and the German nation the performance commencing Hoffnung” (Newly Crowned Hope). His masonic system known as the Rectified in the theater. The sickened composer

32 CT Freemason • January 2015 passed on to that undiscovered country Importantly, the other symbols rep- after it 67th performance on December resent six of the seven metals/planets 5, 1791. Only days after his death, recognized by the alchemists at that Brother Hensler delivered a funeral time, that is lead/saturn (bottom left), oration. The words of this oration were silver/moon (bottom right), quick- printed by Brother Ignaz Alberti in silver/mercury (left middle), tin/jupiter 1792. It was scribed of Brother Mozart (middle right), iron/mars (right side, -“It has pleased the Eternal Architect above Apis bulls head), and copper/ of the Universe to separate from our venus (topmost symbol). The seventh fraternal chain the most beloved and metal/planet, that is the gold/sun, is not meritorious of our members. Who did shown, but should be obviously visible not know him? Who did not esteem to the initiate. The Blazing Star came to him? Who did not cherish our worthy be referred to as the Sun. As we know, brother, Mozart?” lectures revised by Dr. Hemming and Remarkably, another blow came to adopted by the Grand Lodge of England the fraternity a few years following the at the Union in 1813 state, “The Blazing death of Maestro Amadeus. Francis II, Star, or glory in the center, refers us a youthful inexperienced monarch gov- to the sun, which enlightens the earth erned Austria. Swayed by conservative with its refulgent rays, dispensing advisers, and covert police naming high its blessings to mankind at large and officials involved in the brotherhood, giving light and life to all things here the situation culminated in June of below.” Finally the seven liberal arts, 1795. Elector Carl Theodor of Bavaria, astronomy, music, geometric, arith- issued a decree to close all Masonic metic, dialectic, rhetoric and grammar lodges in the Empire. Freemasonry can also be reflected in esoteric associ- Esoteric Illustration of the legally ceased in Austria for more than First Publication ation with names of the planets. a century. Endlessly filled with ritual The day of the first performance, a an urn with crossed serpents forming a and symbolism, Mozart’s final mas- booklet about the opera was available. Vesica Pisces, a cross, and in the lower terpiece is playful but profound. That This carefully edited publication of the foreground, broken columns, a spade, Die Zauberflöte is a barely veiled complete text was created in a leading a scythe and an hourglass. Items which Masonic allegory cannot be doubted printing-house of Vienna which should arouse interest by the initiate. to the knowledgeable Its story of belonged to the Freemason Ignaz To the front left, symbols on the steep- dichotomy celebrates the main themes Alberti (1760-1794). An independent ly-faced Obelisk at prominently show of masonry, the virtues of knowledge, publisher, Alberti chooses for the text a the head of the Egyptian Apis bull, justice, wisdom and truth. Possibly type-face which allows four point sizes often a representation of the Egyptian one of Mozart’s greatest compositions of type within the sentence. The largest fire and metal-working god Ptah as it is said to contain every spectrum point for the names of characters, the (Greek: Hephaestos, Roman: Vulcan) of musical form, from artful song to second largest for the story dialogues, and an ibis bird, the mercurial symbol chorale to fugue. Whether that is the yet a smaller one for the singers parts of the Egyptian god Thoth (Greek: case or not it speaks the Masonry of and the smallest reserved for stage Hermes, Roman: Mercury). Together Mozart, truly a vision for that Nobelist directions. As illustrator, Alberti adds these two symbols represent the two sense of sight, and a jewel for the two etchings. One is the front-piece principal alchemical qualities, placed attentive brethren ear. image and the other printed in front in this drawing in an Egyptian setting. of Papageno’s entrance song shows the bird-catcher in his feather-dress with a cage on his back. The front-piece image at first glance appears to pro- fanely depict temple like ruins, while covertly resembling a tracing board to the knowledgeable. So rich in esoteric symbolism to the initiate, it was unfortunately eliminated from all later edi- tions of the libretto. Superficial observation for example shows archways in the center, a male figure on center ground gazing stead- fastly at the blazing star. Top center are depictions of a tablet, to the right

CT Freemason • January 2015 33 Boosters Grand Boosters More than $25 thank you for David J. Herbert James E L’hernault Paul K. Edman contributing more than $25 David P. Hocking James T. McWain Paul F. Blake David C. Toomey, Jr. James A. Nankin Ralph K. Evans A. Harry W. Olsen, Jr. David B. Urban Jesse L. Maghan Raymond E. Moore Adrian E. Offinger Donald W. Dean In Memory of: Richard A. Arndt Alton L. Maclachland Donald C. Goss John F. Blersch, Sr. Richard W. Bogart Alvin J. MacBrien Donald H. Hasbrouck John A. Novack Robert W. Adams Anderson H. Ziedler, Jr. Douglas T. Barrett John B. Sterry Robert J. Furce Andrew G. Weimann, II Dwight C. Mertens John A. Sturges, Jr. Robert F. Kirschner Anthony F. Keegan Eric H. Hoy Joseph P. Vollrath Robert C. MacLellan Arthur F. Thorsen Frank A. Forzano Lawrence S. Elsner Robert MacQuarrie Arthur R. Tinsz Frank H. Lesco Lee J. Page Robert F. Polito, Jr. Aubrey V. Fisher Gail N. Smith Leonard F. D’Amico Rudolph Gaydos Benjamin A. Isaacson George R. Churchill Leonard W. Finegold Scott A. Mantz Bradford H. Ross George D. Moore Lester A. Culver, Jr. Shane Dufresne Carleton L. Quint George A. Stickels Lewis W. Pennell Steven C. Aldi Christiana C. Dean Gerald F. Thompson Lowell H. Cantor Thomas H. Wells Cleveland P. Huggins III Grant L. Brown Lyman J. McWain Warren W. Thompson Clifford T. Kearney Harold S. Curtis Maitland E. Hudson William A. Brinley, Jr. Clyde D. Eidson Howard E. Brown Martin C. Evensen William G. Hillman Dagobert F. Pfeiffer Howard W. Orr, Jr. Melvin J. Levy William J. Charamut David Cheney I. William Clark Michael D. Baker William R. McDonald David A. Gessert James J. Fahy Michael G. Fitting Individual Boosters thank you for contributing Edna McCraw James F. Standish Newton Holbrook $25 Edward Jevarjian Jerry G. Olson Nils S. Larson Edward Paradise John Bashar Orin H. Stark Al D. Croxall Eugene E. Lagasse John Butterworth, Jr. Paul S. Willey Alan B. Collinge F. Matthew Heinrich, Jr. John R. Kincade Peter J. Hunt Alan N. Knofla Frank J. Godwin, Jr. John P. Lukens Peter H. Stevens Albert W. Redway II Fred W. Nanamaker, Jr. John P. Mandly Raymond T. Barker Alfred R. Kirschner Frederick H. Russell John E. Pinkney Raymond H. Christopher Jr. Allen Bulmer Fridolf J. Rusgaitis John G. Radeach Ray N. Cooley, Jr. Alton L. Maclachlan Gary W. Arseneau John M. VanKirk Raymond J. Dolyak Alvin J. MacBrien Gary E. Cohen Joseph J. Howard Raymond P. Fricano Arthur H. Carlstrom Gary A. Littlefield Judd S. Blaze Rebecca H. Schoeck Arthur M. Pugh, Sr. George W. Coulston Karl W. Garms Richard Bauman Austin P. Geer George M. Krause Kenneth W. Lewis Richard R. Brabner B. Holt Whatley George M. Leaman Kevin H. Matsil Richard R. Brancifort Bernard H. Allen Gerhardt F. Schenck Kevin McWain Richard S. DiNardo Carl H. Brown Guy M. Touma Laurence W. Howe Richard E. Ruot Carl J. Mossberg Harmon L. Andrews Lawrence H. Anvik Robert A. Colbourn Charles M. Gilman Harmon E. Corey Lemuel G. Johnson, Jr. Robert W. Harriman Charles P. Keating Henry O. Felie Leon F. Smith, Jr. Robert B. Burden Charles C. Maxson Herbert W. Hope, Jr. Louis O. House IV Robert C. Peck Charles B. Ricker Herman J. Tulin Louis Vander Eyk Robert A. Simon Dale E. Sweet Ivan N. Finkle Lowell H. Cantor Rodney A. Spooner Donald G. Berry Jack H. Stevens Mark E. Furber Roger Jackson Donald N. Hentz James H. Landry Mario L. Accornero Roger Knickerbocker Donald Maehlenbrock James A. Lociciero Martin L. Rudnick Roy L. Smith E. Clifford Hill James L. Perkins Michael S. Shear Samuel B. Walker Edgar J. Wood James R. Savickas Miles E. Cochran, Jr. Sandie Greene

34 CT Freemason • January 2015 Boosters Individual Boosters Cont. Sandra D. Knotts Stanley S. Sheldon, Jr. Theodore R. Hespeler William H. Flagg Sandra E. Osten Stanley T. House Thomas M. Gutner William L. Greene Scott T. Sherrick Stephen B. McPherson Timothy R. Armstrong William E. Lehr, Jr. Simon R. LaPlace Stephen M. Thal William F. Clark William Welsh, Jr. Sprague Vigus Sven Svensen William G. Demetriades

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CT Freemason • January 2015 35 36 CT Freemason • January 2015