Cross Keys March 2021 (Freemasonry)

The Cross Keys March 2021

Cross Keys March 2021

The Monthly Newsletter of Lodge Houstoun St. Johnstone No.242

Number 235

Page 1

From the Editor The usual mix of articles this month with the Royal Arch article on colours. There are a couple of Scottish articles on Mar and Ailsa, as well as a follow up on the amazing effort by the RSEA which donated over £1m to the soldiers’ homes in Erskine. Thankfully, one of the main fundraisers, Bro. Tom Clark PM 426 who took Covid has recovered and while in hospital raised more money for the fund.

There is also a short article on the new museum in Latvia which is well worth a look especially if you’re on holiday (I know that could be a while!!). Bro. Konstantin is a very keen mason and I’m sure would appreciate any kind of help to develop this museum.

As vaccines roll out, hopefully there will be further light quite soon, but we will need to wait and see.

Stay safe brethren, Grant Cover—image from old masonic book.

In this issue: 3 4 5 7 8 9 10 12 13 15 16 17 19 20 21 23 24 25 26 27 28 29

Observations Bro. George Houstoun The Table Lodge Ritual Royal Arch Colours Masonic Girls’ School Grand Lodges in Ireland Bro. Enrico Fermi Past Grand Secretary Bro. James R. McKay PM Earls of Mar Why the Ashlar?

Marquises of Ailsa Masonic Miscellany Papal Bull 1738 Early French Freemasonry Museum in Latvia Free Will and Accord Australian Dress Code RSEA Background GL Opening in ILN 1859 GL/PGL News Various

The Cross Keys is a free magazine distributed across the many countries in order to spread the good (and sometimes not so good) qualities of the Craft. All views are of individual brothers and not any organised body.

Editor: Bro. N. Grant Macleod PM of Lodge Houstoun St. Johnstone No. 242 PM of The Anchor Lodge of Research No.1814 Past Provincial Grand Secretary of the Province of Renfrewshire East.

Proof Reader: Bro. Allan Stobo PM of Lodge Houstoun St. Johnstone No. 242 Treasurer 242

All Scottish Constitution.

Cross Keys March 2021

Page 2

Observations Three observations that I must make before I close. The first is that in whatever we do to adapt sensibly to our contemporary situation we ought never to lose sight of the esoteric content of what we are doing. In admitting candidates into any degree or Order we are not just formally entering them on the books.

We are meant in a real sense to be affecting their lives and the way that they will henceforth both see and carry out those lives. They are entering into new levels of relationship with their 'brethren', with the ancient Society they enter and the world in which they still live and work. How that happens is a 'mystery' but that it happens is a 'privilege'.

Ritual is the means by which that takes place.

We must not so change and trivialize our ritual that it is merely an odd form of 'abracadabra'.

Masonry that we share with all other regular Masonic bodies, like other Grand Lodges, but equally how can we best benefit by learning from them where they may have the same problems? Is it not interesting to reflect that early in the experience of the Australian Grand Lodges it was thought that in order to preserve the quality of ritual used at Lodge Installations it was preferable to have a State team do that ceremony than leave it to the private lodge brethren? This, however, is but the start of a discussion on this important topic. Other minds need to engage with 'the future of ritual'. I simply rest my case.

The second observation has to be, therefore, that in the end of the day the most fundamental requirement for true ritual has to be the maintenance of sincerity and a genuineness of meaning in its delivery. As a clergyman I have to tell you that the one great danger in my profession is undue familiarity with ritual texts. Once you imagine that all that matters is getting through the set words of the appointed ritual, and not meaning or conveying the meaning of what you say, then much, if not all, of what you are saying might as well be mumbo-jumbo. It does indeed become what the 16th century Reformers called 'hocus pocus' from a badly spoken 'hoc est corpus meus'. Revising the ritual may help to make it more meaningful but its delivery is paramount.

It is interesting that this discussion took place 20 years ago. Have we solved the problem or is it worse? It will depend on lodge to lodge, but generally, many lodges seem to struggle to put some degree teams together. And some of the other orders really struggle to confer degrees.

The third observation has to be another question - how do we most usefully and sensibly debate or advance this whole matter? How do we keep in touch with those who need help and discover what helps most? How do we ensure that what we may do to meet difficulties does not transgress the understanding of

Cross Keys March 2021

Bro Rev Neville Barker Cryer given in 2001 as part of a larger talk.

Why? The most common reasons cited are age of main degrees workers and brethren losing interest in the lodge/chapter etc. Sadly many young brethren join with no interest in learning degree work for many varied reasons. I have seen a lecture given which was read from an iPad—I have to say I was pleasantly surprised as it was delivered very well and did not detract one little bit. Perhaps we need to accept alternative ways of delivering degree work . . .

Page 3

Bro. George Houstoun

The fourth Laird of Johnstone was another George Houstoun who succeeded his father Ludovic who had succeeded his father, also Ludovic. He was born on the 8th September 1744, his mother being Jane Rankine. He succeeded his father at the age of 14 in 1757 and in 1779 he married Mary McDowall, daughter of William McDowall, M.P. of Garthland (a member of Garthland St. Winnoch No.205).

They had two sons, Ludovic and William (first master of 242) born in 1780 and 1781 respectively.

During his time as Laird George extended Johnstone Castle, was involved in coal mining at Quarrelton, had lime works at Floor Craig and cotton mills on his estate. He was also a founding partner of the Paisley Union Bank in 1788 along with nine others. In 1838 the bank was taken over by the Union Bank of

Cross Keys March 2021

Scotland. He affiliated to 242 in 1811 from Glasgow Kilwinning No.4 (possibly because his son was founding master) and died on the 31st December 1815; he was succeeded by his son Bro. Ludovic who joined 242 in 1811.

He left estate valued at £29,750, in economic power terms worth over £155 million today.

Ludovic married Ann Stirling, daughter of John Stirling of Kippendavie and Kippenross in 1809. They had one son, another George, more of which later. He carried on with the businesses his father had established and in the 1861 census, when he was 80 years old it was recorded that he farmed 120 acres, employed 55 miners and 12 labourers in his coal works, 14 miners, 14 labourers, 2 joiners and 2 blacksmiths in the lime works and in his three mills 156 males and 276 females. Clearly a major employer in the area.

Page 4

The Table Lodge

The opening of the Table Lodge:

S.W.: To see if the lodge is tiled.

WM.: Satisfy yourself. (* * *) Master calls up the lodge for invocation S.W.: It is Chaplain: Supreme Ruler of the Universe, we W.M.: What is the second? would reverently invoke Thy blessing at this S.W.: To see if the brethren are in order. time. Wilt Thou be pleased to grant that this (After looking about), They are, WM. meeting, thus begun in order, may be conWM.: Why are we met together? ducted in peace and closed in harmony.

S.W.: To erect a temple of virtue.

Amen.

W.M.: How long must we work?

Response: So mote it be.

S.W.: From midday to midnight. (*) W.M.: Brothers Senior and Junior Warden, W.M.: How long a time is required to make an invite our brethren to assist us in opening a Entered Apprentice?

Lodge of Entered Apprentices and one of ta- S.W.: Three years. ble instruction.

W.M.: What is the hour?

S.W.: Brethren, assist us in opening a Lodge S.W.: Almost midday. of Entered Apprentices and one of table inW.M.: In consideration of the hour and age, struction. inform our brethren that a Lodge of Entered W.M.: Brother Senior Warden, are you a Ma- Apprentices and one of table instruction is son? open and we are about to begin our works in S.W.: All my brethren know me as such. the usual manner.

Cross Keys March 2021

Page 5

The Table Lodge (ctd) S.W.: (Calls up lodge) (* * *) Brethren, in consideration of the hour, a Lodge of Entered Apprentices and of table instruction is open and we are about to begin our works in the usual manner.

J.W.: Brethren, in consideration of the hour, a Lodge of Entered Apprentices and of table instruction is open and we are about to begin our works in the usual manner.

There then follows the Ceremony of the Seven Toasts.

18th Century Table Lodge The brethren who are to offer the toasts are chosen in advance and should be fully prepared. They should have cards or notes with the toasts written on them. The seven toasts which follow are recommended but may be changed or substituted for at the option of the lodge. These are: 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6) 7)

To country—Master To the Holy Saints John—Treasurer.

To the memory of our departed brethren—Chaplain.

To the Grand Master—Secretary.

To our Lodge—J.W. To our visiting brethren—S.W. To all Freemasons wheresoever dispersed—Tiler.

The lodge can choose which toasts and by whom they will be delivered. The toast to the Saint(s) John could be an explanation. The rest are really read by card (or memorised) and can be seen on: https://freemasonry.bcy.ca/ritual/ Ceremony-of-Seven-Toasts.pdf English masons will probably recognise this as a Festive Board, but it’s more formal if ritual is used and this is where lodges can personalise it. At the end of the day, it’s only a Scottish harmony done up!

Lodge Paisley St. Mirren’s No.129 THE FREEMASONS' QUARTERLY REVIEW, MARCH 31, 1844: Almost the only town's fete now maintained with regularity and spirit, is the celebration of the Masonic holiday of St. John and this year it has been kept up with at least all its usual eclat. The Members met in their Lodge-room at twelve o'clock and proceeded to choose their Office-bearers for the ensuing year when the following were elected—James McCaig RWM, Peter Mills DM, Robert Orr SW, John Baillie JW. At half-past four, the Members sat down to an excellent dinner . Shortly after six, they drew up in front of the Lodge in Masonic order and proceeded by torchlight to the house of the Grand Master , Moss-street, the Paisley instrumental band in front playing the " Merry Masons."

Sounds like a good day out!

Cross Keys March 2021

Page 6

The Colours of the Royal Arch The regalia and furnishing of the Royal Arch degree are possibly one of the most colourful masonic degrees. But where do the colours come from? Everything in masonry has a reason and the colours are not random.

colour of this robe was to be blue. This shows why the colours for the robes of our Principals are so important and it also shows just how old some of our practices date from.

So, when you see or wear those robes remember they represent one of the most Holy items of the Israelites.

For this we need to travel back some 3500 years to the time of Moses. The Book of Exodus tells the story of the time the Lord spoke to Moses and told him how the Jews were to live. He also taught them how to pray. He gave instruction in how a moving Temple to his glory was to be built and thus the tabernacle was formed. The Lord gave Moses instruction in the colours to be used in the fabric of the Tabernacle.

Prior to the degree, Scottish brethren will become Excellent Master and pass a serie of colThese colours were Red, Purple and Blue, or ourful veils representing sections within the Blue, Purple and Scarlet depending on which tabernacle. The passage through the veils, is version of the Bible you read. These colours therefore a symbol of the trials and difficulwere said to represent the elements. Red for ties that are encountered and must be overfire, Purple for the sea as the blood of shell- come in the search for truth. Individually, fish dyes it and Blue for the sky. The Lord each Veil symbolically represents an aspect of chose Bezaliel and Aholiab, other names in Freemasonry. Both facets are interthe ritual, to prepare and sew the cloth for connected, and distinguish all Masons enthe tabernacle. The Lord also gave instruction gaged in the divine search. The Veils are: on what the High Priest should wear, and the



BLUE - the symbol of universal friendship and benevolence



PURPLE - the symbol of union; the intimate connection of Ancient Craft Masonry and the Royal Arch



SCARLET - the symbol of fervency and zeal



WHITE - the symbol of purity

Cross Keys March 2021

Page 7

Royal Masonic Schools for Girls This was actually the first masonic school in that it was instituted in 1788 (before the Boys’ School from last month) by Chevalier Ruspini, with the aim of maintaining the daughters of indigent Freemasons, unable through death, illness, or incapacitation to support their families. In 1788, Bartholomew Ruspini and nine fellow Freemasons met to discuss plans for establishing a charitable institution for the daughters of Masons who had fallen on hard times or whose death had meant hardship for their families. On 14 May 1788, a committee met at the Freemasons' Tavern in Great Queen Street to thrash out the details of the proposed institution. An advertisement for the position of Matron was put in the papers, and the committee set about finding suitable premises from which their charity could operate. The house at Somers Place East in Somers Town was a suggestion from Dr de Valangin, and was taken in October at a rent of £35 per annum to house 15 children. The property has since disappeared but was between the present day Euston and St Pancras stations, near where the British Library is today.

The old school crest opposite is very masonic as to be expected showing a pentangle with the perfect ashlar in the centre, pillars and carpet.

The motto (which was in Latin) was That our daughters may be as the polished corners of the Temple. Their famous drill routine is shown below.

Currently situated in Rickmansworth, it had to move to larger remises twice due to the huge success. Since 1978, the school opened to the daughters of non-freemasons, and the name "Masonic" is a now just reference to its past. For a very interesting historical background to the Freemasons behind the school, see the PowerPoint: https://www.rmsforgirls.org.uk/userfiles/rmsmvc/documents/AboutUs/History%20Trails/RMS% 20House%20Names.pdf Or a full history on the dedicated site: https://rmsghistoryextra.wordpress.com/

Cross Keys March 2021

Page 8

Grand Lodges in Ireland Following on from last month’s article about the various grand lodges in England, Ireland also had a couple. There was a Grand Lodge of Munster from 1726—33 and a 'Seton breakaway' Grand East of Ulster 1805—14.

The Grand Lodge of Ireland was formed in 1725, but at least as early as 1726, there was also a Grand Lodge to the South, in Cork, Munster, which was absorbed by the Dublin Grand Lodge in about 1731 under the guidance of the Grand Master, James King the 4th Earl of Kingston (possible portrait shown).

So by all accounts, it was not a rival GL, but just another body which accepted the primacy of Dublin. For this act of generosity by the Munster brethren, the GL issued letters and patents to give the PGM of Munster various powers.

Ulster, was no less important an event than an actual revolt from the properly-constituted authority, The Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Ireland. Bro. Alexander Seton, Dep G Secretary was sacked from office due to carrying out his duties in an unsatisfactory manner in 1806. Seton, being a barrister, went to court against Grand Lodge who levelled charged against the former.

The causes of this dispute appear to be of a twofold nature - the ostensible causes being abuses on the part of the Grand Lodge of Ireland in the selection of its officers, threatened interference on the part of that body in the working of the higher Masonic Orders, and a system of finance both faulty and extravagant. Therefore a new body was formed based on the model of the Grand Orient of However, the formation of the Grand East France.

Ireland, sometimes styled the Grand East of

Bro. H. J. de Costa The Freemason is believed to be Bro. Hippolyto Joseph da Costa (1774–1823), a Brazilian journalist and diplomat, was imprisoned for being a Freemason by the Portuguese Inquisition in 1802, but escaped to England in 1805 by English brethren "who got him under the protection of the British flag.” The style of his regalia dates this portrait to around 1815.

As author of History of the Dionysian Artificers, published posthumously in 1820, he attempted to draw parallels between masonic initiation and those of the Orphic mysteries of Eleusis.

Cross Keys March 2021

Page 9

Bro. Enrico Fermi Referred to as the “architect of the nuclear age,” Enrico Fermi was a nuclear physicist, a Nobel Prizewinner, and a Freemason.

Throughout his prolific career, he made substantial contributions to the fields of Quantum Theory, Statistical Mechanics, and Nuclear and Particle Physics. Fermi excelled at both experimental and theoretical work, a distinction accomplished by few physicists.

Physics in 1938. Fearing for the safety of his Jewish wife, they began searching for an escape from the impending genocide. Soon after, Enrico and Laura emigrated to the United States, fleeing the Fascist Regime's takeover of Italy.

Upon the discovery of nuclear fission, he went to the University of Chicago, and later to Los Alamos to serve as a general consultBorn in Rome in 1901, Enrico Fermi’s fasci- ant. Brother Fermi contributed significantly nation with Physics began at age 14, follow- to the Manhattan Project, the creation of the ing the tragic death of his older brother Giu- first U.S. atomic bomb. lio. From that point on, Enrico’s passion for As a leading member of the Manhattan Prophysics became the focal point of his life. His ject, Bro. Fermi worked on the development understanding was so advanced in the subof nuclear energy and the atomic bomb, altject that his entrance essay for the Universihough he was a vocal critic of the ty of Pisa was deemed equivalent use of the technology as a military to the work of a doctoral student. weapon. Brother Fermi was electThere he received his undergraded Fellow of the Royal Society on uate and doctoral degrees, and he April 27, 1950. In his later years, published his first important scihe did important work in particle entific work in 1922, his year of physics and was an inspiring graduation. teacher at the University of ChicaEnrico Fermi became a Freemago. In 1954, he died of stomach son joining the Adriano Lemmi cancer at the age of 53.

Lodge in Rome, under the Gran Loggia d’itaHe laboured for the betterment of humanity, lia di Piazza del Geso. His intellectual curiosyet, his research ultimately led to the creaity made him a natural fit for the studies of tion and utilization of the atomic bombs Freemasonry, and he rose to the degree of which killed over 200,000 of the citizens of Master Mason in 1923. His climb towards Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan. Brother Engreatness continued as was he was appointrico was adamantly opposed to the utilizaed Professor of Theoretical Physics at the tion of the hydrogen bomb, yet, he ultimately University of Rome at the age of 24. In the argued for the development of knowledge 1930s, he conducted a series of experiments regardless of the consequences of the use of to study the impacts of bombarding various that knowledge. elements with neutrons. This work led to the successful splitting of Uranium atom, for which he was awarded the Nobel Prize for

Cross Keys March 2021

Page 10

Ancient Order of Druids The Ancient Order of Druids is the first most senior druidic order in the world, and the oldest in continuous existence. It has been revived in London, England, in 1781. It is represented in England, Wales, Scotland and the Commonwealth of Nations. Its motto is Justice, Philanthropy and Brotherly Love. Druidic degrees can be conferred through a masonic organisation.

The jewel is a past presiding officer jewel of a Royal Arch chapter of the Ancient Order of Druids. The device inside the interlaced triangles is termed a trilithon which is a structure consisting of two large vertical stones (posts) supporting a third stone set horizontally across the top (ie. a lintel) commonly seen at Stonehenge. It is only this additional sign that really makes is different from our Royal Arch jewels.

Bro. Allen Roberts, Virginia Bro. Roberts was born in Pawtucket, Rhode Island on October 11, 1917 and made his home in Highland Springs, Virginia since 1946 following his discharge from the Navy. He became a mason in 1948 in Babcock Lodge No. 322, served as Master in 1959 and elected an honorary member in 1986. He was named District Deputy Grand Master in 1974 and served with distinction as Deputy Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Virginia from 1964—70. He served as High Priest of Temple Royal Arch Chapter No. 32 in 1965, and District Deputy Grand High Priest 1966-1967. He was elected Charter Master of Civil War Lodge of Research No. 1865 in 1995. Brother Roberts served as Master of Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 in 1966-1967 and Lodge Secretary from 1968 to 1969, and again from 1973 to 1996. He was named a Fellow of the Lodge in 1990.

Grand College of Rites of the United States in 1978. He was a Past Sovereign Master of George Potts Council No. 73, Allied Degrees and Founder and President of the Virginia Craftsman. In 1987, The Virginia Craftsmen visited 242 to exemplify their MM degree in full confederate uniform.

In 1994 the library and museum of the Grand Lodge of Virginia was renamed and dedicated as the Allen E. Roberts Masonic Library and Museum. On October 3, 1995 he was coronated a 33° Mason by the Northern Jurisdiction of the Scottish Rite.

The master was Jim Jackson with Alex Hutton PGM and Bro. Roberts 2nd right front.

In 1988 M. W. Donald M. Robey presented Bro. Roberts with the coveted George Washington Distinguished Service Medal. He was National President of the Philalethes Society in 1984, and was serving as Executive Secretary at the time of his death. In 1990—91 he served as Sovereign Grand Master of the Grand Council of Allied Masonic Degrees of the America and Grand Chancellor of the Cross Keys March 2021

Page 11

Past Grand Secretary UGLE Although a Secretary to the Grand Lodge was appointed in 1723 (becoming Grand Secretary in 1734) and the premier Grand Lodge had a permanent building in Great Queen Street from 1775, it was not until 1838 that the Grand Secretary’s Office came into being.

From the of the two Grand Lodges in 1813 until 1838, the Grand Secretaryship was a joint office shared by William White, who had held the same office in the premier Grand Lodge and Edward Harper, who had been Deputy Grand Secretary of the Antients.

United Grand Lodge of England, the governing body of Freemasonry in England and Wales, from 1892 until his death, making him the longest serving Grand Secretary to date.

In 1838, Harper ‘retired’ and White was During this time asked to take on the role of Grand Secretary. he took part in the foundation ceremonies of He agreed but on one condition: that Grand over 400 lodges.

Lodge employed two full-time clerks to assist Sir Edward stated that the lodge’s purpose with paperwork. As a result of the expansion was ‘to meld the clerks into greater harmony’. in members and lodges in the Victorian periIt would also assist Grand Lodge by bringing od, by the time Letchworth became Grand into Freemasonry suitable candidates that Secretary in 1892 the office had grown to might become clerks in the office; and get seven clerks. As they had to be Master Mabrethren through the Chair in a reasonable sons it was suggested they should have a time for additional duties. The latter was imlodge—Letchworth Lodge No.3505. portant, as many lodges had more than 100 Sir Edward Letchworth (1833–1917) was the members and it could take 15 or more years Grand Secretary, or Chief Executive, of the to reach the Chair.

George Cockerill Jewel The George Cockerill jewel can be found in the Museum of Freemasonry in Riga, Latvia,. He was a long time Parliament member, Deputy Director of Military Intelligence and Director of Special Intelligence with the rank of Brigadier-General. In 1926 he was knighted, shortly after he was master.

Cross Keys March 2021

Page 12

Bro. Jimmy McKay PM 242 Bro. James McKay was master of the lodge in 1945—46, but is probably better remembered by local people as the Provost of Johnstone 1950—59 when the Queen visited the town. As master immediately after the war, he was extremely busy with lodge meetings every Wednesday night June to August to accommodate the large number of candidates joining (7 every degree). On leaving the chair, Bro. McKay presented the mark ceremonial stones still in use today.

It is interesting to note at the march in the Annual Ball within the lodge—the photos of the PMs are displayed on the walls and the old benches lining the wall and Bro. McKay is wearing his PM apron and Provost jewel.

The Pipe Band was founded by Ex-Provost of Johnstone Burgh, James McKay, in 1942, and has been going strong ever since, wearing the Blue McKay tartan in recognition of its founder. Bro. McKay was also the first President of Johnstone Burgh FC (1953) when Keanie Park (named after Bro. James Keanie MM 242) was built.

Cross Keys March 2021

Page 13

Bro. Jimmy McKay PM 242 (ctd) Bro. McKay was instrumental in forming the social club. However, just prior to this in 1971, the lodge had discussed moving to larger premises: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f)

the old high school in Ludovic Square Beith Road at Williamson Place The old West Church manse in Graham Street Corner of Walkinshaw Street and Brewery Street Part of the old Loudon’s site at Peockland Gardens The east side of Canal Street near the High Street

None came to fruition for various reasons and so the brethren decided to extend the lodge at the rear and a social club was built. (Full details can be read in the lodge’s history book). And so what would become a very profitable venture until recent years with the change in laws, we have a club and also in 1974 Bro. McKay was made a Freeman of the Burgh of Johnstone and brought his scroll to a meeting for brethren to see.

Below is Bro. McKay in his finery as Provost; on the left is his PM jewel and on the right his Past Patron jewel of the Order of the Eastern Star, both in the possession of the lodge. Bro. Jimmy was a real character who worked tirelessly for the lodge.

Cross Keys March 2021

Page 14

The Earls of Mar No family in Scotland played a greater a part in the nation’s history during the troublesome times of the Bruces and Stuarts than that of the Erskines of Mar, and none suffered more for allegiance to the Sovereigns of their native land During the 400 years of the dynasty of the Stuarts, the Erskines of Mar held high office in the State and at Court and were for a time entrusted with the custody, care and education of the royal children. As the art and craft of Masonry assumed increasing importance in the national life of Scotland, the Erskines were inevitably brought into official contact with it and it is not surprising that members of the family should become Freemasons and attain to high office.

Thomas, Lord Erskine, only son of John, 6th Earl of Mar - there is no record of the latter having been made a Freemason, but he held the office of Grand Master of the Temple in Scotland in succession to Lord Dundee at a time when Great Priory allowed non-masons into the Order. Lord Erskine was initiated in Lodge Kilwinning Scots Arms, Edinburgh, No.3, in 1736. His name is second on the list of registrations in Grand Lodge made

by Kilwinning Scots Arms in 1739. This Lodge had large military personnel and is now defunct. Lord Erskine, being under the shadow of his father's attainder. and being denied succession to the tide of Earl of Mar, led the quiet life of a country gentleman and had more time to devote himself to the study of Freemasonry. He was elected Grand Master Mason of Scotland in 1749. This undoubtedly led to a quickening of interest in the Craft in Alloa. Thereafter stray names of Alloa men begin to appear in the minutes of the Lodge of Stirling. Within

Cross Keys March 2021

five years a Depute Lodge was regularly meeting in Alloa.

Alexander Erskine, 6th Earl of Kellie, joined No.1 in England and was Grand Master Mason in 1763-5 & GM of England (Ancients) 176066. John Francis Erskine of Mar, who became 7th Earl when the title was restored in 1824, was initiated in the Lodge of Alloa, No.69, but did not seek office in the Craft.

Walter Henry, 11th Earl of Mar and 13th Earl of Kellie (below left), was Grand Master Mason in 1882-84 and Provincial Grand Master of Stirlingshire in 1885-89. He was also a First Principal of St. John's RA. Chapter, No.92, Alloa, in 1878-79; Grand Superintendent of Stirlingshire in 1886-88, and First Grand Principal of Scotland in 1882-85. He was initiated under the English Constitution.

His appointment as Junior Grand Deacon in Grand Lodge was quite irregular because he was not then a member of any Scottish Lodge.

He afterwards affiliated to the Lodge of Edinburgh (Mary's Chapel), No.1. He identified himself later with many Masonic activities in Alloa. Walter John Francis (below right), who succeeded him as 12th Earl of Mar and 14th Earl of Kellie, was a member of the Lodge of Alloa No.69, having been initiated on 28th September, 1888.

Page 15

Why the Ashlar?

A

“perfect ashlar” in speculative masonry is a smooth stone in the form of a perfect cube.

In operative terms a “perpend” ashlar is a large rectangular stone with smooth ends used to bond the inner and outer walls - the equivalent of a wall tie in a brick building of today. The O.E.D. states that the word perpend is late middle English and probably derived from the Roman “perpannius” meaning through the wall.

It is probable that the “perfect ashlar” in operative freemasonry was an “apprentice piece” and as such was small in order that it could be easily carried. It was made by the apprentice at the end of his apprenticeship and on applying for admission to his lodge he would have presented this piece as a proof of his craftsmanship. Alternatively it has been suggested the candidate was placed at the South East corner of the Lodge with a rough ashlar and from it had to create a perfect ashlar, with the brethren witnessing this process, to ensure that it was his own work[3] and not that of another. As part of the admission ceremony the piece would have been examined and tested for square-

ness, size, surface finish etc. by the Worshipful Master and his Wardens and assuming it passed the test he would be admitted as a fellow of the craft and given his personal “mark” which he would carve into the stone. [There is evidence that in early Scottish Freemasonry the giving of a mark was included in the degree of the Fellow of the Craft whilst in English Freemasonry it is a separate degree which is, unfortunately, not recognised by the United Grand Lodge.]

On applying for employment on a site, with a new employer, and where there was no Mason in a position to vouch for him, the applicant would produce his ashlar, bearing his mark, and communicate the “sign, token and word” as proof of his being a Fellow of the Craft.

this time the majority could not read or write I would therefore suggest this rule should be interpreted as the apprentice had to produce an “apprentice piece” or perfect ashlar for testing rather than that he had to be able to write, and present, an essay.

The rough ashlar was most probably introduced by the speculatives with the creation of the entered apprentice degree and the associated allegory and symbolism. In speculative freemasonry the rough ashlar is said to represent the Entered Apprentice rough and uneducated whilst the smooth ashlar represents the Fellow of the Craft - polished and educated with a strong moral code.

In the old charge known as the Melrose No 2 MS of 1674 there is a rule that requires “Apprentices to furnish essays to prove their skill, before being made “frie masons”. The O.E.D. states that in this period the meaning of essay was similar to that of today’s assay and meant to “put to the proof, try, to test the nature, excellence fitness etc. of”. Since at

By Bro David Searle for an essay competition in Internet Lodge No.9659

Cross Keys March 2021

Page 16

Marquises of Ailsa Most people in the west of Scotland have Sovereign of the Grand Imperial Council of heard of Ailsa Craig and Culzean Castle. Is Scotland in 1925—40. there any connection with the Craft. Actually Lord Charles Kennedy, 5th Marquess of Ailsa, yes! was born in Scotland on April 10th, 1875. He Archibald Kennewas educated at Eton College. He also attenddy, 4th Marquess ed the Royal Agricultural College in Cirencesof Ailsa, was born ter, England. on May 22nd, 1872 On January 27th, 1894 Kennedy was commisin London, Engsioned a second lieutenant in the 3rd Battalland. He was born ion of the Royal Scots Fusiliers, a line infantry Earl of Cassilis. He regiment of the British Army. He resigned his attended Eton Colcommission in May of that same year. lege and Trinity College before goDuring the Second Boer War, Kennedy fought ing on to Camas part of an Australian regiment called the bridge University and Edinburgh University. Prince of Wales' Light Horse. He was a capIn 1897 he was admitted as an advocate, in tain with the unit. During the war he received the Scottish jurist system a lawyer of superior the Queen's South Africa Medal with three classification. clasps which indicated the campaigns that In 1900, Kennedy joined the British Army and was assigned as a captain to the Royal Scots Fusiliers, an infantry unit, in the 3rd (Militia) Battalion. He served during the Second Boer War from 1900 to 1902. During the war he won two medals and five clasps. After the war he returned to England where he was promoted to the rank of Major. He went on to serve in World War I.

they were awarded for.

In 1914, Kennedy returned to Scotland from the US to serve during World War I. Once in Scotland he enlisted with the Ayrshire Yeomanry, a Army Reserve unit of the British Army. In a correspondence he sent during World War I he indicated that he had been declared as unfit for overseas duty and that he had been made an area gas instruction officer. He also indicated that he was attached to the 18th Division in France on an instruction tour. He resigned from the Ayrshire Yeomanry in 1921.

In 1938, Kennedy succeeded his father as 4th Marquess of Ailsa. He held the position for only 5 years. Kennedy had no children so the title passed to his brother Charles Kennedy in 1943.

Kennedy was a member of Acacia Lodge No. Kennedy was a past master of Mother Kilwin- 11 in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He also joined the ning (and therefore PGM of Ayrshire), Grand local York Rite, Chapter, Council and ComSuperintendent of Ayrshire Royal Arch Chap- mandery (Knights Templar). He demitted ters, First Grand Principal of the Supreme from the Acacia Lodge and the York Rite bodGrand RAC Scotland 1913—43 and Grand ies in 1921.

Cross Keys March 2021

Page 17

Marquises of Ailsa (ctd) In 1945 he presented the family seat, Culzean Castle, to the National Trust for Scotland under the Country House Scheme. He died without is-

Cassilis House, original family home above and Culzean Castle left.

Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania Crests

1—Adapted from the old Grand Lodge of England but with Philo AD added instead of London 2—Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania crest which was adopted in 1790 3—a more modern crest It is actually interesting to see how grand lodge crests have adapted over the years. Possibly for no otjer reason than a Grand Master fancies a change rather than for any real masonic reason.

No.3

Cross Keys March 2021

Page 18

Question: Why is it necessary to believe in a Supreme Being to become a Freemason?

ficulty and danger in whom do you put your trust ?” He replies “In God.” He later states that

Answer: A belief in a Supreme Being is a funda- he hopes to obtain the privileges “by the help of mental requirement to becoming a Mason. At one God” and states in his obligation “So help me God, time Freemasonry was a Christian Order so a be- and keep me steadfast in this my great and sollief in God was obviously an essential qualifica- emn obligation.” Therefore, without a belief in a tion for membership. This qualification was Supreme Being the promises and Obligations we amended at the time of the Union to include men all make as Masons are entirely worthless. of all faiths. The 1st Antient Charge published in the Book of Constitutions concerning God and Question: Why is the master seated in the East ?

Religion states: “A Mason is obliged, by his ten- Answer: As strange as it may seem, the Master ure, to obey the moral law; and if he rightly un- sitting in the East has not always been the case – derstand the art he will never be a stupid atheist In the early days Masons met, ate and drank nor an irreligious libertine. He, of all men, should around a long table in the centre of the room, the best understand that God seeth not as man seeth; Master being seated in the West with both Warfor man looketh on the outward appearance, but dens at the far corners. If you read the BiGod looketh upon the heart. A Mason is there- ble, according to Ezekiel and contrary to the layfore, particularly bound never to act against the out of modern Freemasons Lodges, Solomon’s dictates of his conscience. Let a man’s religion or temple had its main entrance on the East side mode of worship be what it may, he is not exclud- which would place the Holy of Holies, the Sanced from the order, provided he believe in the glo- tum Sanctorum, and thus the Masters place in the rious architect of heaven and earth, and practise West. This surely would make sense as the sun rising in the East at the dawn of every new day the sacred duties of morality etc etc. would shine through the porchway or entrance to As the first condition of admission of any man illuminate the entrance to the Most Holy place, into and membership of the Order, is a belief in a the Sanctum Sanctorum beyond. I suspect that it Supreme Being; you will be aware that the VSL is was from the influence of the clergymen involved the 1st of the 3 Great Lights in Masonry and is in producing the ritual around the time of the crealways open when the Lodge is opened. Every ation of the Premier Grand Lodge in 1717 that Candidate is required to take his obligation on changed the orientation of our Lodges to that of that book or on the Volume that is held by his Christian Churches, entrance in the West and Alparticular faith to impact sanctity to an oath or tar in the East, which thus places the Master in promise taken upon it.

the East.

The second question a Candidate is asked after Thanks to PG Secretary of PGL Wolverhampton for his entrance into the Lodge is: “In all cases of dif- these Q&A.

Cross Keys March 2021

Page 19

o

Papal Bull 1738

n-going research in international diplomatic and Masonic archives, as well as the full range of Stuart Papers at Windsor Castle, is bringing to the surface many long-buried documents that provide new answers but also raise new questions about the JacobiteHanoverian rivalries that led to the issuance of the Papal Bull In Eminente (1738), which condemned Freemasonry.

One Cardinal who opposed the ban as Clement XII’s “worst political error” was Prospero Lambertini, who was rumoured to have been initiated himself.; two years later, he would become the enlightened Pope Benedict XIV. Lambertini and others knew that many priests as well as Jacobites were Freemasons and not anti-Catholic. Given the unpopularity of the Bull, it is no surprise that Prince Charles still wanted to join the fraternity, especially since he had many friends in the Roman lodge. He later recalled that he repeatedly asked his father to allow him to be initiated but that James replied “each time that, not being himself a Mason, he could not give his son permission to become one.”

Charles did not share his father’s respect for papal authority, and his liberal attitude was recognized by the British intelligencers. Mann reported that the “eldest Son” was “very far from being so much attached to his Religion, as the Pretender, that he made very light of it, and would at least allow liberty of conscience.” Thus, the ecumenical ideals of Freemasonry would have appealed to Charles; according to some Scottish traditions, the rebellious adolescent defied his father and secretly became “Worshipful Master” in the Roman lodge. He would later assert that “the secret Grand Mastership of the Masons was heredi-

Cross Keys March 2021

tary in the house of Stuart, and that papers hidden at St. Germain would affirm it.”

Chevalier Ramsay from Ayr who turned Catholic made an oration in 1737 (one year after the formation of the Grand Lodge of Scotland) which ultimately ked to many ‘higher’ degrees of a templar nature. That the Catholic Ramsay made this revelation to the Lutheran Tessin and that it did not become public knowledge until the 1780s suggests that the Jacobite Masons were indeed masters of secrecy and deception, as they planned to back “Bonnie Prince Charlie” in his campaign to reclaim the throne of his ancestors. And, for the Swedish Masons, a belief in the prince’s hidden role as Grand Master of the Masonic Knights Templar would become enshrined in their own royalist and religious traditions.

For the later Swedish King Gustav III, who in 1783 was named by Prince Charles to succeed him as Grand Master, the Papal Bull In Eminente was an historical irrelevance. When Gustav opened Sweden to Catholics and Jews, he acted as a dedicated royalist Freemason, who carried out what he believed were Stuart traditions of religious toleration.

The new documents presented here may not answer the debated questions about the political and/or religious motives of the Jacobite Masons and the true target of Pope Clement XII’s interdiction. But they do make clear that the issues are extremely complicated and rooted in the religious and political rivalries within the British Isles and within the international context of the Jacobite diaspora.

They also make clear that there is still much to learn from unexplored archives in many countries.

Page 20

Early French Freemasonry Grand Lodges of the United States have been for more than a century asking the question whether or not French Masonry is regular. One should point out that up to 1849 the Grand Orient of France contained no doctrine concerning a belief in God, following the non-sectarian view expressed by Dr. Anderson's Constitutions. Yet, the Grand Orient of France was recognized by almost every Grand Lodge in the world at that time.

In 1849 the Grand Orient of France declared that "Freemasonry has for its principles the existence of Deity and the immorality of the soul", taking a firm hold in its international Masonic recognition; but with abolishing the office of Grand Master, and substituting a governmental council in 1871, the Grand Orient again started a departure from the form of Freemasonry.

The greatest and most important change in its constitution came in 1877 when it declared that the basis of Freemasonry was "absolute liberty of conscience and the solidarity of Humanity." All of the rituals were amended to omit the reference to God, and within three years the display of the Bible was made optional within the lodges. The United Grand Lodge of England severed relations with the Grand Orient as did most of the Grand Lodges throughout the United States which had not already done so. This divided the Grand Orient which consequently resulted in the formation of the Grand Lodge of France.

Historically, one cannot prove that there was a requisite for any religious belief in the pre-Grand Lodge era. We do know that no such requirements were given in the 1723 Constitutions and it was not until 1815 that a belief in God was written into the constitutions of the newly formed United Grand Lodge of England. The Bible was not introduced into the ritual until about 1760 and its status was not clearly defined. It was called both a part of the furniture and a Great Light of the lodge.

With this historical evidence, the Grand Orient still maintains its decision of 1877 introduced by Brother Frederick Desmons, a French Protestant Minister; not because of atheistic inclinations, but to counteract the allegation of the Roman Catholic Church that Freemasonry was teaching a religion "encroaching upon the functions of the Church."

Cross Keys March 2021

With the foundation of the National Independent Regular Grand Lodge on November 5th, 1913, we may now put these uncertainties aside, as with no doubt, this Grand Lodge follows in the strictest since all the Landmarks of Masonry.

Some interesting dates: 1726 The date which is considered that Freemasonry entered France. Foundation of a lodge in Paris by Lord Derwentwater called Louis d'Agent.

1735 Installation in Paris at the Hotel de Bussy of the Lodge d'Aubigny under the precedence of the Duke of Richmond (protestant masonry).

1736 Lodges on French territory request for authorization to establish a Provincial Grand Lodge.

Charles Radcliffe, Count of Derwentwater, becomes Grand Master of the English Grand Lodge of France.

1743 The Count of Clermont, Louis de BourbonConde, grandson of Louis XIV, becomes Grand Master of the English Grand Lodge of France (1745-1771).

1756 The English Grand Lodge of France revised its statutes and dropped the word, "English," from its name.

1758 The Grand Lodge of France becomes independent from England.

1772 The National Grand Lodge at the Orient of Paris was proclaimed and known as the Grand Orient of France.

1776 Concord between the Scottish directories and the Grand Orient of France. A number of lodges stay loyal to the older Grand Lodge of France which was now named Grand Lodge of Clermont.

1786 Adoption by the Grand Orient of France of the French Rite or Modern Rite in seven degrees.

1815 Belief in God was written into the English Constitutions.

1849 The Grand Orient is reorganized declaring that "Freemasonry has for its principles the existence of Deity and the immorality of the soul". Prior to this time, French masonry followed Anderson's Constitutions, espousing no religious doctrine.

1869 The Grand Orient resolved that neither colour, race, or religion should disqualify a candidate.

1877 The Grand Orient of France modifies the first article of its constitution: To the Glory of the

Page 21

Early French Freemasonry (ctd) Grand Architect of the Universe and in lieu of a belief in God and immortality "its basis is absolute liberty of conscience and the solidarity of Humanity" 1877 All regular masonic ties are broken with the Grand Orient of France.

1913 Two Lodges of the Grand Orient of France: Logo Le Centre des Amis and Les Amis du Progres set up an anonymous authority. Under the impulsion of Edouard de Ribeaucourt this obedience takes the name of Grande Loge Nationale Independante et Reguliere pour la France et les Colonies Françaises. (The Independent and Regular/ National Grand Lodge for France and the French Colonies); the United Grand Lodge of England immediately recognizes the new body followed by all the American Grand Lodges.

The Grand Orient of France has 23,000 members with 450 Lodges practicing the following rites: French Rite or Modern Rite; Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite; Rectified Scottish Rite.

The Grand Lodge of France has 14,000 members with 300 Lodges practicing the following rites: Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite; Rectified Scottish Rite; York Rite; Emulation Rite.

The French National Grand Lodge 12,000 has members with 450 Lodges practicing the fo1lowing rites: Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite; Rectified Scottish Rite; York Rite; Emulation Rite; French Rite.

In 1948, the title French National Grand Lodge (GLNF) is used and is recognised today while the Grad Lodge of France recognised the Grand Orient in the 1960s and is not recognised.

By Bro. Claude H. Harris

The Two Pillars Discussion about the pillars at King Solomon’s temple must reach numerous volumes.

However, a lesser known interpretation was given by Bro. Sir John Cockburn who helped establish the Grand Lodge of South Australia and became DGM. He explained that a corruption in translation could have been possible as this has happened many times before particularly with Hebrew and other eastern languages.

but it demonstrated that he wa a thinking freemason.

After his return to England, he founded a new lodge in London and served as president of the International Masonic Club. As a Masonic Rosicrucian he was attracted to esoteric and philosophical subjects, and published several dozen articles exploring such themes in various Masonic periodicals.

He thought the original names of the pillars were actually the Greek names Iaachus and Boue (remembering that I was the old way of wiritng J). Iacchus (also known as Bacchus) was the God of youth and creative powers and in some Greek mysteries was slain and resurrected. Boue means the primeval chaos and is related to the mother’s womb.

Understandably, this theory never took off,

Cross Keys March 2021

Page 22

Museum of Freemasonry, Latvia The museum is based in Riga and aims to introduce residents and guests of Riga to the history of spiritual search, the formation of a humanistic community and the phenomenon of Freemasonry from its origins to the present. The museum shows geography of Freemasonry from Great Britain and continental Western Europe to America and Russia.

•

show the development of Freemasonry from the guilds of masons, creators of the Renaissance, humanists to the first members of the first scientific societies;

•

talk about the role of Freemasonry in the social, political and cultural development of different countries;

• cover the diverse activities of modern Masonic lodges.

Attempts are being made for a new purpose built museum— if you feel like donating go to donate.

Home - Riga Museum of World Freemasonry (masonicmuseum.eu) YouTube

Jewel from Greenock St. Johns No.175

Cross Keys March 2021

Page 23

Free Will & Accord?

This is not just en empty statement or a another bit of ritual to learn—there is an important message here, indeed perhaps a warning if it is not too late already!

fair to the man so invited. Carl Claudy states "To ask a man to become a member of the Fraternity is not only a violation of one of the unwritten laws, but a positive injustice to the man. He who joins a Lodge, not because he wants, but because another wants him to, necessarily misses, for life, something in the Ancient Craft which other men possess and hold dear. It is human to value that for which we labour, try, strive, get by our own efforts. It is also human to hold as of little value and small worth that which comes unsought, which is easy to get, which requires no effort. "With the most loving intentions and highest hopes, many a father has laid a petition to his Lodge, together with the required fee, at the breakfast plate of his son when the young man reached his twenty-first birthday. And many a father has seen those high hopes dashed, when his son took little interest, gradually stopped attending.”

In the 1960s, Dwight Smith, Past Grand Master of Indiana states the following with reasons:  he who thinks a program of invitation could he controlled, discreet, dignified, so that only men of high caliber would be invited, is living in a fool's paradise: The time-honored rule of no solicitation and no invitation; the principle of free will and accord; these can be understood by any Mason. A diluted rule in which there would be just a wee bit of solicitation and a wee bit of invitation, and in which free will and accord would no longer mean what it says—that can be understood by no one. Modify the old principle ever so little and every man becomes the judge of what is proper and what is improper; what is good taste and what is poor.  Any relaxation of the free will and ac- Do you come of your own free will and accord rule would serve to cheapen the cord? What happens when the candidate Fraternity: the fact that an invitational says ‘no?’ system for Freemasonry would be un-

More Tokens More tokens are now available from Bro. John Muir <csj195@gmail.com> so please contact him (or myself) if you are interested. These are three Scottish lodges in Botswana.

Bro. John has sold 123 sets, giving each Lodge around £220.00 profit which cannot be scoffed at these days!

Cross Keys March 2021

Page 24

E

Australian Dress Code

ton College was founded in 1440 by King Henry VI as "Kynge's College of Our Ladye of Eton besyde Windesore.” The clothing of the students of Eton have changed over the centuries, originally there was no uniform, the pupils wore the appropriate clothing of the day. The hospital and religious schools were supplied with cassocks by the clerics, for the poorer students.

wear their tails to Installations during this period. The jackets remain the same as they have always been, with the broad wide shawl collar, except with the addition of an open pocket on the left breast to place jewels etc., and the lower seam comes to a point at the back. They are fastened in the front with Masonic jigger buttons.

It wasn’t until the early 19th century that Eton College introduced some form of uniformity; short black jackets for the younger students, and longer tail coats for the older.

These short jackets became known as Eton suits, and became so popular that they were adopted by other colleges.

Thanks to bro. Allan Williams PM Sec Continuity Lodge No.242 (UGLQ) Originally, a stiff white collar was worn with the suit. After WW1, the stiff white collar was gradually replaced with a softer variety. Boris The dress code in Queensland is not the most Johnson was the 20th Prime Minister of Eng- straightforward, but with the weather, it land to attend Eton, as were many dignitaries, must covers all possibilities. Hence it covers including Princes William and Harry. Some Installations, daylight Lodges, summer dress, jurisdictions of Masonic Lodges situated in winter dress, and attending in GL capacity. the warmer climates of Australia, have adopted the white Eton jacket as their summer In 242, we still have the master, wardens and wear. In Queensland, the daylight lodges can installing masters wearing white shirt, waistwear them all year round, the night Lodges, coat and tails. Without doubt, it is smart and between the months of September and April. I would argue to maintain these standards.

Under the problems of last year, many brethRecently, the Queensland Members have been ren may find this dress code and a return to authorised to wear the black Eton jackets to older traditions is a very welcome sight. night meetings during the winter months. Except Grand Lodge Members who will still

Regalia of Bro. Sir Alf Ramsay, footballer and manager of England during some famous victory……, was initiated into Waltham Abbey Lodge No. 2750 in Essex on 5th October 1953. His regalia is on display at Chingford Masonic Hall.

Cross Keys March 2021

Page 25

£1,000,000 Donation—the Background Rangers Supporters Erskine Appeal (RSEA) has hit the back of the net after raising £1 million for Scotland’s biggest Veteran’s charity. RSEA, the brainchild of Gers fan Bro. Tom Clark PM 426, was launched in 2007 in an effort to raise vital funds for Erskine’s specialist care of Veterans and their families.

The group have since contributed to countless projects for residents living in Erskine’s four care homes, including a Sporting Memories room, Reminiscence room, Namaste room and Bridge Activities room.

management and fundraising, all free of charge which saw the RSEA's profile and donations to Erskine soar.

Gordon Smith, a Rangers Supporters Erskine Appeal patron since 2013, has just been confirmed as the RSEA’s new president, as outlined in release quotes.

His grandfather served in the Army during the First World War at Gallipoli and then the Battle of the Somme.

Their tireless fundraising efforts were initially born out of selling badges and a sponsored walk. But over the years, vital funds have been raised through high-flying exploits on sponsored zip slides and abseils, as well as football tournaments, golf days, Northern Soul nights and sportsman dinners.

Ian Cumming MBE, Erskine Chief Executive, said: “Raising more than a £1 million pounds for any charity takes extraordinary motivation, focus and stamina. Everyone at Erskine is enormously grateful to the Rangers Supporters Erskine Appeal for their innovation, energy and resolve in exceeding this target and their generosity over the years, has made On their way to the £1 million milestone, a world of difference to the lives of Scotland’s RSEA have also aided the crucial purchase of wartime heroes.” lifting aids and an assisted bath, refurbishment of the physiotherapy department in The Erskine Home, weekly aromatherapy ses- Below is Brian Laudrup Rangers FC with Gorsions; the Centenary Garden and pathway, don unveiling ‘Harry’ which was presented to the Playlist for Life music project, weekly mu- Erskine to commemorate their 100th Annisic therapy sessions, and most recently a hy- versary in 2016 by the RSEA. brid vehicle.

RSEA Secretary Tom Clark said: “To reach over £1,000,000 for the Erskine Veterans has been a labour of love and I am delighted we have now passed this milestone. To every single person who has donated a pound or given an hour of their time, thank you. Without them, we wouldn’t exist or have achieved what we have. Massive gratitude and thanks also goes to our Honorary President, the late Harold Davis, and his wife Vi.” In 2010 Tom was contacted by Murray Roxburgh who is the Director of Grail PR. Murray offered Tom his expertise and advice in event

Cross Keys March 2021

Page 26

Cross Keys March 2021

Page 27

Grand Lodge Limited Edition Print As mentioned last month, another wee plug. We only have 250 of these prints - just to keep it a bit special - so if you’re interested in this special Limited Edition, please place your orders as soon as possible via the Grand Lodge Online shop.

Every lodge/social club should have one!

Bro. John Muir has ordered another 100 Grand Lodge and Poppy Scotland tokens which will have 2021 at the bottom rather than the edition number. Having bought a couple, I can confirm they are very high quality tokens.

Contact Bro. John at (csj195@gmail.com)

Cross Keys March 2021

Page 28

Various The photo shows the magnificent Masonic Home for Children in Georgia and below Bro. Lionel Ritchie, well known (to my generation!) singer and actor. Also Whoopie Goldberg wearing her brother’s jacket wh died recently.

He was a member of the Prince Hall Affiliation.

To submit an article or want added to the mail list or Facebook group, contact the Editor, Grant Macleod: E-Mail:

sec242pm@yahoo.co.uk

Website: http://lodge242.bravesites.com/

Cross Keys March 2021

Page 29