Masonic Art Exchange Newsletter

42

description

The periodical newsletter of the Masonic Art Exchange, featuring Art work relating to or by Freemasonry and Knight Templars

Transcript of Masonic Art Exchange Newsletter

  • Volume 1 Issue 4 October 2009

    Welcome

    This month has been a really busy one for me with the opening of the new Masonic season I have travelled far and wide on visitations and as I start writing this introduction I am making the final preparations for a trip to visit with brethren in Scotland.

    To top the face of a busy masonic time I also had two bouts of illness within a week of each other maybe I am just getting old.

    We are blessed again with a great number of articles this month two of which you may recognise. The first being more wonderful art from Bro. Adam Kendall and you will also note I have reprinted the article on the Raigains Masonic rifle. I was contacted by the author (who was delighted we had included it but had a few minor corrections so please do read it again Im sure you will agree once youve done so it will be most worthwhile. Sorry to say I was unable to complete the continuation of the Knights templar in Art series but it will be in the next issue but to keep those Knight fans happy there is a brief article on The Roslin Templar

    Now time for the advert: As always I am in constant need of contributions to the newsletter and leave it up to you to define Art (I wouldnt be so presumptuous). I am also very happy to let you all know the Masonic Art Exchange webpage http://masonic-ae.com continues to grow and I am also looking for contributions to the site as well.

    Finally, thank you all for taking the time to support this project and am going to ask you to take careful consideration of the donate button on the webpage a donation as little as 2 each could make this project continue to run and expand. I look forward to hearing from many of you soon.

    Yours Fraternally David Naughton-Shires Ormonde Lodge #201 (IC) MAE President & Founder

    ________________________________

    The opinions expressed in this newsletter represent those of the individual authors and, unless clearly labelled as such, do not represent the opinions or policies of The Masonic Art Exchange, any Masonic Lodge, Grand Lodge or recognized Masonic body.

    This months contents:

    Cover image: S&C in chains by Stephen McKim

    Happy Halloween

    Introduction to Volume 1 Issue 4

    Page 3: The Great Archetect of the Universe gave us the canvas What will you paint?

    Page 5: Freemasonry in the Popular Culture.

    Page 9: The Lost Symbol: A review in two parts.

    Page 17: Poem to a Newly raised Brother.

    Page 21: Who is the Rosslyn Templar?

    Page 19: Adams Photographic Art

    Page 34: The Ragains Masonic Rifle.

    Page 37: Emile Norman 1918 2009

    Page 39: Samples

    Page 35: Recommendations and end note.

  • Our story begins in 2003, when a new Ford pick-up caught the eye of

    Steve McKim. As he took in the flowing metal contours and the

    gleaming surfaces of this mechanical masterpiece, his eyes landed

    upon that shining blue oval,

    bearing the silver signature of

    the name of the manufacturer.

    At that moment, he was struck

    with this thought; Why is it

    that the builder of a pick-up

    truck has such a great logo,

    when the Worlds oldest and

    most respected fraternity is

    represented by third rate art?

    You have seen his work; on websites, in magazines, on coffee mugs,

    jackets and T-shirts, even on postage stamps. Those brightly colored,

    three-dimensional, computer generated Masonic graphics, featuring

    the working tools of the operative and speculative Master Mason, or

    the insignia of the Appendent Bodies, which appear to have been

    made out polished metal, wood, or stone, and whose mirror-like

    surfaces reflect all adjoining objects. His work is uncredited and, far

    too often, it has been appropriated for commercial purposes to which

    the enterprising entrepreneur has no rights. And just as Woody

    Guthries music often appears in song books as American Folk Tune,

    so is Steve McKims artwork passed back and forth across the World

    Wide Web, without attribution, as though it merely appeared from

    out of the ether. The New Testament informs us that a prophet is

    without honor in his own country and, while Steve McKim is virtually

    unknown in his home state of Indiana, he has received honorary

    memberships and letters of appreciation from Lodges and Grand

    Lodges throughout the World. As a matter of fact, Steve credits

    Brothers Duncan Russell of Scotland, and Blake Gardiner of Montana,

    as the parties responsible for bringing McKims Graphics to the

    Worldwide Web. Stephen McKim was born and raised in Lafayette,

    Jefferson High School in 1972. He has been married to his wife Deb for

    32 years, and they have three (3) adult children who live in Lafayette.

    For the past fourteen (14) years, Steve has been an employee of

    Caterpillar of Lafayette, where he makes his living as an assembler of

    large engines.

    I was introduced to Steve McKim, via the

    Internet, through a series of e-mail

    exchanges initiated by Andy Jackson, in an

    effort to promote our shared interest in

    all things Scottish, Masonic and Templar,

    (and not necessarily in that order). I began

    signing our exchanges, Carson the Black,

    while Stephen signed his, Stephen the

    Arsehole. One Saturday morning, my

    phone rang and, when I answered, a deep

    voice on the other end of the line, in a perfect Scottish brogue, said,

    Would this be Carson the Black? We made arrangements to meet

    face-to-face at Founders Day 2007. Following our introductions at the

    Scottish Rite Cathedral, Steve, Wilbur Smith, Joe Korschot and I took

    an extended lunch break at the Elbow Room, where we resolved all

    of the Worlds problems. A few days later, I received a message from

    Steve saying, Congratulations, youre an Honorary Member of

    Octagon Lodge No. 511. When I asked why, he simply said, Cause

    we like you.

    Hoosier author Kurt Vonnegut once observed that Midwesterners

    have, by nature, a generous disposition, living, as they do, in what

  • appears to be an endless Eden, stretching in all directions. That

    character assessment is certainly applicable when one is introduced to

    my friend and Brother, Steve McKim. He is Past-Master and Secretary

    of Octagon Lodge No. 511, which meets in Battle Ground, Indiana. A

    big man, with a big voice, thinning gray hair, and sporting a beard and

    mustache, you can easily imagine Steve as a Medieval Knight, a

    Highland Laird, or a Civil War General.

    And yet, despite his imposing

    presence, he carries himself with that

    self-deprecating, Aw, shucks,

    maam, attitude that Americans love

    in their Matinee Cowboys, and his big

    heart burns with a desire to simply

    delight his friends and Brothers with

    the gift of his own Masonic artwork,

    for which he has received narry a penny. More than once I have said,

    Steve, I want to be your agent, but we have agreed that 10% of

    nothing is still nothing.

    Growing up in rural Indiana

    where, on a good day, you got

    three TV channels, the only

    way to avoid boredom was to

    be creative. Steve and his

    brother Mike would spend

    hours drawing and, as often as

    not, they would find their

    inspiration in the comic book

    heroes of our childhood,

    Superman, Batman and the

    entire Pantheon of DC Comics. Not surprisingly, his taste in art trends

    towards the traditional, the photographic or representational, as

    opposed to the abstract. Steve credits his parents for instilling in him a

    willingness to explore new fields, and new areas of artistic expression

    in particular. While Steves father never became a Mason, Steve has

    often said that he lived his life as an ideal Mason; honest, hard

    working, firm but fair, and fully persuaded that nothing is impossible.

    When Steve attended Purdue University in 1973, he took a class in

    FORTRAN and hated it. He was introduced to his first personal

    computer when his brother Mike, who made his career in the USAF,

    bought a Commodore

    64. Steve recalls that

    it took hundreds of

    lines of code to make

    a ball bounce on the

    screen. As Mike

    continued to upgrade,

    Steve acquired his

    castaways,

    developing greater

    and greater degrees of computer proficiency. Steves introduction to

    digital computer graphics came 15 years ago with his acquisition of

    Corels Painter software. In time,

    he upgraded to the Bryce

    animation and landscaping

    program and, despite

    improvements in his software,

    Steve continued to use Corels

    Painter to add greater detail to

    his work. According to Steve,

    some of his creations can take up

    to 40 hours to complete.

    In assisting me in the preparation of this article, Steve asked me to be

    sure to mention his Uncle Murl with whom he would spend his

    summers. Murl Sandage is a member of Branchville Lodge No. 496 in

    St. Croix, Indiana. He is a farmer and a logger, he works long hours in

    difficult and dangerous conditions, but he always managed to make

    time for his nephew. Uncle Murl took young Steve with him as he

    made his rounds. He greeted everyone with a broad smile and a

    funny handshake. Steve recalls, You would be surprised how many

    men in Perry County were named Hiram. And, although Steve credits

    his Uncle Murl as the reason he became a Mason, he calls his wife Deb

    his muse and his inspiration saying, "Without her love and patience,

    there would be no McKims Graphics."

    Carson C. Smith, Worshipful Master

    Century Lodge No. 764 F&AM

  • References to Freemasonry in movies, books and television have a wide range of appearances from

    humorous or heroic to evil. Mostly they are merely misinformed allusions from which Freemasonry.

    Most recently television shows such as Vanished and Bones on the Fox Network have aired references

    to Freemasonry. Several years ago the cartoon Simpsons had a parody on a Masonic Lodge. Recent

    popular movies such as National Treasure and The Da Vinci Code have had Masonic themes. Few

    people realize that Freemasonry has often been referenced in movies, almost as long as movies have

    been around.

    In Bobby Bumps Starts a lodge (1916) young Bobby Bumps plays a

    trick on his friend who wants to be initiated into his lodge. When

    his friend outsmarts him and saves his life, they both agree to be

    initiated into the lodge together. Reference is made to a lodge

    apron, riding the goat and the third degree.

    In Across the Pacific (1942) Humphrey Bogart is an American Army officer expelled on false charges of

    treason. In a shipboard scene, ju-jitsu exercises performed by Chinese sailors are compared to the

    initiatory nature of Freemasonry.

    In L'ge d'or (1930) to avoid arrest, Gaston Modot, as "the Man", produces a special delegate

    certificate, given to him by the International Goodwill Society. Although not immediately recognizable

    by the non-mason, it clearly displays a Masonic design with an all-seeing eye in a radiant glory, two

    pillars with globes as well as three candlesticks on a checkerboard flooring.

    The Man Who Would Be King (1975) Based on a Rudyard Kipling story. Mercenary soldiers

    convince Kafiristan tribespeople that they are gods after

    discovering masonic symbols on religious artifacts.

    During Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988) Roger hides

    out in a theatre house, and sees a news reel high

    -lighting a Shriners parade.

    What Planet Are You

    From? (2000) Garry

    Shandling plays

    Harold Anderson

    who is an extra-

    terrestrial working

    as a loans officer in

    a bank. His manager,

    Don Fisk played by

    Richard Jenkins,

    wears a Masonic

    lapel pin.

  • In Dolores Claiborne (1995) Delores' bank manager

    who is wearing a square and compasses lapel pin

    tells her that her husband has emptied their joint

    savings account.

    During The End of Days (1999) Arnold

    Schwarzenegger plays a former police officer who

    carries an amulet. At one point he says "Now this

    amulet is from a Masonic order in the former sub-

    heredom of the Vatican Knights, the Knights of the

    Holy See. They await the return of the dark angel to

    earth."

    In the movie, League of Extraordinary Gentlemen (2003) The square

    and compasses appear four times: twice in close-ups of an oversize

    Masonic ring worn by the Phantom, a villain who tries to ignite a

    world war at the turn of the last century in order to create a market

    for his futuristic weapons and once on the office doors of the founder

    of the League, "M", who is later revealed to be the same person. No

    other reference is made to Freemasonry. A shot of the square and

    compassesfour big shiny ones that flash and sparkle in the light as

    the door on which they're mounted closesalso appears in the

    trailer.

    Tombstone (1993) is a retelling of the

    gunfight at the OK Corral and its aftermath.

    Jon Tenney, as John Behan, Cochise County

    Sheriff wears a square and compasses watch

    fob.

    Also in Tombstone, Buck

    Taylor, as Turkey Creek Jack

    Johnson, wearing a square

    and compasses pendant

    responds to Val Kilmers

    Doc Holliday saying he has no friends by

    saying, "Hell, I've got lots of friends."

    Movies, books, and television shows frequently have and continue to use Masonic references.

    This may be used to justify a position, such as bankers being upstanding members of society

    and thus Freemasons or an evil mastermind trying to take over the world. It could simply be

  • Volume 1 Issue 1

    Welcome

    May freedom, harmony and love

    Unite you in the grand design,

    Beneath th' omniscient Eye above,

    The glorious Architect divine;

    That you may keep the unerring line,

    Still rising by the plummet's law,

    Till order bright completely shine,

    Shall be my prayer when far awa'.

    Adieu, A Heart-Warm, Fond Adieu Robert "Robbie" Burns (1759-1796)

    Faade of the Freemasons Hall, Molesworth Street, Dublin. Photo by D Naughton-Shires

  • Part 1

    The Lost Symbol a review.

    This article first appeared on the Masonictraveller Blog on September 21, 2009 and we have been kindly given permission to reproduce it here.

    I need to approach this review in two parts, one from a reader lay perspective, and one from a Masonic perspective. The Masonic perspective can be found at the latter end of this article.

    Dan Browns new book, The Lost Symbol, reminded me of a parable. A parable is a story embellished with perhaps some grains of reality to convey a broader idea of truth. Dan Brown in his new book, The Lost Symbol, has artfully woven an update of an ancient parable into a modern suspense novel that features prominently the one group that should be most apt to see the connection, the Freemasons. Freemasonry, a fraternity veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols, is central to the plot under pinnings, but by its end, merely the back drop by which the modern parable is played out.

    Brown, at his finest, is a genius at writing parables. The Da Vinci Code is a prime example, the telling of the story of the Christ, but not as a divine emanation of God, but rather a mortal man who walked the earth like the rest of us. Browns novel was a work of fiction then, just as it is now with his release of The Lost Symbol. But artfully, he weaves in elements of reality and fact, so as to set his stage onto which the story unfolds, perhaps to give it a greater link into reality, or to simply paint enough real figures into the work so the less (or not real) elements blend in to diffuse with the rest. The more believable the story, the more real it feels for the reader.In his latest book, The Lost Symbol, Brown brings the story immediately to your feet, sweeping the reader into the air with anti-hero Robert Langdon. These first steps, however are only after a mysterious initiation with libations from a skull.

    Better to start the mysterious early.

    With this rapid start, and dubious ceremony, Brown wastes no time in introducing the cast of players and introducing suspicions of who is and who isnt to be trusted. It works for Browns novels; they are after all suspense thrillers. With our cast in place, the story then begins to unfold at whip shot pace.

  • I do wonder if the book was conceived on a walking tour of Washington , as in the unfolding pages, the actions and activities seem to be bullet points on a map of D.C. rather than more well thought out (or conceived) stages. It seems most of Langdons ah-ha moments happen in the less important rooms of these Washington landmarks. Sub sub basements, kitchens, and church offices hardly seem as sexy as the Vatican library, but their mundane setting is really the same places all of us have time to reflect and think in our day to day life. This secondary settings may be a clever illusion to the importance of the idea of discover of the inner sanctum to which we each must travel for our own discoveries, but again, this is Dan brown, and he is writing about the allegorical and symbolic Masons, so you must treat the text with just as much symbolic verve.

    And Browns use of these locations give clues to the broader idea of the story too, the chamber of reflection in the U.S. Capitol (inner journey), the Library of Congress (learning, knowledge), and the National Cathedral (where church and state meet).

    Science plays an interesting role in this book too, and with another Masonic twist. The nascent field of Noetic Sciences features large here, but not in a first person the reason de etre way, but in a this is similar to this allegorical way. Religious mysticism (of all religions) is really at the core of this new science, but besides being an early plot point and step stone to link Freemasonry, mysticism, and Noetic Sciences , the new science field really doesnt come into play, in the same way it did in Angels and Demons. It was, almost, another symbolic back drop to the whole story, interesting, and connective, but not vital, not the story itself.

    As I mentioned, this review will be split in two, and the goal of the 2nd is to look more at the Masonic connections and connotations. But as the book itself was about Freemasonry, it is important to note that Browns treatment of Masonry was very tender, almost too much so. Early on, Brown goes to GREAT lengths to debunk and say what Freemasonry isnt, covering the is masonry a religion issue, and even guffawing at the notion of secret geometric grids in the streets of Washington.

  • Even the infamous MASON on the great seal on the back of the 1 dollar bill gets a quick walk on, only to of been used as a dodge for something else. Brown really did write this book with the fate of Freemasonry in mind, in parts almost writing as if he were creating one of our own brochures (perhaps off which he copied his passage) saying very strongly in his main characters voice In this age when different cultures are killing each other over whose definition of God is better, one could say the Masonic tradition of tolerance and open-mindedness is commendable.

    Brown does go out of his way to weave in all manner of Hermetic, Gnostic, Rosicrucian, and Cabalistic ideas into the offering, but not in a way to dominate the reader into submission of belief, but to paint the picture that the ideas of Freemasonry, in their age and wisdom, are not wholly a Judeo-Christian construct, more on that in a bit in part 2.

    Like past Brown novels, the story soon out paces the stage settings and takes over as a thriller and this book is no different. Its pace reaching a fever pitch of intrigue, manipulation, and murder, while embroiled in the ancient mystery of a Masonic pyramid. There are a few gasp moments for the reader, and plot spins that I didnt see coming until hit square in the face by them. And the story winds out with a tragic dilemma, which brings me back to the idea that the story itself was a modern retelling of an ancient parable.

    The parable I mention is from the bible. In that sacred text, very early in Genesis (chapter 22 to be exact) Abraham is commanded by God to sacrifice his son Isaac as a show of his allegiance to his faith in God. In that past parable, the test of faith is tremendous as the eldest born of Abraham is the greatest sacrifice that he can give, and give he does, willing at the command of God. In the very last seconds, Abraham is spared, his faith proven, and a ram is substituted for his son.

    SPOILER ALERT

    Caravaggio (1573-1610) The Sacrifice of Isaac

  • In the climax of The Lost Symbol , that same test of faith is presented, but for a different outcome. As Abraham was to be the one giving sacrifice, the protagonist of the story, Peter Solomon is in that Abrahamic position, and knowing what the consequences were for the sacrifice he was forced to make, he still chose to not make that sacrifice, choosing to follow his heart. Symbolically, in a book about allegory and symbol, it stuck me that the story was alluding to a transition from one of Abrahams blind faith (as an external salvation, doctrinal, dogmatic, and absolute), to man believing in the faith within us, that by our acts and intentions we were communing with the divine, which is a Gnostic outlook that sacrifice, in totality, is not necessary and in the end destructive.

    The reason for this conclusion seems to me to be based in the preceding pages as repeatedly the ideas of the Hermetic law were repeated and stressed (As Above, So Below) and the bomb of the protagonist was not one of physical destruction, but of ideological chaos. To sacrifice the son would still bring chaos, absolute destruction, personally and publically.

    The story wraps up and all the loose ends become tied in the neat bows that Brown manages to make following so many leads and loose ends. But the way in which the book reached its crescendo, not in a fiery explosion or an earth shattering revelation of biblical purport, was lack luster. The inclusion of the CIA, the cavalcade of 33rd degree masons and publicity of the whos-who of Washington seemed to me an interesting plot point, but hardly reason to blow up historical property, and murder several innocent bystanders, but then, this is a suspense novel, and this YouTubian plot device was just as much a stage setting as the Masons themselves (twitter even got a mention to put the story in a contemporary but soon to be outdated setting).

    Really, would the world be so traumatized to see people, who are already pretty open about being Masons, being Masons?

    In the end, it was a good book, fun, flighty, suspenseful, with a few a-ha and gasp moments. Was it worth the 5 year wait, Ill let you be the judge, but it was a nice testament to Freemasonry, and very tasteful in its portrayal of the ancient and honorable fraternity, to which I say thank you to Dan Brown. I give the book 7.5 out of 10 stars, and can say that I enjoyed reading it, and I think that you will too.

    The review CONTINUES AFTER THE ADVERT ON THE NEXT PAGE

  • Part 2

    The Lost Symbol its the symbol of the symbolism.

    The reason to approach the review in 2 parts is that in the aftermath of National Treasure , Freemasons were well versed to talk about the founding fathers and the Knights Templar. With the lost symbol, lodges and individual Masons need to be just as prepared to talk about Hermetica, Gnosticism, and symbolism, especially as the book speaks to the wide tolerance of the fraternity to all faiths.

    Key points brought up in the book start at the very prologue in the Quote from Manly P. Halls The Secret Teachings of All Ages when he quoted To live in the world without becoming aware of the meaning of the world is like wandering about in a great library without touching the books. Brown circumvented the patriotic picture of Washington (the man) and went directly to the post war enlightenment that tapped into the ideas of Francis Bacons New Atlantis and Hermetica s deism (all faiths beginning at one source).

    In The Lost Symbol, Pike gets a quick mention, but the Scottish Rites deep resonance with the ancient mystery schools was very clear and it is my supposition that those who are attracted to the fraternity following this book will come with those things in mind, and in coming, they will want to talk about and find resonance with the fraternity.

    So, to the question, is the symbolism right, did Brown get the symbolic connections remotely correct, or did he tap into the wide field of myths and supposition that exists at the foot of the Masonic pyramid? Often, that answer is an individual one, that many tend to think totally out of line with what the modern fraternity represents. It is more social than esoteric, the symbols are just that symbolic, and no further reading need be made into them. Or even harsher, that the symbols were important in the past, but today they are meaningless. I think the answer lies in the school of Masonic thought that you find yourself in.

    Some of the Key texts that Brown refers to are the Kybalion, written by br. Paul Foster Case under the pseudonym the Three Mystics, The New Atlantis, mentioned above, by Francis Bacon , a mere 6 years following the founding of the new world and the landing at Plymouth Rock in 1620.

  • He also references Albrecht Durer, the prolific artist of the Renaissance who created many images, including Melencolia I, often seen as the height of the Christian Mysticism in art, as it depicts the confounded and pondering mystic and the materials of his practice.

    Each of these are bits and pieces outside the sphere of the three degrees, but still factor large (or should) in the study of Freemasonry.

    One element that Brown focuses on is the alchemical symbol of gold, something in Masonic circles is referenced to as the point within the circle, what Brown calls the circumpunct, that all Masons recognize as being flanked by the Holy Saint Johns and crowned with the Volume of the Sacred Law.

    The individual symbols are not so much the concern from the book, but the level of readiness over the ease of disregarding them and the discussion of their meaning. Is the lodge room ready to talk symbolism and its speculative nature? Are you, reading this now, ready to dialog with an interested party on the symbolism even on a surface level?

    I think all will agree that the book is a work of fiction, but even a work of fiction unless wholly constructed with imaginary creatures and alien landscapes will still speak to and communicate a message, and Freemasonry needs to be ready to speak to that message even if it includes flights of fancy and imagination. Central in Browns fiction is Freemasonrys connection to the ancient mystery schools, and like it or not, that will be the message that those who have read the book will come to the lodge seeking.

  • Few will likely come away with the greater subtext of the fraternity and the its more visceral purpose, the unification of like minded men, the sincerity of the belief that Masonry teaches something deeper than an inexpensive spaghetti dinner and some handshakes between strangers.

    The Lost Symbol will ultimately be a good opportunity for Freemasonry to shine and inspire those new to its doors to seek out more. But it will definitely require us to be on point and be able to answer the questions put forth by those newcomers.

    Brown mentioned it at the end of his book, the words on the back of

    the tylers chair at the House of the Temple, Know Thy Self, but I would add, in knowing our self, we will know the divine.

  • My Brother I now address you,

    How clear the words ring in my heart.

    Remember the lessons you have heard,

    It is now your duty to protect the arts.

    With cheerful and honest heart,

    Accept the honors and the signs.

    Remember those who came before,

    Apply the lessons to your life.

    The oath taken solemnly,

    Is yours to hold and keep.

    An honor like no other,

    As a snow-white field is deep.

    The working tools now learned,

    Are indispensable to your labors.

    Use as guides to perfect the works,

    That among Masons you find favor.

    You set a foot upon a path,

    To journey toward achievement.

    For you, no blazed trail or map,

    Your journey is unwritten.

    With free mind you will find,

    A rugged stone to build,

    A Temple unseen heretofore,

    To adorn the rocks and hills.

    You'll travel through your time,

    And hew away the edges.

    Until it is pleasing and fit,

    To fairly please the judges.

    You have taken one bold step,

    As another said before.

    No small step for man,

    It be one great leap forward.

    So I leave you my brother,

    To learn and contemplate,

    The lessons and their meanings,

    In this Masonic state.

    A fealty of us you ask,

    And one you rich deserve.

    Learn from the teachings,

    For those as guides will serve.

    So take this token offered,

    Plant the seeds in mind.

    Nurtured it will grow,

    The fruits will treat you kind.

    My brother, I further propose,

    That you further seek and delve.

    finding you had no ounce,

    And richer you found; YOURSELF.

    If this poem is not clear,

    I offer hope it will be.

    In future times you look,

    Through the mists of mystery.

    My brother now I make a prayer,

    'Lord, offer guiding light.

    For this seeking Brother,

    Sets out this very night.'

    AMEN

    Kevin Noel Olson is the accomplished

    Author of many children's fantasy and

    retro adventure fiction books he is the

    Worshipful Master of Butte Lodge #22

    A.F. & A.M. Montana, and a member

    of Mullen Pass Historic Lodge #1862

    and 32nd Scottish-Valley of Butte York

    Rite. He is also an active member of

    The Masonic Society

    He has written many pieces of poetry

    some of which he has kindly said we

    can present in coming months.

    This month we are presenting Poem

    to a newly made Brother I was

    privileged enough this month to be

    present and take part in the Entered

    Apprentice Degree of my Brother in

    Law and have a great respect for this

    poem. He was received into the Lodge

    by his Father which made for a great

    celebration.

    Po

    em

    To

    a N

    ew

    ly-M

    ad

    e B

    ro

    th

    er

    We are always looking for submissions if

    you have any poetry youd like to submit

    send it to us at [email protected]

  • Withthepublicationofits5thJournalTheMasonicSocietyhasentereditssecondyear.Formoreinformationon

    thisgreatpublicationseetheirwebsite:

    www.themasonicsociety.com

    A warrior lost in time..... charged to travel from era to era always alone, protecting, laying down his life. From the battlefields of the Holy land the unknown Knight is thrust into an eternal battle, a battle that must be won to save humanity.

    'The Templar' is a six part graphic novel starting in the autumn of 2009

    http://templarcomic.com

  • Rosslyn Chapel Tour (Half Day) Our most popular tour

    Rosslyn Tours offers you the convenience of a courtesy pick-up from your accommodation in luxury transport where we travel 7 miles south of Edinburgh to the 15th century medieval Rosslyn Chapel.

    You will receive a full guided tour with our local, friendly and knowledgeable tour guide who will enlighten you in the mysteries of the Knights Templar and the many secrets surrounding Rosslyn Chapel, as well as the historical facts.

    We give you the opportunity to browse the shop and relax in the tearoom for refreshments if desired. There is also a small trail through Rosslyn Glen leading to Rosslyn Castle where you can admire spectacular views of the rich wooded glen from the ruins of the castle (optional and weather permitting).

    The comfort of luxury transport back to your accommodation or city centre drop-off then awaits you.

    Rosslyn Chapel Guided Tour ONLY (Half / Full Day)

    If you are making your own way to the chapel, our guide can arrange to meet you there for a full tour as per a half-day tour.

    Rosslyn Chapel & Templar Tour (Full Day)

    This full day tour allows you to investigate Rosslyn Chapel in the morning as per the day tour above. We will then move on to the village of Temple (Balantradoch) to visit an old ruined chapel and burial site where the Knights Templar based their headquarters in the 12th century.

    This tour is suited to those who want to investigate the Knights Templar beliefs further with a stop-off for lunch at the medieval 15th century Dalhousie Castle or the 5 star Melville Castle set in acres of woodlands.

    Seton Collegiate Church on the beautiful east coast of Edinburgh is also included in your full day tour from April - October.

    Rosslyn Chapel & Borders Tour (Full Day)

    Visit Rosslyn Chapel in the morning followed by lunch, we then head South to the beautiful Borders town of Melrose to visit the 12th century abbey, where Robert the Bruce's heart is said to be buried. We then travel onto Abbotsford House the home of Sir Walter Scott, the 19th Century novelist, who was fascinated with Rosslyn Chapel. He wrote of the 20 barons that lie beneath Rosslyn Chapel referred to, in his work titled 'The Lay of the Last Minstrel'. Many believe Scott took the secrets of the Grail to his grave. We visit the house, grounds and the library which is filled with Masonic symbolism.

    Rosslyn Chapel & Glen Full Day Tour (April-October) (Half / Full Day)

    Visitors requesting a longer stay in Roslin can opt for the morning Rosslyn Chapel day tour then explore Rosslyns rich wooded glen in the afternoon with lunch nearby.

    Our expert guide will advise on Roslins rich variety of woodlands and wildlife. You can explore the ruins of Roslins explosive past where the old gun power mill lies.

    For the more active Wallaces Cave is situated nearby where its said, William Wallace hid up to 70 men during the Battle of Roslin in 1303. Alternatively, enjoy the light trails that surround Roslin Glen Picnic Park and take a short stroll to admire the beautiful River Esk.

    We can be contacted on 0131 440 3293. Alternatively, you can write to us at: Rosslyn Tours, 3B Station Road, Roslin, Midlothian, EH25 9LP, UK. [email protected]

    New Tour For 2008 - 'Rosslyn Chapel & Gilmerton Cove'

    Gilmerton Cove is a series of hand carved passageways and chambers that lie below ground to the south of Gilmerton crossroads. The entrance to the Cove is through a visitor centre adapted from a traditional mining cottage. This cottage houses imaginative audio and visual displays that depict the various theories behind the origins of Gilmerton Cove which, after extensive archaeological and historical research, still remain a mystery. These include theories that it was the unique work of an 18th century local blacksmith George Paterson, a drinking den for gentry, a refuge for persecuted Covenanters, a Knights Templar hideout and a smugglers lair. Decide for yourself what secrets this curious place still holds.

    As featured in Cities of the Underworld and Scotlands Sin City DVD.

    Further information and a video clip can be viewed at www.gilmertoncove.org.uk

  • A picture of a man dressed in white stood in the familiar surroundings of

    one of the most famous buildings in Europe, hangs on the wall at Ye

    Olde Original Rosslyn Hotel in the historic village of Roslin just outside of

    Edinburgh.

    But who is this man and why is he wearing the garb of a Knight Templar,

    the original image Knight Templar at Roslin Chapel was painted by

    artist R.T.McPherson in 1836 and was auctioned in Edinburgh in 2005

    and bought by Niven Sinclair, who commissioned Ashley Cowie to study

    it.

    The image is a study in pastels and shows many features of Rosslyn

    Chapel, it is signed and dated by the artist himself and remains a bright

    and colour image even after over 170 years. Once belonging to the

    Dalhousie family collection it now finds its home in the Scottish National

    Portrait Gallery and the Royal Scottish Academy who didnt know of it

    until it was presented to them in February of this year.

    The artist of the piece is one Robert Turnbull McPherson who was

    known to have been active between 1835 and 1837 his work focused on

    the portraits of aristocracy and their pets. Not much is known about the

    life of this Edinburgh based artist, but it is known that he painted 11

    works while he lived at 33 Montague St, which were exhibited at the

    Royal Scottish Academy.

    In his new book The Rosslyn Templar Ashley Cowie enters into quite a deep

    examination of the image and relates it to the many orders who currently use

    the title The Knights templar and from his examination he concluded the

    image depicts a man who is dressed in a combination of uniform derived from

    many sources. An interesting point in the image is the placing of a staircase in

    the Ladys chapel which could lead to the question, is it the entrance to the

    much sort after treasure of Rosslyn chapel or just a misplacing of the staircase

    which leads to the crypt which is still in use today by the many visitors to the

    famous chapel?

    These questions and many more have been

    studies over the years and many different

    conclusions have been reached some plausible

    some possible and some just a joke (as a side

    note I would recommend any true student of

    Rosslyn Chapel to read the book by

    accomplished author Robert L. Cooper The

    Rosslyn Hoax for one of the best researched and

    written books on the subject of the chapel to

    ever, in my humble opinion, to have ever been

    written).

    The question I asked at the start of this short article was Who is the Rosslyn

    Templar? again Cowie touches on this subject in the book and puts forth the

    possible candidate as a member of the Dalhousie family, one James Andrew

    Broun Ramsay, 10th earl of Dalhousie.

    Those of you with knowledge of Scottish masonry will know that in the year

    the painting was executed (1836) Ramsey became the Grand Master Mason of

    the Grand Lodge of Scotland. In the few pictures available of the Earl the

    features although not a perfect match could be said to match but why have his

    image painted in Rosslyn Chapel. According to Cowie Francis Ramsey

    (Dalhousie) was married to Alexander Sinclair the descendent of the builder of

    Rosslyn chapel and she herself was probably the aunt of the 10th Earl of

    Dalhousie. As well as holding the highest rank in Scottish Craft Masonry at the

    time he also held many chivalric orders such as Grand master of the Order of

    the Star and received the prestigious accolade of the Knight of the Thistle. So

    it would have more unusual for him not to have held the higher degrees in

    Freemasonry such as Knight Templar than to have held them.

    As with many of my articles I hope to produce an interest in a subject rather

    than try to be a teacher and hope this brief note has woken an interest in you I

    would recommend reading Ashley Cowie book The Rosslyn Templar and

    from it form you own opinions on this fascinating painting.

    Comparison images of the 10th Earl Of Dalhouise?

  • Adam G. Kendall is a Past Master of Phoenix

    Lodge No. 144 in San Francisco and a

    founding member of Academia Lodge No.

    847 in Oakland, where he currently serves as

    Senior Warden.

    Bro. Kendall serves at the Collections

    Manager, Curator of Exhibits, Librarian and

    Archivist for the Henry W. Coil Library and

    Museum of Freemasonry at the Grand Lodge

    of F. & A.M. of California in San Francisco.

    This library and museums collection can be

    viewed at www.masonicheritage.org

    He is an original member of the Masonic

    Formation Task Force and has worked on

    several projects for that group, most notably

    the creation of an educational DVD for

    Entered Apprentices and as an instructor for

    Masonic Formation Classes.

    He has traveled consistently over the past

    three years both stateside and abroad as a

    featured speaker on Masonic topics. In 2009,

    he presented a paper at the International

    Conference on the History of Freemasonry.

    He has also acted as an editor and private

    consultant for several Masonically-themed

    exhibits and publications.

    Bro. Kendall is a Founding Fellow of the

    Masonic Society.

    As I arrived outside our meeting place I saw the man climb from a car and approach me. Both dressed in

    black suits, we carried small briefcases and traversed the car park like a scene out of a mobster movie.

    Extending my arm, I grasped the mans hand in mine and felt a familiar grip.

    I had communicated with Bro. Adam via the Masonic Society for a few months, and when I finally met him

    he had traveled from San Francisco, via Ireland, to attend the International Conference on the History of

    Freemasonry in Edinburgh, Scotland. This was the first time I had the opportunity to put a face to a name.

    In one hand was his regalia case and over his shoulder, on a strap, was hung another small black pouch.

    Last month we were introduced to W. Bro. Kendall where we discovered his wonderful talent for

    illustration. But his talents dont stop there: in the small black case slung over his shoulder was his

    constant companion, his camera.

    With an obvious artistic eye for composition and balance Bro. Adam shares with you a collection of

    wonderful images from his travels across the globe. Bro. Kendall serves as the Collections Manager,

    Curator of Exhibits, Librarian and Archivist for the Henry W. Coil Library and Museum of Freemasonry at

    the Grand Lodge of F. & A.M. of California in San Francisco. Looking at the web site found at

    www.masonicheritage.org we see his talent serves him well.

    Bro. Adam maintains his own art website, www.adamsartwork.com, but prefers to be contacted through

    his work email, [email protected] or [email protected]

    Op

    erative M

    aso

    ns; W

    righ

    ts; or C

    oo

    pers, g

    ravesto

    ne fo

    un

    d in

    Ga

    lwa

    y,Irelan

    d

  • We

    b &

    Cro

    ss. C

    on

    g M

    onaste

    ry, C

    o. M

    ayo

    , Irela

    nd

  • Mt. B

    en B

    ulb

    en. C

    o. Sligo

    , Ireland

    The B

    urre

    n. C

    o. C

    lare, Ireland

  • Clo

    nm

    acno

    ise Mo

    nastery/C

    emetery. C

    o. O

    ffaly, Ireland

    Neo

    lithic D

    olm

    en. Th

    e Bu

    rren, C

    o. C

    lare, Ireland

  • Ch

    arleville Castle

    . Co

    . Offaly, Irelan

    d

  • Pyram

    ids at Su

    nse

    t. Giza, Egyp

    t

    Mitla

    an

    d th

    e Red

    Um

    brella

    Lad

    y. Mitla, M

    exico

  • Ob

    elisks. Karn

    ak Temp

    le, Luxo

    r, Egypt

  • This R

    oad

    Leads to

    Heaven

    . Bavaria, G

    erman

    y

  • Weep

    ing fo

    r the In

    finite

    . Clo

    nm

    acno

    ise Mo

    naste

    ry/Ce

    metery, C

    o. O

    ffaly,

  • As A

    bo

    ve, So B

    elow

    . Au

    fkirchen

    Friedh

    of, G

    erman

    y

  • Etruscan

    s. Staatlich A

    ntiken

    samm

    lun

    g, Mu

    nich

    , Ge

    rman

    y

  • Po

    rtal. St. Joh

    ns C

    hap

    el, Edin

    bu

    rgh, Sco

    tland

    Rosslyn is probably the most famous Medieval ecclesiastical building in Scotland. Its fame

    used to be based on its extraordinary carvings, now it is even better known for its part in

    Dan Harris novel The Da Vinci Code (2003). Begun around 1450, this was an extremely

    costly work. Rosslyns Gothic columns, arches and beams are encrusted with naturalistic

    carving. Unprecedented in Scotland, this is more like a barnacle-covered boat, or coral forest

    under the sea than a conventional church.

    Rosslyns architecture is extraordinary, its history equally so. Left incomplete at the

    Reformation, it suffered under the hands of the reformers. Such an ornate declaration of

    Gods creative powers was at odds with the Calvinistic doctrine dominating Scotland from

    1560 onwards. After 1592 the church was closed, becoming an empty shell, open to the

    elements, used even as a stable. Restoration, thankfully, began in 1730, and continues

    today.

    Billings image concentrates on the emptiness of Rosslyn: chairs and altars are missing;

    niches, where statues once stood, vacant; and no visitor stirs the silence. The building is a

    wonder, but only that. How different this is to the plain Presbyterian chapels built from the

    Reformation onwards.

    http://www.architecture.com/HowWeBuiltBritain/HistoricalPeriods/Scottish/KirksThroughoutTheAges/RosslynStMatthew.aspx

  • This article appeared in lastmonthsnewsletter sincewhenwe have been contacted by the authorwho requestedwemakeafewchangesandwearedelightedtodoso.

    I am Luke Sterling Jr., P.M., Texas City Lodge 1118 of theGrand Lodgeof Texas. I am theGreat,GreatGrandsonofthe original owner of the "Ragains Rifle". Itwasmade forhimintheshopofJ.Belauin1858.

    TheRIFLEisnowbeingdisplayedintheGrandLodgeofTexasLibraryandMuseuminWaco,Texas.Itisalsoavailableforviewingontheirwebsite.BelowisalinktotheRIFLEattheGrandLodgeofTexas.Itmightbehelpful.Itwouldbeniceifyoualsoincludeditintothearticle.

    http://grandlodgeoftexas.org/history/Regains/ragains.phpF&S,LukeSterlingJr,P.M.ThereislittledoubtthatDavidAbrahamRagainsacquiredhis"Masonic"riflebeforetheCivilWar.Davidjoinedthe60thIllinoisInfantryRegimentonJanuary7,1862asaprivateintheUnionArmy.Thefollowingmonth,hewaspromotedtoCaptainincommandofCompanyH.ItisunlikelythatCaptainRagainscarriedthisriflewithhimwhenthe60thIllinoisInfantryRegimententeredthewar.The60thIllinoisInfantryRegimentjoinedforceswiththeU.SArmyoftheMississippiincapturingthestrategicallyimportantIslandNumberTen,ontheMississippiRiver.Afterthecaptureofthisisland,DavidparticipatedinthesiegeofCorinthandledhisCompanyinseveralclasheswiththeenemy.UnfortunatelybyFebruaryof1863,the50yearoldCaptainwasforcedtoresignhiscommissionbecauseofpoorhealth.Hemorrhoids,causedbydysentery,hadbecomesopainfulthathecouldnolongerperformhisduties.

    Patriotism and personal sacrificewere deeply engrained inDavid's soul. Two of David's grandfathers, Thomas RagainsandWilliamHargiss,andoneofhisgreatgrandfathers,JamesJay,werePatriots in theRevolutionaryWar.Anotherofhisgreatgrandfathers,GabrielRagains, served as aGentlemanSoldier, under George Washington, during the French andIndianwar.Gabrielwas killed by" friendly fire",when twoscoutingpartiesmistooktheotherfortheenemy.David's5thgreatgrandfather, Robert Bartlett was one of five Pilgrimskilled by the Indians during the hostilities known as "KingPhillip's"war.David's6thgreatgrandfatherwasapassengeronthe"Mayflower".

    David was born in South Carolina, lived in Tennessee,KentuckyandGeorgiabeforesettlinginPopeCounty,Illinois.At the beginning of the Civil war David was supporting afamily of eight children by working his small farm. Hesupplementedhis income asboth deputy clerk and deputysheriff. While serving his community as a clergyman, hefoundedCountyLineBaptistChurch.Thischurchcamebyitsname because it was located on the Pope and JohnsonCounty Line.This little church is still going strongafter150years.Duringhislifetime,Davidhadsevenwivesandtwentychildren.HediedonFebruary17,1887atage74.HewasamemberoftheVienna,IllinoisLodgeNo150A.F.andA.M.

    David left his rifle to his son, PleasantGreen Ragains. Thenext owner was P. G.'s son, Frank Ragains who was amember of the Bokoshe, Oklahoma Lodge No. 358 andMurrow LodgeNo. 49 in Spiro,Oklahoma. Thenextownerwashisson,FrankEdwardRagainsThegunthenwenttohisson,JamesEdwardRagainsandthentohisson,JamesGrantRagains.DavidRagains'gunhasbeen in theRagains' familyforover150years.

    CharlesEdwardSterlingFebruary5,2009

    PleasantGreenRagains

    (18521932)

    FrankRagains(18841959)

    CharlesSterlingRagainsFamilyHistorian

    CAPTAIN DAVID ABRAHAM RAGAINS

    (1812-1887)

    FrankEdwardRagains

    (19181975)

    JamesEdwardRagains

    (19361996)

    The Ragains Masonic Rifle

  • On the 7th of April 1862, David Ragainsanswered Abraham Lincoln's call to arms byjoiningCompanyH,60th IllinoisRegimentasaprivate. In recognition of his maturity andability to lead men, he was promoted toCaptainandplacedinchargeofanewlyformedcompany.Despite the fact thathewasalmostfifty,David felt compelled to join the struggleto preserve the Union. David's loyalty andenthusiastic patriotism can be traced to hisgrandfather Thomas Ragains' and his greatgrandfather, Gabriel Ragains' records ofmilitaryservice.

    Gabrielwasa"GentlemanSolger"oncalltotheNorth Carolina Militia. When the French andIndian War erupted, Gabriel's unit wasactivated and made part of the VirginiaRegiment under Colonel George Washington.Gabriel's serviceendedabruptlywhenhewaskilled by friendly fire near Fort Ligonier inwesternPennsylvania.Gabrielwassurvivedbyhiswife,SusannahGandyandhisfiveyearoldson,Thomas.

    WhenThomaswas twentythreeyearsold,hemarriedthirteenyearoldElizabethFeatherkilleon Valentines Day in 1776. Thomas andElizabeth enjoyed a short honeymoon beforehe marched off to war. Thomas survived thewar suffering only a minor leg wound. Heservedoneyearasaprivateandanother twoyears as a sergeant.Duringhis three yearsofservice, he managed to obtain enoughfurloughsto fathertwosons.Afterthewarheand Elizabethwent on to have sixmore sonsandthreedaughters.

    It is likely thatDavid grew up listening to hisgrandfather, Thomas, recalling his militaryexperiences.ThomasprobablytoldofhisfatherGabriel'smilitaryvaloralso.DavidRagainswastwentythree when his grandfather, Thomas,died.

    The following quote was written by GrantRagains who is the grandson of Capt. DavidAbrahamRagains,Thegun(capandball) wasmadeinacountryshop by J. Belleau, a gun & locksmith and amaster mason. He was evidently a moderntubal cane. Thiswordhasnomeaning to youbutitmeansalottome.Amasoncouldgiveachartlectureoffit.ItwasmadeformyGrandpaRagains (David Abraham) then passed to myfather(PleasantGreen)andIwantittopasstoJames son (James Grant Ragains who Ireceived it from). I would like for him tosomeday learn the meaning of all thoseemblems.Thestockofthisgunismadeofwildcherrybyawonderfulworkman. Ihave takenthisgun to severalMasonic lodgesand itwasconsidered the wonder of the ages. GrandpaRagainswasbothamastermasonanda royalarchmasonandnaturallypraisedthegunveryhighly.

    David Ragains' Military Heritage

  • A young man grew up on a walnut farm in rural California,

    surrounded by beauty as a youth he went on to produce some of

    the most beautiful creations over the years.

    Emile Norman was born on April 22, 1918, in San Gabriel,

    California. Growing up during the great depression Emile is

    known to have said,

    we didn't starve, there was plenty to eat on the farm."

    Growing up surrounded by nature the young man started

    creating art, at the age of 11 he carved his first piece from a

    riverside rock during which process he destroyed his fathers

    chisels but gained his admiration age 16 he created a remarkable

    sculpture illustrating the myth of Prometheus, using concrete

    and the broken pieces of his father's beer bottles. When he

    attended art school he lasted exactly one day and quit when his

    teacher told him he was, doing it the wrong way.

    Becoming a commercial artist he moved to New York and had his

    work featured in Vouge his first major non-commercial

    presentation was in 1951 at the Feingarten Gallery in New York,

    where his marble sculptures of animals and abstract organic

    shapes displayed hissignature blend of meticulous detail and a

    generous, sweeping lyricism.

    In the late 1950s Norman created one of his arguably most famous

    piece the huge 4 story window mosaic found at the entrance to the

    Masonic Memorial Temple on San Francisco's Nob Hill.San Fransico. To

    create it, Norman used a technique he developed and named "endo-

    mosaic." The process involved suspending crushed glass and other

    materials -- such as metal, fabric, shells and dirt -- between clear

    sheets of translucent plastic.

    He was also given the task of creating the sculptural reliefs in the

    marble on the outside of the Masonic building

    On September 27th 2009 at the age of 91 Emile Norman passed away,

    he left a legacy of art which will be admired for many years to come.

    1. http://www.latimes.com/news/obituaries/la-me-emile-norman27-2009sep27,0,4662372.story

    2. http://www.emilenorman.com/bio.html

    3.

  • MAE member who uses the Facebook name Hiram Abiff tells us of this image

    This is an oil painting based on the Port Adelaide Masonic Centre, Number Two Lodge of South

    Australia. I wanted to do a series of paintings about temple entances as I am interested in what this

    symbolises. I left some of the smaller details out, like the square and compass, partly out of choice,

    and partly because my college principal took issue with me showing work like this. (I can sort of

    understand but I have the freedom to paint anything I like.) Anyhow I was more interested in the

    broader concepts of the architecture itself. Though not a mason myself I am very interest in all the

    words religions, and cultures and their origins. I discovered my grandfather was a Mason a few years

    ago and this started a huge thirst for knowledge..

    MAE member who uses the Facebook name Hiram Abiff tells us of this image

    This is an oil painting based on the Port Adelaide Masonic Centre, Number Two Lodge of South Australia. I

    wanted to do a series of paintings about temple entrances as I am interested in what this symbolises. I left

    some of the smaller details out, like the square and compass, partly out of choice, and partly because my

    college principal took issue with me showing work like this. (I can sort of understand but I have the freedom to

    paint anything I like.) Anyhow I was more interested in the broader concepts of the architecture itself. Though

    not a mason myself I am very interest in all the words religions, and cultures and their origins. I discovered my

    grandfather was a Mason a few years ago and this started a huge thirst for knowledge..

  • To the left and on the next page are some of the images

    posted in the Facebook site, and below are the rules just

    for your own information particularly if you have been

    forwarded this from a friend in the group and havent

    popped in yourself. If you have not and youre not a

    facebooker there is the option of joining the forum that

    can be found by going through the web site:

    masonic-ae.com

    The Rules:

    POSTERS

    1. The work MUST be yours (if you post someone

    elses work as yours you will be asked to remove it

    and may have it removed if the admin feels it is

    necessary) the work remains yours.

    2. If you post you must be prepared for others to

    use the artwork.

    USERS

    1. If you use someones work you MUST inform them

    where it is being used.

    2. CREDIT them

    3. If required provide a copy of the publication i.e.

    Tresleboard it's being used in.

    4. The work is to be used for non-profit publications

    etc unless agreed with the artist.

    5. The MAE will do it's best to' police' the copyright

    of images however any issues of copyright usage is

    the responsibility of the 'creator' and should be taken

    up with the creator of the images in the first

    instance.

    If you want to request artwork please leave a

    request in the discussion wall in either the Facebook

    Group or forum or email us at [email protected]

    PUTTING/LINKING YOUR ARTWORK TO THIS

    GROUP [FORUM,FB GROUP OR

    NEWSLETTER]CONSTITUTES THAT YOU AGREE TO

    THE ABOVE RULES [UNLESS OTHER COPYRIGHT

    AGREEMEMNTS HAVE BEEN REACHED AND CLEARLY

    POSTED]

    THE ARTWORK CAN NEITHER BE USED FOR NOR

    DEPICT ANYTHING CONSIDERED TO BE

    INFLAMITARY TO FREEMASONRY OR SOCIETY IN

    GENERAL.

    THE ADMINS DECISION IS FINAL IN ANY DISPUTE.

    PLEASE CHECK BACK OFTEN FOR UPDATES.

    FINALLY

    The opinions expressed on this groups webpage,

    forum, and it's newsletter represent those of the

    individual authors and, unless clearly labelled as

    such, do not represent the opinions or policies of any

    Masonic Lodge, Grand Lodge, recognized Masonic

    body or other individual.

    Collars of office by David Naughton-Shires

    From the set called BLACK AND WHITE by Clercq Art

  • "Tenets of My Profession"by Antonio Box Caffey

    The C

    raftsman

    's Mo

    ral Co

    mp

    ass...

  • This is the end of the forth Masonic

    Art Exchange Newsletter this issue

    was hard work as I did have to work

    through an illness and am quite

    disappointed I was not able to

    present the second part of the

    Knight Templars in Art series. But it

    will be here next time that issue will

    be publish in time for Christmas.

    As always I hope many of you will

    take a few moments to put pen to

    paper or fingers to keyboard and

    send something in even if its just a

    letter of comment everything is

    received with great thanks.

    On this final page I am again going

    to place a few links to good sites,

    and other groups in Facebook that

    may be of interest and contact

    details.

    PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE get in

    contact whether it is to tell us how

    fantastic the newsletter was or

    alternatively to give us much

    needed critique on how to improve

    what we are doing after all that IS

    what we are here for.

    We will see you on the web and pray

    the Great Architect watches over

    you.

    Sincerely and fraternally,

    David Naughton-Shires

    [email protected]

    (please remember to put MAE in the subject line)

    Each newsletter we will highlight one Facebook group you

    may be interested in joining all you need to do is go to

    your groups (click the groups icon on the menu bar at the

    bottom of the page) and search for the groups by name in

    the search bar in the groups area.

    Each newsletter we will also aim to highlight a

    website which may be of interest to the members of

    the MAE their friends and colleagues if you have any

    recommendations for sites to appear here or on the

    forum contact me at [email protected] please

    include: MAE recommendation in the subject line.

    Contact details: [email protected]

    My choice of website this month is of a Lodge in MINNEAPOLIS this website portrays a wonderful camaraderie within its pages sharing an image of Lodge life which is fun and enjoyable. One of my favourite pages is the image gallery of their past masters. If you are thinking of designing or revamping your lodge website you could do worst than have a look at this one and work some of its aspects into yours.

    http://www.mpls19.org/

    One of the smaller groups on

    Facebook this group of people

    have come together to share a

    common interest in the creation

    of Masonic Regalia of all styles.

    Members include two previous

    contributers to the MAE

    Newsletter. Take a few moments

    to pop in and say hello.

    http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=121235

    679924#/group.php?gid=121235679924

  • Binder2.pdfMAE_cover1_4.pdfBinder1.pdfBindermchale.pdfmchale.pdfmchale2.pdf

    omnipresent eye.pdfPoem To a Newly-Made Brother.pdfragains.pdfTHE RAGAINS MASONIC RIFLE2.pdfTHE RAGAINS MASONIC RIFLE3.pdf

    temple door.pdf

    mckim.pdfLostSymbolBinder.pdflostsymbol.pdflostsymbol2.pdflostsymbol3.pdflostsymbol4.pdflostsymbol5.pdf

    AK-Binder.pdfAK.pdfAK1.pdfAK10.pdfAK11.pdfAK2.pdfAK3.pdfAK4.pdfAK5.pdfAK6.pdfAK7.pdfAK8.pdfAK9.pdf