Cross Keys November 2015

The Cross Keys November 2015

The Monthly Newsletter of Lodge Houstoun St. Johnstone

Number 187

In this issue: 18th Century POWs New Masonic Garden Lodge St. Andrew No.601 Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry The Order of the Silver Trowel A PGM’s Message Cross Keys Nov. 2015

18th Century POWs I have tried to keep this edition on a more military slant due to it being November.

No one ever took the pains to record just how many of the prisoners were Masons, but there must have been a great many and of considerable dedication. In the eight land prisons they established five Lodges; in the 50 parole towns, 32 Lodges; and, impossible as it may be to conceive, in the 51 prison hulks, where anything like a normal life was virtually if not completely impossible, there were six Lodges established.

It should be understood that these were not casual or occasional meetings of men belonging to the Craft, but, within the limitations of time and facilities, properly established Bodies, although generally without warrants. They conducted regular stated meetings with a full list of officers and a code of by-laws. They kept accurate and complete minutes of their meetings, many of which are preserved to this day.

That this was not only condoned but even encouraged by British brethren is attested by many recorded facts. At least four of these Lodges, (Ashby, Chesterfield, Leek, and Northampton), applied for and received permits from the Acting Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of England, although they did their work in association with the Grand Orient of France. Rites practised generally were the Rite Francaise ou Moderne, adopted by the Grand Orient of France in 1786. It featured seven degrees, the first three the same as those we practice today, the upper four in ascending order being Elect, Scotch Master, Knight of the East, and Rose Croix. To add variety to the picture, some of the certificates given by these Lodges were signed in the Eleventh Degree of the Adonhiramite Rite. That the Craft could even think of a Lodge meeting under the stultifying conditions of the prison ships is almost incredible, but they did. In fact, one brother left a description of a Lodge meeting he visited on one of the hulks, the Guilford, anchored in Portsmouth harbour. This visiting brother was named Lardier.

He visited this meeting under the sponsorship of two other brothers, whom he refers to as 'Children of the True Light.' They traversed the whole length of a lower deck without illumination. Then they reached a trapdoor which was raised by another brother so they might descend a short, rotten ladder to a still lower, still darker deck.

In this situation he was led through complete darkness by sure hands until they were confronted by a man who demanded the password, signs, and grips. Having satisfactorily met this challenge, they crawled through a small door into a cramped room, where the ceiling was so low that they could not stand erect. Illumination of the 'hall' was by means of a candle mounted in an old bottle. Only the Master was provided with a seat, and this was a dilapidated bench from which one leg was broken. The rest of the brethren sat on the floor. Here the visitor saw a candidate put through one of the degrees.

PTO Cross Keys Nov. 2015

18th Century POWs (ctd) He remarked: "Physical examination and much of the ritual were impossible because of the cramped quarters but the candidate was rigorously tested from the moral viewpoint, especially in matter of patriotism."

The Master's speech, which was also a prayer, went: "Thy children cannot close these labours without expressing their grief and rendering homage to Thee. My heart is not captive, it is still free and faithful, it lifts itself out of this place of bondage and speeds to the land that gave it birth. May the glory of Thy triumphs never fade, may the Hero who guides Thy Chosen be able to add the last and only jewel which is wanting in Thy crown . . . by utterly destroying that odious rival which dares to contend with Thee for mastery of the world."

These words are living proof of the indestructible spirit of the faithful Craftsmen who met in that dark room in the belly of the prison ship. This remarkable meeting closed with a voluntary offering for the relief of others more distressed than themselves. What can men give who have nothing for themselves? No one knows, but give they did and records amply show that the generosity of these half-starved half-clothed shadows of what were once men gave not only for needy brethren but for all prisoners whose need was greater than theirs.

Was there ever a more perfect ashlar for that symbolic temple?

Below is a jewel made by French POWs in the 1790s.

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The New Masonic Garden at the Arboretum The new Masonic Garden at the National Memorial Arboretum in Lichfield is still in the planning stages, but the artist’s impression at the bottom shows how t will end up.

New Banner for St. George Conclave Thanks to the mother of Kt Eddie Gray who hand made this lectern banner for the conclave. The banner depicts the cross of Jerusalem, an important symbol in conclave masonry.

It makes a splendid addition to the two banners already in the east.

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Lodge St. Andrew No.601, Ardersier Is this unique? As part of a memorial to lost brethren, a plain white apron is tied to the chair with the plaque (as shown below) commemorating both world wars. The brethren of this highland lodge leave the chair empty during the meeting.

242 Sportsman’s Dinner On Friday 3rd October, the lodge held a very successful dinner. The speakers were Brian McGinley, ex referee, and Bro. Dick Campbell, manager of Forfar Football Club. Both speakers were very different, but gave interesting snapshots into football life. The night raised £855 and the bar made over £2500—a magnificent effort. Thanks go to the master Bros. David Black for chairing the meeting, Stuart Black PM for organising the event, Chris Walker (resient chef) and his girls who served the meal, Aileen McColl & Julie Scott who did the bar and the various brethren who donated prizes and set up the hall on the Friday morning.

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The Duke of Cornwall’s LI The Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry (46th Foot) was stationed in Fort William in 1743 at the time of the Jacobite uprising. The Governor of the fort, Alexander Campbell, and his opposition, Cameron of Lochiel, where both masons. Due to the large numbers of soldiers from the 46th joining the lodge in the town, the regiment applied to the GL of Ireland for a travelling warrant to hold their own lodge. After 1745, the regiment was posted to the US and the following is from their museum. It is a good ‘story’ although not believe to be the actual Bible.

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The Duke of Cornwall’s LI (ctd)

Lodge No. 191, Buncrana is County Donegal, This Lodge met in County Londonderry where 10 serving members in WW1 from the DCLI from officers to SNCOs

http://ulsterwarmemorials.net/html/masonic_lodges_in_co__londonde.html

Congratulations to Bro. Thomas Linnie on receiving his 60 Year Jubilee Certificate. Bro. Tom thanked the lodge and said how proud he was to be a member of 242. We know what you mean!

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The Order of the Silver Trowel The Order of the Silver Trowel has been chartered back to Scotland (from whence many believe it originally came). It will be worked within the Cryptic Council, but where, when and how has yet to be determined. Although not really deemed a new degree, it might only be for installed Thrice Illustrious Masters so will not deplete the already dwindling supply of masons for all the orders that now exist in Scotland.

Pictured below, Graham Smith Grand SE from the Supreme RAC of Scotland holds the charter from North Carolina to allow the degree to take place in Scotland. It should be interesting to see how the degree is implemented and progressed throughout the councils. Will it attract more members, is that the intention, . . . ?

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Bro. Albert, Duke of York, later King George VI

Here is the announcement that he was to be Installed as Grand Master Mason: GRAND LODGE BI-CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS. Grand Secretary submitted the following Report from the Chairman of the Bi-centenary Fund Committee:" I have the honour to report for the in formation of Grand Committee that the Bi-centenary Fund Committee have their preparations well in hand and are continuing to perfect their arrangements. Guests are expected to arrive on Saturday, 28th November, and accommodation has been reserved for them in the Caledonian Station Hotel, where a Reception and Dinner will be held that evening.

On Sunday, 29th November, a Special Commemoration Service will be held in the afternoon in St Giles Cathedral.

On Monday, 30th November, Grand Lodge will meet in the Usher Hall for the Installation of His Royal Highness, The Duke of York as Grand Master Mason and Installation of other Office-bearers. In the evening a Special Banquet will be held in the Castle. It is suggested that the usual Saint Andrew's Day Dinner be dispensed with, although arrangements will be made for as many brethren as possible obtaining Dinner in Freemason's Hall. Later in the evening a Coversazione will be held in the Music Hall and Assembly Rooms, where the speeches of the evening will be delivered.

On Tuesday evening there will be a Special Performance in the Empire Theatre. So far as the Members of Grand Lodge and Daughter Lodges are concerned, the forgoing items, on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday, should be noted. A questionnaire will be issued at an early date in order to ascertain the numbers desiring to attend, so that arrangements may be made accordingly. An attractive programme has been drawn up to occupy the time of the Overseas Visitors during the remainder of the week. A Special Bi -centenary JeweI has been struck in bronze and will be on sale to members of the Craft at a cost of 5/-.

From GLoS Facebook page—PTO to find out more.

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GLoS Facebook The Times (Scottish edition) has published a positive article about the Scottish Craft. It would appear that the newspaper has taken an interest in the previous article about the Queen’s father who was a Grand Master Mason of Scotland.

It is also planned to unveil a new portrait of the duke in GL on the staircase. He was initiated into Lodge Glamis in 1936, the ancestral home of his wife (the Queen mum).

November Events in 242

Remembrance Service on Sunday 12 noon at the lodge

Friday 13th—Installation at 7pm prompt Installing Masters Bros Brian Smolarek Snr PM & Raymond Ganson PM Thursday 26th—EAD by OBs

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Bro. Ian C. Milne PM 242 was one of the characters of 242. Ian was brought up in Floors Street in Johnstone and went to Floorsburn School before going to Johnstone High. He worked in the construction business for most of his life (latterly he worked in the Sheriffs’ Office with Bro. Garry Forbes PM). Ian was married to Joan for 50 years this year, he was an elder for over 20 years in Johnstone High Parish and leaves a son Bro. Dougie and grand daughter. Ian was master of the lodge in 1980—81 and then again in 1986—87 when I joined. He had a great sense of humour with some fantastic one lines—he was always able to be solemn during the important parts of the ceremony, but jovial in the rest. Something that is often missing these days when too many take themselves too seriously. He certainly needed this sense of humour when he was Secretary/Treasurer of the Social Club for 14 years. Ian was a true freemason and will be sadly missed.

1904 Book Of Constitutions In the next couple of months, I will put some hand drawn images from the 1904 Book of Constitutions and Laws including the old badge on the front page (left).

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A Message from a PGM When I was a wee boy, my mother used to say as I went out to play, “just remember, whatever you get up to, would you do it if your mother was watching”?

I’m not sure that I always abided by the advice given but it often made me stop and think and maybe that advice still holds good today for the young and not so young alike.

Can we always be assured that our conduct both in and outwith the Lodge would meet with our mother’s approval or the approval of our mother Lodge, for that matter?

In fairness when we enter our Lodges, we are expected to work together in harmony and maintain a certain decorum. We do not discuss religion or politics and we should be treating each other with courtesy and in the most part I’m sure we do. But what about when we leave the Lodge, how many of us leave these principles behind? How do we represent the Lodge and the Craft outside of the Lodge, do we still maintain these principles.

It is true to say that freemasonry is not a job – it is to some extent a hobby but if we are to reflect the principles of the Craft to the outside world, then it should be a 24/7 hobby, and we should always be mindful of the lessons we are taught within the Lodge. Uprightness, integrity, charity and benevolence should always be uppermost in our minds because the way that we act outside of the Lodge will reflect the Craft to the general public.

Would you use that language or do that action if your mother was watching or you were within the Lodge?

Now I am sure that many of you are terrific ambassadors for your respective Lodges and for the Craft in general but one aspect in particular sometimes concerns me and that is the trend towards the use of social media sites such as facebook.

Such sites can be used to promote the Craft in a very positive way and indeed much use can be made to advise of meetings and events etc.

However, I am sometimes concerned at some of the comments, language and statements which are added and would ask that you remember that those who know that you are members of the Craft may judge you on the language, comments and opinions which you post online and which can be seen by so many and may judge freemasonry accordingly.

So I make the appeal to you to be careful what you post into such social media sites and ask yourself the question, would I be happy for my mother to read this or would I make Cross Keys Nov. 2015

A Message from a PGM (ctd) this statement or use this language within the Lodge. If the answer is no, then please take a moment to reflect on your actions. I have heard many different opinions from Lodge members as to how they see their membership. Some say it is just a hobby and others say that it is a way of life.

My own opinion is that there is plenty of guidance to assist you in this respect and that your family and work commitments should always be given your first priority. However, if we truly take on board the lessons we learn during our various degrees, then freemasonry should also provide guidance for you throughout your day on a 24/7 basis. The principle you are taught within the Lodge, should not be left at the door on the way home from your Lodge meeting. They should remain with you and be observed in all aspects of your life. If they are not present in your daily life, then we have failed somewhere along the line.

Enjoy your freemasonry, be ever conscious of its value to you in your daily life and perhaps take on board my earlier words, “would you do it if your mother (lodge) was watching”?

Thanks to Bro. Jim Livingstone PGM Renfrewshire West

Grumpy PMs? Of course they don’t exist…… Scotland, the US, etc., perhaps they do.

However, as much as a joke it may be, some do scare young masons off—mainly because they scunnered with them and have joined an organisation to get away from petty minded bickering.

We should be above that! If a bother makes a mistake, great, he can learn from it. Support him and help him—very easy.

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Can you help?

The brethren at Fort Jackson Lodge No. 374 AFM in Columbia SC are going to need our help. Any suggestions?

5 Generations of Masters

Cross Keys Nov. 2015

House of the Temple Anniversary This year the Supreme Council celebrates the 100th anniversary of the dedication and grand opening of the House of the Temple. During the Biennial Session, on 18th October, 1915, the Supreme Council conducted a dedication that was steeped in Masonic traditions.

During the 1909 Biennial Session, the Supreme Council unanimously passed a resolution to enlarge the existing headquarters or erect a new one. It was soon decided by that a new building would need to be constructed. The massive task of building a new home for the Supreme Council was entrusted to Sovereign Grand Commander James D. Richardson, who was determined to build a new Temple that would be “an ornament to the Capital City of our Nation.” Grand Commander Richardson passed away on July 24, 1914, before he could see is vision fully completed. The honour of conducting the dedication and grand opening ceremony of the House of the Temple went to the new Grand Commander.

It was a cloudy, but pleasant day when the Supreme Council was opened at 10 am on 18th Oct., 1915, at the old House of the Temple on the corner of 3rd and E Streets in northwest DC. The council then formed a line of procession that began its way to the new temple on 16th Street. The procession was lead by mounted police and a military band, “the officers and active members of the Supreme Council and the Masons of the Honorary 33rd Degree followed in automobiles, while the local and visiting Scottish Rite Masons followed on foot in a column of fours.”

Once the procession reached the new House of the Temple, they proceed to the banquet hall for a buffet luncheon. At 2:30 that afternoon the dedication of the building took place outside in front of the Great Door of the new Temple.

In Memoriam The dead are like the stars by day … withdrawn from mortal eye… yet not extinct that hold their way In glory through the sky… .Spirits of bondage thus set free… .Vanish amidst immensity… While human thought… .Like human sight… .Fail to pursue…. Their trackless flight.

It is with deep sadness and much regret that we have to inform you of a loss sustained to the craft in Renfrewshire in the passing to the Grand Lodge above of the following Brother: Bro. Ian C. Milne PM

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To submit an article, contact the Editor: Grant Macleod E-Mail:

sec242pm@yahoo.co.uk

Lodge Website

www.lodge242.co.uk

Thanks to Bro. Allan Stobo IPM for proof reading.

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Cross Keys Nov. 2015