The Kansas Mason - Spring 2015

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The Kansas Mason

Volume 53 Issue 1

A Publication of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas

Grand Lecturers of Kansas

Spring 2015

Kansas Masonic Foundation: Supporting the Success of Local Lodges As our 50th Anniversary in 2016 nears, the KMF wishes to work with Kansas Masonic Lodges to impact even more Kansans with our charitable, educational, and scientific programs.

Our collaboration will make it possible to reach more people in need, enhance the profile of Masonry, and share more of our traditions at the local level: Kansas Masonic Lodge Programs

Kansas Masonic Lodge Community Outreach Programs

• Fulfilling Our Obligation Program.

KMF has developed a Freemasons Endowment fund, designed to help Kansas Masons, wives, widows, mothers and orphans in need.

• Scholarships. Almost $250,000 goes to annual scholarship awards, including a legacy scholarship for the legacies of Kansas Masons. Since 1970, the KMF has provided nearly $4 million in scholarships to students attending Kansas universities, colleges, and trade schools.

• Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band.

Each year, 180 to 250 of Kansas’ best high school musicians attend this band camp in July and then perform at the Bowl game and other festivities. Camp-fee proceeds support the Shriners Hospitals for Children.

• KMF Charities. Every year, this charitable matching funds program provides $1,000 to each of the state’s 230 Masonic Lodges to help local Kansas community charities.

• Outreach Cancer-Screening Clinics.

KMF sponsors free statewide prostate and skin cancer screenings and bone density scans, performed by University of Kansas Medical Center staff.

• Teacher/Student of the Day Recognition.

Each year, KMF honors exemplary teachers and students in every Kansas public school.

• Essay Contest. This annual essay contest offers eight cash awards, totaling $12,000, for compelling entries written by high school seniors in Kansas public schools.

• KU Cancer Research. In the last four decades, Kansas Masons have given the University of Kansas Cancer Center nearly $25 million in the fight for a cure. Because of our significant financial commitment, the name of the Center was officially changed to the Kansas Masonic Cancer Research Institute in 2005.

KMF is here to help your Lodge succeed. Let us know how we can help you by contacting us at (785) 357-7646, email Bob@KansasMasonic.Foundation, or visit KansasMasonic.Foundation.

K A N S A S M A S O N I C F O U N D AT I O N Dedicated to Serving Humanit y

FROM THE GRAND EAST Michael A. Halleran, Grand Master of Masons 2014-2015

Our Masonic year is drawing to a close

search than in

and I am pleased to report to you that

social settings.

it has been one of vigorous activity.

It was there-

Before long, however, I will return to

fore not without some misgivings that

you the emblems of authority that

I approached the social responsibili-

you have so graciously granted me and

ties that are incumbent upon the of-

take my place again as a Past Master

fice of Grand Master – not knowing

of two lodges, and a craftsman in

if I could adequately perform those

another, and to assist – so far as I am

duties that were required of me.

able – in this great and glorious work.

Whether or not I have performed

Since 2010, I have been part of a

those tasks to the satisfaction of the

team that has sought to modernize and

Craft is not for me to say, but I can

encourage lodges, and indeed

disclose that what I thought I would

the Grand Lodge, and to motivate

not be any good at – meeting and

individual Masons, helping them to

spending time with my brethren –

move forward into the twenty-first

became, by far, my favorite part of

century. The sheer number of projects

the job.

A century ago, Grand Master

this team has undertaken is unprec-

Charles H. Chandler addressed the

edented. They include: • GL Strategic Plan

Craft at the Fifty-ninth Annual

• Master’s Achievement Award

Communication held in Wichita on

• Updated Grand Lodge Manuals/Forms • Leadership Academy

February 17-18, 1915.

To my peers who serve on the Council of Administration, and to those appointed

“Perhaps the greatest pleasure, and I am

officers that I have had the privilege of

sure the choicest memories, that are the por-

working with during the last five years, please

tion of the Grand Master, the things that will

• Affinity Lodges

accept my profound thanks. I am very proud

remain longest with him,” he wrote “are the

• Improved ADGM/DDGM Orientation

to have been associated with such dedicated

recollections of his official visitations to the

• Grand Lodge Website

and hardworking brethren. And while I may

Craft.”

• Order of Merit

look forward to retirement as all Grand

• Distinguished Service Medal

Masters inevitably do as their terms of office

Chandler was right, and the welcome that I

• Improved DDGM Reports

expire, I know that going forward, the team

received in all of the lodges I visited was very

that is leading Masonry in Kansas is poised to

warm, with many hours of fine fellowship,

continue the progress that had already been

good cheer, and a lot of laughs.

• New and Improved Petition • Electronic verifications

• Area Meetings • Improved Kansas Mason • GL Social Media • Library Improvements • Digitized Annual Proceedings • GL Mobile App

achieved. Great things, Brethren, are in store.

Stay tuned.

Looking back on the year, I cannot help

• Fulfilling our Obligation

but to be surprised at how things developed.

• Updated Awards Ceremony

By nature, I am an administrator, and I am

• Bylaw Enforcement

generally more at home with books and re-

Kansas Masonic Foundation, 2909 SW Maupin Lane, Topeka, Kansas 66614

To my delight I found that M∴W∴ Bro.

As of this writing, I have made thirty-six visits to lodges in this Grand Jurisdiction, including sitting in lodge, presiding over awards, or other ceremonies. In addition, I attended continued on page 4

SPRING 2015 3

FROM THE GRAND EAST continued from page 3 lodge meetings, conferences, or annual

brethren and a slate of interesting and enjoy-

thirty-six official visits to Kansas lodges, often

communications in eight foreign jurisdictions,

able presenters.

with a full suite of Grand Lodge officers

In 1915, Grand Master Chandler observed

sharing the advances we have made in Kansas

accompanying me, fourteen of those were

over the last five years. I was also honored to

that it was his goal “to visit officially a large

surprise visits to lodges across the state:

preside over eight Area meetings, two Ma-

number of lodges during the year, and espe-

Americus Lodge No. 109, OIathe Lodge No.

sonic education seminars in Kansas, and the

cially to visit those that were off the beaten

19, Lafayette Lodge No. 16 in Manhattan,

Chance to Advance class in Wichita. Finally,

path of travel— those that seldom are favored

Emporia Lodge No. 12, Golden Rule No. 90

just last month, I attended the Fourth Annual

with a visitation from a Grand Officer.”

in Topeka, Wyandotte Lodge No. 3, Mayetta

This I also tried to emulate, embarking

Leadership Academy, which was the best

on a series of surprise visits to lodges. Of the

yet, spending time with nearly two hundred

Lodge No. 393, Ulysses Lodge No. 435, Prudence Lodge No. 100 in Columbus, Peace Lodge No. 243 in Louisburg, Acacia Lodge No. 9 in Lawrence, Sunflower Lodge No. 86 in Wichita, Derby Lodge No. 365, and Ottawa Lodge No. 18. And while my officers and I received every kindness and consideration in these visits, I regret that twelve short months are completely insufficient to visit all of the lodges I hoped to.

Still, some time yet remains in my tenure (I write this the week before Christmas),

D N A GR

KA ANNSSAAS

LOD GE

nd Master Requests The The Gra

r of Your Presence o n o H

and I have plans to visit a few more lodges before my office expires. If time or distance prevents me from visiting your lodge, I trust you will not feel slighted, and I hope that we might see one another at the Annual Communication in Topeka in March, where we have great things in store for you.

on

Finally, I must remark that I have been

at the

honored to serve the Craft from the Grand

4 April 2015, 4:30 p.m.

Grand Master’s Reception

Topeka Masonic Center, 2300 Southwest 30th Street, Topeka, KS 66611

East during this Masonic year. I look forward to resuming my place as just another in a long line of Past Grand Masters, but I must confide that of all the duties, perquisites,

The Grand Master’s Banquet 6:00 p.m.

Business or Formal Attire $

25 per person

kindly rsvp at kansasmason.org, events you may also rsvp in person after grand lodge installation on march 21

and responsibilities that accompany the rank of Grand Master – the ability to make a surprise visit to a lodge as Grand Master is something that I will miss very much.

Until our paths cross again – by surprise or with prior planning – I look forward, as always, to meeting you on the level.

4 THE KANSAS MASON

GRAND SECRETARY

by M.W. Tracy L. Bloom, PGM, Grand Secretary

Voting Eligibility During Annual Communication Surviving another holiday season and the

From By-Law 2-301, Paragraph 2

tradition of closing out one year and start-

The per-capita tax shall not be assessed against the members, but shall be included in the

ing another, we find ourselves, and more

amount for annual dues, and be paid out of the General Fund to the Lodge. Any Lodge

especially here in the Grand Lodge Office, at

which neglects or refuses to pay all its annual per-capita tax or any special assessments on

our busiest time of the year. The production

or before the 10th day of January in each year, or which shall fail or neglect to transmit to

and reconciling of Lodge Annual Reports,

the Grand Secretary its Annual Report on or before the 10th day of January of each year

preparing for our 159th Annual Communica-

shall not be entitled to representation in the Grand Lodge at the Annual Communication

tion takes an enormous amount of time and

following such failure. The postmark on the envelope shall be accepted as evidence of the

coordination. We find ourselves, at times,

date of transmittal; and in all such cases of failure, the Grand Secretary shall notify the

overwhelmed with the amount of tasks that

Lodge to that effect and shall not issue credentials to such Lodge. (Amended 1955, 1962,

need to be completed with those two items

1967, and 1992). Provided, That no per-capita tax shall be paid by the Masonic Home

alone, let alone the other daily duties that

Lodge for any of its members who are also members of the Masonic Home. (Adopted

must be completed as well. Typically we

1975). Cross-Reference: Constitution, Art. IV; Art. IX, Sec. 9; By-Laws, Sec. 4-306.

power through the process but as you can As a matter of clarification, once we

if an extenuating circumstance has arisen.

this particular 90 day period from January

have submitted all annual reports recon-

We usually have a very narrow list, but as

through March. Please be cognizant of our

ciled, our office starts on a regular cam-

you can imagine, if you have registered to

situation, and please understand, if we don’t

paign to contact each Lodge secretary and

attend the Annual Communication and are

spend as much time on the phones with

Master of those that remain delinquent,

expecting to vote on perhaps a controver-

you as normal, because we must maximize

notifying them they are in jeopardy of not

sial jurisprudence issue, you might become

our time to get everything completed. In no

being represented at

highly upset to learn that you are unable

way am I saying to not contact us for help or

the Annual Com-

to do so because of the neglect of oth-

support, but just be aware we may tend to

munication, if the

ers. So, I urge you, please check with the

be more direct and to the point during this

Annual Report is not

Master or Secretary of your Lodge and

particular time.

submitted or other

assure yourself that when you do arrive

arrangements made

at the 159th Annual Communication of

imagine, we must maximize our time during

I’d like to address a situation that occurs at, or during, every Annual Communication of this Grand Jurisdiction, and it causes some contention and perhaps some hard feelings, but is completely avoidable. I’m talking about the embarrassing fact that some voting delegates are barred from any voting on the floor of the Annual Communication, simply because your Lodge has not turned in their Annual Report or paid their Per Capita Tax from the previous year by the deadline, nor has made any arrangements with the Grand Secretary to rectify the matter.

the Grand Lodge of Kansas, you will be

PLEASE CHECK WITH THE MASTER OR SECRETARY OF YOUR LODGE AND ASSURE YOURSELF THAT WHEN YOU DO ARRIVE AT THE 159TH ANNUAL COMMUNICATION OF THE GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS, YOU WILL BE ELIGIBLE TO

RECEIVE A VOTING DELEGATE CARD

eligible to receive a voting delegate card, if entitled to one. Remember also, not every Master Mason is entitled to vote, only Past Masters, Masters, Wardens, Treasurers and Secretaries of the Lodges within this jurisdiction. Other Voting members shall be the appointive subordinate Lodge officers, and the present subordinate Grand Lodge officers of this Grand Jurisdiction.

I look forward to seeing each of you at the Annual Communication.

SPRING 2015 5

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

www.kansasmason.org

The Kansas Mason I noticed in the schedule for the 2015 Annual Communication that the Kansas Masonic Foundation is hosting a luncheon and meeting for Lodge representatives on the Thursday prior to the start of the event again this year—should our Lodge send a representative?

A

bsolutely. The Kansas Masonic Foundation has developed a number of programs that

are “Lodge-Based Initiatives,” and it is essential that each Kansas Masonic Lodge understand how to take advantage of them. The presentation at the upcoming luncheon will be an open forum with the KMF, providing an overview of all of the current and new programs for 2015. It is anticipated that the KMF will also be discussing the results of the recent statewide survey that was conducted and what it means to Lodges all across the state.

I read with great interest the results of the recent survey conducted by the Kansas Masonic Foundation and Grand Lodge. I am sure there is a lot more information available now than was

• 43% of the Engaged Masons (defined as attending a Grand Lodge function within the past 3 years) have also been a TopLine signer in the last 2-years and have visited with an average of 10 candidates about the Fraternity; in contrast, only 8% of the Non-Engaged Masons have been a Top-Line signer in the last 2-years and have only visited with an average of 3 candidates about the Fraternity.

• The public says that the most important characteristic of an organization they would consider joining is “Community Service”—83%!

• 91% of the public is not aware of programs funded by Kansas Masons.

• 45% of dues-lapsed Masons indicate they are likely to rejoin.

• 14% of the male public would consider becoming a Mason, while 32% don’t know because they feel they don’t know enough about the Fraternity. …Pretty powerful information! And

Established 1963

The Kansas Mason is the official publication of the Grand Lodge of Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of Kansas, formally organized March 17, 1856.

The Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Kansas 320 SW 8th Avenue Topeka, Kansas, 66603-3912

The Kansas Mason is published quarterly (Feb, May, Aug, Nov) by Kansas Masonic Foundation, 2909 SW Maupin Ln,Topeka, KS 66614. Application to Mail at the Periodical Postage Prices is Pending at Topeka, KS and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Kansas Mason, 2909 SW Maupin Ln,Topeka, KS 66614.

SUBMIT ARTICLES: by email to editor@kansasmason.org or mail to KMF Editorial 2909 SW Maupin Lane Topeka, KS, 66614 All submissions may be in electronic format or hard copy and become the property of the Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Kansas.

there’s a lot more where that came from!

Photos may be submitted through Flickr at www.flickr.com/groups/kansasmason/

the top five findings from the study?

I would like to compliment all who are involved

T

in publishing The Kansas Mason. The variety

No compensation is allowed or intended for any articles, photographs, or other material submitted or published.

included in the article in the Winter edition of The Kansas Mason. What would you say are he article was simply designed to provide a broad overview and summary of

of articles—Grand Lodge information, Feature

the results. Both the Grand Lodge Council of

Stories, Education, KMF Updates, Lodge Hap-

Administration and the KMF Board of Trustees

penings, just to name a few, are OUTSTAND-

are spending considerable time evaluating the

ING. I actually now share my copies of The

new-found data and information to develop an

Kansas Mason with a number of friends and

action plan. Additional depth was provided at the November Leadership Academy and will be provided during the KMF Lodge Seminar on Thursday, prior to the beginning of Annual Communication.

While everyone might have their own “take” on what the top five “aha” moments were, there is no doubt that these five are very enlightening:

use it as an excellent informational tool about our Fraternity. It is also helping me find interested friends, some of whom are now considering becoming Masons. Thanks so much for creating such a professional publication for our Craft!

T

hank you for your kind words.

And never fear—we will, indeed, keep

striving to improve The Kansas Mason.

If you have any questions that you would like addressed on Masonry, Grand Lodge, Kansas Masonic Foundation, Kansas Masonic Home, this publication or its articles, please send your questions to Editor@KansasMason.org or mail to Kansas Masonic Foundation, Attn. Kansas Mason Editor, 2909 SW Maupin Lane, Topeka, Kansas 66614.

6 THE KANSAS MASON

Advertising Guidelines for The Kansas Mason can be found on the Grand Lodge website.

NOTE: Permission to reprint material appearing in The Kansas Mason will be granted upon written request to the Grand Secretary from recognized Master Masons.

Other written requests will be considered by the Council of Administration. When reprinted, articles should note “Reprinted with permission of the Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. (month and year)”.

The opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of the Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Kansas, its officers or employees.

2014 by the MW Grand Lodge A.F.& A.M. of Kansas. All rights reserved. The Grand Lodge seal and the logos “Kansas Mason,” and “Kansas Freemasons/On The Level” are trademarks of the MW Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Kansas, and all rights are reserved.

©

INSIDE THIS ISSUE FEATURED ARTICLES FROM THE GRAND EAST 3 Drawing to a Close GRAND LODGE 8 An

10 14 16 20 21

Experience You Don't Want To Miss Proposed By-Law Changes The Lodge Secretary Leadership Academy IV New Grand Senior Deacon Announced Our Future is Change

FEATURE ARTICLE 22

A Brief History of the Grand Lecturers...

DEPARTMENTS

5 GRAND SECRETARY Voting Eligibility During Annual Communication

48 LODGE OF RESEARCH The Unyielding Carle Woodruff, Founding Master

6 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

52 HOME WARMINGS Caring for Masons at KMH

30 MEMBER INTERVIEW Perry A. Cross Jr. 33

FROM THE ARCHIVES Noted Library Expert Suggests Essential Steps to Preserve Important Masonic Collections

34 AROUND THE WORLD The Authority Of The Old Charges 35 MAKING A DIFFERENCE Lincoln Wilson, Jr. was appointed to the Board of Trustees

Building on Success

Two Great Receptions, One Great Reason

Second Annual Lodge Event During Annual Communication

Charitable Giving

Making the Sequel Outshine the Original

SOLD on Helping Brothers

53 BOOK REVIEW Masonic Etiquette Today: A Modern Guide to Masonic Protocol and Practice 54

OUT AND ABOUT Albert Pike Lodge No. 303 Mulvane Lodge No. 201 De Soto Lodge No. 40

58 KANSAS MASONIC NOTES Past Grand Master, Sterling P. Hornbuckle III 58 EVENTS CALENDAR 59 ASKED AND ANSWERED 60 MASON TRAVELING IN KANSAS

The Kansas Mason is published quarterly (Feb, May, Aug, Nov) by Kansas Masonic Foundation, 2909 SW Maupin Ln, Topeka, KS 66614.

Application to Mail at the Periodical Postage Prices is Pending at Topeka, KS and additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Kansas Mason (2909 SW Maupin Ln, Topeka, KS 66614).

SPRING 2015 7

GRAND LODGE

An Experience

By Brandon C. (Cole) Presley, Grand Junior Warden

You Don't Want To Miss

BE INSPIRED AT THE 159TH ANNUAL COMMUNICATION

“I’ve listened to degree work for 32 years, and I’m finding meaning I didn’t know.”

“I use the Grand Lodge session as a springboard to launch me into the rest of the year.”

“This,” he said, “is not your grandpa’s Grand Lodge anymore.”

SCHEDULE

TH A N N UA L C O M M U N I C AT I O N 19-21 MARCH 2015 CAPITOL PLAZA HOTEL TOPEKA, KANSAS

SPEAKERS AND EVENTS

THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2015

FRIDAY, MARCH 20, 2015

SATURDAY, MARCH 21, 2015

9 a.m.-3 p.m. Grand Lodge Tours Open

7 a.m.-5 p.m. Exhibits Open

6:30 a.m. Incoming ADGM/DDGM Breakfast (Invitation Only)

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Kansas Masonic Foundation Lodge Luncheon (Open to all Kansas Masons—RSVP required)

7 a.m.-5:45 p.m. Silent Auction Bidding Open (Final Bidding Closes at 5:45 p.m.)

8 a.m.

8 a.m.

Prelude (Assembly to be seated not later than 8:15 a.m.)

8:30 a.m. Resume Labor

8:30 a.m.

Opening Session—Keynote Speaker, Andrew Hammer

9:30 a.m. Conclude 159th Annual Communication

11:30 a.m.

Annual Masonic Family Gathering Luncheon & Speaker, Dr. David James Cameron

1:30 p.m.

John Bizzack, Ph. D., Special Guest Speaker for the Formal Opening of the Tyled Grand Lodge Session

5 p.m.

Labor to Refreshment

6 p.m.

All Masonic Gala 2nd Annual Freemason’s Endowment Charity Auction Entertainment, Project Trio

1 p.m.-3 p.m.

T

159

GRAND LODGE KANSAS A.F. & A.M.

Kansas Masonic Foundation Seminar—Kansas Masonic Lodge Relevancy in the Community

2-5 p.m.

Exhibits and Silent Auction Bidding Open

4-6 p.m.

Welcome Reception (All Kansas Masons and Spouses)

6 p.m.

Grand Masters Banquet (Invitation Only)

10 a.m.

Necrology Service

Installation of 2015-2016 Grand Lodge Officers

11:30 a.m. Incoming Grand Lodge Officer’s Luncheon (Invitation Only)

he 159th Annual Communication for our Grand Lodge is fast approaching,

offering the opportunity for Kansas Masons

Already, you’re probably seeing the hustle of preparation from your Grand Lodge Officers.

The Grand Master is putting his final plans

Even with the work and time commitment, there is not a single Grand Lodge Officer who isn’t excited about the Annual Communica-

to be educated and inspired by their brothers

together to ensure each banquet and guest

tion. There is simply no larger gathering in

from across the state.

speaker, along with every possible necessary

Kansas of Brother Masons during the year,

agenda item, is covered. The Deputy Grand

and there is no better way to re-charge bat-

record numbers of Masons and highlighted

Master is putting the final touches on his

teries or re-ignite the passions in all of our

the renewal and sense of renewal that is

line of officers, the next year’s calendar and

hearts about our great Order.

building in Kansas lodges. We expect that

preparing the orientation courses for District

The past several sessions have seen us shift

commitment and excitement to continue for

and Area Deputies. The Grand Secretary and

the focus of the Annual Communication from

this year’s event.

his office are lining up logistics and working

simply conducting business to making sure we

on Annual Reports at the same time. The

fulfill our duties of providing for the Craft.

Last year’s Annual Communication drew

As Dale Fritz, District Deputy Grand

The feedback from Masons attending the

Master from Fredonia, Kansas, said last year,

remaining Grand Lodge Officers are divided

the Grand Lodge is a “springboard” that will

between the three officers to provide what

2014 event underscored the importance

launch you and your lodge into the next year.

help and support that they can.

of the education and motivation received

8 THE KANSAS MASON

during the Grand Lodge.

Last year, Fritz talked enthusiastically about the break-out sessions that he called “the true meat of the matter.” It’s in those sessions that Masons connect with each other, sharing insight into what lodges across the state are doing and becoming grounded in the true meaning of Masonry.

The 159th Annual Communication will be no different. While there is still business to be conducted, important business, the session will also be crammed with plenty of other events and the best lineup of guest speakers ever planned.

The session begins on Thursday, March 19, with tours of the Grand Lodge Building at 9 a.m. The Kansas Masonic Foundation will host a lunch and provide a seminar. In years past, we did not start until Friday morning. The formal session begins bright and early at 8 a.m. on the 20th, and the Grand Master has arranged for Andrew Hammer, David James Cameron and John Bizzack to speak at different times during the day. (See the schedule for more details.) We don’t normally see this kind of a speaking lineup except at a Conference of Grand Masters.

Several Lodges this past year received a warning letter about their failure to attend the Annual Communication once every three years, as explained in bylaw 3-621.

Yes, we have a duty as the Grand Lodge to uphold and enforce the bylaws. However, one look at the schedule should prove to any Master Mason that we are not simply checking the box.

Rather, we are building the Annual Communication into an experience no Master Mason wants to miss.

As George Read, a Mason of 32 years said last year, “This is not your grandpa’s Grand Lodge anymore.”

We’ll see you in March.

SPRING 2015 9

Proposed By-Law changes, as submitted, by November 1st 2014 to the Grand Secretary, and approved by the Jurisprudence Committee for consideration at the 159th Annual Communication of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of A.F. & A.M. of Kansas, March 20th & 21st 2015 at Topeka KS

CONSTITUTION ARTICLE V Grand Lodge— Membership Section 1. Members—The Members of Grand Lodge shall be: Past Masters, Masters, Wardens, Treasurers and Secretaries of the Lodges within this jurisdiction. Other Voting members shall be the appointive subordinate Lodge officers, and the present subordinate Grand Lodge officers of this Grand Jurisdiction any Master Mason in this Grand Jurisdiction who has paid the required registration fee for attending Grand Lodge. (Amended 1980, 1994,1995).

Rational: There have been complaints from Master Masons of this Grand Jurisdiction that were not Past Masters, or any officer of a lodge, that they should be entitled to vote if they have paid the registration fee. The present system discourages Master Masons to attend Grand Lodge if they do not meet the present qualifications for voting.

Respectively Submitted Leland G. Salts, Past Master Mayetta Lodge No. 393, Mayetta, Kansas

CONSTITUTION ARTICLE VI Grand Lodge—Officers and Committees Cross-Reference: By-Laws, Ch. 2, Art. I. Section 5. Duties and Powers of Grand Master—The duties, powers and prerogatives of the Grand Master shall be those which are required of, exercised by, and accorded to this high office by the Ancient Constitution, General Regulation and Landmarks of Freemasonry and the Constitution and Laws of this Grand Lodge. It shall be his duty to preside over the Grand Lodge, to conduct in person or by a Past Master appointed by him, all public ceremonies of the Grand Lodge, to require strict conformity to Masonic law and usage in this Grand Jurisdiction, and to perform such other duties as may be provided by law. He shall have power: (a) To preside over every assembly of the Craft; (b) To arrest the Warrant of any Lodge; (c) To authorize the installation of a Master elect who is not a Past Warden, if there be no Warden or Past Warden willing to serve as Master;

(j) To exercise all the executive powers of the Grand Lodge during the interim between Communications thereof; (k) To require all Masons who are members of any organization which predicates its membership upon Masonic affiliation to conform to all rules of conduct required of Masons by this Grand Lodge and by the Usages of the Fraternity; (l) To superintend the transactions of the Craft, to interfere in all congregations of Masons and prevent the commission of wrong, and to see that the Landmarks and Usages of Masonry, and the Constitution and Laws of the Grand Lodge and of every Lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction, are preserved and obeyed; (m) To temporarily suspend a member from all Masonic rights, privileges, and prerogatives, if that member be brought up on Masonic charges and/or formally charged with a crime (civil or criminal) that would be considered conduct unbecoming a Mason. But in no case shall he have the ability, power or prerogative to make such suspension permanent, or the ability to expel a member without proper Masonic trial. (m) (n) And to exercise such other powers which may be granted by law, and such other powers and prerogatives as are inherent in and pertain to the office of Grand Master.

Cross-Reference: Constitution, Art. I, Sec. 1, Landmarks IV, V, VI, VII, VIII; Art. VI, Secs. 10, 13; Art. VII, Secs. 1, 4; Art. VIII, Secs. 1, 3; Art. IX, Secs. 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13; By-Laws, Secs. 2-104, 2-105, 2-108, 2-118, 2-125, 2-126, 2-127, 2-128, 2-129, 2-130, 2-132, 2-201, 2-202, 2-203, 2-208, 2-209, 2-210, 2-211, 2-212, 2-303, 2-304, 2-311, 2-312, 2-402, 3-102, 3-108, 2-206, 3-207, 3-209, 3-301, 3-302, 30303, 3-314, 3-316, 3-406, 3-410, 3-411, 3-502, 3-503, 3-603, 3-616, 4-202, 4-204, 4-205, 4-402, 5-212, 5-214, 5-218, 5-227, 5-232, 5-236, 5-237, 5-306, 5-308, 5-310, 5-313.

Rational: there have been a few cases, as of late, where a Brother having been accused of a crime (civil or criminal) has had the luxury of continuing to purport himself as a Mason. Internally we know he is not worthy of being a brother, because of the crime he is accused of committing, we also understand the due process of the law and masonic Law, but there should be no reason that while he is awaiting trial that he should remain a full fledges brother in good standing, able to attend Lodge meetings, even officiate Masonic Funerals and otherwise promote the Craft as if there were nothing wrong. To the general public this might look like we are protecting, or trying to protect someone we would actually find unworthy of membership. Some of these crimes have been sexual in nature and with the Lodges pushing the CHIP’s program; it just wouldn’t look good at all, if it appeared that we, the Masons of Kansas, were harboring an accused offender.

(d) To abridge the time within which one can petition for and receive the three symbolic Degrees;

Respectfully submitted,

(e) To authorize or ratify the performance of acts, the doing of work and the transaction of business in an irregular manner or at irregular times, which by the laws and regulations, may be done in regular order;

Grand Secretary

(f ) To create additional offices in the Grand Lodge;

Plural member Clay Center Lodge No.134

(g) To require the attendance of and information from, any Grand Officer, Grand Lodge Committee of Lodge officer, respecting his or their duties: (h) To preside as Chairman, ex-officio, in all Committees he chooses to attend; (i) To interpret the laws, and require their observance;

10 THE KANSAS MASON

Tracy L Bloom, PM, PGM Salina Lodge No. 60

ARTICLE IX Chartered Lodges Cross-Reference: By-Laws, Ch. 3, Art. II Section 5A. Quorum - When a Lodge has less than forty (40) fifty (50) Master Masons on its roll as reported on the previous years Annual Report to the Grand Lodge, it shall be allowed to transact the business of the Lodge, when there shall be at least five (5) Master Masons present who are members of that Lodge and entitled to vote. (Adopted 1996) Rationale: Any Lodge can depopulate sharply and suddenly due to die-off, transfer, moving and desertion issues, which can take some time to turn around.

When a Lodge is honestly trying to meet its requirements, raise funds, maintain its facilities, circulate petitions and all the many, many unique challenges small community Lodges deal with (which most larger Lodges within larger communities do not experience, themselves), a little extra cover is beneficial; particularly, since 5 of 50 (or less) is 10% (or more) of its membership. The current formula is set at 12.5% (or more). The percentage is not that dissimilar, so as to depart from this relief. It is not infrequent for small community Lodge Brethren to serve as members and officers in other organizations (in addition to Freemasonry) and hold church office and/or elective local office, as well; whereas, in larger communities, there is, presumably, considerably more indigenous talent, to spread all the necessary work around. Further, it is not that uncommon for more than 50% (or more)of a small Lodge’s membership (like ours) to reside in nursing homes and care facilities, out-of-community and/or out-of-state, which functionally translates into a significantly higher percentage of active Brothers (20-25%,or more, of local Brothers) to carry the load. Unless we actively desire to see Masonry disappear from ever-broader swatches of our state, leaving Masonic’ islands’ here and there, as a consequence, our small Lodges must be afforded some consideration and support, until Lodge numbers can be bolstered Respectfully submitted, Bro. John David Ramsey Master, Zeredatha Lodge No. 80, A.F. & A.M. of Kansas, Cottonwood Falls Past Master/Plural Member, Advance Lodge No. 114, A.F. & A.M. of Florence Kansas.

CONSTITUTION ARTICLE IX Chartered Lodges Cross-Reference: By-Laws, Ch. 3, Art. II Section 9. Annual Report and Dues—Every Lodge shall make an annual report in such form as the Grand Secretary may prescribe, show: First, The full names of the officers of the Lodge; Second, All the changes in membership during the year; Third, The work done since the last report, and date and place of birth of each Brother receiving the First Degree, or admitted, or restored, and giving such other information as the Grand Secretary may require. The report supplied by the Grand Secretary shall be immediately examined, corrected if need be, and returned to the Grand Secretary on or before the tenth thirty-first (31st) day of January of each year. No Lodge shall be represented by its Master or Wardens in the Grand Lodge at any Annual Communication until each such report is received, nor until its annual dues are paid as provided by law. (Amended 1992)

printed on the annual report, which will drastically reducing the secretaries time commitment to complete the report and send it back to the Grand Secretary.

When the AR arrives in the mail, the secretary, will basically have to sign the report, enter the lodges 990 information and write a check for per-capita tax, if necessary, and return it back to the Grand Lodge Office. All very doable within the 31 days of January. It also eliminates the need for the Grand Master to issue a special dispensation to move the due date from the 10 to the 31st of January.

Respectfully submitted, Tracy L Bloom, PM, PGM Grand Secretary Salina Lodge No. 60 Plural member Clay Center Lodge No. 134 If the proposed change to Article IX, section 9 of the constitution is rejected, the proposed by-law change 2-301 can be withdrawn, because it’s only purpose to be changed is because of the change to the above constitutional amendment. Also the same rational can be given for the 2-301 proposal.

BY-LAWS CHAPTER TWO Article III Grand Lodge Fund, Salaries and Allowances Section 2-301A. Plural Members - Per Capita Tax shall only be levied against a Masonic Brother once, per year, collected by the Lodge he shall designate as his primary Lodge. No Brother shall be charged for Per Capita Tax in any Kansas Lodge where he holds secondary or plural membership.

Rationale: In our Masonic Tradition, each Masonic Brother is equal to one another, for purposes of equality. I have heard several Brothers state that they would be very happy to petition for plural membership in district and area Lodges, if the cost of Per Capita Tax payment (in multiplicity) was not as cost prohibitive as it is. Plural Membership encourages Lodges to work more closely together, within their district and area, by creating and deepening the bonds of Fraternal Brotherhood and cooperation. The Grand Lodge of Kansas is the only beneficiary of Per Capita Tax multiplicities; it certainly does not benefit the individual Brother, to pay Per Capita Tax in every Lodge in which he holds membership and it does not benefit the additional Lodges in which he holds plural membership. It serves a more legitimate Masonic purpose, for subordinate Lodges to continue and to grow, than to artificially fill unearned Per Capita Taxes into the Grand Lodge treasury.

Respectfully submitted, Bro. John David Ramsey Master, Zeredatha Lodge No. 80, A.F. & A.M. of Kansas, Cottonwood Falls Past Master/Plural Member, Advance Lodge No. 114, A.F. & A.M. of Florence Kansas.

Cross-Reference: By-Laws, Secs. 2-301, 3-306, 3-309.

Rational: with the implementation of the new database system the annual reports are constructed and distributed to the Lodges in a completely different manner and time frame. The old method of constructing the reports happened almost 30 days prior to the end of the year. The new method is most efficient when the reports are produced after the last day of the year, in which secretaries would have entered all of their required information including new lodge officers and those members slated for suspension for non-payment of dues, via their Lodge Secretary Interface. All of the information entered is then pre-

SPRING 2015 11

Proposed By-Law Changes

CONSTITUTION

BY-LAWS

BY-LAWS

CHAPTER TWO

CHAPTER TWO

ARTICLE III

ARTICLE V

Grand Lodge Fund, Salaries and Allowances

Miscellaneous

2-301. Grand Lodge Per Capita Tax and Special Assessment- Every Lodge Working under a Warrant of Constitution shall pay annually to the Grand Lodge a Per Capita Tax of $24.00 on the roll of membership for the preceding year, commencing January 1, 2007, $2.00 of which will be used for the Kansas Mason. $1.50 shall be allocated to the Kansas Masonic Home. Furthermore $0.50 per year shall go to The George Washington Masonic National Memorial. Provided, That any increase in the per capita tax shall become effective on the Lodge roll of membership determined on December 31st, the following year. (Amended 1974, 1978, 1982, 1988, 1991, 1993, 1996, 2003, 2006, 2014.)

2-503. Distribution of Proceedings—The Grand Secretary, at the expense of the Grand Lodge, shall send one copy of the Annual Proceedings to each of the Grand Officers, Area Deputy Grand Masters, District Deputy Grand Masters, Past Elective Grand Officers, Lecturers, Assistant Lecturers, Grand Representatives, Chairman of the Standing Committees, Kansas Masonic Home and Masonic Publications; one copy to each of the Lodges; and copies to the Grand Secretaries of such other Grand Lodges as are in correspondence with this Grand Lodge, in the exchange of a like number of Proceedings of such respective Grand Lodges; preserving all remaining copies in the Grand Lodge Building; Provided, That as long as surplus copies are available, the Grand Secretary may sell them to Master Masons of this Grand Jurisdiction who apply therefor, at a price set by the Council of Administration. Further, the Grand Secretary shall make such distributions in a current convenient format of communications widely adopted, and typically used at the time of distribution, and shall ascertain at that time, if the recipient would prefer a soft bound copy of the proceedings, which he will then send as requested, at the expense of the Grand Lodge.

The per-capita tax shall not be assessed against the members, but shall be included in the amount for annual dues, and be paid out of the General Fund to the Lodge. Any Lodge which neglects or refuses to pay all its annual per-capita tax or any special assessments on or before the 10th 31st day of January in each year, or which shall fail or neglect to transmit to the Grand Secretary its Annual Report on or before the 10th 31st day of January of each year shall not be entitled to representation in the Grand Lodge at the Annual Communication following such failure. The postmark on the envelope shall be accepted as evidence of the date of transmittal; and in all such cases of failure, the Grand Secretary shall notify the Lodge to that effect and shall not issue credentials to such Lodge. (Amended 1955, 1962, 1967, and 1992). Provided, That no per-capita tax shall be paid by the Masonic Home Lodge for any of its members who are also members of the Masonic Home. (Adopted 1975). Cross-Reference: Constitution, Art. IV; Art. IX, Sec. 9; By-Laws, Sec. 4-306.

Rational: with the implementation of the new database system the annual reports are constructed and distributed to the Lodges in a completely different manner and time frame. The old method of constructing the reports happened almost 30 days prior to the end of the year. The new method is most efficient when the reports are produced after the last day of the year, in which secretaries would have entered all of their required information including new lodge officers and those members slated for suspension for non-payment of dues, via their Lodge Secretary Interface. All of the information entered is then pre-printed on the annual report, which will drastically reducing the secretaries time commitment to complete the report and send it back to the Grand Secretary. When the AR arrives in the mail, the secretary, will basically have to sign the report, enter the lodges 990 information and write a check for per-capita tax, if necessary, and return it back to the Grand Lodge Office. All very doable within the 31 days of January. It also eliminates the need for the Grand Master to issue a special dispensation to move the due date from the 10 to the 31st of January.

Respectfully submitted, Tracy L Bloom, PM, PGM Grand Secretary Salina Lodge No. 60 Plural member Clay Center Lodge No. 134

(Amended 1982) Rational: In today’s society the ability exists to distribute the annual proceedings in electronic format, which may change over time and this by-law makes exception for that, giving lea way for future formats and methods of communication.

This would in no way preclude any Grand Officers, Area Deputy Grand Masters, District Deputy Grand Masters, Past Elective Grand Officers, Lecturers, Assistant Lecturers, Grand Representatives, Chairman of the Standing Committees, Kansas Masonic Home and Masonic Publications, Kansas Lodges or other Grand Lodges from requesting a soft bound copy of the proceedings.

Respectfully submitted, Tracy L Bloom, PM, PGM Grand Secretary Salina Lodge No. 60 Plural member Clay Center Lodge No. 134

BY-LAWS CHAPTER THREE CONSTITUENT LODGES ARTICLE VI Miscellaneous 3-604. Use of Cipher in a Tyled Lodge Conferral of Degrees —No Brother shall use the official cipher while engaged in the opening/closing ceremony of or conferring any Degree, or while participating in such ceremony. Furthermore commencing on January 1 2016 and from that point forward, No Brother shall use the official cipher in a Tyled Lodge, with the exception of; one Brother designated as a prompter, if needed. It could also be used for instruction or practice, but in no case for ceremonial purposes.

Rational: As you should know by now, one of the focuses of the M∴W∴ Grand Lodge of Kansas is committed to “Excellence in Esoteric work”. By virtue of that commitment I believe this by-law needs to be defined better to reflect that commitment. Although the current law does not specifically say that Ciphers are not to be used in the opening or closing of a lodge I believe it is indeed implied and therefore ciphers should not be used. And to clearly broaden the by-law, this proposed by-law would prohibit its use anytime in a tyled lodge, with the exception of one appointed prompter, if needed.

Respectfully submitted, Council of Administration

12 THE KANSAS MASON

BY-LAWS

CHAPTER FOUR

CHAPTER FOUR

ARTICLE III

ARTICLE III

Fees and Dues

Fees and Dues

Cross-Reference : By-Laws, Sec. 4-405.

Cross-Reference : By-Laws, Sec. 4-405.

4-302. Initiatory Fees—Every Lodge shall collect an initiatory fee of Five Ten Dollars from each candidate initiated, in addition to the regular fees for the degrees. Such initiatory fee shall be remitted to the Grand Secretary at the same time the per capita tax is transmitted, and shall be transmitted by the Grand Secretary to the Secretary of the Kansas Masonic Home Board Grand Lodge Library and Museum Foundation Board, and become part of the permanent fund of such Home Foundation, with only the interest thereof to be used. (effective January 1, 1988) (Amended 1992) Cross-Reference: By-Laws, Sec. 2-301.

4-308. Lodge Dues—Payable in Advance—Suspension—Lodge Dues shall be payable in advance and shall be delinquent if not paid on or before January 1, of each year. If same are not paid by the date of the Annual Communication in December, the member’s name shall automatically be placed on a Masonic Charity list for examination by the Lodge’s Master and his Committee on Masonic Charity for possible remission of dues, subject to recommendation of the Charity Committee and a majority-vote by the Lodge at the next Stated meeting of the Lodge. Cases already known to be without merit shall be declared Suspended as of December 31st of that dues year. Cases of members’ status which are unknown shall be contacted by the Committee either in person, by telephone, by U.S. Mail or by electronic-mail and results thence reported to the Lodge as a whole. Men whose cases are deemed to have possible merit or who cannot be located for dues remission shall remain in regular Standing as members, until a majority-vote by the Lodge can be taken at subsequent Stated Meetings of the Lodge, even if the meeting falls beyond December 31st. If a member or his family or representatives do not respond {or who cannot be contacted} within 180 days, then the Lodge can assume that it has faithfully done its duty and take a majority-vote to either remit the member’s dues or to suspend him. Interaction is necessary, yet timely fiscal responsibility accompanies that goal, too. thereafter, the member shall be suspended on that date to be effective as of December 31, thereafter.

Rational: The Kansas Masonic Home has created their own foundation and has embarked upon their own capital campaign, which I believe is great and what they needed to do, I applaud them for their initiative, and for that reason, I believe it frees this fee up to make better use of. My purpose in proposing this change in where the initiatory fee goes is not to punish the KMH, but to repurpose those few dollars to aid the Library and Museum which has been largely ignored over the last 100 years. We have very rare and precious books, jewels, coins, aprons, documents, gavels, working tools, pictures and artifacts of all kinds that have been wasting away in an improper environment and because of improper care and handling over the years. Brothers, we should be ashamed of ourselves for letting this happen! We, the Masons of Kansas, have been entrusted by many people who have over the years donated their precocious artifacts and personal belongings, to our care in the Kansas Masonic Library and Museum, and we have but barely lifted a finger to assure their preservation. The Council of Administration along with the help and aid of the Kansas Masonic Foundation, and now the Kansas Masonic Home can help in making that a reality, to aid in the preservation, care and public display of these Masonic Artifacts. But we need to look at unconventional methods that might not seem the most likely place to cull money from.

Respectfully Submitted: Bro. James A. Marples, Perpetual Life Member, Mulvane Lodge No. 201, Mulvane, Kansas.

Rationale: Our fraternal Society needs dues money to survive, and many men may be too proud to ask for temporary Charity in time of need. This By-Law change would allow them to “not lose face” nor lose faith in our genuine Bonds of Brotherhood since ALL delinquent cases would thus be automatically scrutinized for merit, after the Annual Communication of the Lodge in December.

We must help worthy Brothers who are genuinely in hardship; but we must not allow procrastinators to engender sloppy book-keeping practices. The Master and his Charity Committee often wait for Brothers to notify them of their status or condition. Aged, infirm, or destitute Brother Master Masons may not be able to take this first step. Some may have had strokes, some may be in nursinghomes; and others may be out-of-State. Thus, the Lodge needs to take the initiative to INQUIRE IF A GENUINE “NEED FOR CHARITY” EXISTS. No Lodge would suffer by this By-Law change. Those Masons who intend to pay will pay their dues by the deadline. We won’t lose them. The chronic procrastinators will be motivated to respond in a more timely way {if they indeed wish to remain members} and the indifferent members will simply choose suspension. We must have clearly-defined lanes of action to address cases of dues delinquency and keep lines of contact open between the members under Charity Review and the Lodge as a whole. Too many cases are treated like ‘numbers’ instead of ‘worthy men’ needing to be evaluated for Masonic Charity. In summary: Our Lodges need to be pro-active, yet compassionate. We must be a fraternity with a heart, which simultaneously conducts our monetarily business-practices with a degree of consistency. Kind responsiveness and timely fiscal accountability is at the crux of this By-Law. It is a delicate balance, but it has been refined without overcoming the shortcomings of previous By-Law changes. Too many Masters and Charity Committees have fallen down on the job of ascertaining cases of legitimate hardship. Extending worthy Masonic Charity should be a top priority; but by the same token, we need to separate and distinguish procrastinators VERSUS those who voluntarily chose to be Suspended. We must use this By-Law change to create a default “automatic route for Charity Assistance” for those who wish to remain members and thus deserve remission of dues. Building-up lines of communication between the individual member and the Lodge is common-sense, but in the day and age: Brotherhood is a two-way street. Interaction is necessary, yet timely fiscal responsibility EQUALLY ACCOMPANIES THAT GOAL, too. This By-Law change would allow good men to remain in Regular Standing until a review is made; and then sift-out the ones who themselves chose Suspension.

Respectfully Submitted: Bro. James A. Marples, Perpetual Life Member, Mulvane Lodge No. 201, Mulvane, Kansas.

SPRING 2015 13

Proposed By-Law Changes

BY-LAWS

GRAND LODGE

B

By James Alexander Craig, Secretary, Albert Pike Lodge No. 303

S

WORKING ehind The cenes

The Lodge Secretary

To Support The Masons

The position of Lodge Secretary is critical to a smooth and efficient operations of the Lodge.

But unlike the old joke that the Secretary runs the lodge, the Secretary functions to support the Worshipful Master, Lodge officers and members. Believe me, if something goes wrong, it will be the Master who has to suffer the consequences. We secretaries are here to help make the Master and the rest of the subordinate officers look good. If a Master had a great year, he may receive accolades from his lodge, his peers, Grand Lodge and so on, and if he did, a part of that praise is due to the work of his secretary. But do not thank us because we are just doing our jobs.

A good Master, knowing the amount of

viable. The Secretary and Treasurer both

tions. A “thank-you” letter is in good order

time and effort needed to make him and his

maintain records of all financial transac-

to those who have contributed.

line look good, usually allows the secre-

tions, assuring a two-record system, which

tary lee-way in general lodge business to

is an excellent safeguard for Mason’s Funds.

preserve the continuity of services rendered

∂

∂

Record lodge proceedings. They become the actual history of the lodge. I am, as are all

by the lodge to the Masonic family and the

Handle the business side of the Lodge. For

secretaries, privileged to be able to look

community at large. But it is their call, at

many, the only real income is derived from

back 10, 20, even over 100 years ago and

their discretion. Most secretaries served

dues collection. When our brothers send

see what was happening at the lodge. More

as Master of a lodge (or lodges) and know

us their hard-earned money, they expect

than a few times, I have been contacted by

first-hand what the Master needs to make

to be served in a reasonable space of time.

grandsons and daughters of past members

his year successful, in addition to a good

Secretaries should send out dues cards to

wanting any information I can give them

choice of officers to back him up. Keeping a

members as soon as possible; I try to send

concerning their Grandpa or others. That

good rapport with the Master of your lodge

them the same day I receive the check.

duty is a joy.

is of paramount importance.

I don’t wait until the check “clears the

How does the secretary accomplish the

∂

bank” before sending the card. If there is

The above demands regular attendance at all

above? A look at the Masonic description of

a problem, (which will be very, very rare),

scheduled meetings, both Stated and Special,

the Secretary’s duties according to The Laws

then it can be handled. The database from

as part of meeting minutes. Don’t just rely

of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of

Grand Lodge is helpful when it comes to

on memory, but take notes so your minutes

A.F.& A.M. of Kansas offers some ideas.

recording donations members included as a

will be accurate. It has been said that one

part of their dues payment. On printing the

of the sweetest sounds to the human ear is

Collect all moneys due, turn them over to the

dues report for a period of time, I print out

to hear his name spoken. Mention brothers

Treasurer and collect his receipt. Funds are

a CVS report, which lists member’s excess

by name when recording and/or read-

essential to the lodge function and also to

payments as donations and that I transfer to

ing the minutes. This is especially true for

support the Grand Lodge, keeping Masonry

another Excel worksheet to track all dona-

newer members, as hearing their name in

∂

14 THE KANSAS MASON

lodge further establishes them as “bona-

to cover a part or all of the cost associated,

(other than his recommenders). He is often

fide” members.

just follow the rules and hand over the mon-

perceived as being knowledgeable from his

ies to the Treasurer and get his receipt for

post in the lodge and therefore must be

Receiving petitions to be presented to the

the amount.

ready and willing to help individuals when-

lodge. You will be the contact person beneglect the requirement that one half the

Document and Organize

ever approached. And for the most part, he

When taking a call, be sure to get all the

a comprehensive knowledge of the Grand

initiation fee must accompany the petition.

information you can concerning the reason

Lodge and local lodge bylaws is essential. I

Breaking up the total can make a difference

for the call, who is calling, contact informa-

submit the following:

to a candidate.

∂

tween that petitioner and the lodge. Don’t

will do his best to accommodate; therefore

“He is indeed a poor secretary who

∂

tion etc. I have gone crazy in times past with the bunch of “post-it” notes with phone

cannot answer all questions pertaining to

Keeping in communication with the petitioner

numbers… for whom, I haven’t the slightest

matters Masonic: be it on Jurisprudence, an-

is important, especially if time seems to pass

idea. I am also guilty of having to call a person

cient history, legends, landmarks or symbolic

too quickly before the petition has been acted

more times than I should because I forgot to

meaning of every phrase and working tools.

upon. Sending the pre-requisite book due an

get this or that piece of information, which of

He should be fully competent to inform

elected candidate (On the Threshold) will

course, is an intrusion on their time.

every questioner of the customs and regula-

keep his interest up and looking forward to

I’m sure we have all heard “a place for ev-

tions in foreign jurisdictions and be ready at

his initiation. You will have to work closely

erything, and everything in its place.” It won’t

all hours, day or night to coach or instruct.

with the Senior Warden on scheduling the

be helpful to shout “I JUST HAD THAT

This he is supposed to do during intermis-

degree work. We all need to be on the same

YESTERDAY” as you search for a letter, form,

sions in his regular work.” (OUR SECRETARY

page on this scheduling. Are the dates good

or whatever it is you need.

By CARL KLEIN 32o and K.T.­—Kansas

for enough of the brethren to support a cast?

Use the Grand Lodge Database’s “Good-

Masonic Digest December 1927 )

Are the dates accommodating the needs

time” report feature to check and confirm

of the candidates? Sometimes this can be a

certificates and service awards. Please check

maintain a Daily log (or at least a weekly log

chore but the rewards of a good attendance

the report to be sure no one is left out. It is

if a smaller lodge) documenting his every

are well worth the effort.

helpful to have a “running” record, OR when

task, however mundane. I keep my log for

dues cards are delivered, check the “years

two years, which also includes copies of

Consider food provisions for Stated and Special

served” number to ascertain who should

forms I needed to work with or fill out. This

Communications. If it is standard procedure,

have been on the awards list that year. These

becomes an invaluable tool in the future

then it has already been approved. Other-

brothers, whether “actively” active or not,

concerning certain forms such as the IRS

wise, make sure the Master approves of

have steadfastly contributed to your lodge

990, which every Lodge must file, and which

the request. Again, work with your Junior

and to Grand Lodge year after year. Do not

must be done every year or the purchase of

Warden and all the officers to be able to

allow such loyalty and support to go un-

certain items for installation, reserving meet-

estimate how many will be present for

rewarded.

ing space for special events or budgeting for

∂

refreshment. Any member or officer who

It may seem unfair, but the Secretary

I strongly suggest a Secretary start and

special events or whatever. When that time

brings food and requires reimbursement for

is the “go to” guy for every member of the

rolls around again, it is good to have a record

costs should present to you with receipts of

lodge when seeking information, not only

of what you did last year.

items used for you to present to the lodge as

about times and places of scheduled events

In the first paragraph of this article I

a bill to be voted on. You should work with

but also everything Masonic. Of all the of-

mentioned making the Lodge “look good.”

the Treasurer to determine which account

ficers of the lodge, it seems the secretary is

We have a huge tool to assist in making

on your budget should be charged for these

just the most approachable, as he is probably

expenses. If “passing the hat” for donations

the first real contact a new Mason meets

continued on page 51

SPRING 2015 15

Leadership Academy IV GRAND LODGE

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

Inspires, Educates Masons From Across the State The Kansas Freemasons Leadership Academy

Porter then spoke about some of the

IV brought together more than 200 Brothers

psychological obstacles to rebuilding and

from across the state to be inspired, share

repairing the temples, including the very hu-

knowledge and learn more about leading

man tendency to spend time trying to prove

their Lodges to success.

ourselves right. He discussed research at the

Academy attendees spent the morning

University of Chicago in which pictures were

Nov. 1 being inspired by keynote speaker,

flashed at people, who then were asked to

Cliff Porter of Enlightenment Lodge No. 198

determine things about the person’s per-

in Colorado Springs, and then chose break-

sonality just from that brief glimpse. Porter

out sessions for an afternoon of education.

explained that, when given the opportunity

“The biggest challenge from the Grand

to ask questions about the picture, people

Lodge leadership’s perspective is finding

focused on questions that would prove

capable, motivated men who are willing to be

them to be correct in their initial assump-

more than ceremonial heads,” M. W. Michael

tions, instead of asking objective questions

A. Halleran, Grand Master, said when he

that allowed them to learn the truth about a

opened the event. “The leaders, the men

person or situation.

who will take Masons forward are sitting in this room.”

Those leaders – current and future – were inspired by the words of Porter, who spoke about subconscious communication and molding Lodges to appeal to men of today.

“I think we spend a lot of time trying to rebuild the temples, (thinking) the temple will

He talked about learning to actively listen, paying attention to what someone is saying without losing focus and concentrating on a reply.

“Listening is difficult,” Porter said. “Opening our minds, our hearts – there’s a certain amount of stress in it. To avoid that stress, we avoid intimate, active listening.”

be as it was,” Porter said, adding that instead,

Porter also discussed the difference

the Freemasons need to “focus on what this

between being subjective and objective and

glorious and wonderful temple is going to be

how to recognize bias, prejudice, and decep-

for men of today.”

tion – particularly how and when we deceive

“It is impossible to build a free-thinking man with a Craft that does not change, does not progress and does not allow free

ourselves, which keeps us from getting to the truth of what Masonry needs.

“Do we have the courage to let it be

thought,” he said. “We cannot build a temple

what it needs to be for the man next to us,”

that stifles growth, stifles people and build a

Porter asked the gathered crowd.

man who is courageous.”

16 THE KANSAS MASON

In a talk broken up by laughter and even

audience participation exercises, Porter offered a lot for academy attendees to think about as they headed out to a variety of breakout sessions for the afternoon.

Many found there was an excellent opportunity for growth in the Masonry experience.

Brother Clinton Terry, who will become Senior Warden in Lindsborg No. 397 in December, didn’t know what to expect when he traveled to Topeka to attend his first Leadership Academy.

“I think it was a fantastic event,” he said.

“Had I known everything about the Leadership Academy before I went, I would have definitely pushed really hard for other members in my Lodge to attend, because I think it was that worthwhile.”

The most impactful moment for Terry was when a Brother stood up in the mentoring breakout session and talked about his excitement at joining his local Lodge, only to get there and figure out there wasn’t anything to do.

“I felt we had failed this Brother, and I took away from that, that we can never do that to another Brother,” Terry said. “We need to make sure that every Brother in the Lodge is satisfied with what he’s getting from the Lodge. The Lodge isn’t just a single person; it’s everybody, which means everybody has a viewpoint of what the Lodge is going to be. We need to make sure that we are fulfilling the Lodges for every Brother.”

Lowell Brown, Deputy District Grand Master for District 26, had attended several of the Warden Schools that the Leadership Academy replaced four years ago.

“It was overall a really impressive academy,” he said. “I was quite impressed with it. I’ve been continued on page 18

SPRING 2015 17

LEADERSHIP ACADEMY continued from page 17 to the old Warden’s School several times, and

because it was an opportunity to socialize

I doubt anything had changed in them in 15

and expand his friendships.

years. This was quite a positive change.”

Like most Masonry events, the day was also an opportunity to see old friends, make new ones and exchange ideas about what

“I know a lot of people,” he said, a fact proven by many who stopped at his table to visit. “I know a lot by their voices.”

Just as Porter discussed, the Leadership

is happening in lodges across the state. The

Academy met the needs of members who

Leadership Academy drew a wide variety of

came from different regions, with different

people, old and young, some wearing suits

perspectives, with different needs.

and other decked out in multi-pocketed

“I go to a lot of Lodges, and do a lot

fishing vests, all with wide smiles and out-

of visiting, help with a lot of degree work,

stretched hands as they came together.

but I still met quite a few people up there

Francis Jackson has been a Brother for 42

that I hadn’t really met before,” Brown said.

years, currently in the Gilead Lodge No. 144.

“It’s always a good place to get together

With failing eyesight and challenges with his

and exchange ideas. It was an educational

hearing, Jackson came to the Topeka event

experience.”

18 THE KANSAS MASON

1

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P R O V I D E D B Y T H E K A N S A S M A S O N I C F O U N D AT I O N

GRAND LODGE

New Grand Senior Deacon Announced

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

Dale R. Morrow

time police officer for the City of Udall, Ks.,

Brother Dale was raised a Master Mason

completing the Kansas Law Enforcement

in Belle Plaine Lodge No. 173 in November

Delmus R. “Dale” Morrow was born in

Training Center’s Part Time Police Officer

of 1999. Having served in every office in

Ozark, Arkansas in the waning days of the

Academy in 1995. A past president of Cowley

that lodge with the exception of Secretary,

1950’s. Having grown up on a “grade A”

County Emergency Auxiliary, he was active on

Tyler, and Stewards, he served as Worshipful

dairy farm, he embraced hard work and long

the Cowley County Fire District IV, serving as

Master in 2004, 2008, and again in 2012.

Brother Dale served as District Deputy

hours at an early age.

Captain, and achieving Firefighter I Emergency

He was in 4-H, and held

Medical Technician certification. He complet-

Grand Master of District 25 for two years,

several offices including

ed many fire science courses, including Inci-

and was Area Deputy Grand Master of Area

president. Dale pur-

dent Command, Hazardous Materials Incident

5 in 2013. He currently serves the Grand

sued several vocational

Command, And Radiation Monitoring.

Lodge of Kansas as Grand Sword Bearer

technical courses in high

Dale was president of the Midwest DCO

and Chairman of the Lodges and Buildings Committee.

school, including electronics, refrigeration,

(Digital Central Office) Users Group, a

machine shop, and building construction. He

multistate telephone technical group, for five

excelled in electronics and worked part time

years. He was selected as chairman of 316-

in November 2000, his “A” proficiency in Au-

in several local TV shops and radio stations.

620 Area Code split Technical Committee by

gust 2013, and his “Masters” and “Unlimited”

Dale was employed by RCA (Radio

the Kansas Telephone Industry. He continued

in March 2014. He was presented with the

Corporation of America) as an electronics

his education with many technical schools

first “Master Ritualist” jewel at the 2014 An-

technician in Little Rock, Arkansas, receiv-

and certification classes, maintaining a 4.0

nual Communication. Brother Dale was also

ing training in several disciplines including

GPA for computer science classes at Cowley

presented with the “Distinguished Service

telephone switching. He relocated to RCA’s

County Community College and Wichita

Medal”, at the 2014 Annual Communication

Wichita branch in the mid 1980’s as a PBX

State University.

Banquet, one of three issued in that award’s

installer and telephone maintenance techni-

He is employed by Spirit Aerosystems

Brother Dale earned his “B” proficiency

inaugural year.

Brother Dale enjoys many hobbies

cian, and gained experience in robotics,

Inc. of Wichita, Kansas as a Tooling Techni-

television signal distribution in large buildings,

cian in support of the Boeing 737 fuselage

including astronomy, amateur radio, camping,

and large scale audio public address systems.

manufacture. Dale is involved in the multi-

fishing, hunting, computer repair and upgrad-

General Electric purchased RCA, eliminat-

disciplined “Mechatronics” which combines

ing, and computer programming. He and

ing 50 percent of RCA’s Wichita workforce

computer controlled motion, programming,

his wife of 14 years, Sherrell, reside in rural

including Dale’s position.

networking, hydraulics, pneumatics, mechan-

Cowley County near Udall. He has 4 chil-

ics, and precision measurement to automate

dren, and 9 grandchildren. He is a member

assemble processes.

of Midian Shrine.

Dale joined Wheat State Telephone in Udall Kansas as a two-way radio technician, repairing and maintaining their overland microwave system, cable television system, and mobile telephone system. He became their Central Office Supervisor, with responsibility over telephone switching, programming, carrier, and fiber optics operations.

Active in his community, Dale was a part

20 THE KANSAS MASON

“Surprise” Announcement at Belle Plaine Lodge No. 173 of Dale Morrows Appointment

Our Future Is CHANGE GRAND LODGE

By Lyn E. Beyer, Grand Senior Warden

In the year 2007, a new and courageous idea

form, nature, content, future course of

was born at the Grand Lodge of Kansas by

something different from what it is or from

M.W. Jimmie L. Grassi Sr. and Vision 2020 was

what it would be if left alone”. In other

born — the seed planted.

words, a transformation.

Followed by three years of hard work and planning by the COA, M.W. Kent Needham

“Everyone thinks of changing the world but no

introduced this change. Three years later,

one thinks of changing himself.” Leo Tolstoy

after countless hours of planning, the growChange!! There can be no improvement

ing tree was pruned that it might become stronger. From that time to present, the

without change. None! All of us have allowed

COA has been watering and caring for that

the Craft to become stale and lifeless. The

tree. This takes ongoing time and effort and

COA and the Grand Lodge of Kansas are

we find the roots growing stronger. The tree

committed to changing Kansas Masonry for

is sprouting branches.

the better- to improvement-- to new life. It takes commitment. I am asking all of you to

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful,

recommit-- to revitalize-- to change. The key

committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed,

is commitment-- it’s like bacon and eggs-- you

it is the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead

tell me where you stand. The chicken was been changed—the Ancient Charges—the

Why do I say these things? Weave this

Constitution. The path to get new brothers

involved-- the pig was committed.

The COA is not asking any brother to

story? Because, as our numbers have been

of quality, sufficient interest and carried along

do anything that they do not demand of

decreasing, it became necessary to change

to a point of participation has changed.

themselves. We are asking you to get on board and help with the process of grow-

what we have done in the past that was no longer working.

“To improve is to change; to be perfect is to

ing a stronger, wiser Kansas Masonry and an

change often.” Winston Churchill

improved Masonic experience for all Brothers. Am I asking too much of the Masons in

“You can’t expect to meet the challenges of today with yesterday’s tools and expect to be in business tomorrow.” Unknown

One of the most feared words in our language is “change”. Yet in our personal lives we do it every day. We are forced to change

The new tree will produce fruit but it will

our great State? I hope not. Let’s find our Masonic Light together.

Let me finish with one last quote.

in order to keep up with society. Whether it’s

take time. The roots of our fraternity are

receiving photos of your children or grand-

strong and solid. The quality of what Kansas

children on a computer, renewing your li-

very secure in the pond that you are in, but if

Masonry produces is our foremost goal. Our

censes, paying your bills, carrying a cell phone

you never venture out of it, you will never know

strategic plan goals of Excellence in Educa-

or any number of ordinary things that occur

that there is such a thing as an ocean, a sea.

tion, Communication and Esoteric Work are

in your daily life.

Holding onto something that is good for you

beginning to grow and the results are exciting.

The fundamentals of Freemasonry have not

The Etymology Dictionary by Douglas Harper defines change as “to make the

“We can’t be afraid of change. You may feel

now may be the very reason why you don’t have something better.” C. JoyBell C.

SPRING 2015 21

FEATURE ARTICLE

Grand Lecturers:

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

A Brief History of the

Derived From The History of Kansas Masonry I and II—WITH SOME MODERN DETAILS ADDED Since a great many learned words have been devoted to this intriguing subject, the most I can do here is to offer some key highlights of the history of Grand Lecturers, with the hope that it will inspire readers to seek out one or more of the many longer works on this subject to learn about it in more detail. But at the same time, of course, I certainly hope that what follows will be at least somewhat educational and enjoyable, in its own right.

Not long after the election of our first

movement; at the Annual Communication of

Grand Master in the 19th century, he named

1867, the Board of Custodians exemplified

his appointive officers, the first of whom

the “Webb-Preston” work, which the Grand

was W. L.C. Matthews, Grand Lecturer. So a

Lodge then adopted; and Grand Master Bas-

Grand Lecturer was literally the first kind of

sett devoted over four pages of his address

officer designated to serve a Grand Master

to the Grand Lodge, as an explanation of his

in Kansas, which says something about how

efforts to improve the ritual and to establish

important Grand Lecturers were seen as be-

uniformity in ritual practice in Kansas.

ing in the orderly and reliable perpetuation of Masonic practice.

This fact remains significant in principle,

At the Annual Communication of 1888, M.W. Cook highlighted the problems that newly arrived Masons and new Lodges faced

despite the fact that this first such appoint-

in in learning and using the Kansas Work,

ciency to teach the ritual. He then assigned

ment appears to have been a controversial

adding that through diligent effort and

W.M. Shaver to plot all of the floor move-

one, since a few years later in 1857, M.W.

determination, progress was being made. In

ments, to be subsequently approved by the

Rees, appointed W. H.C. Justice of King

1889, the list of Assistant Grand Lecturers

Board of Custodians and then adopted by

Solomon Lodge in Leavenworth, as the

included W.M. Shaver, Bestor G. Brown, and

the Grand Lodge.

“First” Grand Lecturer. At that same time,

A.K. Wilson.

a standing committee of “Custodians of the

In April of 1890, a School of Instruc-

At the Annual Communication of 1904, a special committee on ritual defined the

Work” was also appointed, consisting of

tion for Assistant Lecturers was held by

Grand Honors as being three in number—

Rees, Justice, Saqui (DGM), Dr. Pelot, and

the Board of Custodians. Also that same

Private, Public, and Funeral—and recom-

Columbus Hornsby. By the time of Grand

year, the Board and Lecturers visited a total

mended the manner in which they should be

Master Cowgill, he began to use the Cus-

of 30 Lodges and spent 101 and 1/2 days

given. These recommendations, along with a

todians to assist in visiting Lodges, as there

instructing Lodge Officers in the ritual, while

cipher that they recommended the publica-

were now too many for the Grand Master

the Monitor compiled by W.M. Shaver was

tion of, were soon adopted. A third part of

to visit alone.

examined and adopted at the Annual Com-

the report recommended some changes to

munication of 1892.

the ritual, which were likewise adopted, only

Other early key developments in Kansas Masonry included these: Kansas refused to participate in the Rob Morris Conservators

22 THE KANSAS MASON

In 1893, Grand Master Fuller personally examined the custodians as to their profi-

to be overturned at the next Annual Communication.

At the Annual Communication of 1909, the Board of Custodians was abolished, on the grounds that the “One” charged with preserving the ritual

AS LYN BEYER’S VERY INSTRUCTIVE ARTICLE IN THE FALL ISSUE OF THE KANSAS MASON REMINDS US, THERE ARE BASICALLY SIX THINGS THAT TODAY’S GRAND LECTURERS DO Lodge Treasurers – Let’s Get Organized!

GRAND LODGE

By Robert F. Nelson, Treasurer, Emporia Lodge No.12, A.F. & A.M

Keeping paper and electronic records organized is also a “must” - create a logical filing system and remember that you (and your successor) will need to locate reports and filings you’ve created.

1955 - Bound

did not necessarily have to be a letter-perfect

instructions in floor

ritualist. Building on this development, Grand

rules were in the

So you’ve been elected to the office of Treasurer of your lodge. Congratulations!

If you’re like me, you’re not a financial professional, so your new duties may appear daunting.

Don’t worry though – you have a lot of Brothers in Masonry willing to help you get proficient!

In my experience, the secret to being a successful Treasurer is

Keeping paper and electronic records organized is also a “must”

simple: work closely with your Secretary and get organized.

- create a logical filing system and remember that you (and your

You and the Secretary are a team – financially, the Secretary is

successor) will need to locate reports and filings you’ve created.

responsible for collecting all receipts and you are responsible for

Let’s get started on that calendar. The following is a list of the

making deposits, writing checks and reporting the financial matters

reports and returns required for our lodge, which meets on the 1st

of the Lodge. If you work together and establish a good process,

and 3rd Mondays of each month – adjust your calendar for your

you should be able to perform your routine Treasurer’s duties in

Lodge’s meeting schedule accordingly.

less than an hour a week.

The first step in organization is to use a planning calendar to cre-

time. But what do Grand Lecturers do today?

As Lyn Beyer’s very instructive article in the Fall issue of The Kansas Mason reminds us, there are basically six things that today’s Grand Lecturers do: 1. Maintain an Unlimited Card; 2. Teach Kansas Ritual; 3. Teach the Schools of Instruction; 4. Put on Proficiency Exams;

Note: This article does not cover those filings required for lodges with

ate reminders for the financial “events” for which you’re responsi-

employees – there are several annual and quarterly filings due to the Social

ble, back timing these reminders so you don’t miss a deadline. Allow

Security Administration and Department of the Treasury (the IRS) if your

yourself adequate time to prepare your reports and filings, and add

lodge has paid staff. See www.kansasmason.org for more information.

some “flex time” for each event so you’re not always hurrying to get to the post office before it closes!

continued on page 14

WINTER 2014 13

Master Sharp appointed a Grand Lecturer

process of being de-

and four Assistant Grand Lecturers.

veloped by the Ritualist Committee by 1955.

5. Teach Lodges to improve how they Open and Close; 6. And by order of the Grand Master,

In 1934, Mrs. William Shaver presented

Our former “Manual of Floor Movements”

assist Lodges that need specific help.

the copyright of the Shaver Masonic Moni-

was the work of W. Marcellus Boss, Grand

As Lyn goes on to say, Grand Lecturers

tor to the Grand Lodge of Kansas. At the

Lecturer, who died shortly after completing

make Lodges better and are most vis-

same time, a full-time Grand Lecturer was

the book.

ible when they are putting on Schools of

“hired” at the salary of $2,000.00 a year.

Grand Master Raum, in 1969, recom-

Instruction. Their specialty is helping Masons

Five years later, at the 1939 Annual Com-

mended a “Masters” certificate, as well as

master aspects of the Craft that “average

munication, a special committee on Funeral

taking a look at “streamlining” our ritual, as

Masons” may not yet have had the oppor-

and other ceremonies presented their work,

several other jurisdictions had already done.

tunity to develop complete expertise in,

to be sent to the COA for amendment

Grand Master Haggard, had the funeral

and they are as close as the Grand Lodge

or rewriting. Grand Master Claude Young

service revised in 1974 and had a revised

website. Once you reach that page (again,

recommended that Proficiency Certificates

Monitor and Manual of Ceremonies published.

following Lyn), let your mouse hover over

be presented to those who qualify by ex-

M.W. Bill McIntosh in 1978 had the

Membership and click on Directory in the

amination before a Grand Lecturer, and at

Constitution amended to give the Lecturers

dropdown menu that appears; enter the

the 1941 Annual Communication, the first

and Assistant Lecturers the Title of Right

password (which is available from Grand

two Unlimited Proficiency Certificates were

Worshipful.

Lodge, if you do not know it) into the box

presented, and in 1943, the “B” and “A” certificates were added.

In 1949, Grand Master E. Glenn Robison recommended that a Standing Committee on Ritualist Work be added to the Laws. This

In 1984, Grand Master Richard Porter

on the page that you’re taken to, and click

ruled that every member of the Craft had

Submit; finally, on the page you arrive at

a right to purchase a copy of the Manual of

next, scroll down through the 2014-15

Floor Movements.

Grand Lodge Officers, and at the bottom,

And finally, in 1991, Grand Master Robi-

you will find the present roster of Grand

proposal was adopted and proclaimed at the

nett recommended the new Cipher/Monitor

next Annual Communication.

to all Kansas Masons, and for each Lodge to

And whether you ever have occasion to

compete for the J. Fred Williamson Trophy

personally contact a Grand Lecturer or not,

for ritual proficiency.

my hope is that, whenever you think about

In 1954, the official cipher was priced at $1. Prior to this, each Lodge was assigned

Lecturers with their contact information.

10 copies for the officers, which had to be

What you have just read is a selective

Grand Lecturers in the future, you will have

accounted for to the DDGM each year. The

listing/account of the High Points (and maybe

a little deeper appreciation of the role they

only other way to receive a cipher was to

some of the Low Points) of the history of

play in Masonry, thanks to this humble article

receive an “A” card proficiency.

Grand Lecturers from 1856 to the present

on a most important subject.

SPRING 2015 23

Earl E Bryant, Sr. Grand Lecturer

Vernon L. Butt Grand Lecturer

Earl was born in Burbank, California on

Vernon was born and educated in Garden

December 16, 1925. His family moved back

City, Kansas. He graduated from High School

to the Midwest when he was six years old,

in 1974 and attended some college, taking

first to Grandma’s farm in Missouri, and later

classes in business administration.

to Kansas. He grew up and attended school in

He then served in the United States Ma-

Coffeyville, graduating from Field Kindley High

rine Corps from 1975 to 1979 and was sta-

School.

Not long after that, Earl was drafted into the military and chose

tioned with the Ceremonial Guard Company, Marine Barracks 8th & I, “the Oldest Post on the Corps,” in Washington, D.C., and with the

to serve in the Marine Corp. He served in the South Pacific and saw

Marine Security Company at Camp David, Maryland, as a Presidential

action in the capture of the islands of Guam and Iwo Jima. He was

Security Guard.

wounded on Iwo Jima and awarded the Purple Heart.

Vernon worked in Law Enforcement for 5 years as a Deputy Sher-

After the war was over, he was honorably discharged and

riff, and 20 years as a Heavy Equipment Operator in road construc-

returned to Coffeyville. There he met a young girl named Betty,

tion. He was certified by the Supreme Court of Kansas to fulfill the

courted her, and they were married on December 24, 1946. They

duties and obligations of a District Magistrate Judge in 2005, and he is

raised three children: Earl, Jr., Cindy, and Becky. After 57 happy years

currently serving his third term.

together, Betty passed away on July 22, 2002.

Earl’s career was in the food industry. He went to work for Safeway Stores, Inc. in Coffeyville, was later sent to Abilene, Kansas as

Vernon and his wife, Leilah, have been married 38 years. They have two children and five grandchildren. They have lived in Stanton County since 1979.

store manager, and was subsequently promoted to a larger store in

Vernon’s voluntary contributions to his community include:

Emporia, Kansas. One day, while still working in Abilene, he noticed a

•15 years as a volunteer firefighter and Fire Chief

customer’s lapel pin. He asked the man what the “G” meant. The customer explained the pin and challenged Earl with this question: “Do you think you are good enough to be one of us?” Earl soon signed a Petition and was Accepted, Initiated, Passed, and Raised in Benevolent Lodge No. 98 in Abilene. He went through the Chairs there and is

of the Manter District; •15 years as a volunteer EMT with the Stanton County Ambulance Service; •14 years as a Hunter Safety Instructor for Kansas Wildlife and Parks;

a Past Master of that Lodge, as well as being a plural member and a

•12 years as a Scout Leader; 12 years as Mayor of Manter, Kansas;

Past Master of Emporia Lodge No. 12. He is always ready to help the

•10 years as an Inspirational Speaker on Patriotic and Historical

Lodge, not to mention the smaller Lodges in the area, with coaching,

Topics for Schools; and varying terms in a number of

conferring, lectures, and funerals. All they have to do is ask him.

Civic Organizations and Clubs.

Earl was an avid golfer in his younger days and still likes to watch

Vernon joined Masonry in 1998 and is a Past Master and current

the pros play. If he is not watching golf, you may well find him on the

Secretary of Johnson Lodge No.441 in Johnson, Kansas. He is a Grand

banks of some lake or pond drowning worms.

Lecturer for the Grand Lodge of Kansas and a member of the Ritualistic Committee, Member of A&A Scottish Rite, and Vice-President of the Southwest Kansas Scottish Rite Club. He is also a member of Shriners International, Midian Shrine of Wichita, the Santa Fe Trail Shrine Club, the Southwest Shrine Club, and The Sword of Bunker Hill.

Vernon likes to spend his spare time with people he cares about, doing things they enjoy, especially if it’s in the great outdoors.

24 THE KANSAS MASON

Andrew “Andy” Cassity Assistant Grand Lecturer

After retiring from General Motors in September 2006, Vernon

Andy Cassity was born in San Antonio, Texas,

moved back east for a period of time, returning to Kansas in February

raised in Henderson, Texas, and attended Texas

2012. He was reappointed as a Grand Lecturer in April 2012 by M.W.

A&M University. He works as an Electrical De-

Donald Newman and was also reappointed to the Ritualistic Commit-

signer for Black & Veatch in Overland Park.

tee by M.W. Rick Reichert, Jr. in April 2013. He is a member of the

Andy was raised knowing about the Masonic family, due to both his Great Grandfather

Northeast Valley of the Scottish Rite of the Abdallah Shrine.

Vernon enjoys instructing the Ritual to the Craft, golf, and hunting.

and Grandfather being Masons. After moving to Olathe, he finally felt settled enough to become one himself. He Petitioned Ben Hur Lodge No. 322, located in Kansas City, was Raised in 2007, and became Mas-

John G. Crary Assistant Grand Lecturer

ter there in 2011. As Master, Andy organized an annual off-road fund

Born in Saranac Lake, New York, John

raising event, Crawling for Down Syndrome, to raise money for the

graduated from high school in 1971. He

Down Syndrome Guild of Greater Kansas City. Andy enjoys partici-

began attending the University of the Ozarks

pating in Degree Work and received his Unlimited Card in 2011. He

in Clarksville, Arkansas that fall, and the next

currently serves Kansas Freemasonry as District Deputy Grand Master

year, he married his high school sweetheart,

of District No.3 and as an Assistant Grand Lecturer.

Sharon.

Among the blessings in Andy’s life are his wife of 18 years, Kim,

In 1975 John was Initiated, Passed and Raised in Franklin Lodge

and his daughter Grace, who is now four. He enjoys hunting, fishing,

No. 9 in Clarksville, Arkansas. And in 1976, he graduated from the

and wheeling off-road.

University of the Ozarks with a B.A. in music and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the US Army Artillery Corps. In 1997,

Vernon J. Clark Grand Lecturer Vernon Clark was born in Hernshaw, West Virginia on October 18, 1945. He graduated

John retired from the Army after 21 years of service, culminating his career in Leavenworth, Kansas with Sharon and their three children.

During his affiliation with Kansas Freemasonry, John has

from East Bank High School in 1964 and

served the Craft as a Past Master and is a Perpetual Life Member

moved to Kansas, where he soon started a

of Hancock Lodge No. 311 in Leavenworth, Kansas. He has likewise

forty-two year career with General Motors.

served as a District Deputy Grand Master (1997), as well as being

Vernon married the love of his life, Diana, on March 13, 1965, and together, they have been blessed with two children, Deborah and Daryle, four grandchildren, and one greatgrandchild.

Vernon was Raised in Delaware Lodge No. 96 in March 1973.

a member of the Armed Forces Scottish Rite, the York Rite, and Abdallah Shrine.

Among the many blessings he has received, John treasures his wife of 42 years, Sharon, and their three children, Laura, Megan and Ben, the most. In Masonic terms, he counts his most cherished memories

He was Master of the Lodge in 1980, District Deputy Grand Master

to date as being able to sit in Lodge with his father in 1996, before

in 1986, and was appointed Grand Lecturer in 1990 by M.W. Don

he was called home to the Grand Architect, and presiding in the East

Robinett. He also served on the Ritualistic Committee.

over all three of his son’s degrees. In his leisure hours, he enjoys being out on “the boat” with Sharon, pampering his two dachshunds, fishing, hunting, and spoiling his grandchildren.

SPRING 2015 25

Ronald “Ron” Wayne Detwiler Grand Lecturer, Emeritus Ronald “Ron” L. Main Grand Lecturer Ronald Wayne Detwiler was born in Pratt,

Ron was born in Wichita, Kansas in 1956,

Kansas on April 18, 1952. Ron graduated from

where he was raised and still resides.

Pratt High School in 1970 and Elkins Institute

While still in high school at Wichita East,

of Radio in 1971, going to work at KWNS in

Ron started to work as a printing pressman’s

Pratt, Kansas as Chief Engineer. He went on

assistant at Service Business Forms, Inc.,

to work at the Pratt Municipal Power Plant for

quickly moving into the position of pressman.

25 years as Chief Engineer, and is currently employed at Fabpropoly-

After 25 years there, he took a job as lead pressman at McCormick-

mers in Kingman, Kansas as Head Plant Electronics and Electrical

Armstrong printing in Wichita, where he works to this day.

Technician.

Ron was Raised in Kilwinning Lodge No. 265 in Pratt, Kansas on

Ron was Initiated into Masonry on Feb. 3, 1994 at the age of 37, Passed on March 3, 1994, and Raised on March 30, 1994 in Haysville

February 8, 1993. He has since been Master twice and has held an

Lodge No.112 in Haysville, Kansas. He was elected as Worshipful

office in the Lodge every year since being Raised. He has also served

Master of that Lodge in 2000. In 2003, Ron was appointed as a Grand

the Grand Lodge twice as District Deputy Grand Master and twice as

Lecturer, after serving an apprenticeship with the late R.:W.: Rob-

Area Deputy Grand Master and is also a KCCH, 32nd Degree Mason

ert K. Shklar, Grand Lecturer Emeritus. In 2011, Ron also served as

of the Scottish Rite of Wichita, Kansas. Ron was State Rainbow Dad

DDGM for District No. 26 of The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge A.F.

in 2004. In 2000, Ron was appointed a Grand Lecturer by MW Stan-

& A.M. of Kansas.

ley Browning, Grand Master, and appointed Grand Lecturer Emeritus

Ron will tell you that his greatest moment in Masonry came on

by MW Don Newman, Grand Master, on March 17, 2012 at that

May 28, 2014, when he conferred the 1st Degree for his son Ross

year’s Grand Lodge Annual Communication.

Main, at Belle Plaine No.173, in Belle Plaine, Kansas.

Ron and Patty, his wife of 41 years, have a son, Christopher

Ron shares his life with his wife, Dianne, daughter, Coral, son,

Wayne Detwiler. Chris has also been a member of Kilwinning Lodge

Ross, stepson, Carlos Rodriguez, stepdaughters Sara Hallacy and

since 1994, his Petition Toplined by MW Bill Brown, Grand Master,

Whitney Lancaster, and seven grandchildren.

with Ron proudly signing the second line. The Detwilers also have a

In his spare time, Ron enjoys NFL Football, Nascar Cup Series

daughter, Lindsay Ann, who was very active in Rainbow’s Hope As-

racing (both on TV and live when possible), working around the yard,

sembly in Wichita, Kansas, as well as at the State Rainbow level. Ron

and fixing up his 2005 Mustang.

and Patty have also been blessed with four grandsons: Kile, Anthony, and the twins, Ace and Chase.

In his spare time, Ron enjoys doing volunteer maintenance work at the Barron Theater in Pratt—changing light bulbs, doing projector and roof repairs, you name it—as he has for going on 43 years now.

He also has a passion for local Pratt history, and for the last five years has been working on the history of Pratt’s radio stations, KWSK and KWNS. In addition, Ron enjoys operating Ham Radio and has been an FCC licensed operator since 1966; he currently holds an Extra Class License, with a Callsign of WBØADS. Ron also enjoys reading and woodworking.

26 THE KANSAS MASON

David R. Neal Grand Lecturer

Donald D. Newman, Jr. Grand Lecturer

David Neal took his First Degree in Jan 1993,

Don became a Mason in 1997 at Gilead Lodge

his Second in February of 1993, his Third

No. 144 in Yates Center, Kansas. He served as

in March of 1993, and In April of 1993, he

Master of the Lodge in 2002. He was District

received his B card; so to say he made rapid

Deputy Grand Master of then District 21 in

progress in Masonry would be an understate-

2003, Area Deputy of Area No. 3 in 2004,

ment, but he didn’t stop there.

and was asked to be Grand Junior Deacon for

In 1994, he received his A card, and in 1995, he received his

M.W. Larry Mersberg, PGM for 2005.

Master’s card. David then took 1996 off, but in 1997, Most Worship-

That year he also became a Scottish Rite Mason in the Fort Scott

ful Jeff Sowder presented him with his Unlimited card. David was also

Valley, as well as a Life Member and Charter Member of the Parsons

very active in his Lodge, Ben Hur Lodge No. 322, helping out with all

Scottish Rite Club. Don was made a Shriner on sight by Imperial

the degree work there, and was asked by many of the Lodges in sur-

Potentate Gary Dunwoody at the Shrine Bowl in Manhattan for Mirza

rounding areas to help out there also.

Temple. He began working on his proficiency in 2000, and received

In 1994, David was appointed to the Line, and in 1998, he was elected Master of the Lodge, achieving this honor again in 2005 and

his Unlimited Card in 2006.

In 2007, R.W. Sterling P. Hornbuckle III asked Don to follow him

2006. In 1999, he was installed by Most Worshipful John Mowen as

in the Grand Lodge Line as his Grand Senior Deacon. Don served

Deputy District Grand Master. He has held an office in the Lodge con-

as Grand Marshal for M.W. Jimmie Grassi, PGM in 2007 and became

tinuously since 1993, serving for the last seven years as Chaplin.

Grand Master in 2012. He became an Assistant Grand Lecturer the

In 2007, David became interested in becoming a Grand Lecturer.

next year and was proclaimed by M.W. Michael A. Halleran to be a

He started going to their get-togethers in August of the same year,

Grand Lecturer at his installation ceremony, which led to his current

was appointed as an Assistant Grand Lecturer in 2010, and complet-

service on the Ritualistic Committee.

ed the achievement of his goal, when he was made a Grand Lecturer by the Grand Lodge at the 2014 Annual Communication.

Don also has an impressive array of other Masonic memberships and related memberships. He is a Member and Officer for the Jay A. Shelton Order No. 117, Sword of Bunker Hill; a Member of the York Rite Bodies Chapter, Council, and Commandery in Parsons and Independence; a Member of Red Cross of Constantine in Crispus Conclave, in Pittsburg; a Member of the Order of Eastern Star in Golden Rod Chapter No. 163 in Yates Center; a Member of the Sojourners in Omaha Chapter No. 19; and a Life Member of Ankara Grotto MOVPER. Don is also a Chips Coordinator for Chips International. Don has a Perpetual Life Membership in Gilead Lodge No. 144 and Hebron Lodge No. 314 in Gridley, and is an Honorary Member of Edna Lodge No. 345 in Edna. And last but not least, Don has a Life Membership in Fort Scott Valley Scottish Rite and is a Charter Member of the Parsons Scottish Rite Club. Few men have lived a richer or more diverse Masonic life.

SPRING 2015 27

Harold Wayne Rector Grand Lecturer

David. F. Snyder Grand Lecturer

Harold Wayne Rector was born on October

David F. Snyder was born in Nebraska in

29, 1956 in Poplar Bluff, Missouri. He was the

1930 and attended the University of Ne-

fifth of five children of Henry Otto and Izola

braska in Lincoln, where he met the love of

Mae (Barnes) Rector. He went to grade school

his life, Glenna. They were married in 1950

and junior high school in southeast Missouri

and will celebrate 64 years together this year.

and northeast Arkansas. He then attended

He earned a bachelor’s degree in electrical

Wyandotte High School in Kansas City, Kansas, graduating in 1976. He

engineering and was recruited by Boeing. In 1952, they relocated to

went to work at General Motors Corporation Fairfax in 1977 (where

Wichita, which they still call home, and he worked at Boeing until his

he would work for 31 years, retiring in 2008). He graduated from

retirement in 1985.

Kansas City Kansas Community College in 1989, going on to attend

David became a member of his Mother Lodge, Bestor G. Brown

the University of Kansas in Lawrence and the University of Missouri

Lodge No. 433, in 1953, advanced through the Line, and served as

in Kansas City. Wayne is married to Melody Kay (Sartin) Rector, and

Master in 1984. He remains an active member, pleased to see genera-

they make their home in Kansas City, Kansas. They have four children,

tions of new Brothers come through the doors. In June 2013, David

and their number of grandchildren will soon rise to eight.

received his 60 year service award from Bestor A. Brown,

Wayne joined Arthur H. Strickland Daylight Lodge No. 452 in February of 1994. He transferred to Wyandotte Lodge No.3 in Janu-

a presentation also attended by Glenna and their three children.

David was appointed a Grand Lecturer by Durward Danielson in

ary of 1995. He went through the Line there, becoming Master in

1986, on the recommendation of E. Dean Osborn, a member of the

2006. He was appointed as an Assistant Grand Lecturer in 2005 and

Ritualistic Committee and later Grand Master. He has conducted

Grand Lecturer in 2007. He served as DDGM of District No.3

District Meeting Schools in nearly all districts of the state, from St.

in 2007.

Francis to Hiawatha, and from Pittsburgh to Coldwater. He was ap-

Wayne is Chaplin of Wyandotte Lodge No. 3, a member of

pointed Chairman of the Ritualistic Committee by M.W. Jimmie L.

Xenia Lodge No.47, Westgate Lodge No. 438, Arthur H. Strickland

Grassi, Sr., upon the death of Terry Carter, and served in that position

Daylight Lodge No.452, and is Treasurer of Inner Quest Lodge No.

until replaced by M.W. John Mowen.

456. Wayne is also a member of the Northeast Kansas Scottish Rite,

David enjoys traveling the State, visiting lodges, and meeting

where he is currently the Executive Secretary. He is also secretary/

Masons from all over. You have likely been at meetings he attended,

recorder of the Kansas City Kansas York Rite and the Leavenworth

too. While he might not immediately remember your name, he will

York Rite. Wayne was Right Eminent Grand Commander of Knights

probably remember your face—and maybe even where you met.

Templar of Kansas in 2013-14. He is the Temple Photographer of the Abdallah Shrine and a member of the Ritualistic Divan Club.

He is likewise a member of several of the appendant bodies of the York Rite. Wayne serves on the boards of the Kansas Masonic Foundation and the Kansas Masonic Home, besides being an Associate Guardian of Bethel No. 2 of Job’s Daughters. Wayne is a part time contractor, specializing in construction and remodeling work, but a full-time Mason.

28 THE KANSAS MASON

Robert C. “Bob” Talbott Grand Lecturer

C. David Williams III Grand Lecturer

Bob was born in western Kansas but raised

C. David Williams was born on April 11,

along the eastern seaboard (primarily in the

1960, in Anthony, Kansas. He was raised and

Carolinas and Pennsylvania). After a short

attended school in Anthony, graduating from

stint working in the Kansas oilfield

Chaparral High School in 1978. Following

and completing his electronics degree in

graduation, Brother Williams petitioned and

St. Augustine, Florida, he returned to the

was elected to membership in Anthony Lodge

Wichita, Kansas area in 1989.

Bob was member of the Order of DeMolay in Newberry, South

No. 200. He was Initiated in June of 1978, Passed in October of 1978 and Raised in November 1978. In December 1979 he was elected a

Carolina, but he never became active there. His father was an active

plural member of Lawrence Lodge No. 6. In December of 1983 he

Freemason and member of Amity No. 87 AF&AM, in Newberry,

was elected and Installed as Master of Lawrence No. 6. During this

South Carolina, and was the most likely single catalyst for Bob’s

same time, he served in the York Rite Bodies of Lawrence, Lawrence

ultimately joining the Fraternity, though that would not happen until

Scottish Rite, Lawrence DeMolay, and many other organizations.

ten years after he left home.

Bob is a 23 year member of Albert Pike Lodge No. 303, where

In 1988 David began work to finish his Bachelor’s Degree and in 1991 Graduated from Ottawa University. In 1994 received his

he served as lodge trustee for eight years and presided as its 105th

Juris Doctorate from the University of Tulsa. Following Graduation

Master in 1999. He has served on various Grand Lodge committees,

he returned to Anthony, and began work in the local Lodge, along

is the current secretary for the Committee on Ritualistic Work, and

with several other Masonically affiliated organizations in the State.

has been an active Grand Lecturer since 2001, having received his

He served four years as DDGM of District 30 of the Grand Lodge,

initial commission from M.W. Mark Nelson. He has also served the

DDGHP and Grand High Priest of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch

Craft in a Grand Lodge capacity as Grand Orator (under M.W. Glen

Masons of Kansas, Most Illustrious Grand Master of the Grand Coun-

Kohr), Grand Marshall (under M.W. Tracy Bloom), and Grand Junior

cil of Cryptic Masons of Kansas, and served as officer and head of

Deacon (under M.W. Rick Reichert). Bob currently serves as your

many other organizations in Kansas and International. He is currently

Grand Senior Deacon (under M.W. Michael Halleran).

serving as an International Officer of the Invisible Lodge Internation-

Among the many joys in his Masonic experiences were attending the Raising of his Brother (Jeff Goertzen) and Cousin (Tony Talbott),

al, and organization of Masonic Magicians.

In 2002 David was appointed a Grand Lecturer by M.W. Glen

going through the Degrees, and being Raised with his older brother

Kohr and has served as such for the last 12 years. M.W. Don New-

(Merle Talbott), not to mention the many years of serving in the Of-

man appointed David to the Ritualistic Committee, on which he also

ficer Line at Albert Pike No. 303 with him. And last but definitely not

currently serves.

least, having had the privilege of sitting in Lodge with his Father over

David is also a member of Kiwanis, having served as Lt. Gov-

the last few years will always be a treasure remembered for a lifetime.

ernor twice, and President of the Kansas Kiwanis Foundation. A

Bob is a Senior Project/Program Manager for the PepsiCo compa-

Life Member of both the Society of American Magicians and the

nies. In his 20 years with PepsiCo, he has worked for Field IT Support

International Brotherhood of Magicians, he has attended many In-

Management, Data Center Process & Provisioning, and is currently

ternational Conventions and served on various boards and commit-

assigned as Project Manager for the Global End User Services Group.

tees. He has served on the Anthony City Commission, the Horizons

He counts Sondra, his wife of 23 years, and their daughter,

Mental Health Board, and is currently serving as Chairman of the

Shelbi (18), as his two greatest joys in life. Their home is in northwest

Anthony Medical Center Board of Directors. He is also a Plural

Wichita.

Member of both Kilwinning Lodge No. 265 of Pratt, and Cosmos Lodge No. 278 of Kiowa.

SPRING 2015 29

MEMBER INTERVIEW

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

her then directed his group to take their assigned

my installation as the 114th Worshipful Master

places. I noticed all had on an apron and they said

of Clay Center No 134. So, if Mom is happy,

some “funny” sounding words, placed an apron

and thinks highly of my endeavors in Freema-

and a small evergreen branch on his casket. At

sonry, what other litmus test is there higher

the time the service they performed went above

than Mom’s stamp of approval?

my head and beyond my comprehension. I was in awe over the absolute silence that fell over

3. Why is Freemasonry important to you?

the funeral home when they entered. It was

Freemasonry is important to me, because it is

like everyone understood something special

an institution that has stood the very test of

and unique was going to take place and every-

time and still stands tall and proud to this day.

Perry A. Cross Jr., Assistant Grand Tyler

one there reverenced the moment. That was

Freemasonry has left its fingerprints on every

Perry A. Cross Jr. has two sons, Perry III age

something that stuck with me and left a yearning

aspect of history, not only this country, but

17, and Pierre age 14. He is from River Rouge,

to know who and what my Grandfather had be-

also the world. The pure history and legacy of

an immediate suburb of Detroit, Michigan. He

longed to. Obviously now, I realize the depth and

the craft is truly remarkable.

joined the Army at age 18 and currently has

sincere meaning in those “funny words” and the

nearly 23 years of active duty service to the Na-

symbols of the evergreen and apron. That was

reservations or prejudice, to share in one

tion. He currently is stationed and lives on Fort

my first real experience with Freemasonry.

another’s experiences, both successful and

The ability to bring men together, without

failed ones, is something that I challenge anyone

Riley here in Kansas. His Army career has taken him all over the world. His overseas assignments

2. What do your friends think about

reading to share with me another organization

include, but not limited to, Germany, Korea,

your involvement?

that brings all classes of men together that are

Egypt, Kosovo, and Puerto Rico. He has had

I am an active duty Soldier so Freemasonry is vis-

normally separated by social, economic, race,

three combat tours in Iraq, totaling 37 months.

ible in the Army. The individuals that I work with

religion, political affiliation, and educational

He has earned many awards and decorations,

all have their own impression of the Fraternity.

barriers. These barriers, outside of the Lodge,

with the most recent being the Bronze Star

Some are Masons mainly with Prince Hall affili-

have left a blemish on this country’s great story.

Medal from his last combat tour to Iraq.

ated Brothers. I was actually in conversation with

Some of the ill and most horrific events that

a few civilians that I work with on Fort Riley base

have plagued us as a Nation outside the doors

Perry was raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason in January 2012 in Clay Center

and had inquired about joining Freemasonry. They of the Lodge never found a place to rest inside.

Lodge No. 134. He is currently the Worshipful

highly recommend that I join. Then a moment

That is a powerful statement. To see tragedy

Master of Clay Center Lodge as well as serving

of silence came and one of them said “if I had to

and hatred just outside the tiled door, yet

on the Grand Lodge as Assistant Grand Tyler.

do it all over again, after 20 plus years of Prince

inside we are all initiated and all have a familiar

He is also the recipient of the 2013 Bronze

Hall masonry, I would have joined the four letter

place of understanding and tolerance for one

Master Builder’s Award.

jurisdiction in Kansas”. He was, and still is, proud

another. Freemasonry unites men and brings

of his Prince Hall Masonry and we are all Brothers them together in an atmosphere of genuine 1. How did you find out about Freemasonry?

but he said the experience would be more of

I had my introduction to Freemasonry at my

what he knew I desired.

Grandfather’s funeral in 1994. I was 20 years old

My family is very proud of the decision I

support and affection for one another.

Freemasonry is important to me for many reasons, so many in fact that there is

while home on leave from Korea. I saw a group

made to join the Fraternity, and even though

not enough space in this article for me cover

of men come in and everyone in the funeral

my Mom has a son that has more than 22 years

them. However, I will share one major point

home went absolutely silent. The leader of the

of active duty time and still serving as a Soldier,

that resulted in Freemasonry teaching me to

group came and hugged my Grandmother, who

I think she has never been more proud of me

be tolerant. I have been blessed to have such

is an Eastern Star, and offered his condolences to

than the day she was in attendance last year for

a wonderful Masonic experience so far and

30 THE KANSAS MASON

Left: Worshipful Richard Blackburn escorting Perry Cross to the East.

Right: Perry Cross with Worshipful Clayton Coulson Past Master Clay Center No. 134.

have been influenced by some great individuals in my lodge. My

keeps a Brother energized and

Masonic father is Worshipful

engaged in the lodge and the craft.

Richard Blackburn, a Past Master

Again doing for the good of the

10 times in 3 different lodges with

order is not just lip service but it is

over 45 years of Masonic service.

He encouraged me to invest in the craft and learn the ritual, not only did he encourage me he participated in my growth by giving me his undivided attention every Monday from 10 am to 12 noon in the Lodge room, relentlessly showing and teaching me how to do the floor work and assisting me in learning the ritual.

After the lessons we would go to have lunch at a local restaurant nearby. That is where he was able to continue to teach and lead me, he instructed me on life and living, how to be a

forts and sincerity to better oneself each and every day. Masons contribute to a broad number of charities and charity events, and

expressed by my actions. Without Freemasonry, I do not think I would have truly understood selfless service.

Freemasonry has also allowed me to question

these are truly great acts of kindness. This is

things in life I may never have given a second

just a bi-product of what we are all about as

thought to before. Looking for lessons in every

we strive to make only the best men better. By

aspect of life and never ever be afraid to ask

making each man better, he in turn makes his

“why”. Enlightenment is something that the craft

community better. We should all strive to be a

gifts to each and every one of us in some capacity

brilliant beacon of light and a standard bearer in

or another. Freemasonry is a process that allows

our communities.

me to know myself better.

Lastly, but surely not least, Freemasonry has

5. How has Freemasonry inspired you

allowed me to have a better understanding and

or made you a better person?

relationship with God. In the teachings of the craft,

with my father for 39 years, and Worshipful

Freemasonry has inspired me to become a better

one constant is that when you are lost and you

Richard found a way to show me that holding

person by allowing me to be more patient, mag-

need assistance to any question or find yourself

that negativity in my heart was weighing me

nanimous, appreciative, and understanding. I have

in any situation, the power of prayer will help

down and limiting my advancements, as a man,

been able to truly understand selfless service.

provide the answers you seek.

father, and a Mason. He instructed me to

While the Army has selfless service as one of its

reach out and contact my father. I followed his

core values, Freemasonry takes that to another

6. What do you look forward to most

directive and now today my father and I have

level. In the Army our actions are team focused

when you attend Lodge meetings?

a relationship. Without Freemasonry, I would

as we do things without expectation of being re-

As I answer this question I am smiling. At-

have never met Worshipful Richard, and with-

warded. However, we expect a check on the first

tending the lodge brings me together with my

out him I would have never reached out to my

and fifteenth of each month for our efforts. In

Brothers. We have fun. We laugh, joke, and

father. My father was in attendance last year at

Freemasonry our payments are not valued by dol-

learn from one another. There is never a dull

my Installation. Freemasonry has done more

lars. Our payments are in the form of seeing the

moment. While the exchange of ideas and the

for me in just these three years than I would

sparkle in a new Brothers eyes during the degree

ritual work for me is an awe-inspiring experi-

have ever imagined. Freemasonry will forever

work, or improving the lodge in small ways here

ence, my anticipation is to see Brother Warren,

hold a special place in my heart. The question

and there. Often times we spend our own money

a Mason for over 40 years teasing us Soldiers

begs to be answered, “Where were you first

to make these things happen which is truly the

about not being as good as a Marine as he was.

prepared to be made a Mason?”

definition of selfless service. Knowing that your

I am quick to tell him “it isn’t your fault you

efforts are projecting your lodge, your fraternity

joined the Marines as the Army would not take

forward and not expecting anything back for it.

you.” Worshipful Brother George Appleton

better man, father, and Mason.

I hadn’t had any type of relationship

4. Why is Freemasonry important to your community?

Learning the ritual ensuring that you

Freemasonry is important to the community

prepare for the degree work, as you know that

by having men that are upright in their ef-

your performance may be the very thing that

patrols the building to ensure nothing is out of place. For example, the thermostat is set to continued on page 32

SPRING 2015 31

MEMBER INTERVIEW continued from page 31 his standards just below boiling point in the

Masonic experience with us.

There are many more examples of what I

summer and, right above freezing levels in

look forward to when attending the lodge but

the winter. He has a calibrated eye ensuring

the simple answer is my Brothers.

of genuine fellowship. Not just fellowship but friendship. I think that younger Brothers yearn for the fellowship more so than anything else.

I read that purely by numbers we pale today in comparison to just a few decades ago. The

the chairs in the dining area are all perfectly aligned. He is affectionately called the Gate

7. What do you see as the future

boom of the forties, fifties, and sixties may never

Keeper of our Lodge. Worshipful Brother

of Freemasonry?

come to light again in a numerical sense. Today

Barney Rhodes walks down from his assisted

Some may not agree with my answer here, and

we want to belong to something special. Some-

living quarters with his rolling walker every

that is ok indeed. I see the future of Freemasonry

thing our fathers did not belong to. We want to

first and third Wednesday exactly at 7:28 p.m.

being brighter than it has ever been. I dare say

dress exceptional to attend the lodge. We always

We stand ready to hear his stories of the

that the craft has yet to see its best days. I think

strive for perfection in our daily lives knowing

Korean War. He loves to see us in uniform

that with the rare blend of our Senior Broth-

the whole time we will never accomplish it, but

at the meetings. To look up at a framed

ers that are eager to share in not only Masonic

maybe we can catch excellence. Freemasonry

newspaper article from 1973 announcing the

experience but life experiences, friendships

allows us to legitimately strive for that.

100th year of Masonry in Clay Center, with

develop and these friendships cross the genera-

the officers named in the article then to look

tional divide. We have the world literally in the

ence� and we continue to uplift and protect the

at Worshipful Brother Clayton Coulson and

palm of our hands today with our smart phones.

brand of Freemasonry. I see the fraternity being

realizing he was the Senior Steward back in

We have the answer to any question merely just

fruitful and prosperous for hundreds of genera-

1973 and is still active and sharing his life and

seconds away, yet we do not have the exchange

tions after we are all gone.

32 THE KANSAS MASON

As long as we do not cheapen the “experi-

FROM THE ARCHIVES

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

Noted Library Expert Suggests Essential Steps to Preserve Important Masonic Collections Continuing our series of informational articles on the Grand Lodge’s impressive range of

granting both Masters and Doctoral degrees.

When asked for her initial impressions

holdings in its library and related collections

of the facility, Dr. Alexander remarked that

and the necessary steps needed to preserve

the “building is beautiful,” though it may be in

them, we were recently fortunate enough to

need of a little improvement, the better to

be granted an inter-

outfit it to best house the treasures it con-

view with Dr. Gwen

tains. She was very impressed by the tri-part

Alexander, Dean and

nature of the Masonic collection, including, as

Richel Distinguished

it does, a museum, an archive, and a library, all

Professor of the

in once place.

School of Library

Dr. Gwen Alexander

But though she took no joy in saying so,

and Information

Dr. Alexander also noted that there can be

Management at Em-

no doubt that some of the holdings defi-

poria State Univer-

nitely show evidence of deterioration, so the

sity. This is an American Library Association-

sooner that specific, proven preservation

Accredited institution that, as their website

techniques can start being applied to the

ably puts it, “has a long-standing reputation

collection as a whole, the better preserved

for graduating outstanding library leaders and

it will remain for the longest time possible,

information professionals.”

going forward. She agreed that it was not just

Dr. Alexander was recently asked to tour

a matter of continuing what has been done

the Grand Lodge Library and other collec-

in the past and doing it better—though the

tions with an eye toward recommending

steps taken up to now have done as much

what she saw as the best path forward for

good as they are capable of doing. Instead, it

the future care and display of those histori-

is now a matter of taking additional steps to

cally and monetarily valuable documents and

control factors like humidity and exposure

Masonic objects. Her opinion on this subject

to damaging varieties and intensities of light,

carries considerable weight, not least because

which taken together can go far towards

she has earned an elevated position in the

creating a much friendlier environment for

respected institution where she is employed,

the kinds of items in question.

but also because that institution is itself a

Though Dr. Alexander pronounced herself

unique and prestigious one. The School of

unqualified to speak to the specific worth of

Library and Information Management consis-

the many books and other items in the Ma-

tently maintains a student population of 350

sonic collections currently kept in the Grand

students, has been graduating librarians and

Lodge, she was, nonetheless, convinced that

archivists for more than 114 years, and was

there are doubtless valuable items present

the first library program west of the Missis-

there (as “Repaying a Loan from our Chil-

sippi to do so; it now offers such advanced

dren…” in the Fall 2014 issue of The Kansas

educational options only to graduate students, Mason further testifies). So the next two steps

that she recommended were of roughly equal importance and in her opinion both need to be taken as soon as possible: namely, having the collection as a whole professionally appraised, and seeing to it that a collection management policy is created and put in place.

Appraising items to arrive at their value is a common and well-established enough practice as to require no additional attention here. But a collection management policy is a more rarified thing. In brief, what such a policy does is to help establish a plan for the future nature and growth of a given collection, thereby affecting both its global coherence and its volume, as well as spelling out how some items will be “de-selected” going forward, so that an optimal environment can be established and maintained for the items that have been chosen to be featured parts of the archive, the museum, and the library indefinitely. In the past, many Masons have, for instance, deeded their entire libraries to the Grand Lodge, with the result that a wide array of books currently exists in the library there, ranging from popular novels to the remarkable editions of the Bible (as discussed and depicted in the Fall issue of The Kansas Mason). While such a policy would not prevent such gifts from being given and credited for tax purposes in the future, it would stipulate which kinds of gifts would be considered to become a part of the permanent collection of the Grand Lodge of Kansas, and which would be allowed to become part of the holdings of some other private or public entity, as well as how that transfer would take place, by means such as resale (by auction or otherwise), “re-donation,” or other avenues, as delineated within the Grand Lodge’s yet-tobe-created collection management policy. continued on page 51

SPRING 2015 33

AROUND THE WORLD

By V. M. Burrows, M.P.S., Long Beach, California

The Authority Of The Old Charges The Philalethes - June, 1954 Little was known about the history of Ma-

unless it had a charter or some similar

sonry until late in the nineteenth century, for

document of authorization given and sealed

our oldest document, known as the Regius

by the authorities of the borough or else by

Manuscript, was not discovered until A. D.

the King or one of his officers. The Freema-

1838, and was not published until 1840. That

sons claimed that they belonged to a Frater-

manuscript was probably written in A. D.

nity which had received a royal charter from

1390, and it was thought to be a copy of a

Prince Edwin at York in Athelstan's time,

document which had been compiled about

and held that this was sufficient authoriza-

1350 but had become lost. It is true, how-

tion for their holding a permanent Lodge.

ever, that the information contained within

This claim was made in the middle of the

the written record of the Regius Manuscript

Fourteenth Century. "In substance the Old

has existed in the form of Masonic Tradi-

Charges consist of three parts:

tion for many years previous to A.D. 1350.

After that date, we have evidence to show,

FIRST, a statement of the grounds on which a charter had originally been issued;

Lodges based their authority on written documents which we now refer to as the Old Charges. In the Masonic Edition of

SECOND, the claim to a written charter from a Prince Edwin,

the Holy Bible, published by the Masonic

said to have been a son of King Athelstan;

History Company of Chicago, Brother H.L. Haywood writes about the Old Charges as follows: "A body of men in the Middle Ages could not legally exist or work unmolested

THIRD, a set of rules and regulations, called 'points', under which Lodge members were governed.

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH:

34 THE KANSAS MASON

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

By Hugh W. Gill, Attorney, Hinkle Law Firm LLC

Charitable Giving – Second Nature to a Kansas Mason.

In my previous article I wrote about the

assets are excellent choices to fund a charitable gift at your

benefits of choosing to make a personal-

death. Even if no federal estate tax is due, all income taxes

ized estate plan. I also mentioned that by

due from the qualified plan assets are eliminated by naming a

choosing to plan, you can include chari-

tax-exempt charity. Additionally, naming a charity as benefi-

ties as beneficiaries of your estate. Many individuals make significant charitable gifts, either during life or at death, and charity of course is a key tenant of Masonry. Additionally, federal tax laws encourage charitable giving by granting an unlimited estate tax charitable deduction as well as a charitable deduction for income tax.

There are many ways to include charities in your gift and

ciary of a qualified plan asset is very easy to do.

Like with a will or revocable trust, charitable gifts can also be made through an irrevocable trust. A charitable remainder trust is an irrevocable trust that provides for a specified distribution to one or more beneficiaries, at least one of which is not a charity, with a remainder interest for the benefit of a

estate plan. One way is an outright charitable contribution

charity. The distributions to the non-charity beneficiary must

which generally involves an immediate transfer, without

be made at least annually, and can be for a term of years or for

reservation, of cash or property to or for the use of a qualified

the life of the non-charity beneficiary. In other words, you can

charitable organization. The income tax benefits derived from

give the property away but keep an income stream for life.

charitable giving depend ultimately on the nature of the

A charitable lead trust is the reverse of a charitable remainder

property given, the types of organizations to which donations

trust and where you loan the income stream to charity.

are made, the current and future income tax levels of the donor, and other tax attributes.

Another way is to name a charity or charities as beneficiary of your qualified plan assets. These kinds of assets carry a federal income tax liability with them that is borne by the recipient of the asset. It is called income in respect of a decedent, or IRD. Since IRD is not received before death, it is

With a charitable lead trust, a donor transfers property to an irrevocable trust, creating an income interest in the property in favor of a charitable organization for a period of years, or for the life or lives of an individual or individuals. The remainder interest is either retained by the donor or given to a non-charity beneficiary, usually children and grandchildren.

not included on your final income tax return, but your estate

If giving to charities is a goal of yours, be sure to talk to an

or the person who receives the right to the income will have

estate planning attorney about these and the many other ways

to pay federal and state income tax on it. Therefore, IRD

a charity can be incorporated into your gift and estate plan.

As a member of Hinkle Law Firm LLC’s trusts and estates practice group, Mr. Gill uses his extensive experience in business and tax matters to lead the probate and trust administration needs of the group. He is primarily responsible for guardianships and conservatorships, disability planning, postmortem tax planning, and marital agreements. He also assists clients with estate planning, asset protection, business entity formation, and business succession planning.

While a student at the University of Kansas and the University of Kansas School of Law, Hugh was the recipient of a number of awards, including the Payne & Jones Award and the Wall Street Journal Award for the top M.B.A. student in finance. Today, he frequently lectures on estate planning and estate administration topics. He has been recognized by Best Lawyers in America and Kansas/Missouri Super Lawyers.

SPRING 2015 35

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

Lincoln Wilson, Jr. was appointed to the Board of Trustees upon the recent resignation of Leland Salts. After many years of exemplary service to the Board of the Kansas Masonic Foundation, and with that entities full cooperation, Leland recently elected to step down. He felt he could no longer fulfill the duties and responsibilities of the position, given his many other outstanding commitments and interests, so Leland decided that the time was right for him to leave—and fortunately for the Foundation, Lincoln was prepared to take his place.

Lincoln Link Wilson, Jr.

Born on March 11 of 1951, Lincoln makes a

he is now retired, Lincoln continues to actively

and business management; and finding solutions

home with Janice, his wife of over 40 years,

consult and teach sales, customer service,

to problems, while applying joint ownership of

dividing his time between Aurora, Colorado

management, and diversity skills, not to men-

those solutions. (With interests and hobbies

and Goodland, Kansas, where he simultane-

tion bringing his experience in the fields of real

like those last few, is it any wonder that even

ously serves as the Board President of the

estate, business, strategic planning, manage-

Lincoln is wondering if he’s really retired?)

Aurora Association of Life Underwriters in

ment, and operational design to bear in oper-

Colorado, and on the Board of the Sher-

ating Lincoln Wilson Enterprises, Inc.

man County Convention and Visitors Bureau

Lincoln’s Masonic affiliations include Good-

When asked if he had anything additional that he’d like to add, Lincoln provided some interesting observations, which showcase at

in Kansas, among his many other arenas of

land Lodge No. 321, as well as service as the

once both his sense of humor and his ongoing

distinguished public service. His educational

Past President of the Northwest Kansas Shrine

drive to demand excellence from himself in

experience includes a Bachelor of Arts and

Club. And the things he would like to see hap-

everything he does:

Management from the University of Phoenix,

pen, where his goals for the future of the KMF

as well as achieving both Life Underwriters

are concerned, include these: the expansion

am not a person that is content with being in

Training Course Fellow status and qualifying

of initiatives designed to provide incentives

the background and taking one for the team.

as an Accredited Advisor, both in the realm of

to participate in Grand Lodge Educational

Everyone needs to be accountable and respon-

insurance, besides also qualifying as a Certified

Programs; the growth of programs to provide

sible for his or her commitment to any venture.

Mortgage Lender.

medical prevention for children (such as can-

“Where leadership is concerned (CEO/

“I love to hear me talk, so I do that a lot. I

Is Lincoln now retired? “YES and NO,”

cer screenings), thereby giving young parents

President/Trustee/Secretary/Board member),

he says, “I’m still trying to figure it out.” Most

a more positive impression of Masonry; and

we are charged with the responsibility to pro-

who know Lincoln would almost certainly say

the development of initiatives to help Lodges

vide or even to be the “light at the end of the

no, however, since though Lincoln worked as

provide a Widows and Orphans program that

tunnel, “ so that those around us always have

an entrepreneur for over 50 years and for

has greater visibility in the individual communi-

the hope of obtaining their goals.

over 20 in the insurance sales industry, not to

ties where it operates.

“And lastly, as a Mason, we have the additional responsibility (or weight) not to be a

mention his 35 years spent as both a Private

Lincoln’s personal interests and hobbies

Investigator and a broker of both residential

include helping people and groups achieve their

perfect person, but to be that perfect Brother

and commercial mortgages, from all of which

goals; fishing, hunting, business development,

when due application is made.”

36 THE KANSAS MASON

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

2

Building on Success NEW KMF SCHOLARSHIPS START THEIR

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

nd

YEAR

The newly revised KMF Scholarship Program,

used at 36 schools across the country, ranging

Masonic initiative, aimed squarely at the

launched just this year, is already gearing up to

from highly acclaimed technical schools to presti-

relatives of Kansas Masons.

roll out again for 2015-16.

gious universities, both in and out of Kansas. The

The new Kansas Masonic Foundation Legacy

money to fund the scholarships went out from

Scholarship was created specifically to give some-

online-only scholarships are once again available

the KMF to Lodges all across Kansas, and local

thing back to Kansas Masons—to deliver the

on the KMF website, starting January 1, 2015.

Masons personally made the awards directly to

kind of good once done by the old KMF student

Though the new deadline for applications will

the distinguished student recipients.

loan program to a far wider range and variety

The applications for this new range of

be May 31, 2015, the guidelines themselves can

The General Scholarships can be used

of students. Such scholarships are available only

already be accessed anytime just by going here:

at seven Kansas universities: Emporia State,

to Masons and their children, grandchildren, and

http://kmfonline.org/#scholarshipguidelines

Fort Hays State, Kansas State, Kansas, Pitts-

great-grandchildren, who will be attending an

burg State, Washburn, and Wichita State.

accredited college, university, or technical school,

Foundation Scholarship program, now avail-

And those aimed at technical schools and

along with students who have been members

able to many more students than ever before,

institutes can be used at seven such facilities

(for a minimum of two years) of DeMolay In-

definitely got off to a winning start with an

in the state, located in Emporia (Flint Hills),

ternational, Job’s Daughter’s International, or the

unexpectedly high number of great applications.

Manhattan (Manhattan Area), Beloit (North

International Order of Rainbow Girls.

A total of 141 scholarships were given out,

Central Kansas), Goodland (Northwest

ranging from $500 to $5000, including numer-

Kansas), Salina (Salina Area), Topeka (Wash-

any of the seven different technical colleges lo-

ous Legacy Scholarships. The scholarship money

burn), and Wichita (Wichita Area).

cated across the state—or at any other such ac-

The first year of the new Kansas Masonic

awarded in this inaugural year is already being

But the most exciting part of this new

Legacy Scholarships for $500 can be used at

credited school or institute in the country. And

scholarship program is definitely the Legacy

though our other academic scholarships can be

Scholarships, mentioned briefly above. Far

used only in Kansas, each Legacy Scholarship

too often, Masons do a surprising amount

for higher education offers $1000 that can be

of good for people all over Kansas, while

used with complete freedom at any accredited

seeming to forget the words of the wise old

institution of higher learning anywhere in the

proverb: “Charity begins at home.” So it’s

U.S.A. Further increasing the desirability of both

long been high time for there to be a new

kinds of Legacy Scholarships is the fact that students who have the Masonic link needed to

Now any Kansas student can apply Legacy Scholarship for those Masonic Family members attend ing col All Kansas residents attending Kansas institutions of higher lea rni

lege

ng

And now, Kansas students wis hing to go to an in-state trade schoo l

apply for them can also apply for a scholarship in the General category at the same time, thus significantly increasing their chances of winning (though no student can win both a Legacy and a General Scholarship in the same scholarship cycle). So please alert any local Brethren who may not yet know about the program, so that as many deserving students as possible can be continued on page 52

SPRING 2015 37

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

TWO GREAT RECEPTIONS, ONE

GREAT REASON:

The New Range of KMF Scholarships Quickly Proves Popular

banquet. Thank you!”

The parallel reception at Kansas State University was similarly well attended, with over 60 scholarship students and their parents showing up for the festivities and enjoying a rare opportunity to tour the nearly 100 yearold home of KSU President Kirk H. Schulz. A total of 28 KMF Scholarship Students currently attend Kansas State University, and Grand Master Michael A. Halleran welcomed the crowd, with President Schulz thanking everyone for coming and singling out Kansas Masons for praise for their longstanding commitment On September 24th and October 6th of this

Kansas Masonic Foundation President Michael

to education and to improving the future of

year, two of Kansas’s foremost institutions

J. Tavares welcomed the students and their

our state. “It is amazing to see and think about

of higher learning held first-class receptions,

parents. Emporia State University President,

this over 300 year-old organization and realize

celebrating the achievements of Emporia

Dr. Michael D. Shonrock, did likewise, and dur-

all that it has done and continues to do for

State University and Kansas State University

ing his comments, publicly thanked all Kansas

humanity.”

students, respectively, who had won online

Masons for all the good they do for Kansas,

Kansas Masonic Foundation Scholarships in the

Kansas Communities, and Emporia State

“getting to meet and talk to so many grate-

first year of the foundation’s newly improved

University, in particular, going on to encourage

ful students and their families made real the

and expanded scholarship program. These

students to remember who supported them

difference that our decades old commitment

two universities were chosen to host these

during this crucial time in their lives, suggest-

to do all we can to advance education in

receptions this year because they had the

ing that they would do well to look for a way

Kansas really does make in real people’s lives.

highest number of KMF Scholarship Winners

to return the favor to Kansas

attending there. The new program started

Masons, when the appropriate

with the proverbial bang by giving out 141

time to do so pops up in their

scholarships, thereby awarding all the money

later lives. One of the student

allocated for its first budget year, and totaling

honorees, Ms. Marissa Rippey,

over $150,000 in new awards.

summed the event up perfectly:

Over fifty people attended the Emporia

“I would say that the reception

reception, held in the Kanza/Flint Hills Room

was excellent and elegant, and

of the Emporia State University Memorial

was highly enjoyed by everyone. I

Union, to honor the 18 students who received

am so grateful for the opportuni-

scholarships from Kansas Masons this year.

ty to receive this amazing reward

Both Grand Master Michael A. Halleran and

and experience this exceptional

38 THE KANSAS MASON

Grand Master Halleran commented that

Second Annual Lodge Event During Annual Communication

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff The Kansas Masonic Foundation is pleased to announce its second annual meeting with all of the Lodges across Kansas. This meeting is being held just prior to the start of the Annual Communication, on Thursday, March 19, 2015, starting with “ President Mike Tavares agreed, pointing out that having “such a wonderful response to the new scholarship program in its first year definitely bodes well for the future of the new program, which is now available to far more students than any KMF scholarship has ever been before.”

And Mr. Randy Mathews of Salina spoke for many parents of scholarship-winning students in both schools when he mentioned the enjoyable time he and his wife had spent at the reception he attended in Manhattan: “We are grateful for the generous scholarship our son Brady received from the KMF to assist with his freshman year at K-State. We were pleased to have the opportunity to meet Grand Master Halleran and the other KMF Board Members who were in attendance, so we could thank them in person for their ongoing support of higher education.” His wife, Erin, added that “one of the Masons we talked

lunch. Each Kansas Lodge has been asked to provide one representative to participate in the event.

The purpose of this important gathering is to continue developing Foundationbased programming with the Lodges. The Kansas Masonic Foundation—as both a continuation of its past history and one of its future goals—wishes to enrich the lives of Kansas by supporting charitable, educational, and scientific programs.

Reaching this specific goal will involve working hand-in-hand with and through Kansas Masonic Lodges in a new and more direct way.

To kick things off, KMF Executive Director, Bob Shively, will lead a review of current Foundation programming and then a brainstorming session with the Lodge leadership. It will focus on plans the Foundation is already working on, besides soliciting new ideas from the Lodges for future programming. “Reaching Kansas at the local level, with the indispensable help of our Lodges, will greatly enhance the reach and impact of the Foundation, “Shively said. “Our future starts with the Lodges, and I sincerely hope representatives of every Lodge in the state will show up ready to provide the kind of quality input that will help propel the KMF—and Masonry as a Craft—to a whole new level in the years ahead.”

Reaching Kansas at the Local Level

to said he had read every last one of the numerous applications that were received,” which means that she must have spoken to KMF Executive Director, Bob, Shively, “so I was surprised to hear we made it to the top out of that many applicants. He asked if our family had any Masons in it, and we said no, we were just lucky!”

And thanks to the generosity of Kansas Masons, there are now 140 other students and their families across the state, who whether they are fortunate enough to have Masons in their families or not, all feel lucky, too.

SPRING 2015 39

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

Making the Sequel Outshine the Original:

Preparations for the 2nd Annual Freemasons Endowment Charity Auction Are Actively Underway Though it may seem like just yesterday that the 1st Annual Freemasons Endowment Charity Auction took place, thanks to the way time flies, its sequel is already closer to

F ree

2nd

m a s on s En do w

CHAR

m ent

I T Y AU C T I O N

part with—perhaps some piece of memorabilia, or something of larger significance that represents your status or career. It’s really up to you, but everything the KMF receives for the auction will be greatly appreciated.

us now than the original we left behind at the

Since you’ll be selling to Brother Masons

close of March’s Annual Communication— and nobody knows that better than the

and their families, the element of trickery

Kansas Masonic Foundation. To borrow from

that too often plays a part in non-Masonic

the title, preparations for the 2nd Annual

online auction offerings will be missing here.

Freemasons Endowment Charity Auction are

All involved will strive to provide all bidders,

actively underway, and it promises to be even

whether online or in person, with things

bigger and better than the first one.

they will be happy to have won. And since the proceeds go to a very good cause, serv-

And that’s saying something—because the auction at this year’s Annual Communication

ing to make life easier for brothers and their

was so successful that it was instantly trans-

families in need, everybody involved winds

formed into a yearly feature. The goal in 2015

up a winner all the way around, especially

is to raise $75,000 for the still extremely wor-

since your contribution is tax deductible.

thy cause of helping out the Masons who need

In addition, you will further benefit from

it most. The auction was originally established

still have the same chance to win those early

the exposure of your name to those who

to benefit a fund administered by the Grand

items as the lucky ones who actually get to

attend the Second Annual Freemason’s

Lodge, the Freemason’s Endowment, which

attend will. There will also be 25 onsite Silent

Endowment Charity Auction in March.

is aimed at helping Masons, their families, and

Auction items, and at least 15 highly desirable

Donors will be listed in the event program,

also orphans when they need it most.

live auction items to be sold on Friday night

the merchandise you donate will be on full

during the Banquet. All told, every Mason

display at the auction. As a donor, you’ll

impressive sums, ranging from gold pocket

in Kansas will have at least one way to get

be invited to attend the event itself, which

watches, to unique Masonic Aprons to once-

involved and participate, via donation, bidding

could easily lead to you meeting prospective

in-a-lifetime trips to select destinations all

or both, in the very next Annual Freemason’s

customers—not to mention that when the

across the continental United States and be-

Endowment Charity Auction.

bidding starts, you may well discover some

A wide array of stand-out items sold for

yond. Over $45,000 was raised—an amazing total for a first-time event of the kind.

As bidders, of course, you are strongly encouraged to bid generously, since your will-

bargains of your own!

So why not begin planning to support

ingness to do so will help make this event as

the 2nd Annual Freemason’s Endowment

wrinkles, like the availability of a number of

helpful to the deserving Masons who benefit

Charity Auction right now—through your

pre-auction items, with the online bidding

from the auction as it can possibly be.

donations, your bids, and if at all possible,

This year’s auction will feature some new

starting February 16th, to give all Kansas

But how can suitable donation items

your presence? It will be here before you

Masons and Lodges a chance to participate,

be chosen? The best brief answer is that

know it, so please start saving the dates of

so that even Masons who simply cannot

they should be things that you yourself find

the 159th Annual Communication today:

attend the Annual Communication itself will

meaningful and valuable, yet are willing to

March 19th -21st, 2015.

40 THE KANSAS MASON

ESSAY TOPIC

STATE MA SO N

BLIC SCHOOL PU ES IC

ONTEST YC SA

Winning

2014 STATE MASONIC PUBLIC SCHOOL ESSAY CONTEST

WINNER

“At least thirteen signers of the US Constitution were Freemasons.

Discuss how Masonic values shaped the formation of our nation’s republic.”

Grace Reilly, Tonganoxie High School, Sponsor: Henri Lodge No. 190 Over the summer of 1787, in a sweltering,

Constitution, as Masonic values can be found

sonic charity has also greatly impacted Ameri-

stuffy room of Independence Hall, state dele-

underlying many principles in the Constitu-

can culture since the 1700’s. Beginning with

gates debated how our great nation should be

tion and the Bill of Rights. For example, the

providing General Oglethorpe with assistance

governed and what rights American citizens

first amendment in the Bill of Rights guaran-

in settling Georgia in 1732, Freemasons have

should possess. Eventually, after months of

tees freedom of speech, religion, press, and

provided immense charitable support through-

deliberation, the Constitution was composed

assembly. These freedoms coincide with the

out America’s history. Whether it is assisting

and ratified. This sovereign document and its

Masonic value of tolerating diverse ethnicities,

a family with recovering after losing a loved

amendments establish a representative repub-

religions and cultures.

one, rebuilding communities following a natural

lic where every individual has the opportunity

In addition to influencing the freedoms

to succeed. However, many Americans do not

established in the Bill of Rights, Masonic values

has assisted and continues to aid in improving

realize that our government structure and

influenced our government structure. The

the lives of countless Americans every year.

basic human rights established in the Constitu-

Constitution dictates that the three branches

Masonic charity, although not written in our

tion coincide with many Masonic principles.

of national government, legislative, executive,

laws, has influenced generous support of those

Indeed, with at least thirteen Freemason sign-

and judicial, each have different duties and

in need throughout American history.

ers of the Constitution, it is clear that Masonic

powers. With the exception of the judicial

values assisted in constructing the foundation

branch, the Constitution also dictates that

of the Constitution, it is obvious that Ma-

our nation was built upon and continue to

government representatives are to be elected

sonic values influenced our nation’s founding.

influence positive growth in the United State

by the public. The operation of a Masonic

Masonic values, including tolerance of diversity,

of America.

Lodge is very similar to this system, only on a

structured leadership, and charitable sup-

Of the thirty nine men who ratified the

disaster, or advancing medicine, Masonic charity

With at least thirteen Freemason signers

smaller scale. The top five lodge officials, Wor-

port, have been clearly visible throughout

Constitution, an astounding thirty three

shipful Master, Senior Warden, Junior Warden,

our nation’s history and are still evident today.

percent were confirmed Freemasons. Even

Treasurer, and Secretary, each have different

Whether through the laws that govern us or

James Madison, the father of the Constitution,

tasks to accomplish. Additionally, these officials

the charitable support offered by the Free-

is believed to have been a Freemason. This

are appointed through an election.

masons, Masonic values continue to influence

substantial faction of Freemasons certainly had an impact on the ideals composed in the

Besides influencing the written laws that have defined America since our founding, Ma-

positive growth in the United States, just as they have since our nation’s founding.

FIRST PLACE ($4,000):

HONORABLE HONORABLE MENTION MENTION ($500): ($500):

Grace Reilly, Tonganoxie High School, Henri Lodge No. 190

Seann Seann Blair,Blair, Altoona-Midway Altoona-Midway HighHigh School, School, Benedict Benedict Lodge Lodge No.No. 403403

SECOND PLACE ($3,000):

HONORABLE HONORABLE MENTION MENTION ($500): ($500):

Carrie Roland, Medicine Lodge High School, Delta Lodge No. 77

Tanner Tanner Lueker, Lueker, Junction Junction CityCity HighHigh School, School, Union Union Lodge Lodge No.No. 7 7

THIRD PLACE ($2,000):

HONORABLE HONORABLE MENTION MENTION ($500): ($500):

Elaina Finley, Louisburg High School, Peace Lodge No. 243

RylieRylie Albert, Albert, Yates Yates Center Center HighHigh School, School, Gilead Gilead Lodge Lodge No.No. 144144

FOURTH PLACE ($1,000): Adam Zarnowiec, Lawrence Free State High School, Lawrence Lodge No. 6

HONORABLE MENTION ($500): HONORABLE MENTION ($500):

Jerica Cherryvale School, Fortitude Lodge Jerica Hall,Hall, Cherryvale HighHigh School, Fortitude Lodge No.No. 107107

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Sold

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

on Helping Brothers

LIVE

SILENT

ONLINE

This year’s auction will allow all Kansas Masons an opportunity to BID and WIN.

F ree

m a s on s En d o wm ent

CHAR

2nd

I T Y AU C T I O N

The first part of the auction begins on Monday, February 16th at 8AM with 100+ items up for auction. You will be able to go to KMF’s website (www.KansasMasonic.Foundation) and click on “online auction” and place your bid. You will be notified if you have been “outbid” and given the opportunity to bid again throughout the auction. The auction will end on Thursday, March 19th at 5PM just prior to the beginning of Grand Lodge Annual Communication.

The second and third parts of the auction will take place during Annual Communications. If for some reason you are unable to attend this year’s Annual Communication you can still participate in the onsite auctions. Ms. Diane McDermed (Diane@KansasMasonic.

Foundation or 785-357-7646) will act as your proxy bidder. Simply email or call Diane and advise her of your desired “high” bid and she will execute your bid for you. She will not reveal your “high” bid but will place bids on your behalf up to your designated high bid as the auction progresses.

The second part of the auction will be a silent auction with approximately 25 auction items and bidding will begin Thursday, March 19 at 11AM and end on Friday, March 20 at 6PM. The third part of the auction will take place during the Annual Communication “All Masonic Gala” and it will be a Live Auction format. It is estimated that will be have approximately 18 items for the live auction.

All auction items for all three auction events will be listed online and available for preview and online bidding.

ONLINE

A Very Special Masonic Trip for two (4-day/3-night) to the George Washington Masonic National Memorial located in Alexandria, Virginia. This exciting package includes airfare, luxury hotel, VIP tickets to the 2016 George Washington Birthday Celebration (February of 2016), and all access to tour the Memorial. Donated by Mark E. Smith Vintage Fire Chief Pedal Car AMF 503 pedal car in great unrestored condition, complete with original bell, stenciling, tires and hubcaps.

Pedal, wheels, steering are in good working order. Some very minor scratches which do not detract from beautiful condition. Marked AMF,

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Olney, Ill, USA. Donated by Topeka Lodge No. 17 Boxed Arrowhead Collection Excellent example of Native American history, 50 arrowheads attractively displayed in a light oak colored collector’s box (red background). Suitable for any case collection or wall mount display.

Many hard-to-find sizes and shapes. A must for any collector! Anonymous Donor Blue Lodge Shrine Eastern Star Working Tools Meerschaum Pipe Handsome Masonic Pipe that is unique and quality made, this meerschaum is the most flavorful and beautiful pipe one can own. The unique design is of museum quality.

Donated by Lyn Beyer

1905 Elgin Finger Bridge Masonic Theme Dial This is an open face pocket watch bearing beautiful masonic detailing. Watch is stem/wind & stem/set in excellent running condition. Anonymous Donor 1908 Waltham 17 Jewel Masonic Theme Dial This is an open face pocket watch with an Alaska silver case, and features an original enamel dial. Excellent running condition. A true heirloom piece. Anonymous Donor 1926 Elgin Masonic Pocket Watch This octagonal fancy open face pocket watch has 17 jewels movement and is in excellent running condition. Gold color and crystal glass. Collectors timepiece. Anonymous Donor

Antique Limoges France Personalized Masonic Shaving Mug Unusual Shaving Mug embellished with the Masonic emblem is signed T&V Limoges France on the bottom in green, dated 1892-1907. A rare find! Anonymous Donor One Soldier’s Story Personally signed by the author, Senator Robert Dole, directly into the book. By Eastern Press. This is a priceless collector’s item. Donated by Senator Robert Dole 4 One Day Passes to the Walnut Festival The Walnut Valley Festival, honored in 1999 by the International Bluegrass Music Association, was first to receive the “IBMA Bluegrass Event of the Year” award. Every 3rd weekend

of September annually, it provides “family fare” entertainment complete with a large juried arts and crafts fair, workshops, and acoustic instrument contests. The festival is located in Winfield, Kansas. Donated by Winfield Lodge No. 110 Registration for 2015 Kansas Freemasons Leadership Academy This fun package includes one night lodging at the Capitol Plaza Hotel in Topeka, Kansas, buffet breakfast for two and registration to the 2015 Leadership Conference for a Kansas Mason and his Lady. Donated by Daren Kellerman

Gardener’s Paradise Spend a day digging at one of the largest collections of outdoor annuals in Southeast Kansas. Winner will receive over 20 different colors of iris’, plus seeds, bulbs, and starts of several other annuals. Offer includes two one-year old cling-free peach trees.

Winning bid will determine colors in May when iris’s are blooming. Donated by Bill & Vera Wheeler / Vulcan Lodge No. 229

Two nights stay for two at the Three Sisters Inn This package consists of a two consecutive night stay at the lovely Three Sisters Inn located at 1035 Ames in $250 Retail Premier Baldwin City, Kansas, and includes one Design Jewelry Premier offers a line of more than 500 double occupancy room and breakfast beautiful and affordable fashion jewelry for two on each of the mornings.

Reservations required via the website items, with something to appeal to at http://www.threesistersinn.com. every customer’s sense of style and budget. A gorgeous selection of unique Weekends of May 10-11 or May 17jewelry complimenting any wardrobe. 18, are excluded; March 31st, 2016 expiration. Donated by Mikel Stoops Donated by Angela Herrman A Man’s Yellow Gold Gothic Closed Two nights stay for two at the Three Sisters Back 32nd Degree Scottish Rite This package consists of a two conStriking Masonic Ring Stamped 14 karat. The top of the ring secutive night stay at the lovely Three Sisters Inn located at 1035 Ames in has a double headed eagle. One side Baldwin City, Kansas, and includes one of the ring has a gold 32 with a black double occupancy room and breakfast triangle around it. The other side a for two on each of the mornings. Resgold S inside a black triangle. Beautiful ring donated by Brother John Torrence ervations required via the website at www.threesistersinn.com. Weekends to Lebo Lodge No. 152. Donated by of May 10-11 or May 17-18, are exLebo Lodge No. 152 cluded; March 31st, 2016 expiration.

Set of Fantastic Books Donated by Mikel Stoops This nine-book collection authored

by Carl A. Otto, a Mason of 67 years, Masonic Wooden Emblem Rare emblem made out of Balsomic who began writing after he lost his wife of 54+ years. The books contain Birch, San Marco Oak, and Black many true stories about his life as well Walnut. The compass is the blue back as many stories of events which have and square and includes a large G. It has a round top. Beautifully made had a profound effect on his way of

by Artist Jule Larrabee. Donated by thinking. You will find that he has a Lincoln Wilson way with words. Anonymous Donor AF&AM Kansas Art Piece A unique carved and etched, Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of Kansas emblem art piece. This carving is framed and enclosed in glass to protect this quality art piece.

Anonymous Donor

Hunting/Skinning Knife with Masonic Logo Handcrafted by Past Master Marvin Seaman from Goodland Lodge No. 321. ATS-34 Stainless Steel blade 4 ½“ and 9 ¼“ overall length with Spalted Maple Handle and hand

stitched 9-9 oz vegetable tanned cowhide sheath. Knife has lanyard hole & nickel silver bolster with mosaic pins. Gorgeous spackled maple handle. Donated by St. Francis Lodge No. 404 Kansas Freemasons Game Box Lovely game box includes Masonic square and compass on the front and inscribed Kansas Freemasons on the level on the front. The box includes two handsome decks of playing cards and dominoes. Exterior decoration features a unique checked border that appears all the way around the box.

Donated by Herb Merrick Masonic Humidor Handsome wooden humidor that includes Masonic square and compass on top and inscribed Kansas Freemasons on the level. Great to keep your cigars fresh in a climate controlled Humidor. Donated by Herb Merrick Masonic Maple Flask Case Maple Flask Case that includes Masonic square and compass on top and inscribed Kansas Freemasons on the level. Case comes with 4 Masonic glasses and Masonic Flask. This attractive flask case is made out of maple.

Donated by Herb Merrick Masonic Bag for Ladies Light blue ladies tote bag designed by Marla Newman, wife of PGM Don Newman. Donated by the Grand Lodge of Kansas Kansas Freemasons on the Level Cloth Briefcase This dark blue briefcase has several pockets to manage your business documents. It is inscribed with the Masonic emblem. Donated by the Grand Lodge of Kansas Masonic Shirt Extra large, long sleeve Oxford Shirt, red, has the Kansas Freemasons On The Level embroidered with the Masonic emblem. Donated by the Grand Lodge of Kansas Masonic Glasses Two nice beverage glasses etched with the Masonic Emblem. Donated

by Patrick Craddock, Owner of The Craftsman’s Apron Masonic Ink Pen Gorgeous color of blue, perfect for your desk, the Masonic emblem is displayed in gold. Donated by Wichita Lodge No. 99 Commemorative Heart of America Plane Ride 30 to 40 feet ride in an open cockpit WWII Fairchild PT-19 Aircraft owned by commemorative Air Force (CAF).

The aircraft is based at New Century Airport in Olathe, KS, where winner will take the plane ride. Donated by Richard Schroder-Commemorative Air Force 2 Kansas State University Football Tickets Tickets for one of the fall 2015 Big 12 games at Snyder Family Stadium in Manhattan. Donated by Warren Slocombe 2 Kansas State University Basketball Tickets Tickets for one of the winter 2016 Big 12 games at the Bramlage Coliseum in Manhattan. Donated

by Warren Slocombe THE BETTER ANGELS of our NATURE: FREEMASONRY IN THE AMERICAN CIVIL WAR

by Michael A. Halleran This book is a deeply researched examination of the recorded, practical effects of Freemasonry among Civil War participants on both sides.

From first-person accounts culled from regimental histories, diaries, and letters, the author has constructed an overview of 19th-century American freemasonry in general and Masonry in the armies of both North and South. Donated by Michael Halleran Bro Brother’s Journal by Michael A. Halleran A unique perspective on Freemasonry and the famous Masons of his age, Bro. Hiram Brother’s diary is the most remarkable Masonic memoir since Ashmole. Donated

by Michael Halleran

CASH DONORS Smithton Lodge No. 1 Lafayette Lodge No. 16 Goodland Lodge No. 321 Marmaton Lodge No. 245 Warren “Keith” Heumann

Lincoln L. Wilson Jr. Tracy Bloom, PGM Lyn E. Beyer, GSW Tony Borum David W. Hendricks

Don Wheeler Dale Marrow Bob Jeselnik Bob Talbot, GSD Herbert F. Merrick Jr.

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Mackey’s Revised Encyclopedia of Freemasonry Volume 1-3 Blue encyclopedias, etched in gold print, masonic compass on the front of the encyclopedias, handsome collection. Standard and fully approved works on the subject of Freemasonry are published only by the Masonic History Company. Written by H.L. Haywood. Anonymous Donor Holy Bible Dark blue with gold etching includes a gold masonic compass on the front of the bible. The bible contains the Old and New Testaments – Beautifully illustrated with colored paintings.

Nice addition for any living room or den to display. Copyright 1951 by the John A. Hertel Co. Anonymous Donor

Dinner for 2 at the Brookville Hotel Located in Abilene, Kansas, Brookville Hotel traces its roots back to the 1870’s. A tradition made famous in 1915 continues with the great Family Style Chicken Dinner. Donated by Solomon City Lodge No.105 Dinner for 2 at the Brookville Hotel Located in Abilene, Kansas, Brookville Hotel traces its roots back to the 1870’s. A tradition made famous in 1915 continues with the great Family Style Chicken Dinner.

Donated by Solomon City Lodge No.105

Two Suite tickets and one parking pass for the University of Kansas football game against South Dakota State Large Commercial Pizza Oven Experience the excitement of this The Blodgett 51” Space Saver Double Deck Oven has 2 individually game at KU’s Memorial Stadium on September 5th. Donated by heated ovens which sit atop 7” legs.

Custom-designed heavy steel burners University of Kansas. Two tickets and maintain their even heat distribution one parking pass for one, University while the iron frame ensures a strong of Kansas Men’s basketball game structural integrity. Easy to clean and in Allen Fieldhouse. Be part of an electric season when the Jayhawks maintain, features bottom air intake, kick-off their fall season. Bearer will for a perfectly cooked pizza every time. It stands about 5’ 3” and is 4’ 2” select a mutually agreed upon game wide. With iron frame Stainless steel of either Dec. 1, 9, 19, or 29, 2015. construction; dual-spring door; Fiber Donated by University of Kansas. insulation throughout compartment; Antique (older) Full Staircase Heavy-duty chrome-plated tubular Lecture 3-Part Canvas Set steel door handle. New retails for Outstanding condition with original $8,000+ and would be perfect for roller for storage of set. Enjoy an “man cave” or backyard entertaining. incredible piece of Masonic history Donated by Jeff Branstetter. with this unique canvas set. Donated

by Wellsville Lodge No. 356.

Limestone Block Own a piece of native Kansas limestone. This handsome limestone block is engraved with the Masonic emblem. Donated by Ellsworth Lodge No. 146 Dinner for 2 at the Brookville Hotel Located in Abilene, Kansas, Brookville Hotel traces its roots back to the 1870’s. A tradition made famous in 1915 continues with the great Family Style Chicken Dinner. Donated by Solomon City Lodge No.105 Dinner for 2 at the Brookville Hotel Located in Abilene, Kansas, Brookville Hotel traces its roots back to the 1870’s. A tradition made famous in 1915 continues with the great Family Style Chicken Dinner. Donated by Solomon City Lodge No.105

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Masonic Metal Composite Belt Buckle Nicely inscribed belt buckle that displays the 32nd degree symbol.

Donated by Haysville Lodge No. 112.

Early Walnut Antique Freemason Ballot Box with Drawer and Oval Ballot Opening Ivory Ballot Balls Included. Believed to be turn-of-the-century, this ballot box is made of walnut. Donated by Wellsville Lodge No. 356.

Two Highly Ornate, Antique Masonic Pillars In original excellent condition with globes. These pillars represent the pillars Jachin and Boz which Hiram of Tyre made for Solomon, and set one on either side of the entrance to the Temple. They commemorate

the pillar of cloud by day and of fire by night which guided the Israelites in their forty years’ wanderings in the wilderness. Great addition to your office for decoration or Lodge.

Donated by Wellsville Lodge No. 356 Wonderful Set of 5 Antique Oak High Back Arm Chairs from early 1900’s.

Very solid oak chairs with no damage. Great for home, office or Lodge. Donated by Wellsville Lodge No. 356.

Outstanding Very Ornate Antique Oak Masonic Lodge Furniture Set Rare set of Master and Senior & Junior Warden chairs, ceremonial altar and 2 pedestals with marble top. Other than some minor staining touch-up it is in excellent condition.

A unique and rare find to compliment any Lodge restoration. Donated by Wellsville Lodge No. 356.

Have Your Will Prepared by an Attorney Every family needs a will to ensure your assets are distributed to whomever you choose in the amount and manner that you choose. Designated by The National Trial Lawyers as one of the Top 100 Civil Plaintiff Trial Lawyers for 2014, Your [will], will be prepared in accordance with Kansas law and will include (financial and health powers of attorney documents, living will and related documents). Preparation limited to Kansas. Donated by Eric Kjorlie Law Office, Topeka, Kansas Kansas State University Football Package—2015 Season The 2015 Wildcat Football Season has some GREAT can’t miss home games. Package includes season tickets for 4-Chair Back Padded Seats on the East Side (seats 1, 2, 3, 4—aisle seats—section 22) midway up from field on the 30 yard line.

Also includes a parking pass on the East Side close to SE Gate entrance (number 413) for great tailgating parties. Donated by Bob Shively.

Replica Revolver of General Custer’s Original Cal. 36 Beautiful presentation in mint condition. This has been displayed but overall it is in very good-functional condition, the trigger and cylinder action function as it should. Given to W. Daniel H. Johnson who was a historian of General Custer. Do-

nated by the family of W. Daniel H. Johnson who was a Past Master of Hays Lodge No. 195 and an Emeritus member of the KMF Board of Trustees. Dan passed away in 2014.

“Bobby Unser” Gurney Eagle Racing Car by Beam All original, mint in box, 1975 Indy 500 Winning Race Car Replica Formula 1 Olsonite Gurney Eagle #48. Donated by the family of W:.Daniel H. Johnson who was a Past Master of Hays Lodge No. 195 and a member of the KMF board of trustees for many years. Dan passed away in 2014 K-State Football Known as the architect of the greatest turnaround in college football history, this personally autographed Bill Snyder football is a true collectors’ item. Donated by the family of W:.Daniel H. Johnson who was a Past Master of Hays Lodge No. 195 and a member of the KMF board of trustees for many years. Dan passed away in 2014 Beautiful Chinese Vase with Hand Painted Scene Elegant Vase with blue hand painted scene in presentation box. Donated by the family of W:.Daniel H. Johnson who was a Past Master of Hays Lodge No. 195 and a member of the KMF board of trustees for many years. Dan passed away in 2014 4 Authentic Scale Replica Trucks Very collectable 1:64 Scale Die Cast Semi-Trucks, all different, mint in box, given to W. Dan Johnson as a Representative of the Kansas House of Representatives. Donated by the family of W:.Daniel H. Johnson who was a Past Master of Hays Lodge No. 195 and a member of the KMF board of trustees for many years.

Dan passed away in 2014 Late 1800’s Silver Victorian Masonic Dues Card Holder In Excellent Condition. A unique treasure for any Masonic collector.

Anonymous Donor.

7—Kennedy 1964 Silver (90%) Half Dollars All uncirculated proofs in collector case. Anonymous Donor Volume 11 (M-Z) Encyclopedia of Freemasonry

By Albert C. Mackey 330 and Charles G. Mackey 330, Revised edition, (last copyright 1912) by

Edward L. Hawkins 300 and William J. Hughan 320. This unique older encyclopedia is in great shape, masonic emblem on the front with gold lettering on the side. Donated

by Orient Lodge No. 51 Volume Mackey’s Revised History of Freemasonry Written by Robert Ingham Clegg, 330, volume five, copyrighted 1896, 1906 and 1921 by the Masonic History Company. This unique older encyclopedia is in great shape, masonic emblem on the front with gold lettering on the side. Donated

by Orient Lodge No. 51 A Visit with General Albert Pike DVD copied and reproduced from original VCR tape. Fifty-Two plus minutes long. Donated by Orient Lodge No. 51 A Masonic Cachet Commemorating the first day of issue of the centennial Kansas stamp.

Presented in a protective plastic sleeve, this cachet (envelope with special printed designs) bears a Council Grove cancellation, the old “Midway U.S.A.” Donated by Daren Kellerman Beautifully framed Grand Junior Warden Grand Lodge (Quality) Ceremonial Apron Produced with gold bullion thread and the familiar Jurisdiction of Kansas pattern interwoven into the design.

Apron worn by Current and Past Grand Lodge officers in the performance of their duties in both public and private ceremonial duties. Each year the person entrusted with the apron signed the back as a memento of his service. This exquisite and now historical apron was worn by officers from 2004-2014. Donated by the Grand Lodge of Kansas Beautifully framed Senior Steward Grand Lodge (Quality) Ceremonial Apron Produced with gold bullion thread and the familiar Jurisdiction of Kansas pattern interwoven into the design.

Apron worn by Current and Past Grand Lodge officers in the performance of their duties in both public and private ceremonial duties. Each year the person entrusted with the apron signed the back as a memento of his service. This exquisite and now historical apron was worn by officers from 2004-2014. Donated by the Grand Lodge of Kansas

Two Tickets for Belleville Midget Nationals Auto Race Attend Friday and Saturday night at Belleville, as the nation’s most prestigious event of the year for Midgets. America’s top owners and drivers trek to Kansas for this historic event. This is one-of-a-kind that brings the best equipment and drivers to the nation’s richest Midget race in the country. Donated by Belleville Lodge No. 129 LIFE Magazines A selection of six LIFE Magazines from the 1930’s,1940’s, and 1950’s.

Start you own collector’s edition with these awesome historical magazines. Donated by Roy Sullivan, PGM Phat Brothers BBQ Package Feed Your Lodge or Family Something Great!! Let us cook for you.

Ten pounds of the World’s Best BBQ Pulled Pork from the Phat Brothers Competition BBQ Team.

Package includes 2½ quarts of BBQ Beans and 4 pints of their Award Winning BBQ sauce. Package will be delivered if the winner is within a two hour drive of Hiattville, otherwise pickup arrangements will be made. Feeds 2 to 30 depending on how hungry you are. Meat will be vacuum packed in 2 lb. packages (can be used immediately or frozen for future use). Donated by Hiattville Lodge No. 216.

Corvette From the Inside The 50 Year Development History as told by Dave McLellan, Corvette’s Chief Engineer 1975-1992. The book was written from the perspective of an insider who led the team and helped make it all happen for 17 years of Corvette history. Approach the story at three levels, in pictures with captions, as the mainstream story and sidebars that tell interest sidelights to Corvette. Personally autographed by Dave McLellan.

Donated by Dave McLellan Tickets for Two for the Midwest Hunt Fest Premier Outdoor Sportsman Show Held at the Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center, 225 W Douglas Ave, Wichita, KS, August 14-16, 2015. MIDWEST HUNTFEST is a Hunting / Fishing / Sportsman Expo featuring the latest products, hunting celebrities, familyfriendly attractions and fun! Show includes outdoor experts, archery

shoots, seminars, demonstrations and youth activities. Donated by Midwest Hunt Fest Tickets for Two for the Midwest Hunt Fest Premier Outdoor Sportsman Show Held at the Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center, 225 W Douglas Ave, Wichita, KS, August 14-16, 2015. MIDWEST HUNTFEST is a Hunting / Fishing / Sportsman Expo featuring the latest products, hunting celebrities, familyfriendly attractions and fun! Show includes outdoor experts, archery shoots, seminars, demonstrations and youth activities. Donated by Midwest Hunt Fest Fabulous Case Masonic Engraved Knife Part of an excellent collection, this knife is made by W.R. Case & Sons, and is engraved with the square and compass. Complete with leather case, tip can and display box bearing “In Search of More Light”. Anonymous Donor.

Frost Cutlery Masonic Knife This 3 1/2” closed stainless blade knife bears a blue and white smooth bone handle embellished with the Masonic shield. Made in China, original box. Anonymous Donor.

Frost Cutlery Masonic Knife This 3 1/2” closed pocket knife is high quality stainless. The white and blue smooth bone handle is finished with the Masonic shield.

Original box, made in China.

Anonymous Donor.

pattern interwoven into the design.

Apron worn by Current and Past Grand Lecturers in the performance of their duties in both public and private ceremonial duties. Each year the person entrusted with the apron signed the back as a memento of his service. This exquisite and now historical apron was worn by officers from 2004-2014. Donated by the Grand Lodge of Kansas Beautifully framed Area Deputy Grand Master Grand Lodge (Quality) Ceremonial Apron Produced with gold bullion thread and the familiar Jurisdiction of Kansas pattern interwoven into the design.

Apron worn by Current and Past Grand Lodge Area Deputy Grand Masters in the performance of their duties in both public and private ceremonial duties. Each year the person entrusted with the apron signed the back as a memento of his service.

This exquisite and now historical apron was worn by officers from 2004-2014. Donated by the Grand Lodge of Kansas Custom 10K Gold Masonic Ring This gorgeous Masonic Ring will be customized to include the winning Masons lodge name and number (there are limited number of characters) around the front of this ring. Fantastic craftsmanship.

Donated by Macoy Publishing & Masonic Supply Co.

Vizio 2.0 Sound Bar with Integrated Speaker History of Kansas Masonry Television sound bars are the perfect Volume I & II of the “History of addition for your home entertainKansas Masonry” provides the ment system. While a high quality TV sharing of the past with the present. provides great visuals, the increasingly These publications provides further thin displays leave less room for high aid in search of “From Whence We quality speakers. Enter sound bars!

Came” and in doing so, each who Simple to set up and requiring very participates will surely become a little space, sound bars dramatically wiser Mason and a better Mason. improve your home movie experiEach member of our Craft plays ence with awesome sound. Designed an important part in our future to hookup to a small to medium size and each of us must be continually reminded of this that we may not be high definition television. Donated

by Jonathon W. McConnell, Attorney found wanting in the performance of our duties. Donated by the Grand at Law Lodge of Kansas Rare Brass Masonic Wall Hanging Beautifully framed Grand Lecturer Grand Lodge (Quality) Ceremonial Apron Produced with gold bullion thread and the familiar Jurisdiction of Kansas

Magnificent brass and pewter wall plate, 11 ¼” diameter, embellished with square and compass on a blue background. Donated by Darrell Blake

SPRING 2015 45

SILENT

Boxed Arrowhead Collection Excellent display of 45 arrowheads in walnut collector’s box (blue background). Assortment includes unique shapes, sizes and composition, making a nice presentation of Native American history. Suitable for any case collection or to mount as wall display. Anonymous Donor A Straight Grain Handmade Briar Pipe Exquisitely designed, this Briar pipe features a square and compass carved on the face. Made by Bob Gilbert a Mason from Denton, Texas. Donated

by Lyn Beyer 11 x 18 Handmade Specialty Cutting Board This stunning cutting block is made from 210 pieces of Walnut, Maple and Cherry. New, and unique item.

Donated by Don Robinette, PGM Custom Made Past Masters Apron Hand stitched with gold bullion thread on lamb skin. This gorgeous black and gold apron will be customized for the winning bidder with the name of the Lodge of their choice.

Donated by Timothy Fowler

fit. Black attractive top hat, sure to please. Donated by Rick Ryan A Personally Autographed Football By famous Kansas State University Football Coach Bill Snyder. In 2012−2013, Kansas State Wildcats became the second Big 12 School to win conference titles in football.

Donated by Coach Bill Snyder J.A. NINE Black Handgun The 9MM W/ 10 or 12 ROUND MAGAZINE handgun is made in America. Great extra pistol for the Truck, RV, ATC, or the Boat. Made with magazine out safety; slide hold open on last round; loaded chamber indicator; bold pistol red cocked indicator; massive screw adjustable rear sigh; high visibility red front sight; thumb operated magazine release. Donated by Dean Hodgson, John French, II and Derby Lodge No. 365

J.A. NINE Silver Handgun The 9MM W/ 10 or 12 ROUND MAGAZINE handgun is made in America. Great extra pistol for the Truck, RV, ATC, or the Boat. Made with magazine out safety; slide hold open on last round; loaded chamber indicator; bold pistol red Millennium Mark Masonic Tokens cocked indicator; massive screw A fantastic collection of friendship adjustable rear sigh; high visibility tokens representing Mark Tokens that red front sight; thumb operated Masonic friends exchange and collect. magazine release. Donated by Dean The collection consists of tokens of Hodgson, John French, II and Derby the various Masonic Orders. Donated Lodge No. 365

by James L. Jack, P.M., Secretary, ImBill Self Autographed Basketball mediate Provincial Grand Master One of the winningest coaches, OLD MASTERS “FREEMASON” Self has led KU to ten straight Big Blended Scotch Whisky 12 Conference Season ChampionOld Masters, a rich blend originally ships. A personally autographed created for the Freemasons, has been basketball is the perfect gift for any carefully chosen from selected grain enthusiast. Donated by University whiskies and specific Highland and of Kansas Speyside malts. Like whisky, FreeReplica of a Civil War Era Saber masonry has been established for Comes with a Scabbard. Donated centuries and offers a recognizable by the family of W:.Daniel H. brand to complement the Craft’s age- Johnson who was a Past Master of old traditions. (92 points) Donated by Hays Lodge No. 195 and a memBob Shively ber of the KMF board of trustees Kansas Freemasons Wine Box Stunning wine box includes Masonic square and compass on the front and inscribed Kansas Freemasons on the level. Box appears to be cherry wood.

The lovely red satin interior holds wine utensils, and a bottle of quality wine. Donated by Herb Merrick

for many years. Dan passed away in 2014

Embroidered set of Masonic Officer Customized Hoodies Hooded sweatshirt with large Square and Compass and Lodge name and position embroidered on the back and person’s name and small masonic emblem embroiMasters Top Hat Winner will be able to order size to dered on the front. Set will include,

46 THE KANSAS MASON

Worshipful Master; Senior Warden, Junior Warden, Senior Deacon, Junior Deacon; Senior Steward; Junior Steward; Tyler; Secretary; Treasurer; Chapin. Set will include choice of pullover or full zip. Winner will notify Clay Thomas for personalization of the Hoodies. Customization and Delivery will take up to 4 weeks. Donated by Clay Thomas of “Clays Customs.”

design. Apron worn by Current and Past Grand Lodge officers in the performance of their duties in both public and private ceremonial duties. Each year the person entrusted with the apron signed the back as a memento of his service.

This exquisite and now historical apron was worn by officers from 2004-2018. Donated by the Grand Lodge of Kansas

Genuine Pendleton Blanket Premier leader in quality blankets.

The blanket is red wool and features a Shrine Emblem in the center. Made by Indians with fabulous workmanship. Donated by Steve Molstad, PGM

Original 1853 Edition of “The Masonic Manual: A Pocket Companion for the Initiated. Containing the Rituals of Freemasonry Embraced in the Lodge, Chapter, and Encampment; Embellished with nearly 300 Symbolical Illustrations. Together with forms of Masonic Documents, Notes, Songs, Dates, Etc. by Robert Macoy, Published by New York Clark & Maynard. Complete with 300 Pages+ and Bound in Full Leather Wraps featuring Full Gilt Pages. Very Good Condition.

Gorgeous Framed Masonic Christmas Tree Made with stunning costume Masonic jewelry, this framed piece is a rare find. Unusual, but lovely tree was made by a Past Grand Master.

Donated by Steve Molstad, PGM

1870 Currier & Ives Print The beautiful antique print is Antique Style Triangle depicting the “Master’s Chart” or Masonic Desk Clock Master’s Carpet. Donated by Albert This is a outstanding reproduction Pike Lodge No. 303 of the 1930›s Masonic Vintage A Masonic Cachet Triangle Desk Clock. This great Commemorating the first day Masonic collectable would look of issue of the centennial Kansas perfect in either your home or ofstamp. Presented in a protective fice. Anonymous Donor plastic sleeve, this cachet (envelope with special printed designs) bears a Bear and Son 3 1/2” Council Grove cancellation, the old Masonic Knife Set “Midway U.S.A.” Donated by Daren This stunning double blade knife represents a custom product of Kellerman Bear & Son Cutlery, USA, and is Beautifully framed Grand Senior beautifully packaged in a Masonic Warden Grand Lodge (Quality) case. The multi-tone bone handle Ceremonial Apron in blue, white and black has an apProduced with gold bullion thread plied Masonic shield while the blade and the familiar Jurisdiction of is inscribed “Free and Accepted Kansas pattern interwoven into the Masons”. Anonymous Donor design. Apron worn by Current History of Kansas Masonry and Past Grand Lodge officers in Volume I & II of the “History of the performance of their duties in both public and private ceremoKansas Masonry” provides the nial duties. Each year the person sharing of the past with the present. entrusted with the apron signed the These publications provides further back as a memento of his service. aid in search of “From Whence We This exquisite and now historical Came” and in doing so, each who apron was worn by officers from participates will surely become a 2004-2018. Donated by the Grand wiser Mason and a better Mason.

Lodge of Kansas Each member of our Craft plays an important part in our future Beautifully framed Grand and each of us must be continually Secretary Grand Lodge (Quality) reminded of this that we may not Ceremonial Apron be found wanting in the perforProduced with gold bullion thread mance of our duties. Donated by and the familiar Jurisdiction of Kansas pattern interwoven into the the Grand Lodge of Kansas

Flintknapped Knife and Stand Flintknapping is the process of making stone tools (arrowheads, knife blades, spear points, etc.). The ancient art of flintknapping has been around for thousands of years. An art form, this custom designed flintnapped knife and stand by Keith Tindell, is a beautiful piece of work, which was a way of life for our ancestors. The blade is knapped out of a piece of red dendritic agate. The handle is crafted from the whitetail deer antler. The antler was naturally shed by the deer and was collected in Southeast Kansas on the ranch of Jeffrey L. Sowder, PGM. The stand is made out of black walnut.

Donated by Woodson Lodge No. 121

Dinner with the Grand Master Enjoy a special evening arranged with the Grand Master of Kansas.

Donated by Daren Kellerman

made in .357 Mag. Leven Action; Capacity of 10 rounds +1; Total length of 38.5”; 20” octagonal barrel with 1:38rh rate of twist; Marbles fully adjustable semi-buckhorn rear sight Symphony in the Flint Hills Concert with white diamond insert and brass Tickets for 4, lodging and meals beaded front sight; weight 8.68 lbs.; included. The Symphony in the Flint Straight-rip American walnut stock; Hills Signature Event debuted in finish includes a solid top brass 2006 at the Preserve and has moved receiver, brass buttplate and brass to a different site within the Flint barrel band. Each side of the chamHills every year since. This is the first ber will be embedded with a Grand time the event has returned to the Master Challenge Coin. Donated by same location. Symphony in the Grand Lodge Officers, Area Deputy Flint Hills, Inc. celebrates the history, Grand Masters, and District Deputy ecology and culture of the last stand Grand Masters 2014-2015. of native Tallgrass Prairie through Winchester model 52 Target Rifle music and place-based education.

Cal. 22 LR. In wooden case. Match Each spring, 7,000 kindred spirits Sterling Silver & Turquoise grade, used for competition. Dogather for our Signature Event, a Square & Compass Watchband nated by the family of W:.Daniel H. world-class symphony concert in Beautifully crafted b Navajo SilverJohnson who was a Past Master of an unmatched prairie setting. The smith Begay. In memory of Charles 10th Anniversary Signature Event Hays Lodge No. 195 and a member “Sam” Hartley. Donated by Delta will be held at the Tallgrass National of the KMF board of trustees for Lodge No. 77 many years. Dan passed away in Preserve in Chase County on June 13, 2015, where it all started at the 2014.

Tallgrass National Preserve 10 years Grand Master Pin Collection ago. Donated by Emporia Lodge Beautifully framed, this one of a An 8-Day and 7-Night kind collection showcases the pins Unbelievable Trip to Maui, Hawaii No. 12 of our Kansas Grand Masters from Lodging and airfare for two are pro- Apple®- Apple iPad® Air 16GB 1996-present. This unique piece vided for a trip of a lifetime. From its Wi-Fi. iPad heavenly beaches to its scenic natural Air is 20 percent thinner and weighs honors the steadfast dedication wonders, there are plenty of reasons just one pound, so it feels unbeliev- and leadership which continues to propel our fraternity today. Donated why Maui has been voted “Best ably light in your hand. It comes

by Bob Shively Island” by readers of Conde Nast with a 9.7-inch Retina display, the Traveler for nineteen years. Donated A7 chip with 64-bit architecture, Samsung Chromebook

by Mike Tavares ultrafast wireless, powerful apps, An ultraportable, sleek laptop for and up to 10 hours of battery life everyday adventures. New and in Two Handcrafted, Inlaid Masonic and over 475,000 apps in the App original sealed box. Donated by Tables and Lamps Store are just a tap away. Donated Albert Pike Lodge No. 303 Made of oak with grain going towards the center, includes masonic by Ron Capps Beautifully framed Deputy Grand emblems of walnut. The table is 24 “THE MOST WORSHIPFUL Master Grand Lodge (Quality) ½ inches wide by 27 inches high, GRAND MASTER” 1869 Ceremonial Apron and includes a bottom shelf in 4 Lithograph Produced with gold bullion thread pieces. The lamp is 13 inches high, Framed 145 year old original and the familiar Jurisdiction of with a gray lamp shade and light lithograph of “The Most WorKansas pattern interwoven into the dimmer. Unique and beautifully shipful Grand Master” printed in design. Apron worn by Current and handmade and donated by Don London by Vanity Fair magazine, Past Grand Lodge officers in the Robinette, PGM. dated December 4, 1869. This is performance of their duties in both a caricature of the Second Earl of Original Handcrafted Gavel public and private ceremonial duties.

Zetland (Shetland), Thomas Dundas, Each year the person entrusted Own a piece of Kansas Masonic history with this one-of-a-kind gavel. who served as Grand Master of with the apron signed the back It was designed and utilized by M.W. the United Grand Lodge of England as a memento of his service. This Michael A. Halleran, during his term from 1844 to 1870. The lithograph exquisite and now historical apron measures 9“ x 14“. The frame is 13“ was worn by officers from 2004as Grand Master. Donated by M.W. Michael A. Halleran and Tony Borum x 18“. Comes with a certificate of 2014. Donated by the Grand Lodge authenticity. Any resemblance to any of Kansas Processed Half of a Hog present or past Kansas Grand MasExcellent pork that you can use for Niall One Luxury Timepiece ter is purely coincidental. Donated pork roast, pulled pork, bacon or This American luxury timepiece

by Peace Lodge 243, Louisburg ham. Will need to pick up the hog at is a one-of-a-kind, custom made “Grand Master’s Edition” Rifle the butcher in Mound City, Kansas design by company founder Michael

by April 10th, 2015. Donated by Henry Big Boy Deluxe in .357 Mag. Wilson, who is the Senior Deacon at La Cygne Lodge No. 61 Hand engraved – one of only 1000 Old Mission Lodge No. 153 in Prai-

LIVE

rie Village, KS and descends from a long line of Masons. The brand was inspired by wisdom he acquired during his degree work - the importance of sacred geometry, the use of numerology, and what it means to craft something from a rough ashlar to a perfect ashlar. Hand-polished stainless steel, Naill One is imprinted with the square and compass on the dial and faith, hope, charity on the serial plate, and the message of “he conquers who conquers himself” in gaelic. The Niall One is the first timepiece in the World to be manufactured with over 90% of its components in the USA, is made with Corning Gorilla glass, and offers a customizable design process that is elegant and modern. Naill One timepieces, like this one, retail for $4,000+. Donated by Michael Wilson Beautifully Framed Bro Brothers Illustrations by Ted Bastien A framed composite of three original Bro. Brother illustrations by the series artist Ted Bastien, attractively framed and mounted and signed by the Grand Master on the reverse.

Donated by Michael A. Halleran 2004 John Deere HPX 4x4 Gator Like new 2004 John Deere 4x4 Gator that has had limited use and has recently been completely serviced by local John Deere dealer and is in great condition. This Gator has a hydraulic power dump, turn signals, tires with aggressive tread and new battery. Donated by Topeka Lodge No. 17 Rare Tempor Watch Co. Silver Triangular Masonic Keyless Lever Watch With Enamel Dial An unusual and rare round dial triangular masonic keyless lever watch with enamel dial signed “Love your fellow man lend him helping hand”.

The round dial version is very rare to come by and the most valuable one of the masonic pocket watches. Similar watches has been sold on Christies and very similar model is currently being displayed at the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. Length of case side: 54mm, white mother of pearl dial with colorful masonic symbols, circa 1920’s, manufactured by Tempor Watch Co., very good working condition and was just serviced. Anonymous Donor

SPRING 2015 47

LODGE OF RESEARCH

By Herb F. Merrick, Jr., Grand Marshal, Past Master Hancock Lodge No. 311 & KMF Trustee

Enabling The Masonic Explorer In All Of Us. Kansas Lodge of Research was established in 1982 to conduct research, gather and preserve Masonic information, supply speakers, and enhance Grand Lodge endeavors to promote Masonic Education. In this article Bro. Herb Merrick explores the background the first master of his lodge and reveals the high ‘caliber’ of an Army artillery officer who received the military’s most prestigious combat decoration. Perhaps your lodge has had brothers with extraordinary accomplishments.

Submit your findings to klor@kansasmason.org or see our web page at kansasmason.org.

The Unyielding Carle Woodruff, Founding Master I was examining the many pictures

the General exactly where he could take

taken of our lodge founders when two

his order. M Battery was not going to

such particularly attracted my interest.

retire. Instead the Lieutenant ordered

Both of the same man; Carle Augustus

his cannoneers to load double canister

Woodruff. One was Worshipful Brother

and to continue to fire into the melee

Woodruff in his York Rite Commandary

of cavalry to his front. These actions

uniform and the other was in the formal

gave the remnants of the other Union

dress uniform of a Brigadier General

regiments in the area time to reorganize.

adorned with the Medal of Honor on

They delayed the Confederate Cavalry’s

the center of his chest. The quest to know

battery displaced off the field. Five brigades

attempt to join the Pickett’s attack on the

more of the first Master of Hancock Lodge

of Confederate Cavalry were engaged

Union center under the command of Major

No. 311 took me back to a hot July after-

immediately in front of the battery ready

General Winfield Scott Hancock. The Con-

noon in 1864.

to overwhelm the one Union Regiment

federates’ battle of the ridge was over.

Smoke and confusion reigned across the

that was attempting to stop their advance

Over the next three weeks, the Army

gently rolling fields as Major General David

and destroy the artillery. The General was

of the Potomac would repeatedly try to

M. Gregg, commander of the 2nd Cavalry

about to get one of the biggest surprises

re-engage the Army of Northern Virginia

Division of the Army of the Potomac, ar-

of the day as he found Lieutenant Carle

in another major battle. The final attempt

rived at the position of M Battery, 2nd Field

Augustus Woodruff commanding the right

would again involve Lieutenant Woodruff

Artillery. Gregg was looking for an artillery

section of guns. Upon receiving the order,

and the Acting Commander of 3rd Cavalry

officer that he could order to have the

Lieutenant Woodruff laconically informed

Division (George Custer) at Newby’s Cross

48 THE KANSAS MASON

Roads near Battle Mountain, Virginia. On July 24, based on Meade’s orders of the 23rd.1 , Custer sent the Michigan Brigade, his favorite, to come to grips with the front of Lee’s forces. Longstreet’s and A.P. Hill’s Corps were moving south through Chester’s Gap being screened by Jenkins’s cavalry. General Pleasanton, the Cavalry Corps Commander, hoped that Custer’s force could slow the Confederate force so that Union infantry could close. The plan called for the cavalry to copy Buford’s actions on the first day at Gettysburg and have the Confederate forces deploy from a marching column to a line of battle and then fight a delaying battle until Union infantry could close. This would prove to be the last chance for a second Gettysburg.2 The Michigan Brigade with M Battery supporting by section (three sections of two ordinance rifles each) attacked. Opening with his artillery Custer was able to advance

Top: Monument to Battery M east of Gettysburg, Bottom: Carle Woodruff Map: East Gettysburg Battlefield

upon the Confederates. He deployed two regiments of the brigade in the lead with

pinning the 5th and 6th Michigan cavalry

power of the Spencer rifles of supporting

Pennington’s guns broken into 2 gun sections

and the section of M Battery under Wood-

cavalry (1st and 7th) and to the extremely

supporting individual regiments. He con-

ruff on the left and rear of the main action.

accurate shelling of the other four guns of

tinued to attack the Confederate columns.

The Confederates continued the pressure

M Battery. General Custer, in his formal

The lead section of M Battery, under the

and were clearly about to surround the

report, credited Woodruff with “skill and

temporary command of Woodruff, was the

Union force. Custer as the division com-

judgment that saved the day”7. Woodruff

most forward element. The attack on what

mander ordered the cavalry and artillery

would eventually be award the Medal of

was in reality two Confederate corps (Ist

to break out and, if necessary, abandon the

Honor8 for his actions on that day.

3

and 3rd 4) brought them to a stop. They

guns. Woodruff repeated his actions from

He would go on to a long career in the

begin to deploy just as Pleasanton envi-

Gettysburg refusing to leave his support of

Army rising to command the 2nd Artil-

sioned. The mountainous terrain slowed the

the cavalry or even consider abandoning

lery Regiment when it was assigned to Fort

deployment, but did not prevent it from de-

his guns. Even after a second direct order

Leavenworth Kansas. He eventually rose to

veloping into a rolling fight. After two hours

to abandon the guns Woodruff refused,

the rank of Brigadier General. Woodruff

of skirmishing it became clear that Union

in what has been reported as colorful lan-

was raised in 1880 in Brownsville Lodge No.

infantry would not close up and the cavalry

guage. Instead, he organized the withdrawal

80 located along the Rio Grand Valley. He

need to disengage and withdraw.5

of M Battery’s trapped section6. The success

Hill’s 3rd Corps advanced two brigades

of this withdrawal is credited to the fire-

continued on page 50

SPRING 2015 49

LODGE OF RESEARCH continued from page 49 remained a member there until he demitted

along with fellow regimental commander and

his involvement was such that the Raleigh

in 1888 to join twenty six other Masons on

Medal of Honor recipient Arthur MacArthur.

Chapter of Rose Croix is named for him.

Fort Leavenworth and form Winfield Scott

Woodruff, would serve as the first Chief

He served as assistant Grand Marshal at the

Hancock Lodge No. 311.

Rabban at Abdallah. In 1899 he was assigned

1907 Cornerstone laying of the Grand Lodge

to Raleigh North Carolina. While there he

of North Carolina. He retired in Raleigh but

a number of appendant bodies including the

demitted from Hancock to join Hill Lodge

in 1908 he demitted the Hirum No. 40 and

York Rite Commandary in Leavenworth. He

No. 218 and in 1906 Hirum No. 40. He

rejoined Hancock where he was a member

was a charter member of Abdallah Shrine

was also active in the Scottish Rite. In fact

until his death on July 20th, 1913.

While in Kansas Woodruff was active in

1 “Report of MG Meade to the General in Chief 7 P.M. 25 July,” The Miscellaneous Documents of the House of Representatives for the First Session of the Fifty-First Congress 1889-90 in Forty Seven Volumes Washington GPO 1891 TWOFTREBELLION: A compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies Series I Volume xxvii part I 1889 GPO page 100 2 Thom Hatch, Clashes of Cavalry; The Civil War Careers of George Armstrong Custer and JEB Stuart (Stack Pole Books, 5067 Ritter Road, Mechanicsburg PA 17055). P 144.

3 George L. Harrington 1842-1864 Diary of George L. Harrington 1863, “Met Longstreet’s Corps and have a Sharp skirmish the Rebs have a Superior umber we retreat back to Amissville with but small loss Capture a few Prisoners” (Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, Michigan 2006).

4 “Report of JEB Stuart Major General CSA” Twenty Seven Volumes Washington GPO 1891 TWOFTREBELLION: A compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies Series I Volume xxvii part I 1889 GPO page 609 5 Longacre, Edward G. Custer and His Wolverines: The Michigan Cavalry Brigade, 1861-1865 (Da Capo Press. 2004). p 153 6 General Orders: September 1, 1893 Action Date: July 24, 1863 “The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to First Lieutenant (Field Artillery) Carle Augustus Woodruff, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism on 24 July 1863, while serving with Horse Battery M, 2d U.S. Artillery, in action at Newbys Crossroads, Virginia. While in command of a section of a battery constituting a portion of the rear guard of a division then retiring before the advance of a corps of Infantry, First Lieutenant Woodruff was attacked by the enemy and ordered to abandon his guns. He disregarded the orders received and aided in repelling the attack and saving the guns.”

7 “Report of Brig. Gen. George A. Custer, U.S. Army, commanding Second Brigade of, and Third Division. Battle of Gettysburg July 24”.--Was engaged with the enemy at Battle Mountain, near Newby’s Cross-Roads, Lieutenants Clarke, Woodruff, and Hamilton in this, as in every other engagement, performing their duties with skill and judgment. G.A. Custer BG Commanding Battle of Gettysburg HEADQUARTERS SECOND BRIGADE, THIRD DIVISION, September 9, 1863. The Miscellaneous Documents of the House of Representatives for the First Session of the Fifty-First Congress 1889-90 in Forty Seven Volumes Washington GPO 1891 TWOFTREBELLION: A compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies Series I Volume xxvii part I 1889 GPO 8 General Orders: September 1, 1893 Action Date: July 24, 1863

About The Author Rick Carver is the Past Master of Inner Quest Lodge 456 (Traditional Observance) and current Secretary and perpetual life member of Shawnee Lodge 54. He is also a member of Scottish Rite, York Rite, Kansas Lodge of Research and several other Masonic organizations.

You can read some other works by Brother Carver on the Inner Quest Lodge web site at innerquest456.org.

50 THE KANSAS MASON

THE LODGE SECRETARY

FROM THE ARCHIVES

continued from page 15

continued from page 33 The last major suggestion that Dr. Alexan-

would be glad to have the opportunity to get

Officers, look good. I strongly recommend

der made was that the collection needs a full-

the kind of hands-on experience so unremit-

all secretaries to study and learn all that the

time archivist, not only to aid in the process

tingly relevant to the professions they are

Kansas Masonic Foundation has for them to

of assigning order to all the collectible and

working so hard to prepare for in Emporia.

promote their lodge’s bottom line as well as

historically notable books and other objects

reputation in the community. Use this re-

that the Grand Lodge has and will continue to

source. If we make the Foundation success-

accumulate, but also to maintain the ongoing

ful, we make ourselves successful.

integrity of the future collection as the years

the Lodge, and therefore the Master and

Since Past Grand Master Rick Reichert followed Dr. Alexander’s recommendation and had an Archival Survey and Recommendation for the Grand Lodge of Kansas writ-

I close with one of the most important

go by. Ideally, she said, both an archivist and

duties of a secretary: to simply be a friend

a librarian would be hired, but she thought

and Brother. It has been said, “One cannot

that it would likely be possible to go forward

choose his family (brothers, sisters, etc. etc.),

with an archivist alone, with the idea that a

but he does choose his friends.” In the lodge,

librarian could be brought in as needed on

we are both and we have both. I made the

a contract basis. She also mentioned that

choice to call you all my friends and Broth-

though they could not take the place of hiring

attention that has by no means flagged since

the kind of professional(s) just discussed, the

Grand Master Michael Halleran took over at

School of Library and Information Manage-

this year’s Annual Communication.

ers and you granted me permission to do so.

And I am deeply gratified to be called both your friend and Brother.

A last thought - be always ready for more, as requested and as needed.

ment where she works would be happy to

ten up in May of 2103, seeking out the best ways for Kansas Masons to take appropriate care of these remarkable remnants of their shared past has received scrupulous, ongoing attention from the Grand Lodge—a level of

So it was wonderful to hear from the

send help with the transition of the collection

woman who helped launch the entire rigor-

to its new phase in the form of students who

ous process that it still remains right on track.

Kansas Masonic Foundation offers

CHARITABLE GIFT ANNUITIES Your Kansas Masonic Foundation has a charitable gift annuity program that has attractive rates and possible tax advantages.

For many people, establishing a fixed income from a charitable gift annuity is a very attractive financial plannnig option.

RECEIVE THE BENEFITS OF Fixed lifetime income for up to two beneficiaries.

Satisfaction in supporting an area of KMF that is important to you.

An immediate charitable income tax deduction.

Reduced federal estate taxes.

Kansas Masonic Foundation, Inc. • 785-357-7646 • www.kmfonline.org SPRING 2015 51

HOME WARMINGS

By Matthew Bogner, CEO, Kansas Masonic Home

Caring for Masons at KMH Many lately have

each year through our Foundation. This year

An additional benefit for Masons at KMH

expressed a desire

the amount is over $700,000. There truly is a

is that Masonic Home Lodge pays for all of

to learn more about

difference between non-profit and for-profit

their membership dues. Many of these indi-

the care that is

senior living communities. We can be proud

viduals are too frail to attend Lodge outside

provided at Kansas

to support a non-profit community that puts

of the campus and by hosting these meet-

Masonic Home and

residents first.

ings on site it allows them to continue this

specifically what

In addition to this care, we have estab-

important part of their lives. Furthermore,

we do for Masons. I am pleased to report

lished two funds that support Masons at

the community is truly vibrant with a variety

that currently half of our assisted living

KMH. The Albert Pike Lodge Charity Fund

of regular Masonic activities including three

residents are fraternity members or family

provides additional assistance to Masons

Blue Lodges, two Chapters, two High 12

members and one-third of our healthcare

and widows such as assistive devices and

clubs, Daughters of the Nile and many

residents are fraternity members or family

comfort items. The Good Deeds fund is

special Masonic events held throughout the

members. In the healthcare center we assist

supported out of voluntary donations by

year. Areas of campus for Masonic functions

impoverished and destitute brother Masons

KMH staff members and supports care of

include the Eastern Star Chapel, Fellowship

and their widows to get qualified for financial

the impoverished in the healthcare center.

Hall and our large Auditorium.

tion for the common good and well-being of

Brother Masons by providing scholarship op-

our society, by financially assisting undergradu-

portunities to their legacies, which is a big step

ate students in their pursuit of personal and

in the right direction, as Grand Master Michael

professional growth via higher education.

Halleran agrees: “These Legacy Scholarships are

assistance and help to subsidize this care through our Foundation. For those able to pay privately they have our assurance of assistance when their funds run out. While there is a financial requirement to enter Assisted Living we have also provided financial assistance for many Masons in this area who have outlived their resources. It is also important to note that we give preference to Masons and their widows during admissions when we have limited units available. When all is said and done, we provide between $400,000 and $800,000 in charitable care

MAKING A DIFFERENCE Building On Success continued from page 37 encouraged to apply in the new year.

By implementing this new range of Legacyonly scholarships, the Kansas Masonic Foundation is doing something genuinely new. It has,

These new scholarships, created with only

long overdue and underline the deep com-

of course, long demonstrated Masonry’s global

Masonic legacies in mind, reflect the heartfelt

mitment the Foundation has always had to the

and personal commitment to advancing educa-

desire of Kansas Masons to assist their worthy

families of our Masonic Brothers.�

52 THE KANSAS MASON

BOOK REVIEW

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

Masonic Etiquette Today:

A Modern Guide to Masonic Protocol and Practice

MASONIC ETIQUETTE TODAY SATISFIES THE PERENNIAL

NEED FOR FREEMASONS TO HAVE A STRAIGHT FORWARD AND RELIABLE GUIDE TO PROTOCOL This book draws together a number of different topics covering Masonic conduct, so as to provide a comprehensive guide to Masonic behavior inside and outside the Lodge. Topics covered include the complexities of the issues inside the Lodge of dress, regalia, membership, voting and elections, precedence, seating, saluting, general procedures, visiting behavior (and difficulties), ritual quirks, music, administrative matters, and etiquette at dinner. This book also addresses topics of importance to Masons outside away from the Lodge, such as correspondence, ties and other apparel, and openness.

Masonic Etiquette Today satisfies the perennial need for Freemasons to have a straightforward and reliable guide to protocol that is written by an authority on the subject, and can be relied on to resolve most matters of conduct likely to arise both inside and outside the Lodge. No Worshipful Master, Secretary or Director of Ceremonies should be without a copy.

Graham Redman was made a Mason in his old school Lodge in 1973, at the age of 24, and joined Emulation Lodge of Improvement the following year. He soon became a regular worker at its weekly demonstrations and earned his silver matchbox in June 1975, completing his record in 1978. He joined the precepting Committee in January 1980 and has been its senior member since 2002. He was born in Bedford in 1949 and has lived in the surrounding villages all his life. Educated at Bedford School and The Queen’s College, Oxford, he subsequently read for the Bar, being called by the Middle Temple in July 1974. After a period in pupillage and practice as a barrister, he worked as a lawyer in industry. In November 1987 he joined the staff of the Grand Secretary and has been Assistant Grand Secretary (and Assistant Grand Scribe E) since April 1988. His main interests, apart from Freemasonry, are reading and music.

Available from McCoy Publishing & Masonic Sully Co., Inc. at the Grand Lodge of Kansas Masonic Shop.

SPRING 2015 53

OUT AND ABOUT Albert Pike Lodge No. 303

30+ Years of Giving Back When Kansas Freemason Lodges gather and consider ways to give back to their communities, it’s natural to lean in the direction of monetary donations. While dollars are always critical to nonprofit organizations, the gift of time is sometimes the most valuable thing that we have to offer.

Masons from the Albert Pike Lodge No. 303 in Wichita have learned how the donation of their time and energy making

helping with the people who

and serving meals during the holiday weeks

come in. Nine to 11, we go

makes a tremendous difference to Episcopal

down and prepare the food; 11

Social Services and the clients the organiza-

to 1, we serve the food; and

tion serves.

1 to whenever, we clean up

For more than 30 years, Lodge Brothers

and get the whole place clean.

and their family members have shown up

When we leave, everything’s

to prepare, serve and then clean up after

done and that helps them out.”

Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners on the

Lawrence makes the

Tuesday before each holiday. More than 400

procedures sound simple, but

people, many of whom are homeless, living

they aren’t. Because it’s during

in poverty or struggling with mental illness

a workday, lodge members

in the Wichita community, ate at ESS the

can’t always work full shifts, so

week of Thanksgiving this year.

Lawrence and others organize

“We have five programs within our organization, and when we hold big events such as our Thanksgiving lunch and our

in ways that everyone can do as much as they’re able.

“Our members, they not

Christmas lunch, we just don’t have the

only come themselves, but

manpower to serve everyone,” said ESS vol-

they bring their wives or their

donates food too. This year, the Kansas

unteer coordinator Caroline Leahy. “There’s

teenagers, especially around Christmas

Masonic Foundation’s Matching Funds

no way we could serve that many people

time,” Lawrence said. “They experience

program provided $1,000 to the Albert

without the Masons. I have never worked

what we’ve been experiencing – the joy of

Pike Lodge to help with buying cases of

with such an enthusiastic group of people.

helping serve the people and put a smile on

hams for the holiday meal.

It’s really just a fun time.”

their faces.”

For Talbott, this work at the Lodge is

Robert C. Talbott, Past Master of the

important and something he’s been involved

Lodge, has been helping at the event since

Lodge and Grand Senior Deacon for the

in since he joined the Lodge in 1992. While

1997, and his explanation of what happens

Grand Lodge of Kansas, said the Thanksgiv-

the work of helping with the holiday meals

on the days they help is simple: “We just go

ing meal is more about providing manpower

is important, Talbott said he’s aware that

in and feel at home working with them and

to ESS, while at Christmas, the Lodge

some Lodge members help at ESS through-

Sheldon Lawrence, Past Master of the

54 THE KANSAS MASON

OUT AND ABOUT

By James A. Marples, Mulvane Lodge No. 210 out the year and the lodge always looks to help out in other ways. This year, ESS made the Lodge aware that the organization is trying to increase its clothing closet, which

A Case for More Meetings: Improved Masonic Proficiency Lodge to attend since they are 208 miles apart.

provides clothing for homeless people in

In bygone days, fraternal Lodges were not

Wichita.

just places where good men associated, but

Today, a great majority of Lodges meet

they offered opportunities for communica-

once monthly. Obviously, Masons were more

members to donate one new clothing

tion and entertainment during times when

active in the 1800s and early 1900s during an

item to provide for the additional needs

those were scarce.

era before men and women had vastly more

Talbott said a call was put out to Lodge

of ESS clients.

Looking back, I am thankful that when I

options as to how to spend their discretionary

joined Sunflower Masonic Lodge in Wichita,

time, especially with their children. However, it

Kansas, it met (and still does) on the second

illustrates the firm dedication that each of the

and fourth Tuesdays of each month. Similarly,

Masonic bodies had in “formally meeting” and

lodge level. It’s about the individual, about

my current Lodge, Mulvane Lodge No. 201,

discharging their duties. By meeting bi-month-

the man. It’s very inward facing,” Talbott

meets on the first and third Wednesdays

ly, it kept the members not only well-versed

said. “We have business meetings and social

monthly.

in ritual performance, but regular attendance

The work with ESS speaks to the basic principles of Freemasonry, he said.

“Our Lodge, it’s a fraternity at the blue

events, but our primary charter is not charity

While many Lodges may not find it feasible

also kept options open for the Lodge member

alone, at all. It really is fraternalism, improving

to meet more than once monthly, I, person-

who perhaps missed one meeting of the

the individual man inwardly, and then he goes

ally, am thankful for the Masonic proficiency

month, to return and get caught up with new

about and makes a difference in the public

that more frequent stated meetings affords.

happenings. Along with Masonic news, there

and private sector exponentially.”

It is easy for a member to get out of the habit

was always information about new mem-

The work with ESS fits into that focus,

of attending and to become “rusty” as far as

bers who joined or new members who had

helping brothers to reflect on their lives and

ritualistic ceremonial procedures. That may

celebrations in their lives such as birthdays or

their communities, Talbott said, and offering

sound boring to the extremely active Mason;

weddings/anniversaries, or the notice of vari-

an opportunity to give back to Wichita.

however, great benefits derive from seeing

ous members who had died. Waiting a month

Talbott’s daughter, who is 18 this year,

things done more often. People listen to songs

was seen (back then) as too long a gap for

has been helping out since she was about 9

on the radio and know the words by heart the

viable and reliable fraternal interaction.

years old. It’s been a learning experience for

more they hear the song. Likewise, a Freema-

her. “She serves, and hopefully the tie-in is

son becomes more adept at Masonic protocol

television enable rapid communication that

obvious, teaching her that we’re a commu-

and jurisprudence, the more often he witness-

somewhat meets those needs. Yet, it doesn’t

nity. She knows that giving and volunteering,

es the dispatch of Masonic business.

foster that regular and frequent “Masonic

Today’s cell-phones, internet and even

that’s our rent for being in society. She un-

As I look back in historical documents, I

Mental Exercise” of the brain. Comparing it

derstands there is a pretty small separation

noticed in the 1889 Wichita City Directory

to music fans who remember a song by the

between those needing help and us.”

an extensive list of lodges that meet twice

times they sing it: It is said that the late Presi-

a month. Such a pattern was not limited to

dent, Brother and Sir Knight Harry S. Truman,

ESS and the organization’s clients, but Lodge

Kansas. Today, McCook Lodge No. 135 in

33º and a Knight Templar, while plowing his

members are changed by it too.

McCook, Nebraska, meets on the first and

farm fields with his horses and mules recited

third Tuesdays and Blue Valley Lodge No.

the catechism of the various Masonic Degrees.

writing a check,” Lawrence said. “We just

64 in Wilber, Nebraska, meets on the same

That honed his skills and he considered his

have a really wonderful time doing it. We

nights monthly. Thankfully, this doesn’t impair

enjoy it and look forward to it, every year.”

any members or visitors from choosing which

The experience is, of course, helpful for

“I think it’s great because we’re not just

continued on page 56

SPRING 2015 55

OUT AND ABOUT A Case for More Meetings

or alter their meetings just because a Lodge

Walter M. Fleming, M.D., 33º and a Past

continued from page 55

100 miles away has its meeting the same

Commander of Columbian Commandery #1

night. However, anything within say a 20- to

of Knights Templar of New York City (and a

Masonic membership valuable to his social

30-mile radius should have a committee ap-

co-founder of the Mystic Shrine) once com-

skills while speaking in public. It gave him

pointed to seek a harmonious compromise.

mented how he found it difficult to “keep

more confidence.

Just because we meet on a certain day of

pace with all the complicated ritualistic rendi-

the month for many years should not make

tions” in all the Bodies he served. Therefore,

nearby Lodges “competitors” for attendees.

like the old saying goes --- whether it is a

While I am not condemning any Masonic groups that meet only once per month, it is a bit disheartening when clusters of Lodges or

I salute Lodges such as Caney Ma-

student doing their math homework or their

other bodies choose the same night as their

sonic Lodge No. 324 of Caney, Kansas, and

trumpet lessons after school or even practic-

monthly night to hold a stated meeting. Too

Fortitude Lodge No. 107 in Independence,

ing on the football field or basketball court:

often, I have seen clusters of Lodges, Chap-

Kansas, who still hold their stated meetings

the one necessity is “PRACTICE, PRACTICE,

ters, Councils, Commanderies, Consistories

on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each

PRACTICE.”

or Shrine Centers pick, say “the first Mon-

month. Plus, I commend the Caney Lodge

day of the month” or “the first Tuesday of

on its great road signs along U.S. Highway 75

every Thursday in Topeka, Kansas. Many oth-

the month” as their night. Such is fine, but

as being large enough for a driver to spot.

er fraternal Lodges were known for meeting

great care should be taken to avoid schedul-

Visibility means everything in today’s world.

bi-monthly, such as The Independent Order

ing conflicts. Since most months have at least

Plus, Caney Lodge is located 125 miles away

of Odd Fellows Lodges and the Knights of

30 days, surely, some groups can meet on

from Sunflower Lodge No. 86 in Wichita. Al-

Pythias Lodge in Longview, Texas, still meets

nights not already selected by Lodges in close

though they meet the same nights, they pose

every Thursday. Many of the so-called service

proximity to each other.

no competition for participants. I applaud

clubs such as Lions, Kiwanis and Rotary also

that. Ironically, both Lodges were chartered

meet on a more frequent basis in some cities

considered at District Meetings in various

in the year 1889 and have served their re-

and towns.

U.S. states and jurisdictions wheresoever dis-

spective communities for 125 years.

I would propose that this subject be

persed. I have seen Lodges within a 20-mile

I will leave it for each individual Brother

My own Square & Compass Club meets

Let each of us do what we can. I have heard old timers say that they may have

radius have a once monthly meeting on the

Mason to judge for himself as to whether

belonged to a Masonic Lodge or Masonic

same exact night as a nearby Lodge. Then,

more stated meetings yield better Masonic

Rite 25, 50, 60, 70 or more years and they

the Lodge members wonder why visitors are

proficiency among members. From my own

“always see something new.” I would echo

scarce. I am not saying Lodges have to bend

standpoint, I say “YES !!!” Even the renowned

that sentiment 100 percent. I have been a

THREE GENERATIONS OF MASONS On November 4th, 2014 Dalton Thompson was introduced to the Mysteries of Masonry by taking his first degree at De Soto Lodge No. 40, AF&AM. His father, Bill Thompson, was Senior Deacon and his grandfather, Troie Thompson, was the Worshipful Master for his degree work.

Charles “Duke” Neeland, PM Secretary, De Soto Lodge No. 40, AF&AM Bill Thompson, Troie Thompson, Dalton Thompson

56 THE KANSAS MASON

Mason almost 33 years now, and sometimes an older Lodge Hall will have some type of “furniture” or emblematic adornment that, when combined with what is said during the oratory of our Ritual, makes me see some element of Freemasonry “in a new Light.”

Bi-monthly stated meetings afford added opportunities to see things if we don’t grow jaded or complacent. Fraternalism is the heartbeat of a Degree Conferral, but especially at a well-run stated meeting, presided over by an efficient Master of the Lodge. Organization and vitality is what candidates and existing members want to see. We all have different

abilities, different home duties, different job responsibilities and different health-issues, but let us keep Masonry alive in our minds daily and meet on the level as often as we can, on a personal basis that is a truly formalized Masonic basis. “Practice makes perfect.” If we only wear a lapel-pin or a ring, that is merely comparable to knowing the title of a song.

But, if we regularly hear, see, and feel Masonic Brotherhood in action --- that is more closely

The 32nd Annual Kansas Masonic All-State High School Marching Band will soon be marching!

We would like your Masonic organization and your sponsored students to be a part of this Kansas Masonic tradition.

akin to hearing the lyrics. By regular repetition

• Applications due by May 1st

of a virtuous habit, it could be further likened

• Sponsor fees remain at $300 per student

to keeping a song in your heart and knowing the words/lyrics by heart.

That, my Brethren, is why we have regular stated meetings to tend to Masonic business.

Just as with muscles of the body, our intellect grows, our sentiment of emulating worthy principles grows and our commitment to high

• We are limited to 225 students.

• Send in your deposit or the full amount today to guarantee your spot!

• Students must be sponsored by a Lodge or other Masonic body.

• Students must be enrolled as High School Freshmen, Sophomore, Junior or

Senior as of Sept. 1, 2015, or be a member of the graduating Class of 2015.

moral and ethical commitment grows when we attend Masonic Stated Meetings on a fairly frequent basis. It’s not just about paying the bills, drinking coffee, chatting and going home.

It is a regular renewal of memory-work that strengthens the mystic tie of brotherhood that keeps our Fraternity strong and healthy.

About the Author: Brother James A. Marples is a Perpetual Life Member of Mulvane Masonic Lodge No. 201, A.F. & A.M., in Mulvane, Kansas (not to mention his numerous other Masonic memberships and titles). He knows more of interest about the history of honeybees’ profound links to Masonry than we were able to include here, but he had the good fortune of personally presenting Senator Bob Dole with a hard copy of his complete thoughts on the subject at the VFW Hall in

Fort Hays State University July 21 through July 25, 2015

Minneapolis, Kansas, just days before sharing them with our readers. We sincerely thank him for this enlightening submission—and hope that other Masons will consider submitting articles for publication in The Kansas Mason.

If you have any questions, please just contact us, and we will do our best to help.

SPRING 2015 57

KANSAS MASONIC NOTES Past Grand Master, Sterling P. Hornbuckle III 1931-2014

The column of our 2008 Grand Master

1965. He farmed until 1973, quitting for health reasons. He went

Sterling P. Hornbuckle III was found broken

on to do construction work for several years and then went into

on December 22nd. We doubt not that,

oil field work and was employed by Town Oil of Somerset until his

while he has laid down his terrestrial work-

death.

ing tools, he has already begun working in

Sterling attended Miami County schools and was a 1949 gradu-

that celestial Grand Lodge that we all one

ate of Louisburg High School. He was active in the Miami County

day hope to enter.

4-H clubs and earned many awards including showing an Angus

Sterling Price Hornbuckle, III, age 83,

steer at the American Royal in Kansas City. Sterling was a member

of Louisburg, KS, passed away December

of the First Christian Church of Louisburg. He was a member of

22, 2014 at St. Lukes South Hospital,

the Peace Lodge No. 243, and Former Grand Master for the State

Overland Park, KS.

of Kansas. He was a member of the Scottish Rite bodies of Kansas

He was born at Paola, KS (Guinea Roost Farm) on July 29, 1931, the son of Sterling Price, Jr. and Bertha (Young) Hornbuckle. He was the youngest of three children. He was united in marriage on November 16, 1952 to Winona M. Kohlenberg at the Louisburg United Methodist Church in Louisburg.

Sterling was a member of the Kansas National Guard from 1950 to 1963 and was a civilian employee of the Guard from 1956 to

City, Kansas and of the Abdallah Shrine in Overland Park. He enjoyed fishing and hunting.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Cecil Earl and James Maxwell Hornbuckle.

Survivors include his wife Winona, of the home; nephews, Carl and Gary Hornbuckle, David, Chris and Mike Kohlenberg, niece, Sheryl Manger and many great nieces and nephews.

EVENT CALENDAR February 15

March 19

February 22

March 19

Early-Bird Registration Deadline for 2015 Annual Communication 125 Year Re-Dedication of Ben Hur Lodge No. 322 – Kansas City

February 28

Submission Deadline for Lodges Interested in 2015-16 Cancer Screening Clinics

March 15

Last Day for Regular Registration for 2015 Annual Communication

March 18

Kansas Masonic Foundation Board of Trustees Meeting – Topeka

Kansas Masonic Lodge Luncheon & Seminar – Topeka Annual Communication Welcome Reception – Topeka

March 20 & 21

March 25

Masters, Wardens, and Past DDGMs Dinner/Meeting – Louisburg (RSVP) – Starts 6PM

April 4

Grand Masters First Official Visit – Justice Lodge No. 457

Grand Lodge Annual Communication – Topeka

Grand Masters Reception/Dinner – Topeka Masonic Center (RSVP)

March 20

April 16

All-Masonic Banquet, Auction & Entertainment – Topeka

March 21

Kansas Lodge of Research (KLOR) Annual Meeting

May 16

Statewide Masonic Education Day (Registration Required)

May 30

Goodland Lodge No. 321 – 125 Year Re-Dedication Ceremony

May 31

Kansas Masonic Foundation 2015-16 Scholarship Submission Deadline

Rusty Nail Degree – Delphian Lodge No. 44 (Garnett) – Starts 7:30PM

July 21-25

May 2

July 25

Dedication of Isis Temple Building – Salina

Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band Camp – Hays East-West Shrine Bowl – Hays

For more detailed and up-to-date information, please check the Grand Lodge website calendar at KansasMason.org

The Kansas Mason is now on Flickr. Upload and share your Kansas Mason photos at www.flickr.com/groups/kansasmason/ 58 THE KANSAS MASON

ASKED AND ANSWERED

By Nolan Sump, Salina Lodge No. 60, Cawker City Lodge No. 125 & Oketo Lodge No. 25

QUESTION:

order, Webb made his Masonic presence

QUESTION:

Our lodge had a discussion recently about

known to the masses through this publica-

Prior to the day of Kansas allowing to have a

the wording of our ritual book. We assume

tion, which was revised several times by his

cipher, a little cipher book called “The Ritual

the ritual is well over 100 years old. Where

death in 1819. Due to his inclusion of Pres-

of the Essenes” floated around and in reality,

did our initiations and rituals come from?

ton’s monitor, by the time Kansas became a

was “The Kansas Ritual.” I would sure like to

— A Lodge of Inquiry

state, the unofficial name for the ritual was

know its background, if it truly was the same

called the Webb-Preston work.

ritual, and why it was characterized as from

Answer:

While Webb’s monitor included portions

the Essenes.

I too have been curious about the origins of

of Preston’s work, and while the two shared

our rituals. Mackey’s Symbolism of Freema-

similarities in their publications, there were

sonry provides information about William

stark differences. Preston’s Illustrations of

Answer:

Preston, a Scottish Author who became a

Masonry was composed of 57 pages; the

To answer this question one needs to go

Mason after he joined one

first 20 consisted of the lectures we associ-

back to the 19th century to gain a better

of the original four lodges in

ate in our second and third sections of each

perspective of how people transmitted

1762. Interested in old ritu-

degree. He was the first of the two to create

the work from one person to another. In

als and documents, Preston

the stair lecture and charges to the candi-

all reality, the solemn oaths taken to avoid

researched the subject

date. The rest of the book consists of a letter

transcription and distribution of the ritual

with apt affection, soliciting

written by John Locke and a concise history

were taboo; only by word of mouth could

the help from many elder

of British Freemasonry. Webb’s version, origi-

the work be transmitted and received.

brothers in lodges through-

nally written 25 years after Preston’s, was

This was generally thought as an excellent

out Great Britain and

republished in 1818. In it he expanded upon

means by which brothers could form a bond

beyond. Being recognized

his predecessor’s work to a 322-page effort

for his vast interest, Preston

which included all of the monitorial work

soon became the editor of

we use today in initiations. He further added

William Preston

Thomas Smith Webb

the ritual, and in 1772, wrote Illustrations of

rituals when commemorating our deceased

Masonry. This document served as the origi-

brethren, laying cornerstones, and installing

nal ritual book for Masons in Great Britain.

officers of a lodge. His monitor also extend-

However, he is not the only one who

—Todd Decker, Mt. Zion No.266

continued on page 62

ed the degree work to York Rite rituals while

deserves credit. The other brother who

giving the history of American Freemasonry.

created our work into what we use today

More striking were the number of Masonic

was Thomas Smith Webb, a Bostonian and

songs Webb included in his editions. Being an

printer by trade who became a Mason in

accomplished musician, he provided consid-

1793. In 1797, he published The Freemason’s

erable contributions to presenting a sublime

Monitor, or Illustrations of Masonry. In short

feel to the initiatory experience.

One taboo book—Ecce Orienti, or Rites and Ceremonies of the Essenes

About Nolan Sump: Nolan Sump is a gifted facilitator for Hiawatha USD 415 and lives in Blue Rapids with his wife Monica. Ten years ago, Nolan was raised as a Master Mason in Salina Lodge No. 60. Since then, he has served as Worshipful Master of Cawker City No. 125 and is now the Master of Oketo No. 25. He is the current District Deputy Grand Master of District No. 21. In addition, Nolan serves on the Grand Lodge Public Schools Committee. You can contact Nolan with your questions at sump_97@yahoo.com

SPRING 2015 59

STATED COMMUNICATIONS for the Mason Traveling in Kansas!

Abilene Benevolent Lodge No. 98 116 1/2 NW 3rd St 785-263-2011 Abilene Justice Lodge No. 457 116 1/2 NW 3rd St 620-496-5090 Almena Naphtali Lodge No. 310 500 Main St 785-669-2509 Alta Vista Alta vista Lodge No. 357 905 Main St 785-499-5331 Altamont Altamont Lodge No. 69 414 S Huston Ave 620-784-9950 Americus Americus Lodge No. 109 551 Broadway St 620-443-5550 Anthony Anthony Lodge No. 200 218 S Kansas 316-253-5868 Arkansas City Crescent Lodge No. 133 202 South B St 620-441-3779 Arma Arma Lodge No. 408 406 E Washington St 620-249-9020 Ashland Ashland Lodge No. 277 721 Chestnut 620-635-2924 Atchison Active Lodge No. 158 121 1/2 N 5th St 913-367-0229 Atwood Atwood Lodge No. 164 113 S 5th St 785-626-3787 Augusta Mystic Tie Ldoge No. 74 526 1/2 State St 316-775-2655 Axtell Axtell Lodge No. 234 Axtell, KS no telephone Baldwin City Palmyra Lodge No. 23 807 High St 913-856-8355 Baxter Springs Baxter Lodge No. 71 1509 Military Ave 620-674-1511 Beattie Beattie Lodge No. 259 Beattie, KS 785-562-4007 Belle Plaine Belle Plaine Lodge No. 173 421 N Merchant St 316-488-3513 Belleville Belleville Lodge No. 129 1810 L St 785-527-5844

Beloit Mt. Vernon Lodge No. 145 103 1/2 W Court 785-738-3801 Benedict Benedict Lodge No. 403 Main St 620-278-3592 Blue Rapids Blue Rapids Lodge No. 169 1441 State Hwy 9 785-556-3854 Bronson Bourbon Lodge No. 268 509 Clay St 620-939-4551 Bronson Xenia Lodge No. 47 664 Wood Rd 913-649-2241 Burden Clinton Ldoge No. 233 406 N Main St 620-218-2488 Burlingame Corinthian Lodge No. 79 106 E Fremont Ave 785-528-3496 Burlington Burlington Ldoge No. 66 118 N 3rd St 620-364-5845 Caldwell Sumner Lodge No. 203 Caldwell, KS 620-845-6869 Caney Caney Lodge No. 324 302 N McGee 620-879-2494 Carbondale Carbondale Lodge No. 70 228 Main St 785-836-2234 Chanute Cedar Lodge No. 103 102 N Highland 620-431-4692 Chetopa Chetopa Lodge No. 73 22 Maple St no telephone Circleville Circleville Lodge No. 20 201 Lovejoy St 785-873-3163 Claflin Claflin Lodge No. 424 107 Main St 620-587-3804 Meet: 1st Thursday Clay Center Clay Center Lodge No. 134 2317 7th St 785-632-3658 Meet: 1st and 3rd Wednesdays Clearwater Unity Lodge No. 273 112 W Ross 316-200-5290 Meet: 1st and 3rd Tuesdays Coffeyville Keystone Lodge No. 273 2001 Woodland Ave 620-251-2360 Colby St. Thomas Lodge No. 306 215 N Franklin Ave 785-460-3081

60 THE KANSAS MASON

Coldwater Comanche Lodge No. 295 111 E Main St 620-582-2329 Columbus Prudence Lodge No. 100 633 E Garfield 620-429-2313 Concordia St. Johns Lodge No. 113 117 W 8th St 785-614-2380 Conway Springs Mistletoe Lodge No. 269 305 S Church St no telephone Cottonwood Falls Zeredatha Lodge No. 80 234 Broadway 620-273-6431 Courtland Courtland Lodge No. 211 401 Main St 785-374-4460 De Soto De Soto Lodge No. 40 33075 W 83rd St 913-585-1650 Delia Delia Lodge No. 419 401 Washington Ave 785-584-6259 Derby Derby Lodge No. 365 125 E Market St no telephone Devon Devon Ldoge No. 92 Highway 7 620-224-8191 Dighton Barney Lodge No. 279 145 N Lane St no telephone Dodge City St. Bernard Lodge No. 222 1207 W McArtor Rd 620-227-2332 Douglass Douglas Lodge No. 151 916 E 3rd St 316-776-9567 Dover Dover Lodge No. 138 5701 SW Douglas Rd 785-256-6790 Dwight Dwight Lodge No. 374 635 E Main St 620-767-6882 Easton Easton Ldoge No. 45 3rd & Riley St no telephone Edna Edna Lodge No. 345 117 N Delaware St 620-922-7216 El Dorado Patmos Lodge No. 97 401 S Haverhill Rd 316-452-1049 Elk City Carson Lodge No. 132 112 N Montgomery 620-627-2243

Ellsworth Ellsworth Lodge No. 146 Ellsworth, KS 785-252-3441 Emporia Emporia Lodge No. 12 424 Merchant St 620-342-3913 Ensign Ensign Lodge No. 413 301 Aubrey St 620-865-2321 Enterprise Enterprise Lodge No. 437 123 S Factory 785-263-8472 Erie Erie Lodge No. 76 221 S Main 620-244-5620 Eureka Fidelity Lodge No. 106 600 N Main St 620-583-5135 Fall River Greenwood Lodge No. 163 509 Merchants Ave 316-239-9073 Florence Advance Lodge No. 114 417 1/2 Main St 620-382-7310 Fontana Equity Lodge No. 131 202 S Stevens no telephone Fort Leavenworth Hancock Lodge No. 311 311 Kearney Ave 913-651-7308 Fort Scott Hiattville Lodge No. 216 1274 Dragoon Rd 620-224-6050 Fort Scott Rising Sun Lodge No. 8 902 S National Ave 620-223-0249 Frankfort Frankfort Lodge No. 67 900 N Kansas no telephone Fredonia Constellation Lodge No. 95 318 N 6th St 620-431-3866 Galena Galena Lodge No. 194 208 Joplin St 620-249-3413 Garden City Tyrian Lodge No. 246 905 Kansas Plaza 620-275-2356 Gardner Gardner Lodge No. 65 105 1/2 Elm St 913-856-7878 Garland Memphis Lodge No. 108 Garland, KS 620-768-0200 Garnett Delphian Lodge No. 44 122 1/2 E 5th Ave 620-496-5090

Girard Girard Lodge No. 93 106 1/2 E Prairie Ave 620-724-4412 Goodland Goodland Lodge No. 321 519 Center St 785-890-6265 Meet: 2nd and 4th Mondays Great Bend Great Bend Lodge No. 15 1917 17th St 620-639-1865 Meet: 2nd and 4th Thursdays Greensburg Kiowa Lodge No. 293 225 E Kansas 620-723-2284 Meet: 2nd and 4th Tuesdays Gridley Hebron Lodge No. 314 415 Main St 620-836-5448 Halstead Halstead Lodge No. 46 127 W 1st St 316-258-2034 Harper Harper Lodge No. 206 114 W Main St 620-896-7868 Hays Hays Lodge No. 195 107 W 11st St 785-625-3127 Haysville Haysville Lodge No. 112 300 S Main 316-768-9202 Hiawatha Hiwatha Lodge No. 35 601 Utah St 785-547-7035 Highland Smithton Lodge No. 1 306 W Main St no telephone Hill City Millbrook Lodge No. 281 305A W Main St 785-421-2950 Hoisington Hoisington Lodge No. 331 351 W 2nd St 620-786-4585 Holton Holton Lodge No. 42 100 E 5th St 785-364-4217 Howard Hope Lodge No. 155 100 W Washington 620-647-3279 Hoxie Hoxie Lodge No. 348 840 9th St 785-675-8695 Hugoton Hugoton Lodge No. 406 112 E 6th St no telephone Hutchinson Hutchinson-Reno Lodge No. 124 1800 E 23rd Ave 620-662-7012 Independence Fortitude Lodge No. 107 2000 W Laurel St 620-331-2349

Iola Iola Lodge No. 38 201 W Madison Ave 620-852-3314 Jewell Jewell Lodge No. 11 316 1/2 Delaware no telephone Johnson Johnson Lodge No. 441 213 S Main St 620-353-4022 Junction City Union Lodge No. 7 722 1/2 N Washington 785-762-2903 Kansas City Ben Hur Lodge No. 322 1442 S 30th St 913-499-8406 Kansas City Delaware Lodge No. 96 9677 Parallel Parkway 13-788-9696 Kansas City Heritage Lodge No. 458 1442 S 30th St 785-313-7222 Kansas City Roger E. Sherman Lodge No. 369 1201 N 67th St 816-517-1833 Kansas City West Gate Ldoge No. 438 1201 N 67th St 816-517-1833 Kansas City Wyandotte Lodge No. 3 2835 N 103rd Terrace 913-299-4444 Kincaid Kincaid Lodge No. 338 406 1st Ave 620-363-2053 Kingman Ninnescah Lodge No. 230 247 N Main St 620-532-3709 Kiowa Cosmos Lodge No. 278 202 S 9th St 316-258-1596 La Cygne La Cygne Lodge No. 61 320 Locust St 816-351-5050 Lakin Emerald Lodge No. 289 214 N Main St 620-355-6291 Lane Lane Lodge No. 339 Lane Methodist Church 913-731-3953 Latham Latham Lodge No. 401 229 W Blaine 620-843-2551 Lawrence Acacia Lodge No. 9 1301 E 25th St 785-842-8145 Lawrence Lawrence Lodge No. 6 1301 E 25th St 785-843-2333 Leavenworth King Solomon Lodge No. 10 423 1/2 Delaware St 913-682-3391

Lebo Lebo Lodge No. 152 2 W Broadway 620-342-4424 Lecompton Lecompton Lodge No. 420 116 Highway 40 785-817-3556 Lenexa Lenexa Lodge No. 135 13417 W 94th St 913-888-6564 Leon Joppa Lodge No. 223 115 W Mechanic St 316-323-8970 LeRoy Neosho Lodge No. 27 438 Main St 620-203-0396 Lewis Lewis Lodge No. 220 210 Main St no telephone Liberal Fargo Lodge No. 300 14 E 4th St 620-624-2229 Lincoln Lincoln Lodge No. 154 Lincoln, KS 785-524-4315 Lindsborg Lindsborg Lodge No. 397 112 S Main St 620-241-4007 Linwood Linwood Lodge No. 241 223 Main St 913-669-8187 Little River Corner Stone Lodge No. 219 107 E Greenwood Ave 620-897-6312 Louisburg Peace Lodge No. 243 504 S 2nd St 913-837-5256 Lucas Blue Hill Lodge No. 198 103 S Russell Ave 785-525-6137 Lyndon Euclid Lodge No. 101 108 E 7th St 785-280-2439 Lyons Royal Lodge No. 192 912 W Main St 620-257-3565 Madison Madison Lodge No. 196 308 W Main 620-392-5869 Manhattan Lafayette Lodge No. 16 322A Houston St 785-776-4186 Mankato Mankato Lodge No. 87 114 N Commercial St 785-378-3006 Marion Centre Lodge No. 147 105 S 4th St 620-381-4669

Marysville Marysville Lodge No. 91 1733 Center St 785-562-5467 Mayetta Mayetta Lodge No. 393 120 E Main St 785-633-6087 McPherson McPherson Lodge No. 172 311 S Main St 361-648-3111 Medicine Lodge Delta Lodge No. 77 205 N Main 620-930-8132 Melvern Melvern Lodge No. 22 210 NE Mays 785-217-4034 Merriam Rosedale Lodge No. 333 6161 Slater St 913-262-8576 Minneapolis Minneapolis Lodge No. 143 306 W 2nd St 785-392-7619 Minneola Minneola Lodge No. 431 118 Main 620-338-6549 Moran Marmaton Lodge No. 245 218 N Spruce St 620-363-1528 Mound City Mound City Lodge No. 33 324 Walnut St 913-795-2503 Mount Hope Mount Hope Lodge No. 238 108 S Ohio St 316-204-9004 Mulvane Mulvane Lodge No. 201 104 1/2 W Main 316-777-1006 Neodesha Harmony Lodge No. 94 416 1/2 Main St 620-839-5470 Newton Newton Lodge No. 142 106 E Broadway 316-283-1199 Nickerson Nickerson Lodge No. 43 5 N Nickerson St no telephone Oakley Oakley Lodge No. 253 104 E 3rd St no telephone Oberlin Mountain Slope Lodge No. 186 109 W Commerical 785-475-2350 Oketo Oketo Lodge No. 25 103 Main St 785-629-8200 Olathe Olathe Lodge No. 19 725 W Park St 913-829-5815 Onaga Onaga Lodge No. 188 302 1/2 Leonard St 785-889-4681

Osawatomie Osage Valley Lodge No. 24 412 5th St 913-731-4851 Osborne Saqui Ldoge No. 160 Osborne, KS no telephone Oskaloosa Oskaloosa Lodge No. 14 724 Liberty 785-876-3041 Oswego Adams Lodge No. 63 410 1/2 Commercial St 620-778-2795 Ottawa Ottawa Lodge No. 18 422 S Main St 785-242-3147 Overbrook Ridgeway Lodge No. 62 4th & Maple 785-817-9250 Overland Park Overland Park Lodge No. 436 8109 Overland Park Dr 816-803-8883 Overland Park Stanley Lodge No. 444 6950 W 151st St 913-205-3894 Oxford Oxford Lodge No. 165 201 N Sumner 620-455-2584 Paola Paola Lodge No. 37 101 E Miami St 913-244-6471 Meet: 1st and 3rd Mondays Parker Parker Lodge No. 341 6595 W 2100th Rd 913-927-5172 Parsons Parsons Lodge No. 117 102 N 17th St 620-421-1947 Perry Perry Lodge No. 415 520 E Front St 785-856-0528 Phillipsburg Phillipsburg Lodge No. 184 Phillipsburg, KS 785-543-5532 Pittsburg Pittsburg Lodge No. 187 3105 N Joplin St 620-231-1180 Plains Plains Lodge No. 367 102 Ohio St no telephone Plainville Paradise Lodge No. 290 109 S Main 785-623-0847 Pomona McKinley Lodge No. 41 123 E Franklin (Hwy 68) 785-759-3543 Prairie Village Old Mission Lodge No. 153 5201 W 75th St 913-642-4458

Pratt Kilwinning Lodge No. 265 123 1/2 S Main 620-388-0951 Quinter Quinter Lodge No. 410 319 1/2 Main St 785-754-9082 Rush Center Walnut City Lodge No. 215 107 S Elm no telephone Russell Russell Lodge No. 177 115 E 6th St 785-735-4280 Sabetha Sabetha Lodge No. 162 915 Virginia St 785-284-3169 St. Francis St. Francis Lodt No. 404 116 N Quincy 785-332-2708 Salina Salina Lodge No. 60 336 S Santa Fe 785-825-4812 Salina Caledonia Lodge No. 459 336 S Santa Fe 620-204-0281 Savonburg Virginia Lodge No. 315 124 W Main 620-754-3487 Scott City Anthem Lodge No. 284 600 Cedar Dr 620-872-5488 Severy Climax Lodge No. 411 102 5th St 620-583-6988 Sharon Springs Sharon Springs Lodge No. 417 122 N Main St 785-852-4246 Shawnee Arthur H. Strickland Daylight Lodge No. 452 11109 Johnson Dr 913-226-7298 Shawnee Inner Quest Lodge No. 456 11109 Johnson Dr 785-482-3020 Shawnee Shawnee Lodge No. 54 11109 Johnson Dr no telephone Silver Lake Lake Lodge No. 50 100 Beaubein 785-582-4003 Smith Center Western Star Lodge No. 174 118 W 1st St 785-697-2754 Solomon Solomon City Lodge No. 105 101 E 4th St 785-655-3927 Meet: 2nd and 4th Tuesdays Spring Hill Spring Hill Lodge No. 56 403 W South St 913-208-9484

Sterling Sterling Lodge No. 171 221 S Broadway 620-204-0281 Syracuse Syracuse Lodge No. 309 119 N Gates St 620-384-6142 Tecumseh Albert Neese Lodge No. 248 5947 SE 45th St 785-379-9823 Thayer Thayer Lodge No. 149 415 N Okmulgee St 620-839-5520 Tonganoxie Henri Lodge No. 190 311 S Delaware 913-905-9258 Topeka Auburn Lodge No. 32 320 SW 8th Ave 785-256-2757 Topeka Golden Rule Lodge No. 90 909 NW Lyman Rd 785-354-7208 Topeka Mount Zion Lodge No. 266 320 SW 8th Ave 785-266-3394 Topeka Orient Lodge No. 51 320 SW 8th Ave 785-249-8511 Topeka Siloam Lodge No. 225 214 SW 14th St 785-232-2919 Topeka Topeka Lodge No. 17 320 SW 8th Ave 785-249-8511 Toronto Woodson Lodge No. 121 201 W Main St 620-637-2911 Troy Troy Ldoge No. 55 236 S Main St 785-985-2430 Ulysses Ulysses Lodge No. 435 909 N Joyce Dr 620-356-2376 Wakarusa Wakarusa Lodge No. 402 10126 SW Jordan Rd 785-554-5670 Wakeeney Wakeeney Lodge No. 148 531 1/2 Russell Ave 785-743-2815 Walnut Vulcan Lodge No. 229 119 S Main St 620-547-2127 Wamego Wamego Lodge No. 75 519 Lincoln Ave 785-844-0939 Waterville Sutton Lodge No. 85 102 E Commercial 785-363-2521

Wathena Wathena Lodge No. 64 302 N 4th St 816-261-3159 Meet: 2nd and 4th Tuesdays Weir Black Diamond Lodge No. 274 107 W Main St 620-230-5478 Wellington Wellington Lodge No. 150 2129 North A St 620-326-2002 Wellsville Wellsville Lodge No. 356 501 Main St 785-969-3040 Westmoreland Westmoreland Lodge No. 257 405 Main St 785-457-3421 Wichita Albert Pike Lodge No. 303 401 S Seneca St 316-269-7851 Wichita Bestor G. Brown Lodge No. 433 332 E 1st St 316-213-0354 Wichita Community Daylight Lodge No. 453 332 E 1st St 316-263-4218 Wichita Masonic Home Lodge No. 450 401 S Seneca St 316-519-8083 Wichita North Star Lodge No. 168 212 N West St 316-440-9993 Wichita Pyramid Lodge No. 451 401 S Seneca St 316-617-5245 Wichita Sunflower Lodge No. 86 2929 W Pawnee Ave 316-945-8882 Wichita Wichita Lodge No. 99 332 E 1st St 316-530-1099 Williamsburg Anchor Lodge No. 224 310 S East Ave 913-522-3902 Winfield Winfield Lodge No. 110 106 E 8th Ave 620-221-0109 Winona Wallace Ldoge No. 318 411 Bellview St 785-694-2278 Yates Center Gilead Lodge No. 144 116 E Butler St 620-625-3337

SPRING 2015 61

KANSAS MASONIC FOUNDATION DIRECTORY Jon McConnell

(316) 243-5903

Jonathan W. McConnell

Attorney At Law Wichita jon@jonathanwmcconnell.com www.jonathanwmcconnell.com

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LISTING GOODS AND SERVICES FROM YOUR FELLOW BROTHERS THROUGHOUT KANSAS ASKED AND ANSWERED continued from page 59 with one another. Apparently they had

Masons were left to their own devices.

od by which a Mason could learn the work

not compensated for visual learners in this

This is where the ritual of the Essenes

on his own. This was a service considered

strict, auditory-based environment. Because

came in handy.

ahead of its time, and it is small wonder

of this prohibition of any form of writ-

In 1872, a little cipher book called Ecce

that a book such as this would have been

ten work, ritual in one corner of the state

Orienti, or Rites and Ceremonies of the

considered a threat to the standard practice

differed from another corner due to the

Essenes was published by M.W. Redding &

of memorization in 19th century lodges. To-

impact of interference over one’s memory.

Co. in New York, NY. This ritual provided a

day there exists an organization of Modern

history of the Essenic Order of Jews from

Essenes, but this is primarily a religious or-

addressed this issue first in 1893 with

the time of Jonathan the Maccabean in 143

der incorporating elements of Judaism, Tao,

William Shaver, who produced the book

BC, then explained the three classes of

Buddhism, and Christianity. This order was

Shaver’s Monitor, which served as a handy

Essenes. As it blended into the ciphered

founded in 1929, some 60 years after the

reference for decades to all those inter-

text, it did not take long for the trained eye

ritual book was written and is active today.

ested in learning the lectures and other

to notice this book was the same thing as

Led by Rabbi Gabriel Cousens, followers

rituals. It wasn’t until 1912 when an official

Masonic ritual. There was no such thing as

practice a lifestyle of peace, charity, and

cipher book was printed to assist Masons

Essenic Freemasonry or the Modern Order

prayer while maintaining a strict live-foods

in learning the initiatory work. Until then,

of the Essenes at that time; it was a meth-

and vegan diet.

Officially, the Grand Lodge of Kansas

62 THE KANSAS MASON

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