Daniel Carter Beard

by Midnight Freemason Contributor

Jim Stapleton

Daniel Carter Beard was born on June 21, 1850, in Cincinnati, OH, to May Caroline (Carter) and James Henry Beard. He was the youngest of four sons and the fourth of six children. When he was still quite young, his family moved from Ohio to Kentucky. Daniel Carter Beard spent a great deal of time exploring nature as he grew up, developing a love of the outdoors. He especially admired the stories of the pioneers, and how their knowledge of nature allowed them to push westward. It was during these formative years that he learned woodcraft, handicraft, and other outdoor skills.

When the Civil War began, Beard’s father, his uncle, and his older brothers joined the Union Army. In the years that followed, young men of fighting age signed up to join the War. While Daniel Carter Beard and his friends were too young to fight in the Civil War. They continued to expand their knowledge of the outdoors, while their elders were off fighting. The group even learned useful skills from troops stationed nearby, like setting up camping equipment and cooking. 

The Civil War inspired Daniel Carter Beard to apply to the US Naval Academy. However, he wasn’t admitted. Instead, he enrolled in Worrall’s Academy in Covington, KY, and studied civil engineering. After graduating in 1869, Beard went to work in the surveying field. He found that he didn’t enjoy the work. In 1878, he decided to leave surveying and pivoted to working as an illustrator. 

He moved to New York to begin his new career. It was then that he began to write books for boys, in addition to creating illustrations. One of his best-known books was The American Boys’ Handy Book, published in 1882. He wrote the book after observing children in New York that lacked the same outdoor skills he learned as a child. He also wrote books on a variety of topics such as building shelters, signs, and signals, etc. In addition to writing his own books, Beard also illustrated books for Mark Twain and other authors.

Around the beginning of the 20th Century, there was a growing interest in the United States to get back to nature. Local, state, and national parks were created. A number of organizations focused on connecting youth with the outdoors were also formed. In 1905, Beard started one such youth organization - The Sons of Daniel Boone. His goal was to improve the experiences of children in the country and also to keep frontier skills alive.

This back-to-nature phenomenon wasn’t limited to the United States. Lord Robert Baden-Powell also wanted to create a youth program in England to promote outdoor skills. Baden-Powell studied several existing youth organizations, including The Sons of Daniel Boone. He combined ideas from The Sons of Daniel Boone with elements of his own military experience. This led to the creation of the Boy Scouts in England in 1908. Subsequently, the Boy Scouts of America formed in 1910, when Beard and other US-based youth organization leaders combined efforts.

Beard stayed active in Scouting for decades and eventually became a National Commissioner for the Boy Scouts of America. He conducted summer camp programs that incorporated woodcraft, handicraft, nature studies, and patriotic programs. Beard wrote regular columns in Boy’s Life magazine, where he communicated directly with the young men in the Scouting program. His dedication to the Scouting program led to him being referred to affectionately as “Uncle Dan.”

In addition to his affiliation with Scouting, Beard was also a Freemason. He was made a Mason in Mariner's Lodge No. 67 in New York City and later affiliated with Cornucopia Lodge No. 563 in Flushing, NY. Beard's involvement in Freemasonry had a significant impact on his work with the Boy Scouts of America. Many of the principles and values promoted by the Boy Scouts, like the importance of self-improvement, community service, moral and ethical behavior, are also core concepts of Freemasonry. Through Daniel Carter Beard’s efforts, these values have been instilled in young men for several generations.

To honor the work of Brother Beard, the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania created the Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouter Award in 2001. The award is administered by the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, in coordination with Scouts BSA (formerly known as the Boy Scouts of America). The award recognizes Master Masons who are currently registered as Scouters and have strengthened the relationship between the two organizations.

As Freemasons, we should continue to foster the resilient mindset that Daniel Carter Beard brought to the Scouting movement over a century ago. This can be done by supporting local Scouting units, welcoming the opportunity to assist Scouts working on service projects, helping to host Scouting events, etc. Our organizations have an intertwined history, and we should build upon that connection to develop our country’s future generation of leaders.

~JS

Sources:

“Daniel Carter Beard Scouter Award.” Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation, 2 Mar. 2023, https://pmyf.org/masonic-youth/scouts/daniel-carter-beard-scouter-award/. Kahler, William V. An 

Historical Analysis Of The Professional Career Of Daniel Carter Beard, 1850-1941, Texas A&M University, United States -- Texas, 1975.

McKeown, Trevor W. Daniel Carter Beard, https://freemasonry.bcy.ca/biography/beard_d/beard_d.html. 

Jim Stapleton is the Senior Warden of USS New Jersey Lodge No. 62. He is also a member of the New Jersey Lodge of Masonic Research and Education No. 1786. Jim received the Distinguished White Apron Award from the Grand Lodge of New Jersey. He was awarded the Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouter Award. Jim is also a member of the Society of King Solomon.

Unselfish Service to Country

by Senior Midnight Freemason Contributor
Gregory J. Knott 33° 

We gathered in the southeast corner of the Armory on the University of Illinois campus last month, to honor the latest two inductees to the University of Illinois Army ROTC Hall of Fame. On the wall were the pictures of previous inductees who were Illinois alumni and had made significant contributions while serving in uniform and protecting our freedom serving in conflicts from WW 2 to the recently concluded Iraq and Afghanistan wars. The two inductees on this particular day, were both veterans serving during the Vietnam Era Conflict.

Captain Fred Ranck was commissioned into the US Army in 1967 as an Infantry Officer serving in the 101st Airborne Division as a platoon leader and company commander. He served multiple tours in Vietnam and was a highly decorated combat veteran, earning two Silver Stars, three Bronze Stars with a “V” device for valor, four Purple Heart medals for combat wounds, two Air Medals, and two Vietnamese Crosses of Gallantry. He later also served his community as a Boy Scout leader and a lifetime member of the 101st Airborne Association where he has served as President.

The second inductee was Colonel Bennett Hart, who was commissioned as an Infantry Officer in the US Army in 1968 but served primarily in the Military Intelligence branch on active duty until 1972. He continued his service in the US Army Reserve for another 26 years. He commanded at the company, battalion, and brigade levels in the US Army Reserves. He later served as Deputy Director of Army Intelligence Agency during Desert Shield/Desert Storm and supported the development of the Army’s Force XXI equipped Blue Force Tracking into command and control of combat operations. He also served over 15 years in the Senior Executive Service aiding the Intelligence and National Security efforts in the Department of Defense. He has over 50 years total of supporting the defense of our nation.

I was extremely honored to witness both Captain Ranck and Col. Hart being inducted. I don’t know how you can adequately thank individuals who have done so much to ensure our freedom.

But this day was also extra special because it was due to Freemasonry that I got to know Bennett to begin with. We are both from the same county in Illinois, and both of us are actively involved in Scouting and are very active in Freemasons. It was thanks to a mutual friend that I met Bennett one time on a visit to Washington DC.

Midnight Freemason Founder Todd E. Creason 33° and I were participating in laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier during Masonic Week 2017. Bennett, who now lives in the Washington DC area and I were corresponding about meeting up with one another and decided to meet at the Arlington National Cemetery where we would be laying the wreath.

Thanks to Bennett, we were able to have the wreath-laying videoed and I later turned it into a Youtube video that can be seen here.

While Bennett and I shared much in common in our backgrounds such as the same basic hometown, both Eagle Scouts and involved in Scouting, and both involved in public service, we didn’t know each other. It was thanks to Freemasonry that we became friends. That powerful bond that transcends time, geographic boundaries, occupation, etc. is what sets Freemasonry apart from any other fraternal organization in the world.

~GJK

Gregory J. Knott, 33° is a founding member and Senior Contributor of the Midnight Freemasons blog. He is a Past Master of St. Joseph Lodge No. 970 in St. Joseph (IL) and a plural member of Ogden Lodge No. 754 (IL), Homer Lodge No. 199 (IL) and Naval Lodge No. 4 in Washington, DC. He’s a member of the Scottish Rite, the York Rite, Eastern Star and is the Charter Secretary of the Illini High Twelve Club No. 768 in Champaign-Urbana. He is also a member of ANSAR Shrine (IL) and the Eastern Illinois Council No. 356 Allied Masonic Degrees. Greg serves on the Board of Directors of The Masonic Society and is a member of the Scottish Rite Research Society and The Philathes Society. He is a charter member of a new Illinois Royal Arch Chapter, Admiration Chapter U.D., and serves as its Secretary. Greg is very involved in Boy Scouts—an Eagle Scout himself, he is a member of the National Association of Masonic Scouters.

The Passing of RWB Thomas W. Jackson

by Senior Midnight Freemason Contributor
Gregory J. Knott 33° 

On December 30, 2021, Masonic social media announced the passing of RWB Thomas W. Jackson.   What quickly followed was a large number of tributes and memories that brothers had reflecting upon the life and impact of RWB Jackson.  

If you are not familiar with RWB Jackson, he was the past Grand Secretary of the Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania.   He had also served as the first Executive Secretary of the World Conference of Regular Masonic Grand Lodges from 1998 to 2014.   He held numerous Masonic honors from around the world including as one of the Founding Fellows of The Masonic Society.

I met RWB Jackson a couple of times at Masonic Week.  When his book “Masonic Perspectives - The Thoughts of a Grand Secretary” was published, he was selling it at a table at Masonic Week.   I bought the book and asked him to autograph it for me.   

As I was flipping through the book, I noticed that he had written a couple articles on the topic of Scouting.   We had a conversation about the similarities between Scouting and Freemasonry.  RWB Jackson, like myself, is an Eagle Scout and has been involved in Scouting as both youth and adult leaders.   It was a fascinating conversation.  

In his book, he wrote about speaking at an Eagle Court of Honor offering some thoughts on the influence, and said:

“We cannot take a step in our lives without the influence of others.  We will be nothing more at any time than a reflection of the influence of others along with our modifications.  The poet Markham expressed it well when he wrote: ‘There is a destiny that makes us brothers.  None goes his way alone.  All that we send into the lives of others comes back into our own.’   So my brother Eagles, will you go beyond the ordinary?  It is possible but it is up to you.  Accept what scouting has to offer.  Learn!  Learn the meaning of the brotherhood of man, and give to others in equal measure what others have given to you.  Maybe, then just maybe, you may rise above the ordinary.”

Though RWB Jackson was speaking to young Eagle Scouts, his words are equally applicable to Freemasonry.   We are influenced by others and thereby we also influence others ourselves.   As Freemasons, we have a tremendous opportunity to use this ability to influence others to help improve our individual communities having a positive impact upon the lives of others. 

What will the legacy of RWB Jackson be?  His challenge to raise the bar of Freemasonry will endure for the decades to come.  I can’t think of a better way to honor the memory of RWB Jackson than by going out into your community having a positive influence on others, exerting kindness to your brothers, and helping your lodge become the very best it can be to impact all of mankind.

Rest in peace Brother.

~GJK

Gregory J. Knott, 33° is a founding member and Senior Contributor of the Midnight Freemasons blog. He is a Past Master of St. Joseph Lodge No. 970 in St. Joseph (IL) and a plural member of Ogden Lodge No. 754 (IL), Homer Lodge No. 199 (IL) and Naval Lodge No. 4 in Washington, DC. He’s a member of the Scottish Rite, the York Rite, Eastern Star and is the Charter Secretary of the Illini High Twelve Club No. 768 in Champaign-Urbana. He is also a member of ANSAR Shrine (IL) and the Eastern Illinois Council No. 356 Allied Masonic Degrees. Greg serves on the Board of Directors of The Masonic Society and is a member of the Scottish Rite Research Society and The Philathes Society. He is a charter member of a new Illinois Royal Arch Chapter, Admiration Chapter U.D., and serves as its Secretary. Greg is very involved in Boy Scouts—an Eagle Scout himself, he is a member of the National Association of Masonic Scouters.

A Scout is…A Freemason is

by Senior Midnight Freemason Contributor
Gregory J. Knott 33° 

Authors note:  I originally wrote this article in 2014 and have updated it with a few changes.  Since that time, I have remained an active Scouter.  I was proud to see my son Hayden earn his Eagle Scout award in 2020, as well as numerous other Scouts that we had in our Cub Scout Pack and Troop over the years, also earn their Eagle award.

I am even more convinced than I was in 2014, that what this country needs more of is: Scouting and Freemasonry. 

__________

As a Boy Scout, one of the first things I had to learn was the 12 points of the Scout Law.   I still say them often.  The Boy Scout Handbook¹ provides a brief description of what the 12 points mean to a Scout.  I wondered what they might read like if we applied them to Freemasonry.

 

 

A Scout is Trustworthy.

A Scout tells the truth. He is honest, and he keeps his promises. People can depend on him.

A Mason is a true and trusty brother, his bond is his word, and his brothers can count on him.

A Scout is Loyal.

A Scout is true to his family, friends, Scout leaders, school, and nation.

A Mason has a duty to God, his country, family, friends, neighbors and himself.

A Scout is Helpful.

A Scout cares about other people. He willingly volunteers to help others without expecting payment or reward.

A Mason practices faith, hope and charity.

A Scout is Friendly.

A Scout is a friend to all. He is a brother to other Scouts. He offers his friendship to people of all races and nations, and respects them even if their beliefs and customs are different from his own.

A Mason is always ready to extend his hand in friendship to a fellow Mason and contribute to the relief of our widows and orphans.

A Scout is Courteous.

A Scout is polite to everyone regardless of age or position. He knows that using good manners makes it easier for people to get along.

A Mason exemplifies a demeanor of respect towards his brothers.

A Scout is Kind.

A Scout knows there is strength in being gentle. He treats others as he wants to be treated. Without good reason, he does not harm or kill any living thing.

A Mason shows brotherly love to his brothers and exhibits a sincere kindness to all whom he meets. 

A Scout is Obedient.

A Scout follows the rules of his family, school, and troop. He obeys the laws of his community and country. If he thinks these rules and laws are unfair, he tries to have them changed in an orderly manner rather than disobeying them.

A Mason is loyal to his country, respects the rule of law and squares his actions by the square of virtue.

A Scout is Cheerful.

A Scout looks for the bright side of life. He cheerfully does tasks that come his way. He tries to make others happy.

A Mason greets a fellow brother with a smile, a firm handshake, and a warm greeting.

A Scout is Thrifty.

A Scout works to pay his own way and to help others. He saves for the future. He protects and conserves natural resources. He carefully uses time and property.

A Mason thrives to preserve the ancient usages and customs of the fraternity, yet is open to new ideas and means of growing our fraternity.

A Scout is Brave.

A Scout can face danger although he is afraid. He has the courage to stand for what he thinks is right even if others laugh at him or threaten him.

A Mason understands that wisdom, strength, and beauty are the pillars of a well-governed lodge.  He lives by a set of principles that set him apart from others in society, even if at times it may seem difficult to do so.

A Scout is Clean.

A Scout keeps his body and mind fit and clean. He chooses the company of those who live by high standards. He helps keep his home and community clean.

A Mason is pure in thought, words and deeds.  

A Scout is Reverent.

A Scout is reverent toward God. He is faithful in his religious duties. He respects the beliefs of others.

A Mason has a belief in God, living his life by that great book, and seeks the blessing of deity.  

¹ Excerpted from page 47-54, Boy Scout Handbook, 11th Edition,

(#33105), copyright 1998 by BSA, ISBN 0-8395-3105-2 

~GJK

Gregory J. Knott, 33° is a founding member and Senior Contributor of the Midnight Freemasons blog. He is a Past Master of St. Joseph Lodge No. 970 in St. Joseph (IL) and a plural member of Ogden Lodge No. 754 (IL), Homer Lodge No. 199 (IL) and Naval Lodge No. 4 in Washington, DC. He’s a member of the Scottish Rite, the York Rite, Eastern Star and is the Charter Secretary of the Illini High Twelve Club No. 768 in Champaign-Urbana. He is also a member of ANSAR Shrine (IL) and the Eastern Illinois Council No. 356 Allied Masonic Degrees. Greg serves on the Board of Directors of The Masonic Society and is a member of the Scottish Rite Research Society and The Philathes Society. He is a charter member of a new Illinois Royal Arch Chapter, Admiration Chapter U.D. and serves as its Secretary. Greg is very involved in Boy Scouts—an Eagle Scout himself, he is a member of the National Association of Masonic Scouters. You can contact him at gknott63@gmail.com

Regular Masonic Meetings Can't Compete

A Camp Masonry 2019 Recap 

by Midnight Freemason Contributor 

Robert H. Johnson

The Fort at night before the ritual.

What can I say about this years camp Masonry event? I can't believe it's been a year since I was last here at Camp Miakonda, one of the largest Boy Scout's camp in the United States.

This year was noticeably different from last year. How? Well, the Grand Lodge of Ohio was in greater number. Last year there was a conferral of a Mark Master degree and a Master Mason degree at the unique retreat. This year, there was a Grand Master's Class. There were approximately 42 new Master Masons made.

A- brief overview of the trip:

Arrival was wonderful, flying in to Toledo, OH. A very small airport that's probably a best kept secret. Initially I was going to fly in with Bro. Joe Martinez (Esotericon) but, he was caught up with a last minute meeting for work. Brothers Mike Helmbrecht and Jason Richards (TMR) picked me up from the airport. It was a brief 20 minute drive to camp. Once there, we were greeted by several Brothers from last year. After shaking hands with everyone, we made our way to the cabin, "Tindeuchen", our home for the next two days.

Me staring at the spider on the ceiling. Jason Richards
saved my life. 

I wont lie, I needed a nap. And apparently Jason Richards did too. After killing a few resident spiders, Jason and I passed out. I think we slept for about an hour, just enough for a quick recharge--Jason and I both had presentations that evening.

Upon waking up, Jason, Mike and I, along with about 20 other Masons met with Bro. Ken Alexander. Bro Ken led us through a unique exercise in conducting Masonic Edu.--An Exploration of Mackey's Masonic Encyclopedia.

Each of the men had to grab one book of either Mackey's Encyclopedia or the Illustrated History. I grabbed the History, since all copies of the Encyclopedia had been scooped up. Each of us would open to a random page, read, digest and report to the group on what they found, or read the entry and comment on it. I found something really interesting, something I will inevitably write about in the future #Religion #Christiansonly. After this, Mike Hambrecht gave an insightful presentation on how to be a killer LEO:. It was live streamed on the TMR FB page- Watch it HERE -- After this we enjoyed a great dinner together. 

I was up after dinner. This was the first time I had ever presented a speech--no slides. It was for an intimate crowd, while many went to an alternate activity-- the Shrine Ceremonial.

My speech was an attempt to realize the state of the Craft and to get men going again, to keep them going. I hope it had that effect. It too was live streamed on FB Live. Although I believe the audio was lacking, it came out okay. After this, Jason Richards gave the crowd a way to do research. He outlined all the best techniques to get started and solidify and state your points. After the Shrine Ceremonial was over, and the Edu. for the night was complete, there was an excellent time to get completely get caught up with each other on a personal level. Midway through the 11 o'clock hour, we got the text that Joe Martinez had landed--He made it!

One of the biggest and best surprises upon arriving at Camp Masonry was seeing Bro. Bill Short. Bill travels everywhere. So when it was time to go pick up Joe, he suggested we all go get him in his van. So Bill at the Helm, Jason, Mike, Chris Matty (OH), Brad "Northern-Kentucky Yoke" Drew and myself took off to get him.

After getting Joe, we went to "second dinner" at Steak and Shake. We eventually made our way back to camp and passed out. 

The next morning, we were up by 7:30 at the latest. Showers were on, toothbrushes were busy. Most importantly though, the coffee was on. After breakfast, the presentations began. We went all day. While the 42 candidates were getting their first 2 degrees, we were all busy presenting or taking notes on someone else's presentation.

By night fall the torches were all lit up as we processed down to the fort for the second section of the 3rd degree. Later, we ordered a pizza and had it delivered to the camp ground. Our cabin hosted about 8 or 9 Brothers. These were all guys I knew from travelling around for Masonic Edu. We sat around until almost 2 in the morning talking about the degree experiences. It was fantastic. 

The title of this piece is called, "Regular Masonic Meetings Can't Compete", because in comparison to things like Camp Masonry, there's just no contest. Make your lodge meetings this special and lets see what happens. That's my quick write up.

Just know it was amazing and that it's probably coming back next year, as long as Bro. Jason Shamy put's it together. Hey, Jason Shamy, "If you build it, we will come."

Thanks for reading, everyone!

~RHJ

RWB, Robert Johnson is the Managing Editor of the Midnight Freemasons blog. He is a Freemason out of the 1st N.E. District of Illinois. He currently serves as the Secretary of Spes Novum Lodge No. 1183 UD. He is a Past Master of Waukegan Lodge 78 and a Past District Deputy Grand Master for the 1st N.E. District of Illinois. Brother Johnson currently produces and hosts weekly Podcasts (internet radio programs) Whence Came You? & Masonic Radio Theatrewhich focus on topics relating to Freemasonry. He is also a co-host of The Masonic Roundtable, a Masonic talk show. He is a husband and father of four, works full time in the executive medical industry. He is the co-author of "It's Business Time - Adapting a Corporate Path for Freemasonry" and is currently working on a book of Masonic essays and one on Occult Anatomy to be released soon.

Camp Masonry 2018 Recap

by Midnight Freemason Contributor

Robert H. Johnson

"What in the world is Camp Masonry?", you may be asking. Well, I suppose before I tell you how it went, I'll tell you what it is. About three years ago, Bro. Jason Shamy and a group of close Brothers decided to do a camping trip together. Long story short, it's evolved into a huge thing. Two days at one of the largest campgrounds in America, cabins, tents, presenters, home cooked camp meals, fellowship and a few choice vendors. This year I had the opportunity to go and the honor to be a presenter. What I experienced was nothing short of what I can only describe as "a truly unique and definitive Masonic experience."

I arrived on Friday morning before the event took off. We pulled into the large parking lot of Camp Miakonda, the 6th largest camp in America and oldest in Ohio. It's a Boy Scout camp. The history at this camp was inspiring. I loaded my bags onto a cart and climbed aboard. We took a short cruise through a forest, over a bridge to a hollow where there stood a picnic ground, a large hall called "Council Lodge", the Ford Center and several small bunk house cabins.

The Council Lodge building was really nice. It's a round building which we were told used to have a fire pit in the middle and the roof would allow for ventilation. I'm unsure if it can still accommodate this feature, but it was amazing nonetheless. Walking around the camp grounds and familiarizing myself with the surroundings was a small adventure in itself. I soon met up with and made quick friends with Dan Hrinko, author of "The Craft Driven Lodge".  I'll spare you the details of our conversation and instead direct you to his awesome book linked above.

Later on I was able to set up my bunk. An old metal frame bunk with a vinyl pad, a sheet courtesy of Bro. Shamy and my sleeping bag...the one I borrowed from my 8 year-old son. I set out to explore more of the camp sight and meet new brothers. I met Nate, a thirty year-old Army Veteran who's looking to become a pilot. I met Bro. Ken, an educator by trade who had a knack for keeping us focused on the days first real task, a free form exploration of Mackey's Masonic Encyclopedia.

We sat around the park benches, we all had a copy of Mackey's and we arbitraraly flipped through pages until we found something of interest. We took turns reading the excerpts and discussing what we knew. Bro. Ken kept us on track. Before long it was time for the next agenda item, The Demolay Initiation.

I had never seen an initiation quite like it. They had a full slate of officers and lecturers perform the ceremony for six new members. I watched Masonic dads from around the room become very proud. Their sons were either performing the ritual or becoming initiated. It was a sight to see. Dinner followed and it was just a great time to eat and fellowship.

There were some brief remarks made by some Ohio VIPs and then I was up. I gave a presentation on Esoterics 101, what I refer to as part one of the Quantum series lectures. After this, it was 9:30 at night and it was time for the Mark Master degree. We began the walk down the trail through the dark forest, buzzing with nightlife noises. Frogs and bugs of all sorts provided the backdrop for a walk lit only by torches. The degree was put on in the "Fort", an enclosure with an open roof. The trees were all lit up red. Bro. Dave Bacon was one of three Brothers to become Companions. Full costumes and they had the A-Squad for the degree work.

The night wasn't over. We made our way back up the trail to camp where Bro. Albert H. McLelland provided us with an exclusive screening of Terra Masonica. If Albert sounds familiar, he is the creator and founder of MATSOL. After the movie, I headed off to bed, it was well after 1:00am.

Waking up at 7:30am and headed to the Council Lodge for a nice breakfast and to start out the days events. We once more made our way down to the Fort for the exemplification of the first section of the Master Mason degree. It was hot out. I had my black Camp Masonry shirt on and I had forgot my sunglasses in my bunk. A remarkable experience in any case. Next up, Lunch followed by a wonderful presentation by Bro. Jason Bryce.

Jason spoke about the varied symbolism within the letter G in our Craft lodges. He went into some deeper aspects of our spiritual work as Masons. I highly enjoyed his talk and found it edifying. Dan Hrinko, whom I had met the day before was the next presenter. We gathered outside and sat around picnik tables while he talked about Masonic experience and how to make it better. He outlined much of what his lodge, "Arts and Sciences" does and detailed it's success.

Next up was Dave Bacon who had quite the crowd. He spoke on how our individual experiences shape how we see symbols. He dove into the science of our brains, how we interpret things and as any good presenter will do, he made us all a little uncomfortable, a necessary part if we're to grow.

Bill Carter from the Grand Lodge of Ohio was the next to speak. He spoke at length about cellular technology, the ramifications for using it constantly, and how to counteract those consequences through fraternal means. It was my turn to present again, this time I spoke on the Tetragrammaton, or the ineffable name of God.

The Festive Board was the next thing on the agenda. Bro. Hrinko lead the evening with songs and toasts. The last speaker for the Festive Board was the Grand Master of Masons of Ohio, Eric R. Schau. WB Schau talked about his experience at the 300 event in UGLE. It was a great conversation.

After the Festive Board wrapped up it was time to take the "road to Eleusis", that trail lit only by torches once more, to the second section of the Master Mason degree. Arriving at the Fort again, this time in procession, and the trees were now lit by blue lights. It was a sight to behold. What followed, you can guess. Top-notch degree exemplification and a changed man.

On the road back to camp many of us said our goodbyes and went to bed. I awoke the next morning, packed up and flew home. Writing this, I cannot help but reminise on the new friendships, experiences and feeling I had over the weekend. I certainly hope anyone reading this will consider coming next year. There are few national Masonic events that are noteworthy. Most are filled with expensive dinners, endless introductions and programming aimed at raising charity funds. Those events are fine, but are not truly Masonic.

This was a Masonic event in every impart of the word. Education and Fellowship. No administrative tasks, no whining, no pomp just conversations which offered solutions. It was refreshing. Thanks to all who put on the event and to all my new friends. Until next year, Brothers!

~RHJ

RWB, Robert Johnson is the Managing Editor of the Midnight Freemasons blog. He is a Freemason out of the 1st N.E. District of Illinois. He currently serves as the Secretary of Waukegan Lodge No. 78 where he is a Past Master. He is also a Past District Deputy for the 1st N.E. District of Illinois. Brother Johnson currently produces and hosts weekly Podcasts (internet radio programs) Whence Came You? & Masonic Radio Theatre which focus on topics relating to Freemasonry. He is also a co-host of The Masonic Roundtable, a Masonic talk show. He is a husband and father of four, works full time in the executive medical industry and is also an avid home brewer. He is the co-author of "It's Business Time - Adapting a Corporate Path for Freemasonry" and is currently working on a book of Masonic essays and one on Occult Anatomy to be released soon.

National Scout Jamboree

by Senior Midnight Freemason Contributor

WB Gregory J. Knott

This past week in West Virginia, the Boy Scouts of America held the 2017 National Scout Jamboree. I have attended this once every four-year event three times, in 1981 as a Scout, in 2010 as an adult leader and staff member, and in 2013 in visiting with my son Hayden.

This scouting event is unlike anything else the Boy Scouts put on.  45,000 scouts from around the United States and the world gather together to celebrate the world-wide brotherhood of Scouting.  Held at the Summit, which is the BSA’s new high adventure base, scouts can participate in an almost limitless number of activities such as fishing, zip lines, boating, swimming, learning a new skill such as movie making merit badge or engineering merit badge.

The scouts are organized into Troops of 36 scouts and four adult leaders.  Within the troop many of the scouts will have a leadership role such as Patrol Leader, Quarter Master, Chaplains Aide, etc.  These troops are made up of scouts from a large geographic area or Council.  The scouts will be with other scouts they may not know well, but will by the end of this two-week trip.

The troops must prepare their own meals, keep their campsite in an acceptable condition, and be active in the daily planning of the activities the troop will participate in.  The scouts are learning and applying leadership skills daily.  The transformation that you see in these young scouts in this short of time is nothing but remarkable.  

I often think of scouting in parallel with Freemasonry.  Both organizations share similar values, provide leadership opportunities, allow for individual skill development, encourage the growth of the individual character, and ultimately improve your ability to serve your god, your country, your neighbor and yourself.

There is a song that the scouts often sing at a campfire to end the day, the Scout Vesper sung to the tune of “O Tannenbaum”.  The first verse is as follows:

Softly falls the light of day, 

While our campfire fades away. 

Silently each Scout should ask 

Have I done my daily task? 

Have I kept my honor bright? 

Can I guiltless sleep tonight? 

Have I done and have I dared 

Everything to be prepared?

Whether it be scouting or freemasonry this simple but powerful message applies. Are you doing everything you can in your lodge to be prepared?

~GJK

WB Gregory J. Knott is the Past Master of St. Joseph Lodge No. 970 in St. Joseph (IL) and a plural member of Ogden Lodge No. 754 (IL), Homer Lodge No. 199 (IL) and Naval Lodge No. 4 in Washington, DC.  

Dedicated to Service

by Midnight Freemason Contributor

WB Greg Knott

One of the great things about Freemasonry are the brothers you meet along the way.  They come from all walks of life and Freemasonry is that common bond that has brought you together.  Many individuals have had a positive influence on my journey in masonry.   RWB Denver Phelps is one of these who stands out in particular.

Denver presided over all three degrees, as I was coming through Ogden Lodge No. 754 a few years ago.  I had never met him before I came into the lodge, but he immediately left a very strong and positive impression on me regarding his ability for ritual and kindness to a new brother.  He was what I thought masonry would be about.

But more than just this initial impression, what I have come to really respect about Denver is his dedicated service to others.  He is a Veteran, having served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam era.  Denver has been extremely involved with veterans’ affairs at the local, state and national levels as a member of Royal (IL) American Legion Post No. 996.

He is one of the best ritualists in our area and frequently travels to other lodges to provide a lecture, serve as a steward or preside as Master over a degree.  Whatever is needed, Denver can be counted on to show up.  He has been made an honorary member of most lodges in our area, because of this service.

Whenever I have needed Denver he has been there.  When I was about to become Worshipful Master of St. Joseph Lodge No. 970, Denver worked with me on the ritual so that I could get off to a strong start.  It was Denver who told me many years ago, when I was considering becoming a plural member of St. Joseph Lodge, that if I was going to become a plural member, to be more than just someone who paid dues and was on the roster.  

I took this advice seriously and along with others we literally kept St. Joseph Lodge from turning the lights out forever.  This lodge was later recognized with multiple Illinois Grand Masters awards of excellence and the coveted Mark Twain Award in 2011 from the Masonic Service Association.

As a scout leader, we frequently put together events that recognize and honor our local veterans.  Whenever I have needed a speaker or contact within the veterans’ community, Denver is the first person I call.   He has been the guest speaker at our community Memorial Day event and participated in our community 9/11 remembrance event on the tenth anniversary of the attacks on America.

There are countless other examples that I could provide of Denver’s dedicated service.  If you ever needed a reason to consider joining Freemasonry, there is no better reason or example than Denver Phelps.  I am grateful and thankful to call him a friend and brother.

~GJK

WB Gregory J. Knott is the Past Master of St. Joseph Lodge No. 970 in St. Joseph (IL) and a plural member of Ogden Lodge No. 754 (IL), Homer Lodge No. 199 (IL) and Naval Lodge No. 4 in Washington, DC. He’s a member of the Scottish Rite, the York Rite, Eastern Star and is the Charter Secretary of the Illini High Twelve Club No. 768 in Champaign-Urbana. He is also a member of ANSAR Shrine (IL) and the Eastern Illinois Council No. 356 Allied Masonic Degrees. Greg serves on the Board of Directors of The Masonic Society and is a member of the Scottish Rite Research Society and The Philathes Society. Greg is very involved in Boy Scouts—an Eagle Scout himself, he is a member of the National Association of Masonic Scouters

Our Nation’s Capital

by Midnight Freemason Contributor

WB Gregory J. Knott

Fellow Midnight Freemason Todd Creason and I recently attended Masonic Week 2015 in Reston, VA.  While there, we took some time to tour our nation’s capital city, seeing many of the Masonic sites, plus many more.  I love visiting Washington DC.   The history, architecture, and sites are something I never get tired of seeing and I have been nearly 30 times.

Last year I became a dual member of Naval Lodge No. 4 in Washington DC.   This lodge is one of the oldest and most historic in the District.   The Brethren there, have welcomed me with open arms and I consider them true friends.

I also enjoy taking pictures and have taken more than 15,000 pictures of the DC area.   I plan to share some of these over the coming year and will be working with Brother Creason on future posts that feature my pictures with his writing to highlight some of the sites I have visited.

I have a Facebook page Freemason Photography that I have started and will be feature pictures of not only DC, but also from across the country.   So to get us started, here is a very small sampling.

The U.S. Capitol Building

House of the Temple – Home of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, SJ

Brother John Paul Jones – father of the US Navy

Spring cherry blossoms on the National Mall 

with the Jefferson Memorial in the background.

WB Gregory J. Knott is the Past Master of St. Joseph Lodge No. 970 in St. Joseph (IL) and a plural member of Ogden Lodge No. 754 (IL), Homer Lodge No. 199 (IL) and Naval Lodge No. 4 in Washington, DC. He’s a member of the Scottish Rite, the York Rite, Eastern Star and is the Charter Secretary of the Illini High Twelve Club No. 768 in Champaign-Urbana. He is also a member of ANSAR Shrine (IL) and the Eastern Illinois Council No. 356 Allied Masonic Degrees. Greg serves on the Board of Directors of The Masonic Society and is a member of the Scottish Rite Research Society and The Philathes Society. Greg is very involved in Boy Scouts—an Eagle Scout himself, he is a member of the National Association of Masonic Scouters.