matters. He avoided getting baptized until just one week before his death. Some might think him a bad Mason. This is not the case, for he professed his belief in his Creator and Divine Architect. In two separate actions, he proved his loyalty to brotherly ideals. First he showed his love of knowledge and learning by laying the cornerstone for the Smithsonian Institute. Secondly, he was the layer of the cornerstone of the famous Washington Monument in D.C. By doing thus, he publicly displayed his Masonic values. Polk had had ties to Fayette County, Pennsylvania, in that he was private secretary to Albert Gallatin. However, Polk did not serve Gallatin at Friendship Hill near Point Marion, Pennsylvania, but instead it was while Gallatin was minister to Russia in 1813 and 1814. James Polk shared something with Buchanan who was to follow him. Both men were very happy to no longer be president.
July 1993
James Buchanan, Pennsylvania's only President, considered by critics to be one of the worst presidents in American history, was nonetheless a good man and an exemplary Mason. Although a bachelor, he took charge of his orphaned nieces and nephews. He was graduated from Dickinson College at Lancaster and continued his education throughout life as every good Mason should do. In his role as the Great Compromiser, he was unsuccessful in stopping the Southern states from seceding. Buchanan, like Polk, had close ties with western Pennsylvania. Our native son's mother died in Greensburg, and his sibling lived in nearby Somerset County. In religion and education, Buchanan was almost the exact opposite of his successor, the log cabin president.
Part II In August 1993 issue! Brother Anthony W. Keefer resides at 2016 Revere Road, Conriellsville, PA 15425
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