Papers

 

Rt. Wor. Stormy Thorson, a long-time member of Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777, laid down his working tools on October 10, 2024. This article appeared in the Virginia Masonic Herald (Fall 2024) which had just been published days earlier. Although it is customary for us to share papers that had been presented at a Masonic event, we felt it appropriate to honor his last published words to the craft.

In this paper, the author presents the biblical history behind Jephthah, Judge of Israel, and the use of the word "Shibboleth" which cost the lives of many Ephraimites. The significance of this biblical story is clear to any regular Mason.

The Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education is collecting presentations to disseminate to the Brethren of Virginia. The Regional Provost for Region 10 has started a Regional Provost Newsletter to be sent to each Lodge. In this paper by Rt. Wor. Paul Miller, the author asks us to consider how our Masonic behavior will be an example to society of what Freemasonry represents by meeting our duties to our God, our neighbors and ourselves.

The Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education is collecting presentations to disseminate to the Brethren of Virginia. The Regional Provost for Region 10 has started a Regional Provost Newsletter to be sent to each Lodge. This paper describes the importance of a Mentor program to educate new members of the craft and guide them to becoming better Masons. Every Lodge should implement a Mentor program.

This paper contains several anecdotes relating Freemasonry to taverns, coffee shops, and other public houses throughout American history. It also provides some details about the Boston Tea Party.

The Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education is collecting presentations to disseminate to the Brethren of Virginia. The Regional Provost for Region 10 has started a Regional Provost Newsletter to be sent to each Lodge. In this short paper by Rt. Wor. Stormy Thorson, the author describes an unofficial Lodge program that recognizes Past Masters who continue to serve the Lodge after leaving the East. They are presented with a Yoda lapel pin (from the Star Wars movies) to symbolize their dedication to teach the powers of the Masonic "Force" to other Masons.

The Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education is collecting presentations to disseminate to the Brethren of Virginia. The Regional Provost for Region 10 has started a Regional Provost Newsletter to be sent to each Lodge. This short paper talks about how we are taught to keep the secrets of a Brother and gives examples of why this simple rule is so important.

The Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education is collecting presentations to disseminate to the Brethren of Virginia. The Regional Provost for Region 10 has started a Regional Provost Newsletter to be sent to each Lodge. In this short paper, written by Wor. David Smallridge, he explores the question of what is Masonic Light, and how we apply that search for more light in our daily lives.

The Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education is collecting presentations to disseminate to the Brethren of Virginia. The Regional Provost for Region 10 has started a Regional Provost Newsletter to be sent to each Lodge. In this short paper, written by Wor. James Hammond, the author explains how the Age of Enlightenment moved man away from the idea of being ruled by kings to that of self-government, and the principles of Masonry go hand-in-hand with that idea. We need to continue to teach those principles to each new generation.

The Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education is collecting presentations to disseminate to the Brethren of Virginia. The Regional Provost for Region 10 has started a Regional Provost Newsletter to be sent to each Lodge. This paper, written by Wor. David Smallridge, describes his preparation to serve as Worshipful Master and lessons learned after serving in that role. His message is that every Mason should be thinking about their Masonic career and always be improving themselves, always learning more about how Masonry works and how they can contribute.

The Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education is collecting presentations to disseminate to the Brethren of Virginia. The Regional Provost for Region 10 has started a Regional Provost Newsletter to be sent to each Lodge.  This paper discusses communities, specifically Masonic communities, and how we should act towards each other. Being a true leader is bringing out the best in those under our charge.

The Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education is collecting presentations to disseminate to the Brethren of Virginia. The Regional Provost for Region 10 has started a Regional Provost Newsletter to be sent to each Lodge.  This paper expands on the idea of qualifications to be a Mason, and admonishes us to treat another Brother fairly, and to avoid gossip and back-biting, which causes disharmony among Masons.

The Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education is collecting presentations to disseminate to the Brethren of Virginia. The Regional Provost for Region 10 has started a Regional Provost Newsletter to be sent to each Lodge.  This short paper discusses the American flag that was flown at Fort McHenry, which inspired Francis Scott Key to write, "The Star-Spangled Banner". This flag was larger than other flags, as it had fifteen stars and fifteen stripes, one for each state. The next version of the flag went back to thirteen stripes for the original colonies, as it became obvious a new stripe for each state would make the flag too large.

The Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education is collecting presentations to disseminate to the Brethren of Virginia. The Regional Provost for Region 10 has started a Regional Provost Newsletter to be sent to each Lodge.  This paper, written by Kaitlyn Reed, Grand Worthy Advisor of Virginia for 2021-2022, describes the history of one of our Masonic Youth Groups, Rainbow for Girls, and how Masons supporting our girls helps them to follow Masonic principles and become better leaders.

The Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education is collecting presentations to disseminate to the Brethren of Virginia. The Regional Provost for Region 10 has started a Regional Provost Newsletter to be sent to each Lodge. This paper discusses the symbolism of Masonry and reminds us that we can be learned about the ritual, be well-versed in what the symbols teach us, but unless we apply it in our daily lives, Masonry remains a sealed and a silent book.

The Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education is collecting presentations to disseminate to the Brethren of Virginia. The Regional Provost for Region 10 has started a Regional Provost Newsletter to be sent to each Lodge. This short paper calls on us to work harder to set a good example, and light a fire in other Masons to contribute their time and talents to the Lodge as well.

The Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education is collecting presentations to disseminate to the Brethren of Virginia. The Regional Provost for Region 10 has started a Regional Provost Newsletter to be sent to each Lodge. This paper offers a biography of two well-known Masons from the Civil War, Brigadier General Lewis Armistead and Major General Winfield Scott Hancock, told from a first-person perspective of their lives. These two were memorialized in the famous sculpture at Gettysburg, "Friend to Friend".

The Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education is collecting presentations to disseminate to the Brethren of Virginia. The Regional Provost for Region 10 has started a Regional Provost Newsletter to be sent to each Lodge. This paper, written by Rt. Wor. Charles Brackett, examines key aspects of our obligation and how to apply them in our daily lives. It reminds us as Masonic Brethren we should be accountable to our oaths to our obligation.

The Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education is collecting presentations to disseminate to the Brethren of Virginia. The Regional Provost for Region 10 has started a Regional Provost Newsletter to be sent to each Lodge.  This paper, written by Bro. Dawson C. Murray, tells a personal tale about young men who come from DeMolay and join the Masonic Lodge, only to experience culture shock at seeing Masons who are not living up to their obligations, so much it drives one new member away from Lodge. The lesson is, we are someone's impression of Freemasonry, and need to always bear that in mind.

The Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education is collecting presentations to disseminate to the Brethren of Virginia. The Regional Provost for Region 10 has started a Regional Provost Newsletter to be sent to each Lodge. This short paper provides instruction on what it means to vouch for a candidate, and the importance of the investigating committee in ensuring the candidate is a proper fit for Masonry and your Lodge.

The Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education is collecting presentations to disseminate to the Brethren of Virginia. The Regional Provost for Region 10 has started a Regional Provost Newsletter to be sent to each Lodge. This short paper examines the three burning tapers positioned in the Lodge room and their symbolic meanings.

The Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education is collecting presentations to disseminate to the Brethren of Virginia. The Regional Provost for Region 10 has started a Regional Provost Newsletter to be sent to each Lodge. This short paper tabulates the number of words required to complete each degree, and provides guidance on how to memorize your catechism.

Biography of Brother Nelson M. Williams, Grand Master of Ohio in 1897 - 1898. Provides details of his extensive Masonic career.

The Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education is collecting presentations to disseminate to the Brethren of Virginia. The Regional Provost for Region 10 has started a Regional Provost Newsletter to be sent to each Lodge. "On Yonder Book" is a short presentation to newly raised Master Masons in several Grand Jurisdictions, this paper recites the poem and explores it's origins.

New Jersey is honored with claiming the distinction of having Brother John Skene as a citizen, and who happens to be the first known Freemason in America. He was born in Newtyle, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, in October 1682, he arrived in America and settled in the county of Burlington, New Jersey, where he purchased a 500-acre plantation he called Peachfield. Brother Skene is recorded to be a member of Aberdeen Lodge No. 1 in Aberdeen, Scotland.

Brother Hugh Mercer, physician for Mary Washington, was a member of Fredericksburg Lodge No. 4. This paper provides a biography of his life and Masonic career. He is elected Captain of a Virginia militia company, and ends up promoted to Brigadier General. He is later slain in battle to avoid capture, as the British mistake him for General Washington.

The Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education is collecting presentations to disseminate to the Brethren of Virginia. The Regional Provost for Region 10 has started a Regional Provost Newsletter to be sent to each Lodge. This short talk relates an act of kindness on Christmas Eve which should be a reminder to all Brethren of what we are called to do.

The Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education is collecting presentations to disseminate to the Brethren of Virginia. The Regional Provost for Region 10 has started a Regional Provost Newsletter to be sent to each Lodge, this paper is about the duties of the Worshipful Master and his responsibilities to the Lodge.

The Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education is collecting presentations to disseminate to the Brethren of Virginia. The Regional Provost for Region 10 has started a Regional Provost Newsletter to be sent to each Lodge. This paper is about the meanings of the cable-tow, and the equal duties that it places on the Mason to his Lodge, and the Lodge back to the Mason.

Of the 81 general officers in the Continental Army, 33 of them were Freemasons. This research paper provides a short biography of a number of Masons who were military officers present at the Battle of Yorktown, both in the Continental and the British Army.

The Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education is collecting presentations to disseminate to the Brethren of Virginia. The Regional Provost for Region 10 has started a Regional Provost Newsletter to be sent to each Lodge. This paper is part of a presentation by Rt. Wor. Stormy Thorson, presented at Peyton Randolph Lodge of Research No. 1774.

The Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education is collecting presentations to disseminate to the Brethren of Virginia. The Regional Provost for Region 10 has started a Regional Provost Newsletter to be sent to each Lodge. This paper is the second part of a presentation by Rt. Wor. Stormy Thorson, presented at Peyton Randolph Lodge of Research No. 1774. He elaborates on the life of Jephthah and a famous battle in the Bible that will be of significance to Masons.

The Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education is collecting presentations to disseminate to the Brethren of Virginia. The Regional Provost for Region 10 has started a Regional Provost Newsletter to be sent to each Lodge. This short talk describes the obligation each new Lodge Officer recites, and how proper training and preparation will allow him to fulfill that obligation to the best of his ability.

The Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education is collecting presentations to disseminate to the Brethren of Virginia. The Regional Provost for Region 10 has started a Regional Provost Newsletter to be sent to each Lodge. This short talk has a list of duties that can be assigned to members of the Lodge, up to 48 Masons can be given a specific duty to perform over the course of a year, to improve Masonic Education.

To provide Virginia Masons with a better understanding of the five Research Lodges at their disposal, we were asked to prepare an article for the Virginia Masonic Herald, our Grand Lodge quarterly magazine.

A panel discussion with all five Virginia Research Lodges was held on March 26th, 2022 to explore the origins, history, and future of our respective bodies.

The author then prepared an article from the responses during the zoom meeting and submitted it to the Herald on May 1st. The article appeared, slightly edited for space, in the Summer 2022 edition dated August 1st.

The unedited article is being presented this week as our contribution for Spreading the Light.

“Treasure in a Battered, Brass Bound, Bullock Trunk - with a Smashed Lock.”

This paper recounts with incredible detail many events of the Revolutionary War with specific emphasis on military Masonic Lodges and the exploits of Masons on both sides during the war. Special attention is paid to a Masonic Bible, which was returned under a flag of truce from one army to the other.

A tongue-in-cheek comparison of Star Wars mythology to Masonic symbolism. The author wrote it by request in honor of the Lodge stated on May the 4th, to celebrate "May The Fourth Be With You".

A brief biography of the first American-born professional magician, Brother Richard Potter. Brother Potter was also a member of African Lodge No. 459 and helped found the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Massachusetts.

An in-depth analysis of two dozen Grand Lodges, Supreme Councils, and other Masonic obediences that have existed in France going back over 300 hundred years. Includes a timeline of how they overlap and interact with each other. This paper was presented during a Zoom meeting and includes PowerPoint slides.

This is a biography of Brother and Sir Moses Jacob Ezekiel, a famous sculptor and a Brother of Mountain City Lodge No. 67 in Lexington, Virginia. He was the first Jewish cadet at Virginia Military Institute (VMI). The first statue mentioned in the title refers to a bronze statue of George Washington at VMI which was removed by Union troops and later returned. The second was sculpted by Brother Moses in plaster, later cast in bronze and presented to VMI, "Virginia Mourning Her Dead".

In this talk, the author gave real-world examples of his experience as a Mason, travelling in foreign countries and earning Master's wages. As a NASA employee, he was in Kazakhstan on September 11th, 2001 and had difficulty getting back to American soil. This talk, although not specifically Masonic, was designed to share one Mason's life experience, and encouraged other Masons to do the same, to share something about themselves with their Brothers.

According to ancient English lectures, used in the ritual from 1738 till 1813, the names of the 12 Patriarchates of Israel, the male heads of the families of Israel, symbolized the Twelve Original Perfect Points of Entrance through which every candidate for Freemasonry must pass. In this paper, these 12 points are described and their purpose explained.

A Brief History of the Lodge in Celebration of Their 150th Anniversary
Compiled by Ross C. Morland, District Deputy Grand Master for the 19th Masonic District

This well-researched paper explores the oldest recorded minutes of Fredericksburg No. 4, dated September 1, 1752. There is some conjecture this was the first actual meeting of the Lodge, but the author presents several arguments against that possibility. The paper also discusses the oldest recorded Royal Arch Degree conferred in the world on December 22, 1753 also in that Lodge. An interesting point about these first minutes is that the Worshipful Master's name was stricken, and efforts to interpret whose name was blacked out are discussed.

A short talk from the Worshipful Master about working together as a team, being a "hive of Freemasons". He talks about the chemical changes and reactions in the body to human interactions, how smiling makes another person want to smile.

In this greatly detailed and thoroughly documented research paper, the author addresses a number of issues related to the origins of Freemasonry. First, he provides a vast amount of information about the early Masonic Manuscripts, which were the blueprints of our earliest Masonic Lodges, documenting the Old Charges and Ancient Landmarks. Then, he discusses Masonic legends and our several origin theories. Finally, he delves into the meaning of Masonic Esotericism.

An analysis of eight Masonic rites used widely across Europe, explaining their origins and similarities.

In this paper, the author talks about "Being the Buffalo", turning into the storm and facing challenges head on. It's easy to pick the low hanging fruit, to solve the easy problems, and most management training promotes this idea. But it is critical to face the difficult problems, the complex ones, to figure out how to resolve them, rather than kick the can down the road.

This paper contains information about activity during the Revolutionary War. Particular attention is paid to Elder Muklewrath of the Mendham Presbyterian Church, who alerted British troops to the location of General Charles Lee, who was then captured. The bulk of the paper is the family history of Samuel Muklewrath or Mcilrath. There is no Masonic connection to this paper, and only a passing mention of George Washington.

Building on the Grand Master's Theme of "Friendship, Morality, and Brotherly Love", this year's Worshipful Master gave his thoughts on the various meanings and definitions of Love. He expands a bit on the origins of Valentine's Day, and quotes a little Shakespeare. This is not so much a true research paper, as much as notes for a brief presentation by the Master.

"Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom." The author uses historical examples to teach the lesson that we, as Masons, should be more introspective, to gain a better understanding of who we are, that we may become the men we are supposed to be.

The author presents a history of the oldest Masonic Cemetery in the United States, right in the middle of Fredericksburg, Virginia. He then highlights some of the famous Masons who are buried there.

Wor. Johnstone, Valley Americanism Chairman, presents a history of our most famous Mason and President, George Washington.

Details the history and philosophy of Zoroastrianism and how it is an integral part of the 32nd degree. Describes the meanings of many of the symbols depicted in this degree.

This paper is a biography of Brother Michel Bellon, who as a 14-year old boy was active within the French Resistance of Nazi-Occupied France. It recounts the Masonic leadership that had helped organize these French patriots.

The author talks about the family of Jesus and Jewish customs at the time. He mentions different sects of the Catholic Church and how they disagreed with church doctrine. One of these sects, the Rex Deus, were said to be instrumental in forming the Knights Templar and other religious orders during the Crusades. The author suggests the Knights Templar was created to hide the secret knowledge of the Rex Deus and was the conduit for the formation of Freemasonry.

Shared in District 19's 2018 Directory
Compiled by Ross C. Morland, District Deputy Grand Master for the 19th Masonic District

The paper explores the lives of nine different men at different periods of history in the Bible and in the ritual of Royal Arch Masonry. Each group of three men are associated with a different Ark of great significance. The paper closes with an admonition to us as Masons, to resist lethargy - to clear away the debris and start all over when needed.

A Brief History of Lee Lodge No. 209 in Celebration of Their 150th Anniversary
Compiled by Ross C. Morland, District Deputy Grand Master for the 19th Masonic District

This paper provides a very detailed account of the rise of silversmithing in Colonial Virginia. The different kinds of silver used, how silversmiths mark their work, and why original silverware from the Colonial days are all explored. A brief connection to Masonry is presented about a famous silversmith who became Grand Master of Virginia.

In this paper, the author explores Socrates and Plato's search for truth, to know real truth, to understand the true being, true virtue. He compares is to the search Masons undergo as they join the craft, to search beyond the symbolism and discover the real secret of Masonry.

This paper discusses how to plan your Masonic career over the course of several decades. Freemasonry is a marathon, not a sprint. You should arrange your duties so as not to overburden yourself and always have a fresh new landscape of our craft to explore.

A short biography of Brother Rudyard Kipling, and his most famous Masonic Poem, "The Mother-Lodge".

Describes in detail the various types of social media and how to use them to create an outreach program for a Lodge.

An explanation of Ecclesiastes 12, verse 1 through 7, recited by the Chaplain during the Master Mason degree.

This paper was based on numerous conversations with new members, explaining what a Lodge and Grand Lodge are, some of our history, as well as explaining how to visit other Lodges.

An exploration of two separate but related topics: First, The Lodge at Fredericksburg and second, one of its most famous members, George Washington …... young George Washington.

This paper describes what a Research Lodge is, and how to find more information about attending one.

In this paper, the author explores the Closing Charge of a Master Masons Lodge and how we can directly apply it in our daily lives. The challenge he puts to every Mason is to make Masonry a way of life that we strive to live every day, not just an organization we simply belong to.

This paper discusses the concepts of Faith, Hope, and Charity from the lectures, what the meaning of these terms are, and how we can apply them in our daily lives as men and as Masons.

A compilation of Masonic articles courtesy of Butler Lodge No. 254 in Butler, Missouri.

Volume VIII: Is Freemasonry a religion, Encyclopedia Britannica on Freemasonry, and Common phrases taken from Freemasonry.

A compilation of Masonic articles courtesy of Butler Lodge No. 254 in Butler, Missouri.

Volume VII: Butler Masonic Lodge Celebrates 150 Years, Going Dark, and Poinsettia Night.

A compilation of Masonic articles courtesy of Butler Lodge No. 254 in Butler, Missouri.

Volume VI: Prince Hall Masonry, The Illuminati: The Original James Bond Villain, and Are There Female Freemasons?

This paper, adopted from a Short Talk Bulletin, gives a stirring and poetic overview of the highlights of Marquis de Lafayette, ally of Washington and volunteer soldier in defense of the American Revolution.

A compilation of Masonic articles courtesy of Butler Lodge No. 254 in Butler, Missouri.

Volume V: The Square and Compasses, The George Washington Bible, and The Myths of the One-Dollar Bill.

A compilation of Masonic articles courtesy of Butler Lodge No. 254 in Butler, Missouri.

Volume IV: Top Gun Mason: Eddie Rickenbacker, A Real-Life Captain America: Audie Murphy, and What National Treasure Got Wrong.

This paper explores the origins and details of the English Civil War from 1642 to 1651 between King Charles I and Parliament. Although Freemasonry would not go public with the first Grand Lodge until 1717, a number of well-known Masons served on both sides of the conflict. The army backing Parliament was hard-pressed for officers, as most of the nobility sided with the King. As a result, for the first time, officers were made from non-nobles.

This paper was written in observation by Lee Lodge No. 209 of the 150th Anniversary of the Battle of Waynesboro. It offers details about the battle and the relevant Master Masons who took part.

A compilation of Masonic articles courtesy of Butler Lodge No. 254 in Butler, Missouri.

Volume III: The Scottish Rite: Not Really Scottish at All, The 33rd Degree, The York Rite, and Shriners: The Playground of Masonry.

A compilation of Masonic articles courtesy of Butler Lodge No. 254 in Butler, Missouri.

Volume II: DeMolay International, Job’s Daughters International, The International Order of the Rainbow for Girls, and The Order of the Eastern Star.

A compilation of Masonic articles courtesy of Butler Lodge No. 254 in Butler, Missouri.

Volume I: Masonic Organization, The Truman Line, The Missouri Masonic Round-Robin

In this paper, the author discusses the Industrial Revolution and the part Masonry had to play, both in the United States and around the world, particularly as relates to the locomotive. He mentions several Masons whose inventions drove the development of the railroad system, as well as Lodges with strong ties to the railroad.

In this paper, we are taught about opera and it's importance in the 18th and 19th centuries, as well as receiving a brief biography of our Brother Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The author gives a detailed description of "The Magic Flute", and points out the various Masonic connections Mozart wove into his great work.

The Lafayette Apron is an elaborately decorated Masonic apron belonging to the late Wor. Bro. George Washington. This apron was given to Wor. Bro. Washington as a gift from his beloved friend, Bro. Lafayette in August of 1784 during his visit to the newly formed United States of America. This research paper describes in detail the colors and emblems displayed on the apron and their various meanings.

In this paper, the author explores the idea that Freemasonry is based on Deism, the belief that God exists but does not interfere with his creation. The Author provides background information on Deism and the several theories about how Masonry originated in England.

In this short paper, the author relates several musical selections that have a link to Masonry, most of which are because the author of the song was a Mason.

This short paper describes The Quarry Project, a conference on Masonic research and preservation which was held in 2013, when this paper was presented, and again in 2015. The website is still online, but it looks like no activity since 2015.

This biography of Teddy Roosevelt was delivered in costume by the author, speaking as Brother Roosevelt in the first person. It was presented as if Brother Roosevelt was telling his personal history before a Lodge of Masons.

This paper explains a working tool which is no longer used in the ritual, a Broached Thurnel, and it's symbolic meaning. The tool looks like a pyramid on top of a square, and was used by Entered Apprentices as a type of chisel to roughly hew stones.

The author presented a detailed talk with dozens of photos explaining the origins of the Bermuda Peppercorn Ceremony,  the annual payment of rent for the Masonic Temple of Lodge St. George No. 200 of The Grand Lodge Scotland to the government of the island of Bermuda. This event is the only public Masonic event in Bermuda, where the Masons appear in full regalia, and is held on the Wednesday closest to St. George's Day. While not an official holiday, St. George's Day is the feast day of Saint George, the patron saint of England.

This paper explores the origins of Masonic Lodges within military units with charters from the Grand Lodges of England, Scottish, and Ireland. The author recounts several famous Masons who were initiated into these Military Lodges, as well as the origins of the National Sojourners.

John Marshall, Supreme Court Justice and Freemason, has a very colorful history. His ties to the Anti-Masonic movement following the Morgan Affair makes his contribution to the fraternity a mixed bag.

This paper, one of several on the life and Masonic history of George Washington, focuses specifically on his age at the time of initiation. He was not yet 21 years old, the minimum age in 1752. So was he a Lewis, a son of a Master Mason, and allowed to join at 18? Or was there another reason?

This paper describes a humorous version of a Masonic catechism, written as if a commercial drummer or travelling salesman was initiated into an order similar to Masonry. Every Mason will recognize the similar phrasing, and the authors provide details about the particular slang used as substitutes in this mock catechism. Contains some history about business dealings post Civil War.

This was the first research paper presented in George Washington Lodge of Research No. 1732. It seemed fitting that the namesake of the new Research Lodge should be the topic, and this paper answers the question, Why do we, as Freemasons, care so much about George Washington? Why is he the most well-known Mason among all the other candidates?

It's also fitting that the Lodge met for the first time on August 4th, which is the Masonic birthday of Bro. Washington, who was raised a Master Mason on that date.

In this paper, the author discusses the seven liberal arts and sciences and gives several examples from history. He delves deeper into geometry, drawing a distinction between classical geometry, which is about numbers and lengths and measures that are self-evident; and sacred geometry which deals with uneven, unknowable, and incomprehensible irrational numbers such as pi and phi. He gives more examples of how our ancient brethren used sacred geometry which is still employed today.

The author examines the Book of Ruth, how it relates to the Entered Apprentice Degree, and how the actions of characters in the book are examples of Masonic virtues such as charity.

This paper describes in great detail the mission and efforts of the Grand Lodge of Virginia's Strategic Planning and Implementation Committee. The purpose of the committee is to take an objective look at the health of each of our Masonic Lodges and develop a plan for improvements where needed.

The author gives a detailed history of one of the most famous Masons, Albert Pike, Grand Commander of the Southern Jurisdiction of the Scottish Rite for 32 years. Albert Pike is best known for his massive work, "Morals & Dogma", which many Masons own but have barely read. Pike, a Brigadier General in the Confederate Army, was accused of being instrumental in forming the Ku Klux Klan, and this paper delves into the evidence claiming him to be such.

The Operatives, a separate fraternal organization focused on actual operative Masonry, predates and has lived alongside speculative Masonry and our Grand Lodge system for 300 years. This paper explores the origins of this body and the efforts in the early 20th century to revive it. A number of Freemasons have belonged to the Operatives as well.

The author explores the meaning of King Solomon's Pass in the second section of the Master Mason degree and the attempts of the ruffians to escape justice by fleeing the country. He explores the nature of sea travel and offers a very different symbolic meaning for their actions.

This paper describes in detail the participation of a great number of Freemasons in drafting the Constitution of the United States. Unlike other accounts on this subject, this paper offers at least a paragraph or two for every single Freemason involved, and their contribution.

A second paper on the history of the Virginia Craftsmen, a group of Virginia Masons who dressed in Civil War uniforms and conferred Masonic Degrees across the Commonwealth.

In this paper, the author provides a definition of the word, "Companion". For those who only belong to the Blue Lodge, Companion is used in place of Brother within the Royal Arch Chapter.

He explains the origins of the word, and explains how we can apply the meaning of this word to govern ourselves as Masons and be better Brothers and friends.

This presentation was written and performed by Sir Knights Phillip Edward Maybery, Wallace Eugene Maybery, and Frederick Russell Dixon. It provides an explanation of the ceremony of folding the American Flag, and the symbolism of each step as well as the meaning for the stars and stripes found on our flag.

In this paper, the author speaks of numerous groups of people who have been persecuted throughout the years, particularly Freemasons. He shares with us the importance of following our obligations and being good examples of what a Mason is to the world.

In this paper, the author attempts to clarify the difference, if any, between an Appendant Body and a Concordant Body with regards to Freemasonry. He then provides some history of the origins of the Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Virginia.

The author proposes that the story of Masonry evolving from the Knights Templar is untrue and a recent invention from the mid 18th century. The bulk of the paper describes a crusade undertaken within France to eliminate a sect called the "Cathars", who preached a different view from the Church. He suggests that this recent history of eliminating a powerful group inspired Philip the Fair of France to use the Church to seize the leaders of the Knights Templar by having them declared heretics.

In this short research paper, the author explains how the French language greatly influenced the English language. This is why so many French words found their way into our Masonic ritual, as Freemasonry was evolving at this very time. He points to several pairs of words, "hele and conceal", which are actually French and English words linked together.

In this well-thought out presentation, the author explores the concept of unity, particularly with regard to the three York Rite bodies in Virginia: The Grand Lodge, The Grand Royal Arch Chapter, and The Grand Commandery.

He recalls the Southwest Masonic School at Virginia Tech, and laments the loss of this annual educational conference that instructed in all three York Rite bodies. It was a unique opportunity and an example of how all three bodies should work together, and not have separate and redundant programs.

He suggests that there is too much emphasis on travel and official visitations, that having the Grand Officers of all three York Rite bodies constantly on the road is counter-productive and prevents these officers from spending their time and energy advancing the craft. The time and money invested in constant visitations could be directed at more productive efforts.

He recommends the formation of a Grand Advisory Council among the Grand Lodge officers of all three bodies to foster cooperation, unity, long-range planning, and the elimination of duplicate efforts. Such a council could tackle the problems facing all three bodies in a united effort, instead of trying to solve them separately.

At a meeting of Virginia Research Royal Arch Chapter No. 1753, the Grand Master of Virginia, the Grand High Priest of Virginia, the Grand Commander of Virginia, and the Grand Master of the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar were in attendance.

These are the remarks of the Grand Master of Masons in Virginia.

This paper presents a biography of Andrew Jackson, our 7th President and a Grand Master of Tennessee. It covers his early years in North and South Carolina, and then his time in Tennessee. It also has information about early Masonry in that state.

In this brief paper, the author discusses a healing temple in Tibet known to the local inhabitants as the Temple of Silence. This temple is said to be over 6,000 years old, and has many similarities to phrases we hear in Masonry.

The author gives a review of a coffee-table style book, filled with many pictures of historic aprons, china, jewelry boxes, certificates, and Masonic artifacts. The book gives a mile-wide and inch-deep coverage of many aspects of Masonry, asking questions to which the answers must be found elsewhere. But it stimulates the reader to search for more information.

This paper gives an extensive history of the Masonic career of J. Raymond Shute II. He was responsible for forming nearly a dozen Masonic research bodies in North Carolina and greatly increasing the opportunity for Masonic research. He was also responsible for chartering North Carolina Lodge of Research No. 666 in 1931, now defunct, the first Research Lodge in the United States. I should note that Brother Shute is referred to as both II, and as Junior, at different times in the text. It is possible Brother Shute held both suffixes.

In this research paper, the author provides a long list of the important things involving the number three, and how significant that little number is. He then demonstrates the many threes that occur within our Masonic ritual, in all three Virginia York Rite bodies: The Blue Lodge, the Royal Arch, and the Commandery!

The author presents the history of The York Rite Sovereign College of North America. This body was founded in part to foster a spirit of cooperation and coordination among each of the Bodies of York Rite Masonry.

In this short paper, the author gives an overview of Saint John the Baptist and Saint John the Evangelist, who are prominent figures throughout our Masonic ritual.

The third and final presentation of Master's Moments by the current Worshipful Master in 2006. In this talk, he mentions the book The Path of Least Resistance and describe an idea that all Master Masons should adopt. In short, we need to consider our Current Reality, the Vision of where we want to be, and then about what we need to change to bring those two things together.

A brief biography of Mt. Wor. Charles Hilliard Callahan, Past Grand Master of Virginia, who was instrumental in establishing the George Washington National Masonic Memorial.

In this short paper, the author provides the origins of the Grand Masonic Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Turkey, and how government actions shut them down for several years. He then relates a personal experience while serving on a ship and attending a Lodge meeting.

A brief presentation on the Worshipful Master's thoughts at the beginning of the meeting. This instance dealt with what kind of Lodge a Research Lodge is, and how their Lodge in particular can do more, perhaps hosting symposiums on Masonic Research. There are only three instances of these "Master's Moments", all in 2006. Apparently the custom did not continue.

The author, then Grand Junior Warden, was asked to present opening remarks to the Lodge, before they discussed a directive from Grand Master Glover Hunter Jones, III that each Lodge should discuss what the qualities are that define a Master Mason, and submit their answers to the Grand Lodge. The author then cites the "Masonic Compact" from the Grand Lodge of New York, written just a year earlier, and then the 1933 Prestonian Lecture. These are given as a background to further the discussion, the results of which were not made available.

The author, the newly installed Worshipful Master of ADSLOR, reflects on the purpose of his Research Lodge and how our research bodies in general may fulfill our duties to the craft.

This is a review of a book by the same name, by Harold Waldwin Percival, © 1952. This book was referenced in a footnote in the review of Albert Pike’s Esoterika published in the April issue of “The Working Tools”. In this book, Percival discusses esoteric meanings of nearly all of the symbols of the Craft Lodge and the York Rite degrees, which he holds in the highest esteem.

The author presents a short talk and a poem expressing how to bring a man into Freemasonry. We cannot recruit, but we can certainly inspire, and that is what we must focus on: Are we setting a good example that would make a man want to be more like us?

This historical paper, although having little to do with Freemasonry, gives extensive details about the numerous explorers and settlers who visited America before Columbus. It fills in a few gaps in history that many of us didn't learn about in school.

This biography of George Washington, our first President, offers several interesting aspects about his life. The author suggests we should share this information about George Washington with each new generation, to restore him as a role model for Americans.

The author uses multiple sources to describe the building of the Tabernacle by Moses and his people after leaving Egypt. The Tabernacle was erected in the desert, and held the Ark of the Covenant. The Tabernacle served as a model for King Solomon's Temple. The paper also details the various kind of offerings that were made.

The author examines four prayers from our ritual, line by line, and explains the symbolism found in each line and how we should apply the meaning to our daily lives.

In this short but well-written paper, the author tells us of the importance of the tools that we use in Operative Masonry, and relates it to how we need to find better tools to improve ourselves in Speculative Masonry: Finding a quality square, or role model, on how to improve ourselves; and then how to be a better quality square for others to look up to.

This is our first research paper from Virginia Research Royal Arch Chapter. The speaker recounts numerous examples of women who were initiated into Freemasonry, in some cases within regular Grand Lodges.

The author presents a detailed biblical history of the story of Joseph, which leads into the story of Moses, and the Exodus of the Jews from slavery in Egypt. He provides multiple examples of real-world explanations for the various plagues depicted in this story, and the acts of Moses during their Exodus, such as manna, crossing the Red Sea,  and bringing water from a rock. The author concludes with how the story of Moses is relevant to Masonry.

The author presents a history of Brother and President William McKinley during the Civil War and afterwards. He alternates in his presentation between speaking as himself and speaking as McKinley.

In this paper, the author goes into great detail about the origins of Rosicrucianism and their belief. He asserts that Rosicrucians were quite involved in the evolution of Speculative Masonry and that our organizations have much closer ties than the average Mason would assume. The annexes provide even more information about the philosophy of the Rosicrucians.

King Athelstan begins the Constitution of Masonry as adopted by the Grand Lodge of Virginia in 1791. This paper will discuss the historical Athelstan, his lasting influence on English history and explore his legendary ties to the Masonic fraternity.

In this short paper, the author proposes that the earliest Freemasons were Stone Masons working under a Benedictine Monk, building an Abbey in Wyermouth. England.

The author addresses the question of how many Lodges are required to form a new Grand Lodge. The general opinion is three Lodges, but he cites other examples, even one where no Lodges were involved at all.

The original paper on the history of the Virginia Craftsmen, a group of Virginia Masons who dressed in Civil War uniforms and conferred Masonic Degrees in Virginia, other states, and other countries. Based on  "Brotherhood in Action!" by Allen E. Roberts.

The author examines the Ancient Landmarks as set down by Albert C. Mackey, and the opinions of Albert Pike with regard to those Landmarks. Pike disputes nearly every Landmark cited by Mackey, and gives reason for his opposition to them.

In short, the Ancient Landmarks are only as ancient as the forming of the first Grand Lodge and England, and rely on the customs established after that Grand Lodge was founded, such as the existence of a Grand Master and the conferring of the Master Mason degree.

In this short presentation, the author recalls being asked to provide a short talk in another Lodge, and he chooses to talk about Hephaestus, or Vulcan. He compares the origin story of Hephaestus, the first blacksmith of Man, to another artificer well-known to Masons.

In this paper, the author compares the teachings of Eastern Mysticism with the symbols found in our Masonic ritual. He draws numerous comparisons which would encourage you to see our symbols in a completely different light.

This short paper explores the Jewels of a Master Mason: Friendship, Morality and Brotherly Love. It explains what a jewel actually means and how we are supposed to behave as Brothers.

In this paper, we explore the origins and teachings of Sufism, one of the two prominent strains of Islam.

Sufism is entry into exemplary behavior and departure from unworthy behavior.

The Sufi is single in essence; nothing changes him, nor does he change anything.

Sufism means that you own nothing and are owned by nothing.

A humorous admonition to keep Lodge meetings interesting and enjoyable, and not settle for simply reading the minutes and going home.

A brief biography of the many accomplishments of William Moseley Brown, who served as Grand Master, Grand High Priest, and Grand Commander of Virginia; in addition to being active in many other Masonic bodies.

This paper, presented in 2002, presents a brief history of the nation of Ghana, as well as a detailed history of how Freemasonry came to this African nation, the home of the Author. He points out that Ghana at the time is tied to the Grand Lodges of England, Ireland, and Scotland; and has not yet formed it's own Grand Lodge. Of the 107 Lodges chartered in Ghana under these three Grand Lodges, there are quite a number of specialized ones, including Research Lodges; Old School Lodges, Professional Lodges, and Installed Masters' Lodges.

The Grand Lodge of Ghana was founded on 24 January 2009, a number of years after this paper was presented.

Excerpts from a book commissioned by the Grand Lodge of Virginia about the History of Freemasonry. Provides interesting anecdotes of Masons and Lodges in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

The author addresses the often-posed question of which American Grand Lodge is the oldest. He reviews the claims of Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts.

This paper presents the history of several degrees: Knight of the Sword, Knight of the East, and Knight of the East and West, which were originally presented in Scotland by Royal Arch Masons; and then became the Grand Council of Knight Masons. The author describes the progress of establishing Councils in North Carolina, which leads to forming a Grand Council of Knight Masons in America.

The author examines the approach of Judaism, Islam, and Christianity towards charity, and poses the questions:
What is charity?
Is charity a universal moral value?
Is charity an innate virtue?
What if charity was not a good thing?

Discusses the secret societies that populated America at the turn of the last century, how most have disappeared and all that Masonry has to say for itself is that it is still here.

Explains the history of Prince Hall Masonry, the moral standards demanded by Prince Hall Masons of their members, and concludes with the current recognition of the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Virginia.

In this paper, the author provides an overview of the formation of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia. He then explores the growth of several lodges in the DC area, particularly those within the area of Northern Virginia that was originally ceded to form the city of Washington, and later returned to Virginia. The formation of Lodges during this period and later during the Civil War had some interesting consequences.

The author describes his early experience using the Internet and provides helpful tips on searching the web. Although many of the links are now outdated, this paper is a useful instruction for someone who is not familiar with the Internet and wants to search for information online.

The Patrons of Husbandry (The Grange) is a fraternal organization for farmers established by Oliver Hudson Kelley, a farmer and Mason. This paper explores how the lessons of our Fraternity could be redone using farm implements instead of stonemason tools.

This paper delves into the history of religion in Virginia shortly before and after the Revolutionary War. The Church of England was the most prominent denomination, and Protestants who belonged to other denominations, although still Christians, were mistreated and fined for practicing their faith. The paper does not relate to Masonry per se, but provides a backdrop of our Virginia history to consider when researching Masonry at our Grand Lodge's founding.

The author addresses an issue that is often discussed in Masonic circles: The decline in membership. The reason most assume is due to death by WWII era Masons, but the reality is most Masons quit within four years, or are suspended NPD, because they are not satisfied with their Masonic experience. He recommends ways to counter this trend by ensuring new Masons find what they want within Masonry and remain active among us.

This presentation is different from any other we have previously published in our Transactions. It was originally prepared as a PowerPoint slide show. The author narrated the presentation when it was originally done in the Lodge, but the author did not submit either the narrative or any slide notes to accompany the presentation. Unfortunately, no one in the lodge took any notes either during the presentation. However, it was a very interesting presentation (although there does not appear to be any direct connection to Masonry) and the slides are presented for your review.

There is no clear explanation as to why we use the terms "Freemasonry" and "Masonry" interchangeably. The author provides a brief exploration of the uses of the term "Free" throughout history, and provides several possible reasons why it became attached to Masonry.

In this paper, the author reflect on a topic many Masons have lamented about: The decline in membership since World War II. He then addresses the overall lack of Masonic Education within our Lodges, and the importance of ensuring that every Mason, not just new members, be more informed about Masonry. Finally, he addresses the vital importance of Research Lodges in filling this void of Masonic Education and makes several recommendations for Research Lodges to adopt.

A well-researched biography of the life, work, and Masonic career of one of the most famous Virginia Masons, John Dove. He served as Grand Secretary/Recorder of the Grand Lodge, Grand Royal Arch Chapter, and Grand Commandery.

This is a book review of "Seven Habits Of Highly Effective People"
by Dr. Stephen Covey. The reviewer takes these seven points and frames them in a way they can be applied to Masonry, and thus become Highly Effective Masons.

In this brief presentation, the author addresses the issue of what a Worshipful Master can and should do with himself when he leaves the East. He also mentions the Past Masters Association of the District of Columbia as a good example of how to keep Past Masters plugged in and supporting their Lodges.

A letter from Washington explaining why he became a Mason, his Royal Arch membership, his Honorary Membership, and his appointment as Grand Master AND General Grand Master.

Also presented to A. Douglas Smith Lodge of Research No. 1949 on 7/31/1999.

This paper examines the decline in our Lodges, how we sell Masonry too cheap and offer little to new members, and how this is not a recent problem. The author discusses Traditional Observance Lodges in Australia and Canada and asks why they wouldn't work here in America.

A brief discussion of the several Research Lodges in Virginia, using Rt. Wor. Paul Bessel's guide to research papers with an explanation of using that guide.

This is a book review of "The Murdered Magicians, The Templars And Their Myths" By Dr. Peter Partner. The Magicians in question refer to the Knights Templar, who were accused of black magic and witchcraft by the Inquisition. The review explores the reason for these charges and examines the infighting between King Phillip the Fair and several popes leading up to the execution of Jacques DeMolay. The book puts a bit of a different spin on a story that many Masons and DeMolays are quite familiar with.

In this paper, the author presents several classic myths from various cultures and compares and contrasts them to the Hiramic legend as presented in Freemasonry.

This paper provides details of how the Civil War affected the activities of Winchester Hiram Lodge, including a visit from a well-known Masonic President, William McKinley. The author describes the beautiful Masonic frescoes painted in the lodge room.

The author examines the origins and similarities between the The Royal Arch Of Solomon, the 13th Degree as conferred in the Scottish Rite, and the The Royal Arch Of Zerubbabel, or just the Royal Arch Degree, as conferred as the final degree of the Royal Arch Chapter in the York Rite.

The author lists ten points that will improve your ability to research and write an effective paper about any Masonic subject. This paper is a "how-to" on gathering information and organizing it. It should be read by everyone who wants to start writing a research paper.

Another paper, Research Lodges by Wor. John Shroeder, was delivered in June of 2000 based on this paper.

This paper consists of two things: a report on an experiment in Masonic education undertaken in January 1996 at Widow's Sons' Lodge in Charlottesville, and a rationale for an ethic of self-improvement as revealed in the experience of our second degree.

The author examines the origins of the square and compasses, how they have appeared numerous times in history before the first Lodges were even formed, how few Masons understand their true meaning, and how we should use them today.

What are the lessons taught by the Masonic degrees and how can we apply them to our daily lives?

The author talks about the upcoming Y2K scare and explores several "double-zero" issues he sees in Masonry that need to be addressed.

An in-depth look at Masonic Tracing Boards and their symbolism, which demonstrates that Freemasonry is a profoundly noble view of humankind, which deserves to be taught once again.

This paper provides more light on the history of Mary Ball Washington, the mother of George Washington. The author makes the claim that Mary deserves credit for saving George Washington and in effect, saving our country.

The author speaks about the Underground Railroad and intends to draw connections to Masonry, but in the end he simply says, "Of course Masons would have been involved", without providing any evidence. He also speaks about how the Cotton Gin affected the treatment of slaves and postulates how slavery might well have ended on it's own without the Civil War.

Selections from a new book detailing the 200 year history of the Lodge, including four Grand Masters, interactions with Presidents and Civil War Generals, and community leaders. Also discusses Moon Lodges, of which over 200 Virginia Lodges once were.

In this paper, the author introduces the Greek philosopher Plotinus and his thinking on whether God has limitations. He then expands on neo-Platonism, and puts forth an argument that this philosophy is expressed mathematically in the English Royal Arch Degree, especially with regard to the Triple Tau and the five Platonic Bodies.

The author begins by noting that Freemasonry faces several challenges and has very vocal critics. He then identifies those critics, and the very reason why they are so set against us. Finally, he lays out a plan of action that tackles this difficult problem, while holding onto the ideals without which, we would ceased to be Freemasonry and become something else altogether.

A detailed description of the tabernacle, or tent, used by Moses to house the Ark of the Covenant while in the desert; and the rich designs of Solomon's Temple which was built as its permanent home.

The author provides an explanation of why symbolism is used to hide a deeper meaning and provides several examples outside of Masonry. He then delves into some of our better known symbols and shares some of those deeper meanings. Far from being hidden truths, most of what he presents is openly explained in our public and private ceremonies.

An explanation of how Freemasonry increased dramatically in England during the 18th and 19th centuries and the attraction it held for the middle class.

This paper explores the various colors used in Blue Lodges and in our appendant bodies, and the symbolic meanings. It also delves into Jung's theory that man has developed an intellectual conscious mind that hides our primitive, emotional unconscious mind. By joining the two together, we reach a higher state of being.

Describes in depth the charges leveled against Masonry by various religious organizations and handily refutes them.  Recommends that Brothers should speak out and defend the craft.

This short paper contains commentary on the namesake of the Lodge of Research (NOT a Research Lodge), the process of writing a research paper, how the Shrine is not a Masonic Order but an organization of Masons, whether a Master may make innovations in Masonry, and finally about the misuse of "Worshipful Master" as opposed to simply "Master of the Lodge" or "Master in 1996".

A history of Masonic flasks manufactured by glass works and popular in the early 1800s. Also provides details about the Anti-Masonic party and its possible cause of the decline of their use.

This short presentation by Mt. Wor Robey describes the efforts he made to obtain a up-to-date chart of all Grand Lodges in the world and which Grand Lodges they recognized.

This short presentation by Mt. Wor Robey was the second one that evening, where he continues his topic of recognition and explores what defines a Regular Lodge and a Regular Grand Lodge and the process by which Grand Lodges recognize each other. He also gives a brief history of where recognition of Grand Lodges became complicated, such as after World War II when Freemasonry emerged after being banned by Axis powers.

Brother Robert Springer, a career Air Force Officer, recounts the numerous opportunities that Masonry and military service offered him in his life, and calls on all Masons to provide that opportunity to those who should join us.

Mt. Wor. Fletcher, Past Grand Master of Vermont, recounts selected works from the prolific writer Allen E. Roberts following his untimely death. He speaks of the efforts of the Masonic Information Center to keep Masons informed about our history.

A fond tribute to the life and work of Allen E. Roberts, a prolific Masonic author and long-time Secretary of Virginia Research Lodge.

A biography of one of our most famous Masons, Benjamin Franklin, his early years, his service to our country, and his Masonic career.

This short paper covers a blend of items recently discussed during refreshment, after a meeting of the A.D. Smith, Jr., Lodge of Research, on the general topic of "Recognition". We thought that you too might be interested in the subject. So, we developed a list of definitions, compiled our views, and packaged them together with an index of authoritative sources for further inquiry, research, and profitable discussion.

This paper examines three popular tracing boards from the 19th century that were used in Masonic Lodges as part of the degrees. The author explains the symbolism and metaphysical significance of the images used in these tracing boards.

This presentation is a well-planned discussion of three potentially controversial issues, where the "pro" and "con" for each issue is presented. It would be a good program for a Lodge that would allow any number of members to read a part and participate.

This well-crafted paper discusses using the Trestleboard to build Solomon's Temple, to form the Grand Lodge of England, and in our Lodges today. Enumerating the Ancient Landmarks, whether they should be enumerated or still considered Landmarks at all.

This well-researched paper presents evidence that Abraham Lincoln was well aware of Masonry and was approached on numerous occasions about becoming a Mason. It also notes the various Masons in Lincoln's circle, and that every candidate for President in 1860 was a Mason save Lincoln. It also gives several reasons why he declined to petition, but it is likely he would have after completing his time as President, had he not been assassinated.

The author compares Northern and Southern English with humorous results, explains the importance of reaching younger Masons and ensuring we bring about necessary change together, and provides several examples of Masons living up to their obligations.

This is a a two-act play with narrations on the formation of the Grand Lodge of Virginia. It is meant to be performed before a Lodge, preferably in costume, with sections that may be narrated to the Lodge.

Wor. King, a Canadian Mason, gives a detailed history of the ties between Masonry and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, including his lifetime fascination with the RCMP.

The Grand Master of Masons in Virginia spoke on the membership crisis we are experiencing and described the twenty three point plan he instituted to address it.

At one time, Virginia Research Lodge issued Quarterly Bulletins to its members. In the 1994 Transactions, a sampling of these Bulletins from previous years were included.  They were written by Allen E. Roberts (the Secretary) unless otherwise noted. They are presented here as a "bonus" research paper.

The author presents 15 Masonic Lectures transcribed by Dr. Desagulier in 1719, used by the Grand Lodge of England. The author speculates that these lectures were the source of the lectures given at the end of the three degrees in the Blue Lodge.

The speaker gave off-the-cuff remarks, presenting a brief overview of the persecution of Masons during WW2, which led to a lengthy discussion by the members present about Anti-Masonry. An Addendum with more details was provided in the Transactions, and has been included here.

The author examines the reason for our decline in membership, and asserts we must focus on quality, not quantity. A great organization that demands more will attract great men, while an organization that lowers its standards to match society must die out, and deservedly so.

The author refutes the charges made against Freemasonry on the Southern Maryland Christian Information System (SMCIS) electronic bulletin board in 1994. These allegations rely on taking numerous passages by Albert Pike and other Masonic authors out of context to make their argument, that Masonry is secretly a Satanic cult and incompatible with being a Christian.

The author makes the argument that early Masonry did indeed evolve from operative stonemasons into our speculative art, and that right up until the formation of the Grand Lodge of England, all Masons were required to be Christians. This requirement has evolved over time into simply requiring a belief in a Supreme Being.

A presentation (requires several actors) to be given in a Lodge explaining how to receive a visitor to your Lodge. This would be a fun and educational program for a Lodge to present.

This paper details the findings of two select committees, of the Grand Lodge of Virginia, and of Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777, who were tasked to determine the true name of our Grand Lodge. It also explores the validity of the term "Ancient Free and Accepted Masons" when our Lodges have no claim to that term.

The author, who produced a film for the bicentennial of our grand lodge, gives us insight in to the various workings and missteps that when into producing this historic event.

This paper detailed the incredible efforts by the Grand Lodge of Colorado, specifically Past Grand Master Roger Williams Woodbury, to plan and execute the Centennial Memorial observation for Brother and President George Washington in 1899. This memorial was coordinated among all the U.S. Grand Lodges.

In this paper, the author asserts that we need to make Masonic education the focus of our Lodges. If we do not strike a light in the hearts of the new members who joined our Lodge, then they will fall away from Masonry. In addition, the younger members are usually the source of new petitions, so it is doubly important.

In this paper, the author describes in detail various versions of the ritual that are hundreds of years old noting how much the ritual has changed throughout the years. He also makes an argument for the now discredited theory that our craft evolved from operative trade lodges and guilds in Europe into what is now known as Freemasonry.

This paper provides a detailed history of the Regius Poem, also known as the Hollowell Manuscript, the earliest document confirmed to have been written about the formation of Masonic Lodges. The author prefaces the history with his own speculation about how this document originated, as the true origin of this famous document is still unclear.

This is another paper addressing the attacks upon Freemasonry by the Southern Baptist convention and other evangelical Christian churches. The author in exquisite detail lays out the lies 1/2 truths and misquoting used by our religious enemies to reveal the truth about Freemasonry.

The author tackles the common misconception by anti-Masonic writers that our craft is devoted to Paganism by twisting the words of Mackey and Pike. He explains the similarities and offers a more reasonable conclusion.

The author continues to investigate claims from earlier research papers about the origins of the Grand Master's Jewel, whether it was actually crafted for George Washington, and when it was first used. This is the third research paper in Virginia Research Lodge on this subject.

This paper is a biography of the life of John the Baptist, drawing on both biblical and historical sources. It attempts to justify why John the Baptist is one of our patron saints, and how his life reflects Masonic principles.

This paper addresses the problem of various religious groups that condemn Masonry as being a false religion, when in truth we do not claim to be a religion at all. The author recommends steps we should take to defend our craft against these unfounded allegations.

A play presented by the Alexandria Scottish Rite that explores the popular theory of how Masons had taken an active role in the Boston Tea Party in 1773, even to go so far as to planning the execution of the raid within a Masonic Lodge.

This paper explores the origin, pronunciation, and meaning of two words in our craft: Hele, and Lewis.

The concept of a Grand Lodge having sovereign jurisdiction of all Lodges that fall within their prescribed territory is known as "The American Doctrine". The author provides detailed examples of exceptions to the doctrine, as well as conflicts between different Grand Lodges over several issues. It concludes with an analysis of the current state of recognition of Prince Hall Grand Lodges in America.

This paper explores the various papal bulls issued by the Catholic Church condemning Freemasonry and denying Catholics the opportunity to join. It details numerous incidents where the Church has attacked Freemasonry as a Satanic organization that seeks to subvert and overthrow the Church, and forbids its members from being or remaining Masons.

This is an edited version of an address given by the author of Born in Blood, John J. Robinson, to Virginia Research Lodge. He goes into great detail about the central premise of his book and justifies his conclusions about the origin of our craft. He talks at length about the Catholic Church and the reasons they were and are so opposed to Freemasonry. He then answered several questions from the Lodge.

This paper address the greatest deficiency in Freemasonry: the lack of proper Masonic education. In modern Masonry, we rely entirely on ritual and do not make an effort to teach our members what Masonry is about, where it came from, and why they became a Mason in the first place.

A literary review of two of Mozart's operas that have Masonic references. The first, "The Magic Flute", is much better known as having Masonic symbolism, while the other is "The Abduction From the Seraglio". An interesting exploration of how Mozart wove not only Masonic initiation ceremonies, but how a Mason should act in his daily life, into his work.

This paper is a detailed biography of a Past Grand Master of Virginia and a Supreme Court Justice of the United States, John Marshall. It describes his early years, his marriage to his wife, his military career and his lengthy service to the craft.

Mt. Ex. Weir presents a paper on the history of the Catholic Church with regards to Masonry and the roots of their condemnation of our craft. He then explores the Royal Arch ritual referring to "Ju-Bal-On" and whether we should change our ritual to longer reference pagan deities, a major source of contention among religious groups for Masonry.

This paper was also presented in A. Douglas Smith Jr. Lodge of Research No. 1949 on Aug 31st 1991.

This paper addresses the topic of discrimination, not in the negative sense of racial discrimination, but in the positive sense of how Masons must be discriminating in the quality of men we let join the Fraternity and be discriminating in our behavior.

This paper explores the origins of the Holy Bible, one of the Three Great Lights in Masonry. The author explains how Masons had a role to play in the creation of the King James version of the Bible.

A detailed biography of Charles Lindbergh, the first pilot to fly a solo flight across the Atlantic. Details his upbringing, his famous flight, his time as an engineer, the kidnapping of his son, and his unfortunate endorsement of Nazi Germany which tarnished his public reputation. Little is said of his Masonic life other than joining a lodge at 24 years old.

This paper explores the history of Jews entering Freemasonry and the resistance they encountered in being accepted into the Fraternity. It also describes the similarities between us and the persecution that Masonry and Jews experienced together, back in history and also in modern times.

This paper provides great detail about the cornerstone laying of Central College in Charlottesville, which becomes the University of Virginia. Present were three U.S. Presidents, including Thomas Jefferson. The author then explores the rumor that Jefferson was a Mason, and ends up concluding that he was not based all evidence available.

In the late 1800s, a movement was afoot to bring black men into our Grand Lodges, which met with a good deal of resistance. This paper reveals the history of Alpha Lodge in New Jersey and an early attempt to integrate American Masonry.

This paper examines the idea that George Washington was asked to be the first General Grand Master of the United States, and he declined. The author recommends strongly that all U.S. Grand Lodges should form a General Grand Lodge to act as a single voice for American Masonry when speaking with the profane world.

This Position Paper recalls the origins of the role of District Deputy Grand Master within the Grand Lodge of Virginia. It discusses whether the true purpose of the DDGM is no longer followed, and if the role is just an empty title. It also proposes a way to correct this problem and restore the role to it's rightful place within the Grand Lodge.

This paper speaks very critically of the problems we are facing in Masonry and the lack of vision and leadership from the Grand Officers of the Grand Lodge. He presents several recommendations to deal with these problems and highlights Mt. Wor. Cobbs' plans submitted in 1989 to address these issues.

The following is the transcript of a roast of our Lodge Secretary, Rt. Wor. Allen E. Roberts. This event occurred at our Annual Stated in 1988, in place of a research paper. Brother Roberts was completely unaware of the event until he was called up. The first speaker was George B. Yeates.

This paper explores the real or imagined historical origins of the Hiramic legend from the Master Mason Degree. It delves into the purpose of the legend and what it tries to teach us.

This paper delves into the idea of change in Masonry, and how resistant Masons are to the very notion of change, even to save our organization.

This paper concerns itself with the report,"Guidance to Methodists on Freemasonry," presented at the 1985 Methodist Conference in England. The report charges that Masonry is incompatible with Methodism and that Methodists who are Masons or might become one should reconsider.

A preface to the first Volume of Transactions for A. Douglas Smith Lodge of Research No. 1949. This is the first of many documents provided by that Lodge for our archives.

This paper is an overview of the history of Masonry within the country of France. It lists the major grand bodies that govern French Masons.

This paper chronicles the George W. Wright Memorial Tubercular Pavilion at the Blue Ridge Sanatorium in Charlottesville, Virginia. The money raised by Virginia Masons for this act of charity is only exceeded by our Masonic Home.

A presentation including George Washington and Benjamin Franklin about the events of the writing of the Constitution in 1787. This presentation was originally presented at Elmer Timberman Lodge #54.

This paper is a detailed study of the history and degrees of the Royal Arch Chapter, which in Virginia contains the Cryptic Degrees as well as the degree of the Holy Royal Arch.

A critical review of the THE BROTHERHOOD by Stephen Knight. The author (of the book) is quite critical of Freemasonry and indulges several conspiracy theories not based on fact. The author of the paper addresses these ideas and explains once again how Masonry is NOT a religion.

The author was on the Long Range Planning Committee for the Grand Lodge. His paper asks the question, "To be a Mason, or not to be a Mason?" Are we doing everything we can to make Masonry what it needs to be? If not, then it is for all of us to "Bring the line up to the standard!"

An analysis of the several Masons who participated in drafting the U.S. Constitution. Examines the political and philosophical influence of the newly formed Grand Lodge of England, and how these Masons did and did not use their Masonic experience in writing this first of it's kind document for the government of a new nation.

Rt. Wor. Roberts was the author of the column "Through Masonic Windows" which appeared in two different Masonic publications for a number of years. He was asked to compile a list of his best columns to present as a paper.

This paper researches the origin of the proper noun "On" from Royal Arch ritual and finds a possible answer in ancient Egypt.

A useful guide for a Mason interested in beginning to write research papers. Explains the fame of mind necessary, and details the various steps of gathering information, creating a bibliography, and developing a writing style for articles.

This paper explores the question, "Does Masonry still have a purpose in today's society?" The answer is a resounding yes, and the follow up question is, "What are you doing, TODAY, to bring that about?"

A history of Chamberlain’s life as a school teacher, a Mason, a highly decorated Civil War General, and four-time Governor of the state of Maine.

A memoriam in honor of A. Douglas Smith Jr.

This paper explores the concept of a "Perfect Cubit" used to build King Solomon's Temple. A cubit is a measurement of a man's arm, and there was no consistent length of a cubit among the different workmen of the Temple. Paper also presented in A. Douglas Smith Lodge that same year.

This paper offers several symbolic meanings of the Square and Compasses as displayed on the Bible, including exactly how many degrees wide the Compasses are supposed to be and the reason for such.

In light of the dramatic loss of membership in Grand Lodges nationwide, a very aggressive proposal of how to take action to correct this loss and return Masonry to its previous prominence in society.

The tragically short history of the Poet Laureate of Scotland, Robert Burns. He is perhaps our most famous Masonic poet.

This paper goes into great detail describing the effort made to build King's Solomon Temple.  There are many impressive details of the exquisite work that went into crafting this historic building, which is of great significance to all Master Masons.

The author provides details of the Grand Chapter initiative "Program For Progress" from the 1960s to improve membership and retention in Royal Arch Chapters across Virginia. The program stressed attracting new Masons to Royal Arch, getting current members more involved, and visiting our youth groups as the key to success. The paper was presented in 1985 about a program from the 1960s but the ideas would still be useful to employ today.

An analysis of rods and staffs in biblical and human history, and a brief program that illustrates how the movement of the Stewards and Deacons form our Masonic symbols.

An analysis of the reasons for the decline in membership in the Fraternity, tying it to the austerity of those who lived through the Great Depression and the enormous influx of members following World War II. The author suggests a dramatic increase in dues to resolve the issue and restore our Lodges to their proper state.

This paper chronicles the history of the Valley Royal Arch School, established by the Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Virginia to teach the ritual of the Royal Arch Degrees. It lists the various leaders and significant events of its 87 year history at the time the paper was written.

A thorough study of the origins of Virginia Ritual, from our Mother Grand Lodges through the forming of the Grand Lodge of Virginia to the establishment of the Committee on Work and Grand Lecturers.

A detailed history of the oldest Masonic building in the United States, Masons' Hall, in Richmond. Originally the home of the first Lodges in Richmond, it is still in continuous use, and is nearly as old as the city of Richmond itself.

In this extensive research paper, the author provides a detailed history of the origins of the Grand Royal Arch Chapter in Massachusetts. He provides details about the structure of the Grand Line and the operations of the individual Royal Arch Chapters. He also contrasts and compares to Royal Arch Masonry in Virginia.

The author discusses the exoteric/external, the structure and ritual of our craft; and the esoteric/internal, the hidden meaning behind the ritual and symbolism. He discusses the origins of Freemasonry and our ties to the Rosicrucians.

In this paper, the author provides an extensive history of the use of aprons by operative masons and other craftsmen. He also provides references from the Bible about aprons and how significant the apron was to other cultures. The paper has several references to the apron as it appears in our ritual, and concludes with an admonition to Masons to be careful of the public perception of our actions.

An explanation of how speculative Masons began to join operative Lodges, and brief biographies of prominent Masons in the English nobility.

An analysis of the several conventions to form the Grand Lodge of Virginia and why George Washington was not asked to serve as our first Grand Master.

This paper shares the biography of a career High School Principal who served as Grand High Priest of Virginia. His colorful personality and non-nonsense educational style left an impression on several decades of Portsmouth students and citizens.

This was the first research paper presented to Virginia Research Royal Arch Chapter No. 1753. The author provides extensive details about the importance of the arch in early architecture, and how its use greatly influenced both operative and speculative Masonry. He also provides some insight into the rift between the Antients and Moderns in the early Grand Lodges of England.

A brief story of the first Tool Engineer and the first Tool Engineering Educator, Tubal Cain.

A detailed history of John Coustos, who was tortured by the Inquisition to obtain Masonic secrets. Information is provided about the many famous Masons in the Lodges he was a member and Master of.

The author examines the Lodges of Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia that are found within the Beltway of Washington, D.C. He highlights their numerous problems and recommends a possible solution.

An excerpt from an installation by the Grand Master of India, presented as advice to any Masonic leader on how to rule and govern.

Off-the-cuff comments by the Grand Lecturer of Connecticut on common Masonic folklore reprinted in magazines, such as the number of Masons who signed the Declaration of Independence. Most are factually incorrect.

The author examines the problems of Centralization, Legalization, Idolization and Depersonalization that threaten Freemasonry. He suggests the antidote is Fraternalization, if we are strong enough to take it.

An in-depth analysis by a Past Grand Master of the lack of the Grand Lodge, Chapter, and Commandery to utilize research lodges to their full effectiveness and suggestions for improvement of research in general in Virginia Masonry.

The first paper presented in A. Douglas Smith Jr. Lodge of Research No. 1949, in honor of the Mason it was named for.

Past Grand Master A. Douglas Smith, Jr. elaborates on the legend of the Grand Master's jewel and his effort to disprove the common theory it was crafted for George Washington, when in truth it was made in 1911.

A detailed history of the origins of the Mother Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite and the growth of Scottish Rite Masonry in Virginia.

A study of George Washington and the battle of Yorktown, the climactic battle of the Revolutionary War. Also the centennial and bicentennial celebrations and the Grand Lodge's involvement.

Brethren, let us address ourselves to ways whereby we, as Freemasons, can help to bring about the dawn of a better day for ourselves, and, in so doing, a better day for all mankind.

That's all very good – but how?

A biography of a prolific and active Mason, not only a Grand Master, Grand High Priest, and Grand Generalissimo, but the only Most Illustrious Grand Master of the short-lived Grand Council of Cryptic Masons in Virginia.