The Merlin MS Centre is dedicated to providing essential therapy and support for people affected by multiple sclerosis (MS) and other neurological conditions. The funds donated were raised through various lodge activities and the generosity of its members.

A spokesperson for the Merlin MS Centre expressed sincere gratitude for the contribution, emphasizing that the donation would have a meaningful impact on the lives of those who rely on the centre’s vital services. This gift highlights the ongoing commitment of Freemasons in Cornwall to supporting local charities and making a positive difference in their community.

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The Taft Museum of Art in Cincinnati currently hosts 80 items that reveal the secretive practices of two historically mysterious organizations: the Freemasons and Odd Fellows.

“Mystery & Benevolence” features objects used for generations in the ritualized, often secret ceremonies of these fraternal orders. Visitors can examine scythes, skulls, elaborate costumes, decorative banners, and ceremonial furnishings. The exhibition runs through May 11.

“In the nearly 10 years since ‘Mystery and Benevolence’ first debuted at the American Folk Art Museum, this exhibition continues to enthrall viewers with the enigmatic symbols and rich imagery that gave many of these fraternal societies an intriguing shroud of mystery,” said Emelie Gevalt, the New York museum’s Deputy Director and Chief Curatorial and Program Officer. “The astounding art and objects in this exhibition are a testament to the self-taught artists and artisans whose vast contributions to early American material culture helped ingrain these societies into popular culture for generations.”

While symbols like the skull and crossbones might initially appear disturbing, they were actually part of initiation rituals designed to encourage members to care for one another in life and death.

“People love this exhibit and are fascinated with the subject,” said Ann Glasscock, associate curator at the Taft. “It’s something you can’t see anywhere else. It’s mysterious because we don’t know 100 percent what goes on behind those closed doors. But these items tell you what goes on… up to a certain point. For both of these groups, serving the community and self-improvement is important.”

Meet the Collectors

The artifacts come from the Kendra and Allan Daniel Collection. In the exhibition catalog introduction, Allan Daniel writes that these items were crafted to convey stories, evoke moods, or teach lessons, and were rarely produced by academic artists.

“Before social services were governmentally institutionalized, people established private fraternities that could provide for those needs,” he said. “This concept fascinated and propelled us to seek out objects that we felt were of artistic merit and deserved to be included in the category of folk art.”

One notable example is the heart design featured in much of the Odd Fellows artwork—often depicted as a heart in hand, symbolizing love and friendship.

“The iconic Odd Fellows symbol of the three-link chain, representing Friendship, Love and Truth, projects a simple, powerful message,” said Daniel.

Most items in the collection are handcrafted.

About the Societies

According to Glasscock, when these groups first formed in America, Masons primarily consisted of upper-class members, while Odd Fellows tended to be middle class and employed in various trades.

At the exhibition, visitors learn about these organizations’ histories, their hierarchical structures, membership levels, and lodge arrangements. Freemasonry originated in medieval stonemasons guilds in London in the 1700s, with the American branch established in the 1800s.

The United Grand Lodge of England reports worldwide Freemason membership exceeding 6 million, with 1.1 million in North America. Ohio has one of the largest Masonic memberships in the country, with more than 60,000 Masons and 430 local Lodges. George Washington himself was a Mason.

The Independent Order of Odd Fellows today counts more than 600,000 members across over 10,000 lodges in 30 countries. It was established in the United States in 1819.

These original “brotherhoods” were exclusively designed for white men. While the exhibition highlights the richness of fraternal culture, it also shows how excluded groups, including women and African American men, formed their own societies such as the Daughters of Rebekah and the Grand United Order of Odd Fellows.

What’s on Display

The exhibition showcases altars, uniforms, and costumes. During Odd Fellows rituals, members wore costumes to portray characters in stories that brought their lessons to life. Freemasons used regalia indicating their ranks and roles within the organization.

Visitors can see brightly painted signs, symbols, and passwords appearing on various objects. American Odd Fellows initially used bow and arrow imagery to teach lessons of friendship. A bundle of sticks demonstrated that those who stand together are stronger than individuals standing alone.

Another popular symbol is the beehive, representing industry and unity—working together toward a common purpose.

The displayed tracing boards are decorated with symbols helping members learn their various duties. These were originally traced onto floors or walls and then erased, but Masonic lodges eventually commissioned illustrated charts.

It’s believed that the Pettibone Brothers Manufacturing Company of Cincinnati may have produced some of the banners on display in 1867. The company manufactured uniforms, costumes, hats, flags, and banners for the military, firefighters, theaters, marching bands, and fraternal organizations.

The Daniels spent 30 years building their unusual collection. “For my wife Kendra and me, fraternal art was considered an under-appreciated area in American folk art,” Allan said. “The hunt for these beautiful, often eerie, and sometimes outre objects has been visually enriching and exciting for us and we hope that it will be eye-opening and fascinating for those attending the exhibition.”

Source: https://www.daytondailynews.com/lifestyles/intriguing-objects-from-freemasons-and-odd-fellows-on-display-at-taft-museum/TRKCOVTT2VC4NNEKCZ27B2GRAU/

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According to Becky Griffin of Plank Road Station, this community building was intended to house historical artifacts and gifts they had collected over the years. Following the recent tornado in Winterboro, her organization faces uncertainty about their future plans. Griffin explained that the old Masonic Lodge on Highway 21 was relocated to its current site in 2001.

The building was donated to Plank Road Station, and they have been working on its restoration ever since. Griffin noted that before the storm struck, they had just completed the upstairs flooring and were preparing to begin work on the museum portion. Despite the building’s age, she emphasized its importance as a cornerstone of the Winterboro Community.

“We have lost several of our members over the years, but we have remained focused on the building and have a clear vision for it, and we’ve continued to work toward that goal. It’s a very sturdy building, but we lost the roof, lost windows, and suffered major water damage inside,” Griffin stated.

Griffin expressed hope that their insurance provider will offer assistance. She added that if they receive the necessary funds, they will proceed with their planned restoration.

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“I wouldn’t give it up for the world,” Mr. Kieffner says of his Masonic experience.

Mr. Kieffner’s introduction to the Freemasons occurred when he was a young boy and happened to notice his uncle Dennis Kieffner’s Masonic ring. “It stood out. It was shiny,” Mr. Kieffner said. “I said, ‘My you have a shiny ring.’”

His uncle looked at him and said, “Yeah, one of these days, I want you to wear one.”

The 83-year-old Haysville resident recently received the 50-year Past Master’s Award from the Grand Lodge of Indiana, a rare honor recognizing his decades of leadership and service.

Mr. Kieffner joined the Line Masonic Lodge in Jasper in 1965, the same year the current building was chartered. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming the second person raised to Master Mason at the lodge’s altar. He’s served as Master for two terms–1975 and 1982–and has served as the Secretary for every other Master of the lodge except for one.

“There are very few people that live long enough to say they’ve been Past Master 50 years ago,” he explained “It’s kind of an honor.”

The Line Lodge, one of three Masonic lodges in Dubois County, currently has about 60 members. Mr. Kieffner sees his role as preserving history and inspiring a new generation of Masons.

The Freemasons’ commitment to community service is a point of pride for Mr. Kieffner. Along with scholarships, special events, and support of local events, they also provide support for fellow masons no matter where they are from.

He remembers one night at the Line Lodge when two unexpected visitors–one from England and another from Switzerland–walked into the lodge, exemplifying the worldwide brotherhood of Masons.

Despite the organization’s long history and traditions, Kieffner acknowledges that many people don’t understand what Freemasonry is about. He hopes to change that perception.

For Kieffner, the essence of Freemasonry can be distilled into three words: “Friendship, morality, and brotherly love.”

He believes these principles, if more widely adopted, could have a profound impact on society. “If 1 percent of the people outside the wall would take advantage of what goes on in this room, we wouldn’t have the trouble in the world that we have now,” he asserted.

“There is no place in the world that you can go that you don’t meet a Mason,” Mr. Kieffner said.

As Mr. Kieffner looks to the future, he sees an opportunity for the three Masonic lodges in Dubois County to work together to raise awareness about their history and ongoing community involvement.

Reflecting on his six decades of Masonic service, Kieffner’s passion for the organization remains undiminished. His eyes light up as he shares stories of past members, community projects, and the enduring bonds of brotherhood.

“It just makes you feel real good when you get a new member in,” Mr. Kieffner says. “You just make so many connections.”

For Eugene Kieffner, Freemasonry isn’t just an organization – it’s a way of life that has shaped his character, expanded his worldview, and given him a platform to serve his community for over half a century.

“I like to see happiness. I like to see people smile. That’s all part of Masonry,” he said.

Mr. Kieffner and his wife, Judy, have been married for 60 years and live in Haysville. They have two daughters, Tara Betz and Michelle Schmitt.

Source:

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The news was revealed at a recent installation ceremony held at the Spartansburg Volunteer Fire Department, where Derrick P. Cross took office as the new District Deputy Grand Master for Masonic District 56, with Right Worshipful Grand Master Larry A. Derr from Philadelphia’s Grand Lodge officiating the event.

The new lodge, scheduled for constitution on June 28, will embrace historical traditions by holding quarterly meetings during full moons. Cross explained this practice’s historical significance, noting how full moonlight once guided members safely to and from meetings in the era before modern lighting.

While temporarily housed in Corry pending renovations, the lodge plans to eventually return to its historic location at the Sparta Grange Hall. This return has been in development since January 2023, following discussions between Cross and Spartansburg Community Foundation President Laurie Patterson, while the foundation has been overseeing building renovations since 2021.

In a touching preservation of heritage, the lodge has acquired the original furniture from its predecessor. Despite modest monetary worth, Cross emphasized these pieces’ irreplaceable historical value.

The lodge’s return reflects Freemasonry’s dedication to community service, with Cross highlighting their local involvement in projects like military banner installation and parking lot maintenance in Corry. This community-focused approach aligns closely with the Spartansburg Community Foundation’s mission.

As the newly installed District Deputy Grand Master, Cross brings valuable experience from his previous role as Corry Lodge’s past master. He emphasized their ongoing mission of “Making good men better” and their openness to welcoming new members who share their values of community improvement and brotherhood.

The organization takes pride in its multi-generational bonds and mentorship approach, fostering connections between fathers, sons, and grandfathers. This commitment to fellowship was highlighted during the installation ceremony, which included special recognition for 50-year members.

Looking forward, Cross plans to focus on mentorship and engagement, echoing Grand Master Derr’s philosophy of “igniting the fire from within” to motivate continued community involvement and improvement.

Those interested in joining or learning more about Freemasonry can visit pagrandlodge.org.

Source: The Corry Journal

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Note: We wrote this on January 19, 2019.

Freemasonry in New Zealand is entering a “new, modern era” with the opening of a center in Christchurch, according to Freemasons New Zealand.

Today marks the opening of the Canterbury Kilwinning Lodge in Woolston’s Ferry Road after two years of hard work.

Freemasons in Christchurch are hoping that the new center will help them reestablish themselves after the earthquakes that caused the closure of several lodges.

For the past five years, the Shirley center has hosted the majority of the city’s masonic events.

According to Freemasons New Zealand Grand Master Mark Winger, the new, purpose-built, boutique-style building would host masonic rituals as well as social activities for the larger community.

“This year, we’ll be dedicating at least two more structures around the country, which proves that freemasonry is a modern organization. We’re preparing for the future and are in growth mode.” It was his opinion.

“Due to the fact that we’re talking about freemasonry, we’re seeing more males express interest and join.”

There will be a lodge meeting and a special Ceremony of the Dedication to bless the new facilities as part of the inauguration celebrations.

Among the charities supported by freemasons in Christchurch are Camp Purple, a camp for children with Crohn’s and Colitis, and Living Springs, a place for outdoor campers.

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Both lodges have continued to attract student members to this day, and have acted as a source of inspiration for other student bodies to start Masonic lodges throughout the UK. The success of these two lodges also acted as a catalyst for UGLE to launch ‘the Universities Scheme,’ which was set up in 2005 with the following objective:

“To establish and/or enhance arrangements and opportunities for undergraduates and other university members to enjoy Freemasonry.”

Since the scheme was launched, more than eighty university lodges have been created. Membership of these lodges includes undergraduates, postgraduates, senior members of the university and alumni. One of the defining features of the university scheme was the decision taken to halve the dues required by those under the age of 25, in an attempt to make Freemasonry accessible and appealing to a younger audience.

Sir David Wooton, the Assistant Grand Master who heads the scheme, tells us a bit more about its significance and influence:

“We know from these long-established university lodges that students – whether undergraduates or postgraduates – enjoy Freemasonry to the full. Through the Universities Scheme, we hope that university members from all over the country will be able to gain the same inspiration, fulfilment, and enjoyment.”

It certainly seems that the Universities Scheme is an excellent way of attracting younger members to Freemasonry, at a time when the Craft needs to do all it can to bolster membership numbers and appeal to new audiences.

Through institutions of higher learning, the men that engage with the Craft will hopefully act as its future custodians, alleviating the worry that Masonry might not be as alluring in the future, as the needs and fabric of society changes.

We feel that such an initiative would benefit from being rolled out more widely, throughout other countries where Freemasonry is in need of new members. We’d love to hear your thoughts about the scheme, and whether you know of something similar that occurs in your country or community.

To find out more about the Universities Scheme from UGLE, you can visit their designated website here.

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Available to download here, the annual report is written in such a way that invites the general public to understand what Freemasonry is and understand the significant role that brothers play in communities across the UK.

To quote UGLE directly:

“The United Grand Lodge of England has launched its first annual report, in its 300-year history, marking another major step forward in its commitment to modernization, transparency, and normalization.”

To some traditionalists within the Craft, the report might be viewed as an unwelcome move towards even less secrecy regarding the functionality and value of the Masonic lodge, that has long been shrouded in mystique and closely guarded by the men who act as its custodians.

But David Staples, CEO of UGLE, believes that the publication of the Annual Report is a watershed moment for the fraternity:

“Our first-ever annual report is a major step ahead for the organization in terms of the transparency and normalization of Freemasonry, we want to tell the public who we are and what we do.”

Reading through the report, there’s little holding back when it comes to articulating what Freemasons do and the contribution they make to charitable causes, particularly in light of the emergence of CO VID-19.

The first couple of pages tell us that there are 172,889 Freemasons in the UK, who raised £42 million in charitable donations, and donated 18.5 million hours of their time to complete unpaid work in 2020.

As the report continues, one is able to learn about the structure and values of Freemasonry and are able to understand what happens within a lodge, thanks to the case study presented.

Overall, we think it’s an excellent move towards modernization and something that has been much needed in recent years. Freemasonry has long received negative press, and the publication of such a report will present the facts and true value of the Craft according to the fraternity.

But of course, not everyone will agree with this sentiment. We would encourage you to read through the report yourself and consider what it means for the secrecy of the Craft going forwards. We would love to hear your take on the future direction of Freemasonry, and what you think such publications will do for the understanding of the centuries-old fraternity.

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Thankfully for Masons in the region, the attack was uncovered during its planning stage, and no damage or injuries were reported. Initially six people were arrested after the plot was uncovered, with three released soon after without charge.

Although details of the plot are scarce at this stage, having only being uncovered at the beginning of May 2021, it is thought that the three suspects were arrested after communications between them and ‘stake-outs of targets’ were uncovered by police.

As further details emerge, it will be interesting to monitor the progress of the case from a Masonic perspective. Why was the lodge targeted? Was it attack on Masonry, or perhaps a localised issue?

In France in recent years, there have been several attempted attacks by right-wing activists uncovered by police, most notably a 2018 plot to attack President Emmanuel Macron. The suspects held in custody are still awaiting trial since their arrest.

Although pure speculation, it would perhaps suggest that the attack on the Masonic lodge in Moselle is indicative of the prevalence of ultra-right-wing groups in France, and their embitterment towards anything resembling the establishment.

Let’s hope that such action isn’t part of a broader attack on the institution of Freemasonry and the values we brothers hold dear. Of course, our fraternity has undergone attacks and repressive acts in the past, even by the Nazis themselves during the years leading up to the Second World War.

While the motive for the attack on the Moselle lodge remains unclear, we will closely monitor the story and share any updates as and when they emerge.

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