MassachusettsGC2012 PART VIII

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Contents

GRAND CONSTITUTIONS, PART VIII

PART VIII: REGALIA AND JEWELS

Note that the sections pertaining to regalia and jewels in GC1918 were reorganized into Part VIII just before the adoption of GC1930; proposed 1929-42, 03/13/1929; sent for consideration 1929-252, 12/11/1929.

Sec. 800. CLOTHING AND REGALIA

The Grand Lodge of Massachusetts recognizes no jewels, medals, regalia, insignia, and clothing as Masonic except such as are prescribed by these Constitutions.

Earlier Revisions

References

none.

Sec. 801. JEWELS

No jewel, medal, or decoration of a similar character shall be worn in the Grand Lodge or any particular Lodge, except such as shall have been authorized by these Constitutions, by this Grand Lodge, or by a recognized Grand Body or its Grand Master, or other presiding officer, and except such as are expressly authorized by the laws of the United States of America, or one of its States, or of some foreign government recognized by, and at peace with, the United States.

Earlier Revisions

  • Votes of Grand Lodge, 12/08/1880, 1880-158, following the report of a Grand Lodge Committee on the issuing of Centenary warrants.
    • Voted, That when any Lodge under the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge shall have completed an existence of a century it may make application to the Grand Master for a Centenary Warrant, setting forth its claims, and submitting the necessary evidence to his satisfaction; whereupon he may issue such a warrant, in form as shall be hereafter prescribed, granting to the officers and members of such Lodge the privilege of wearing a distinctive medal, commemorating the fact, which privilege shall be restricted to the officers and members in good standing of the said Lodge.
    • Voted, That no Lodge whose members now wear a distinctive medal shall be prohibited from using the same in consequence of these votes, provided it makes application to the Grand Master for the privilege within three months from the date of the passage of this vote, and receives his approval.
  • GC1918: Section 702, 1918-407; "No Brother shall wear at any meeting of a Lodge or of the Grand Lodge, any medal, jewel, or decoration of a similar character except such as shall have been authorized and approved by these Constitutions, or by the Grand Lodge, or by the Grand Master; and except such as are expressly authorized by the laws of the United States of America, or one of its states, or of some foreign government recognized by and at peace with the United States."
  • GC1930: Section 801, 1930-168
  • GC1953: Section 801

References

  • IV-615, 09/13/1843, refers to changes made just prior to the adoption of GC1843.
  • IV-643, 09/13/1843, contains no reference to this matter in GC1843.
  • 1914-154, 06/14/1914, refers to remarks by Grand Master Melvin Johnson. "The gross impropriety of wearing unapproved medals, jewels or other similar decorations is at once apparent on reading Section 4 of Article VII, Part III., of the Grand Constitutions."
  • 1918-327, 12/11/1918, refers to changes to GC1843 recommended just before the adoption of GC1918.

Sec. 802. REQUIRED CLOTHING

The following clothing and insignia shall be worn by the Craft; and no Brother shall be admitted into the Grand Lodge, or into any Lodge, without his proper clothing, nor shall any officer of the Grand Lodge, or representative of a Lodge (proxies excepted) be allowed to vote without his jewel or pocket jewel unless he offers a satisfactory excuse and shall have permission of the Grand Master.

Earlier Revisions

  • GC1792: Section 2nd, Item 2; II-6; In this revision, this section includes the text: ". . . every Brother shall be properly vested, with his Jewel and Clothing before he takes his place."
  • Vote of Grand Lodge, 12/27/1808, II-401: "That a uniform mode of clothing be adopted in this Grand Lodge and that a committee be chosen of five to carry the same into effect."
    • This was completed 06/12/1809, II-410: "The committee appointed to consider what kind of clothing is proper to be adopted as the uniform clothing of the officers of the Grand Lodge, ask leave respectfully to report: That after mature deliberation, they have unanimously agreed upon and recommend the following, a pattern of which is herewith presented for the approbation of the Grand Lodge, vizt:
      • "A sash of purple velvet, fringed at the ends,
      • "A white satin apron trimmed with purple ribbon."
  • Vote of Grand Lodge, 06/12/1809, II-410: "On motion, Voted, that the jewels and regalia of this Grand Lodge be entrusted in future to the Grand Stewards, for the time being, and that they be answerable for the same."
  • GC1811: Chapter IV, Section 10, II-523: "Each District Deputy Grand Master and every Master and Warden of a Lodge must be clothed with his jewel before he shall be allowed to take his seat and vote in Grand Lodge, without special permission of the Grand Master, and, in his absence, a vote of the Grand Lodge."
  • GC1819: Chapter 6, Section 9, III-238; "Each District Deputy Grand Master, and every Master and Warden of a Lodge must be clothed with his jewel, before he shall be allowed to take his seat and vote in Grand Lodge, without special permission of the presiding officer."
  • GC1843: Part Third, 7:2, IV-641; "No Brother shall, on any pretence [sic], be admitted into the Grand Lodge, or any subordinate Lodge without his proper clothing, nor shall any officer of the Grand Lodge, or representative of a subordinate Lodge, (proxies excepted,) be allowed to vote, without his jewel, unless he offer a satisfactory excuse and have permission of the Grand Lodge."
    • Amended 12/10/1856 to include officers' jewels; see following sections.
    • Amended 06/12/1878, 1878-49, revised 09/11/1878, 1878-87, removing the phrase "on any pretence".
  • GC1918: Section 254; 1918-407; No Brother shall be admitted into the Grand Lodge, or into any Lodge, without his proper clothing, nor shall any officer of the Grand Lodge, or representative of a Lodge (proxies excepted) be allowed to vote without his jewel unless he offers a satisfactory excuse and have permission of the Grand Lodge.
  • GC1930: Section 802, 1930-168
  • GC1953: Section 802

References

  • IV-615, 09/13/1843, refers to changes made just prior to the adoption of GC1843.
  • 1918-350, 12/11/1918, may be spurious, as it contains a different section of GC1918.

Sec. 803. JEWELS: GRAND OFFICERS' JEWELS

  • The Grand Master, the compasses extended to 45°, with the segment of a circle at the points and a gold plate included, on which is to be represented an eye within a triangle, both irradiated.
  • Deputy Grand Master, the compasses and square united, with a five-pointed star in the center.
  • District Grand Master, the compasses and square united, with a five-pointed star in the center, upon which shall be superimposed a Roman letter D.
  • Senior Grand Warden, the level.
  • Junior Grand Warden, the plumb rule.
  • Directors, arms and crest of the Grand Lodge.
  • Grand Treasurer, a chased key.
  • Grand Secretary, two pens in saltire, tied by a ribbon.
  • District Deputy Grand Masters, the compasses extended to 45° with the segment of a circle at the points and a crescent in the center.
  • Grand Marshal, two rods in saltire, tied by a ribbon.
  • Grand Chaplains, a book, within a triangle, surmounting a glory.
  • Grand Lecturers, an open book upon the square and compasses.
  • Grand Deacons, dove and olive branch.
  • Grand Stewards, a cornucopia between the legs of a pair of compasses extended.
  • Grand Sword Bearer, two swords in saltire.
  • Grand Standard Bearer, a standard of the arms of the Grand Lodge.
  • Grand Pursuivants, a sword and rod saltire-wise.
  • Grand Organist, a lyre.
  • Grand Tyler, a sword.
  • Past Grand Master, the compasses extended to 45°, with the segment of a circle at the points and a gold plate included, on which is to be represented the Seal of Grand Lodge.

The jewels of District Grand Masters are to be placed within a circle, on which the name of the District is to be engraven or superimposed, and no ornament or emblem whatever other than such name shall be engraven on said circle or superimposed thereon; and the jewels of the Grand Lodge Officers other than the Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand Wardens, Past Grand Masters, Grand Treasurer, Grand Secretary, and District Deputy Grand Masters are to be placed within a circle on which shall be engraven or superimposed a wreath composed of a sprig of acacia and an ear of wheat.

Earlier Revisions

  • Vote of Grand Lodge, II-275, 03/11/1805; "The committee appointed to form a device for the jewel of the R't W'l Deputy Grand Masters . . . reported a design which met the approbation of the Grand Lodge, and it was then VOTED, That they be desired to furnish it to the Grand Treasurer, who is directed to procure the jewels and collars for the present District Deputy Grand Masters, to be by them transmitted to their successors in office, until further orders of the Grand Lodge shall be had thereon."
  • Vote of Grand Lodge, 12/27/1808, II-400: "That the Past Grand Masters be each presented with an appropriate jewel, and that a committee be chosen under whose direction seven jewels shall be made and properly prepared for the purpose."
    • This was completed 09/11/1809, II-413: "The committee, to whom had been entrusted the business of devising and procuring jewels for the M.W. Past Grand Masters and a uniformity of clothing for the officers of the Grand Lodges reported, that they had completed that duty. The R.W. Henry Fowle, their chairman, accordingly produced seven jewels for the Past Grand Masters and seventeen aprons and sashes for the Grand Officers, which were deposited with the Grand Stewards in conformity to a vote passed at the Communication the 12th of June last."
    • Vote of Grand Lodge, 06/12/1809, II-410: "On motion, Voted, that the jewels and regalia of this Grand Lodge be entrusted in future to the Grand Stewards, for the time being, and that they be answerable for the same."
  • Vote of Grand Lodge, 12/27/1820, III-331; "That a Committee be raised to procure a sword for the Grand Marshal, and also such Regalia as may be wanted in Grand Lodge."
  • GC1843: Part Third, 7:1; adopted 12/10/1856 along with officers' jewels for subordinate lodges:
    • The Jewels of the Grand Officers shall be as follows:
    • I.
      • The Jewel of the Grand Master shall be the compasses extended to 45°, with the segment of a circle at the points, and a gold plate included, on which is represented an eye, eradiated, with a triangle, also eradiated.
        • Proposed 12/13/1871, 1871-253, adopted 03/13/1872, 1872-27; "Each Past Grand Master, Past Deputy Grand Master, and Past Grand Warden, shall be distinguished by the jewel prescribed for the office he has filled, with this difference, that such jewel shall be fixed within a circle or oval."
        • Amended 09/11/1878, 1878-88, replacing "The Jewel of the Grand Master shall be the . . ." with "That of the Grand Master, the . . . ".
      • The Jewel of the Deputy Grand Master shall be the Compasses and Square united, with a five-pointed star in the centre.
        • Amended 09/11/1878, 1878-88, replacing "The Jewel of the Deputy Grand Master shall be the . . ." with "That of the Deputy Grand Master, the . . . ".
      • The Jewels of the District Deputy Grand Masters shall be the Compasses extended to 45°, with the segment of a circle at the points, with a crescent in the centre.
        • Amended 09/11/1878, 1878-88, replacing "The Jewels of the District Deputy Grand Masters shall be the . . ." with "That of the District Deputy Grand Masters, the . . . ".
      • Senior Grand Warden — The Level.
      • Junior Grand Warden —The Plumb.
      • Grand Treasurer — a chased Key.
      • Recording Grand Secretary — crossed Pens, with a tie.
      • Corresponding Grand Secretary — crossed Pens, with a tie.
      • Grand Chaplain — A Book with a Triangle.
      • Grand Marshal — crossed Rods.
      • Grand Deacons — Dove and Olive Branch.
      • Grand Stewards — Cornucopia.
      • Grand Sword-Bearer — crossed Swords.
      • Grand Standard-Bearer — Banner.
      • Grand Pursuivants — a Rod and a Sword crossed.
      • Grand Lecturer — open Book upon Square and Compasses.
      • Grand Tyler — Sword.
      • Each Past Grand Master, Past Deputy Grand Master and Past Grand Warden shall be distinguished by the Jewel prescribed by the office he has filled, with this difference, that such Jewel shall be fixed within a circle or oval of gold or metal gilt. It shall be worn over the left breast, pendant to a purple ribbon.
        • Proposed 12/11/1895, 1895-312, adopted 03/11/1896, 1896-36, by adding the words "or metal chain" after "purple ribbon".
      • The Jewels of all the Grand Officers, with the exception of the District Deputy Grand Masters, shall be within a wreath composed of a sprig of Acacia and an ear of Wheat.
    • adopted 09/14/1865, VII-28 (1865-19); a description of the jewel for the Grand Standard Bearer and the Grand Organist.
    • 1863-Supp20, 12/29/1863: The Grand Constitutions included in the 1863 original Proceedings include the Grand Organist in the list of officers, along with a description of his jewel and place in processions.
    • Grand Lodge Committee Report, 12/12/1866, VII-105 (1866-34), contains a report on the subject of dress and regalia, and the necessity for Grand Lodge to conform to its own requirements. This committee was originally appointed 12/13/1865, VII-42.
    • Proposed 1913-258, 12/10/1913, adopted 1914-361 and described 1914-364, 12/09/1914, to include District Grand Masters. A Grand Lodge Committee Report on this subject begins on 1913-278, 12/10/1913.
  • GC1918: Section 253, Part I; 1918-350
  • GC1930: Section 803, 1930-169
  • GC1953: Section 803
    • 06/08/1983, 1983-146, Proposed 03/09/1983, 1983-29; discussed 06/08/1983, 1983-146; approved 09/14/1983, 1983-178; add the following:
      • to the list of Jewels: "Past Grand Master, the compasses extended to 45 degrees, with the segment of a circle at the points and a gold plate included, on which is to be represented the Seal of the Grand Lodge."
      • to the final paragraph, after "Grand Wardens", add "Past Grand Masters."

References

  • I-145, 11/11/1768, contains a description of jewels and regalia used at the installation ceremony for Grand Master John Rowe.
  • III-334, 03/14/1821; The Grand Marshal proclaimed the new Masonic Districts following the separation of Maine lodges.
  • 1914-353, 12/09/1914, refers to remarks by Grand Master Melvin Johnson regarding regalia. He refers to previous committees on regalia and jewels, including the report given on 12/12/1866 mentioned above. "I recommend that the resolution of 1866 . . . be now renewed and that the Grand Master be authorized to carry the same into effect."
  • 1915-39, 06/10/1915, refers to Grand Master Melvin Johnson's comments on regalia; 1915-331, 12/08/1915, refers to the Grand Master's report on the acquisition of the regalia for the Grand Master and Deputy Grand Master. See Section 817 below.
  • 1916-175, 06/14/1916, refers to commentary on District Deputy Grand Master jewels by Grand Master Melvin Johnson.

Sec. 804. JEWELS OF DISTRICT GRAND OFFICERS

This section includes descriptions of jewels appointed by District Grand Masters and District Deputy Grand Masters.

Deputy District Grand Masters, the compasses extended to 45° with the segment of a circle at the points and a crescent in the center.

All other Officers of District Grand Lodges and all Officers appointed by District Deputy Grand Masters, shall have jewels of the same description as those worn by corresponding Officers of the Grand Lodge.

The jewels of Officers of District Grand Lodges and of Officers appointed by District Grand Masters are to be placed within a circle, on which the name or number of the District is to be engraven or superimposed, and no ornament or emblem whatever other than such name or number shall be engraven on said circle or superimposed thereupon.

Earlier Revisions

References

none.

Sec. 805. PAST GRAND MASTER'S JEWEL

The pocket jewel of a Past Grand Master shall be the seal of the Grand Lodge from which shall be pendant the wearer's initials in script and also the Grand Master's jewel placed within an oval studded with diamonds representing the collar of the Grand Master, which oval shall be surmounted by a representation of the traditional three-cornered chapeau of the Grand Master irradiated, all as illustrated in the printed proceedings of the Grand Lodge for the year 1914, opposite page 402.

Earlier Revisions

  • GC1843: 1863-Supp20, 12/29/1863: The Grand Constitutions included in the 1863 original Proceedings include a description of the Past Grand Master jewel and these Brothers' place in processions.
    • Proposed 1895-312, 12/11/1895, amended 1896-36, 03/11/1896; see above.
  • GC1843: Part Third, 7:1; see section above.
  • GC1930: Section 805, 1930-170
  • GC1953: Section 805; The jewel of a Past Grand Master shall be the seal of the Grand Lodge from which shall be pendant the wearer's initials in script and also the Grand Master's jewel placed within an oval studded with diamonds representing the collar of the Grand Master, which oval shall be surmounted by a representation of the traditional three-cornered chapeau of the Grand Master irradiated, all as illustrated in the printed proceedings of this Grand Lodge for the year 1914 opposite page 402."
    • Proposed 03/09/1983, 1983-29; discussed 06/08/1983, 1983-146; approved 09/14/1983, 1983-178; add the following to the end of the section: "except as prescribed in Section 803, which shall be worn with the chains, as provided in Section 814."

References

  • VII-42, 12/13/1865, refers to a proposal for Grand Officer Jewels; "Each Past G. Master, Past Deputy G. Master, and Past G. Warden shall be distinguished by the Jewel prescribed for the office he has filled, with this difference, that such Jewel shall be fixed within a circle or oval."
  • 1914-402, 12/29/1914, refers to a part of the address by Grand Master Melvin Johnson regarding the jewels of members of the Grand Lodge.

Sec. 806. PAST GRAND OFFICERS' AND PAST DISTRICT OFFICERS' JEWELS

Each other Past Grand Officer, except Past District Grand Masters, may wear the jewel prescribed for the office he has filled, with this difference: that such jewel shall be placed within an oval on which shall be engraven or superimposed a wreath composed of a sprig of acacia and an ear of wheat; and Past District Grand Masters and Past District Grand Officers may wear the jewel prescribed for the office he has filled with this difference: that such jewel shall be placed within an oval ornamented similarly to the ornamentation of the circle of the jewel of such office. Said jewel shall be worn over the left breast, pendant to a purple ribbon or metal chain or it may be suspended from the neck by a purple ribbon when another authorized jewel is worn over the left breast.

Earlier Revisions

References

none.

Sec. 807. MATERIAL OF GRAND LODGE JEWELS

All the above jewels to be gold or gilt metal.

Earlier Revisions

References

none.

Sec. 808. LIFE MEMBERSHIP AND OTHER MEDALS

Honorary life membership, and other similar medals, which have been first approved by the Grand Master, may be presented to, and worn by, members of particular Lodges.

Earlier Revisions

  • GC1930: Section 808, 1930-172
  • Vote of Grand Lodge, 1940-53, 03/13/1940, rejecting a proposal for medals for Past Masters of Lodges of Instruction. ". . . your Committee does not intend to suggest nor intimate that such a custom or practice, if it should arise, would be essentially bad . . . We feel, however, that the time has not yet come when it would be advisable to authorize the adoption of such a custom. . . it does not seem advisable now to authorize a medal which in its essential character would be likely to become merely a jewel to mark one who had held the office of Master of a Lodge of Instruction."
  • GC1953: Section 808

References

none.

Sec. 809. VETERAN'S MEDAL

A medal to be known as the "Masonic Veteran's Medal" may be conferred upon any affiliated Brother of this jurisdiction on or about the fiftieth anniversary of his raising who, in the opinion of the Grand Master, is worthy of such recognition.

Earlier Revisions

  • GC1918: Section 703A, proposed 1926-269, 1926-323; amended 09/08/1926, 1926-329. The text originally read: "A medal to be known as the 'Masonic Veteran's Medal' may be conferred upon such Brethren who have been or shall hereafter be for fifty years in good standing, as are designated, as are designated by the Grand Master because of their faithful service to the Craft."
  • GC1930: Section 809, 1930-172
  • GC1953: Section 809; "A medal to be known as the Masonic Veteran's Medal may be conferred upon such Brethren who have been or shall hereafter be for fifty years continuously in good standing, as are designated by the Grand Master because of their faithful service to the Craft."
    • Remarks by Grand Master Whitfield Johnson, 09/14/1955, 1955-236, regarding this section. "A number of instances have been called to my attention where it seems to me the presentation of a Veteran's Medal would be very appropriate but which do not technically meet the requirement of the Grand Constitutions. There may be many cases where for some perfectly honorable reason a Brother's good standing has been interrupted but where his contribution to Masonry was such as to warrant the recognition of the fiftieth anniversary of his having been raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason . . . Therefore, after careful consideration and consultation . . . I recommend for the favorable consideration of the Craft an amendment to the Grand Constitutions which will in effect permit the presentation of a Veteran's Medal to a Brother on or after the fiftieth anniversary of his raising who, in the opinion of the Grand Master, is worthy of such recognition."
    • Amended 12/14/1955, 1955-377, to read: "A medal to be known as the Masonic Veteran's Medal may be conferred upon any affiliated Brother of this jurisdiction on or about the fiftieth anniversary of his raising who, in the opinion of the Grand Master, is worthy of such recognition."

References

  • Remarks by Grand Master Simpson, 1926-242, 06/09/1926; committee report 1926-304, 09/08/1926, regarding the creation of a Veterans' Medal "to be conferred upon veteran members who have rendered faithful service to the Craft."

Sec. 810. DISTINGUISHED SERVICE MEDAL

A medal to be known as the "Distinguished Service Medal" may be conferred by the Grand Master upon such Brethren as may have rendered distinguished service to the Lodges of which they are members.

Earlier Revisions

References

  • 1930-87 is the opening page for GC1930.

Sec. 811. HENRY PRICE MEDAL

The Henry Price Medal may be worn only,

  • (a) By those heretofore rightfully in possession thereof with the right to wear the same; and,
  • (b) By such distinguished Brethren as may be selected by the Grand Lodge or the Grand Master as worthy of such special Masonic recognition.

Earlier Revisions

  • Votes of Grand Lodge, Reports on 03/12/1884, 1884-44, regarding the creation of a Memorial medal, designed to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the founding of the Grand Lodge.
    • "The custom of striking medals to perpetuate the memory of important historical events, is one of great antiquity . . . In this way the memory of many events has been transmitted to our day, and made known to those who would otherwise perhaps never have learned of them. Eras in the history of a nation are thus brought vividly before the eyes of its people . . . The committee, therefore, recommend that the dies for such a medal be ordered, under the authority of this Grand Lodge, and a suitable number struck; and we have caused to be prepared a design for such a medal, drawings for which are submitted, with this report, and may be described, as follows : —
    • " Obverse: In the field the arms, motto, crest, and supporters of the M.W. Grand Lodge of Masons in Massachusetts, as heretofore established for its seal, at. the Quarterly Communication in December, 1880, above which shall be the legend, GRAND LODGE OF MASSACHUSETTS, and, below, the date 1883.
    • " Reverse: Within a wreath of wheat, olive and grape leaves, typical of health, plenty, and peace, the inscription, 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE INTRODUCTION OF MASONRY BY HENRY PRICE INTO MASSACHUSETTS. Outside the wreath, one of the following legends : —
      • Wisdom hath builded her house. — Proverbs 9: 1.
      • The foundation of the house of the Lord was laid. — Ezra 3: 11.
      • Thy builders have perfected thy beauty. — Ezek. 27: 4.
      • We build the house that was builded these many years ago. — Ezra 5:11.
    • "To avoid piercing the medal we recommend that a loop and ring be attached to the rim,, at the 'top, and the medal suspended by a ribbon to a clasp, on which shall be the dates 1733-1883. We further recommend that one impression be struck in gold, to be worn by the Grand Master; that a sufficient number be struck in silver, to be worn by the Grand Officers as a part of the regalia; that a further supply be struck in silver, to be furnished at cost to those Brethren who were Officers and Permanent Members at the Annual Communication in 1883, who may desire to procure them at their own expense; and they be authorized to wear .them at the Communications of this Grand Lodge, and other Masonic meetings, any previous vote to the contrary notwithstanding. These medals to be worn suspended by a purple ribbon, and all those furnished to private individuals to bear the name of the owner engraved on the rim. In addition to the foregoing, that a sufficient number be struck in bronze, and worn with a blue ribbon, to supply those Masters and Wardens of the Lodges constituting the Grand Lodge at its late Annual Communication who may desire to procure them; such medals to be furnished the Lodges at cost, and that these officers, or their regular successors, be permitted to wear them; but no other Brethren, except as hereinbefore provided."
    • The Grand Lodge voted to procure dies for the medal, that the silver medal be made part of the Grand Officers' regalia, and that the medal would bear "such legend as shall receive the approval of the Grand Master."
  • Vote of Grand Lodge, 06/14/1916, proposed 1916-171, adopted 1916-272; "Upon motion of R. W. Gurdon W. Gordon, duly seconded, it was Resolved: That hereafter the Henry Price medal may be worn only by members of Henry Price Lodge; by Permanent Members of the Grand Lodge; by those who have been members of the Fraternity for fifty years or more; and by such others as may be selected by the Most Worshipful Grand Master as worthy of this special Masonic recognition."
  • GC1918: Section 703, 1918-408; "The Henry Price medal may be worn only (a) By those heretofore rightfully in possession thereof with the right to wear the same; (b) By permanent members of the Grand Lodge; (c) By such Brethren who have been for fifty years in good standing as are designated by the Grand Master because of their faithful service to the Craft; and (d) By such distinguished Brethren as may be selected by the Grand Lodge or the Grand Master as worthy of such special Masonic recognition."
    • Proposed 1926-269, 1926-323; amended 09/08/1926, 1926-329., parts (c) and (d) were stricken and part (b) was changed to read: "(b) By such Brethren, who by distinguished services to the Craft, may be selected by the Grand Lodge or the Grand Master as worthy of such recognition."
  • GC1930: Section 811, 1930-172; In this revision, the section reads: "The Henry Price medal may be worn only (a) By those heretofore rightfully in possession thereof with the right to wear the same; and (b) By such distinguished Brethren as may be selected by the Grand Lodge or the Grand Master as worthy of such special Masonic recognition."
  • GC1953: Section 811

References

  • 1884L-77 is unclear.
  • 1918-328, 12/11/1918, refers to changes to GC1843 recommended just before the adoption of GC1918.
  • 1923-37, 03/14/1923, refers to comments by Grand Master Ferrell regarding the wearing of Henry Price Medals. "In the matter of requests there is another item to which I would like to call your attention, namely, the requests for Henry Price medals. Section 703 of the Grand Constitutions is very explicit in this matter, and I would suggest that every Master before he consents to forward his request for the conferring of a Henry Price medal would measure the situation by the requirements of the Grand Constitutions. The whole procedure might be relieved of its difficulties if the Master when in doubt should consult the District Deputy Grand Master and receive his opinion and, if satisfactory, his approval of the application. Much embarrassment would be avoided if this were done."
  • Remarks by Grand Master Simpson, 1926-242, 06/09/1926; committee report 1026-304, 09/08/1926, regarding the wearing of the Henry Price Medal.

Sec. 812. PARTICULAR LODGE JEWELS

  • Master, the square.
  • Past Masters, the blazing sun within the square and compasses extended on a quadrant.
  • Senior Warden, the level.
  • Junior Warden, the plumb rule.
  • Treasurer, two keys in saltire.
  • Secretary, two pens in saltire, tied by a ribbon.
  • Chaplain, a book within a triangle surmounting a glory.
  • Marshal, a baton.
  • Deacons, the square and compasses united.
  • Stewards, a cornucopia.
  • Inside Sentinel, two swords in saltire.
  • Organist, a lyre.
  • Tyler, a sword.

The jewels of the Secretary, Chaplain, Deacons, Stewards, Organist, Inside Sentinel, and Tyler are to be placed within a circle and the jewel of the Marshal within a square, and no ornament or emblem whatever shall be engraven on said circle or square or superimposed thereupon.

Earlier Revisions

  • GC1843: Part Third, 7:2; adopted 12/10/1856, VI-69; "The Jewels of a subordinate Lodge shall be as follows:
    • The Jewels of a Past Master shall be the Blazing Sun within the Compasses extended on a quadrant.
    • Master — The Square.
    • Senior Warden — The Level.
    • Junior Warden —The Plumb.
    • Treasurer — Cross Keys.
    • Secretary — Cross Pens.
    • Chaplain — Bible in a Circle.
    • Senior and Junior Deacons — The Compasses and Square united.
    • Marshal — Baton, in a Square.
    • Senior & Junior Stewards. — Cornucopiae, in a Circle.
    • Organist — Lyre in a Circle.
    • Tyler — Cross Sword.
    • Reported 12/12/1894, 1894-140, proposed 03/13/1895, 1895-39, amended 06/12/1895, 1895-131; "The Jewel of a Past Master shall be the blazing Sun, within the Square and Compasses extended on a Quadrant. This Jewel may be of gold or silver, and may be worn over the left breast, pendant to a blue ribbon or metal chain." Additionally, ". . . those old Lodges which have the sun represented in the jewel of the Senior Deacon and the moon in the jewel of the Junior Deacon may retain the same."
  • GC1918: Section 328, 1918-365; "The Jewels of the officers of a Lodge shall be as follows: That of the Master, the Square; Senior Warden, the Level; Junior Warden, the Plumb; Treasurer, two Keys in saltire; Secretary, two Pens in saltire; Chaplain, the Bible within a circle; Marshal, a Baton within a square; Deacons, the Square and Compasses united within a circle; Stewards, a Cornucopia within a circle; Organist, a Lyre within a circle; Inside Sentinel, two Swords in saltire within a circle; Tyler, a Sword within a circle. The Jewel of a Past Master shall be the blazing Sun within the Square and Compasses extended on a Quadrant. This Jewel may be of gold or silver, and shall be worn over the left breast, pendant to a blue ribbon or metal chain. It may be suspended from the neck by a blue ribbon when another authorized Jewel is worn over the left breast."
  • GC1930: Section 812, 1930-142
  • GC1953: Section 812

References

  • I-145, 11/11/1768, contains a description of jewels and regalia used at the installation ceremony for Grand Master John Rowe.
  • VI-559, 12/14/1864, refers to the report defining Past Masters.
  • 1871-256, 12/13/1871, and 1872-27, 03/13/1872, refer to a proposal regarding jewels for past officers of particular Lodges. " . . . as individual Brethren desire suitable badges designating past service in office, to be obtained at their own expense, it is important that the Grand Lodge should sanction either those recommended, or others, as in the judgment of that Body is advisable."
  • 1920-263, 09/08/1920, refers to remarks by Grand Master Prince directing lodges under dispensation to follow the Grand Constitutions when procuring regalia for the new lodge.

Sec. 813. MATERIAL OF LODGE JEWELS

All particular Lodge jewels - except those of Past Master - to be of silver. The jewel of a Past Master may be of gold or silver and it shall be worn over the left breast, pendant to a sky-blue ribbon or metal chain, or it may be suspended from the neck by a sky-blue ribbon when another authorized jewel is worn over the left breast.

Earlier Revisions

References

none.

Sec. 814. COLLARS: GRAND OFFICERS' COLLARS

The collars of Officers of the Grand Lodge, of Officers of District Grand Lodges, and of Officers appointed by District Deputy Grand Masters shall be chains of gold or metal gilt upon purple ribbon of such pattern as now in use.

Note: The chains of Officers of the Grand Lodge are all of the same pattern, the number of stars designating the rank: thus the Grand Master has nine stars; the Deputy Grand Master and District Grand Master seven, the Grand Wardens, five; Past Grand Masters, five; the rest of the Grand Officers, three stars.

Earlier Revisions

  • GC1843: Part Third, 7:1, adopted 12/10/1856:
    • II.
      • The collars of the Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, and Senior and Junior Grand Wardens, shall be chains of gold or metal gilt.
        • Amended 06/12/1878, 1878-49, revised 09/11/1878, 1878-87, to read "The Collars of the Grand Officers shall be chains of gold or metal gilt."
        • Amended 12/09/1914, 1914-362, adding: "That of the District Grand Masters, the Compass and Square united, with a five-pointed star in the centre upon which shall be superimposed a Roman letter D."
  • GC1918: Section 253, Section II; 1918-351; The Collars of the Grand Officers shall be chains of gold or metal gilt.
  • GC1930: Section 814, 1930-173
  • GC1953: Section 814; "GRAND OFFICERS' COLLARS. The Collars of Officers of the Grand Lodge, of Officers of District Grand Lodges, and of officers appointed by District Deputy Grand Masters shall be chains of gold or metal gilt upon purple ribbon of such pattern as now in use. Note: The Chains of Officers of the Grand Lodge are all of the same pattern, the number of stars designating the Rank: thus the Grand Master has nine stars; the Deputy Grand Master and District Grand Masters seven, the Grand Warden, five; the rest of the Grand Officers, three stars."
    • Proposed 03/09/1983, 1983-29; discussed 06/08/1983, 1983-146; approved 09/14/1983, 1983-178; add to the end of the section: "the Past Grand Masters, five."

References

none.

Sec. 815. COLLARS: CHAINS AND COLLARS OF OFFICERS OF PARTICULAR LODGES

The Officers of particular Lodges shall wear collars of sky-blue ribbon four inches wide, or chains of silver or white metal upon sky-blue ribbon. Said chains of silver or white metal shall be of such pattern or patterns as shall be approved by the Grand Master.

Earlier Revisions

  • GC1843: Part III, 7:2, IV-641; "No Brother shall, on any pretence [sic], be admitted into the Grand Lodge, or any subordinate Lodge without his proper clothing, nor shall any officer of the Grand Lodge, or representative of a subordinate Lodge, (proxies excepted,) be allowed to vote, without his jewel, unless he offer a satisfactory excuse and have permission of the Grand Lodge."
    • Proposed 06/14/1882, 1882-84; amended 09/13/1882, 1882-170: Every officer of a subordinate Lodge shall wear a blue velvet collar trimmed with silver lace, or a white metal chain collar upon blue ribbon, of such pattern or patterns as shall be approved by the Grand Master, from which shall be suspended the jewel of the office in silver.
  • Grand Lodge Committee Report, 03/12/1856, VI-3; on the Grand Master's address from December 1855: "In regard to Regalia, we are of opinion that simplicity and uniformity are very desirable. An officer's rank should be clearly denoted by his jewel; but such too frequently, is not the fact. Members, also, would more readily be recognized as masons, by the peculiar badge of a mason, than by aprons emblazoned with manifold devices."
  • GC1918: Section 327, 1918-365; in this revision, the section reads: "Each officer of a Lodge shall wear a blue velvet collar trimmed with silver lace, or a white metal chain collar upon blue ribbon, of such pattern or patterns as shall be approved by the Grand Master, from which shall be suspended the jewel of the office in silver. The aprons may bear the emblems of the offices and a fringe of silver."
  • GC1930: Section 815, 1930-174
  • GC1953: Section 815

References

  • I-145, 11/11/1768, contains a description of jewels and regalia used at the installation ceremony for Grand Master John Rowe.
  • 1870-61, 03/09/1870, refers to a portion of a extensive report on the Reports of the District Deputy Grand Masters. "velvet collar trimmed with silver lace, and a silver jewel. The jewels of a subordinate Lodge shall be," &c. The provision for collars is not in such positive language as that in relation to jewels. 'The jewels shall be,' &c, and we have no doubt they are always in the form prescribed by the Constitutions, because the language seems imperative. 'An officer should wear a blue sash, a blue velvet collar,' &c, perhaps does not convey that sense of obligation necessary for strict enforcement. We all know that the blue sash is not now worn, although it is as much a constitutional requirement as a blue velvet collar. . . . Several amendments to Article 7 seem necessary, for what we have said about sashes and collars, applies with equal force to aprons, as we have no doubt that the styles of aprons throughout the Jurisdiction vary as much as the manner of wearing jewels."
  • 1881-167, 12/14/1881, refers to remarks by Grand Master Lawrence with regard to the regulation on collars. "Such a collar worn close to the neck, soon becomes soiled, and I notice that some of the Lodges have, in violation of this regulation, adopted a chain of silver or white metal, now manufactured for the purpose, which is claimed to be more elegant and serviceable. It is well for us to pay attention to any improvements which are the outcome of more advanced decorative art, and I would recommend the subject to your attention, so that, if deemed advisable, the Constitutions may be amended in this regard."
  • 1918-320, 12/11/1918, refers to changes to GC1843 recommended just before the adoption of GC1918.
  • 1920-263, 09/08/1920, refers to remarks by Grand Master Prince directing lodges under dispensation to follow the Grand Constitutions when procuring regalia for the new lodge.

Sec. 816. COLLARS: TIME TO WEAR COLLARS OF LODGES

The collars of the Officers of particular Lodges are to be worn only in their own Lodges or when representing their Lodges as Masters or Wardens in the Grand Lodge, or in their District Grand Lodges.

Earlier Revisions

  • GC1811: Chapter IV, Section 10, II-523; "Each District Deputy Grand Master and every Master and Warden of a Lodge must be clothed with his jewel before he shall be allowed to take his seat and vote in Grand Lodge, without special permission of the Grand Master, and, in his absence, a vote of the Grand Lodge."
  • GC1930: Section 816, 1930-174
  • GC1953: Section 816

References

  • 1935-83, 06/12/1935, contains a direction by Grand Master Allen regarding the wearing of the Master's collar and jewel. This direction states in part: "It has been the general custom in our jurisdiction for a presiding Master when inviting a Past Master or visiting Master to assume the East - not only to tender him the gavel but to invest him with the Master's collar and jewel. It has recently come to my attention that in some Lodges the Masters are departing from this custom and retaining the collar and jewel. . . The act of inviting another to preside in his Lodge is purely an act of courtesy on the part of the Master; a courtesy extended only at the pleasure of the Master. Therefore if any when he extends this courtesy it should be done in such a manner as to make the one to whom it is extended feel that it is genuine and sincere. I therefore suggest that in Lodges where the practice of the Master retaining the collar and jewel has crept in, it be discontinued."

Sec. 817. APRONS AND GAUNTLETS

APRONS

  • (A) Entered Apprentice and Fellow Craft - A plain white lambskin, fourteen inches wide, twelve inches deep, square at bottom and without ornament; white strings.
  • (B) Master Mason - A plain apron of white lambskin or other white fabric, fourteen inches wide, twelve inches deep, and square at the bottom, with white tie strings. It may be ornamented with blue lining; blue edging not in excess of two inches wide on the body and one and one-half inches wide on the fall or flap; three blue rosettes, one at each bottom corner and one on the fall or flap; blue strings or tabs two inches wide with silver tassels. No other color or ornament shall be allowed except to Officers and past Officers of Lodges or of Grand Lodge.
  • (C) Lodge Officer, present and past, (except Past Masters) - Aprons of white lambskin or other white fabric not in excess of seventeen inches wide and fourteen inches deep, square at the bottom; blue lining; blue edging not in excess of two inches wide on the body and one and one-half inches on the fall or flap; the jewels of their offices embroidered in silver or blue in the center of the apron. They may be ornamented with blue strings or tabs two inches wide with silver or white tassels, and may be edged with silver or white braid and fringe.
  • (D) Past Masters - The same as Lodge Officers, except that the jewel of a Past Master shall be embroidered in the center of the apron either in gold, silver or blue. They may be ornamented with blue strings or tabs two inches wide with silver tassels, and may be edged with silver braid and fringe. They may be further ornamented with three emblems one-half inch broad embroidered in blue and silver, one at each bottom corner and one on the fall or flap, said emblems being described as perpendicular lines upon horizontal lines,thereby forming three sets of two right angles, the length of the horizontal lines to be two and one-half inches each and of the perpendicular lines one inch each.
  • (E) District Grand Officers, present and past - Aprons of white lambskin or other white fabric of the same dimensions as those of Lodge Officers, with purple lining and edging two inches wide on the body and one and one-half inches wide on the fall or flap; the jewels of their offices within a double circle in which must be inserted the name of the District embroidered in gold or in purple and gold in the center of the apron. They may be ornamented with purple strings or tabs two inches wide with gold tassels, and may be edged with gold braid and fringe. (Gold may be interpreted to mean of gold color.)
  • (F) Grand Officers of the Grand Lodge, present and past (except as otherwise provided herein) - Aprons of white lambskin or other white fabric of the same dimensions as those of Lodge Officers; purple lining; purple edging not in excess of three inches wide on the body and two inches wide on the fall or flap; the jewels of their offices within a wreath composed of a sprig of acacia and an ear of wheat embroidered in gold or in purple and gold in the center of the apron. They may be ornamented with purple strings or tabs two inches wide with gold tassels, and may be edged with gold braid and fringe.
  • (G) District Grand Masters, present and past - The same as the Deputy Grand Master, but with the name of the District within a double circle surrounding the emblem of office.
  • (H) Deputy Grand Master - The same material and lining as that of the Grand Master, having the emblem of his office in gold embroidery in the center, and the pomegranate and lotus alternately embroidered in gold on the edging.
  • (I) The Past Deputy Grand Masters ' apron will be similar to other Grand Lodge Officers (as described in Sec. 817(F)) with the * emblem in the center being the square and compasses with a five pointed star in the center.
  • (J) Grand Master, present and past - Apron similar to the historic apron worn by the Grand Masters of the United Grand Lodge of England as illustrated in the printed Proceedings of this Grand Lodge for 1915 opposite page 331, with the substitution of purple as used by this Grand Lodge in place of the blue used by the United Grand Lodge of England.

GAUNTLETS

  • (K) In addition to the foregoing, the Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, and District Grand Masters wear purple velvet gauntlets edged with gold lace or braid, and with the emblems of their respective offices embroidered thereon in gold.

Earlier Revisions

  • GC1843: Part Third, 7:1, adopted 12/10/1856, VI-68:
    • III.
      • The Apron of the Grand Master shall be of white lamb-skin, lined with purple, ornamented with the blazing Sun, embroidered in gold in the centre; on the edging the pomegranate and lotus, with the seven-eared wheat at each corner, and also on the fall, - all in gold embroidery, the fringe of gold bullion, with purple edging and strings.
      • The Apron of the Deputy Grand Master shall be of the same material and lining, having the emblem of his office in gold embroidered in the centre, and the pomegranate and lotus alternately embroidered in gold on the edging.
      • The Aprons of the other Grand Officers shall be of white lambskin, lined with purple; edging three and a half inches wide; with purple strings; ornamented with gold, having the emblems of their office, in gold, in the centre.
    • IV.
      • The Grand Officers shall wear gauntlets of purple, with the emblem of their office, embroidered in gold, within a wreath.
  • (A)
    • Vote of Grand Lodge, 12/13/1866, 1866-108, regarding candidate aprons; "That hereafter each Lodge, at the time of initiation, present the candidate with an apron of the style prescribed by the Constitutions, to be kept by him for use on public occasions."
    • GC1930: Section 817, 1930-174
    • GC1953: Section 817
  • (B)
    • GC1843: Part Third, 7:1, VI-68; "The apron of a Master Mason should be a plain white lambskin — fourteen inches wide by twelve in. deep, with sky blue lining and edging, having three rosettes of the same color — No other color shall be allowed, and no other ornament should be worn, except by Officers and Past Masters of Lodges, who may have the emblem of their Offices in silver on the apron."
      • Amended 06/12/1878, 1878-44, revised 09/12/1878, 1878-87, replacing should with shall wherever it appears; replace "twelve in. deep, with" with "twelve inches deep outside, with . . ."
      • Amended 09/08/1886, 1886-105, to read: "The apron of a Master Mason should be a plain white lambskin, fourteen inches wide by twelve inches deep. The apron may be adorned with sky blue lining and edging, and three rosettes of the same color."
      • Proposed 06/12/1895, 1895-127, adopted 09/11/1895, 1895-220, replacing the words "the emblem of their Offices in silver" with "the emblem of their Offices and a fringe in silver".
    • GC1918: Section 500, 1918-389; "The Apron of a Master Mason shall be a plain white lambskin, fourteen inches wide by twelve inches deep. The Apron may be adorned with sky-blue lining and edging, and three rosettes of the same color. No other color shall be allowed, and no other ornament shall be worn except by officers and past officers."
    • GC1930: Section 817, 1930-174; "The same, or apron of white lamb-skin of the same dimensions with sky-blue lining and edging two inches in width on the fall or flap; upon which there may be imposed three sky-blue rosettes - two at the bottom and one on the fall or flap, sky-blue strings two inches in width and silver tassels. No other color or ornament shall be allowed except to Officers and past Officers of Lodges, who may have the emblems of their offices painted or embroidered in silver or in sky-blue and silver in the center of the apron."
    • GC1953: Section 817; "The same, or apron of white lamb-skin of the same dimensions with sky-blue lining and edging two inches in width on the fall or flap; upon which there may be imposed three sky-blue rosettes - two at the bottom and one on the fall or flap, sky-blue strings two inches in width and silver tassels. No other color or ornament shall be allowed except to Officers and past Officers of Lodges, who may have the emblems of their offices painted or embroidered in silver or in sky-blue and silver in the center of the apron."
      • Proposed 12/12/1962, 1962-225; amended 06/12/1963, 1963-155, to read: "A plain apron of white lamb-skin or other white fabric, fourteen inches wide, twelve inches deep, and square at the bottom, with white tie strings. It may be ornamented with blue lining; blue edging not in excess of two inches wide on the body and one and one-half inches wide on the fall or flap; three blue rosettes, one at each bottom corner and one on the fall or flap; blue strings or tabs two inches wide with silver tassels. No other color or ornament shall be allowed except to Officers and past Officers of Lodges or of Grand Lodges."
  • (C)
    • GC1843: Part Third, 7:1, IV-641; "An officer of a subordinate Lodge should wear a blue sash, blue velvet collar, trimmed with silver lace, a silver jewel and white or figured apron, trimmed with blue ribbon."
      • Amended 09/12/1878, 1878-87, to read: "Every officer of a subordinate lodge should wear a blue velvet collar . . ."
    • GC1918: Section 327, "Each officer of a Lodge shall wear a blue velvet collar trimmed with silver lace, or a white metal chain collar upon blue ribbon, of such pattern or patterns as shall be approved by the Grand Master, from which shall be suspended the jewel of the office in silver. The aprons may bear the emblems of the offices and a fringe of silver."
    • In GC1930, Officer aprons are covered by item (C). (1930-175)
    • GC1953: Section 817; "Masters and Past Masters of Lodges - The same as Master Masons but in the place of the three rosettes on the Master Mason's Apron, perpendicular lines upon horizontal lines, thereby forming three sets of two right angles; the length of the horizontal lines to be two inches and a half each, these emblems to be painted or embroidered in silver or in sky blue and silver in the center of the apron and the apron may be edged in silver with silver fringe."
      • Proposed 12/12/1962, 1962-225; amended 06/12/1963, 1963-155, to read: "Lodge Officers, present or past, (except Past Masters) - Aprons of white lambskin or other white fabric not in excess of seventeen inches wide and fourteen inches deep, square at the bottom; blue lining; blue edging not in excess of two inches wide on the body and one and one-half inches on the fall of flap; the jewels of their offices embroidered in silver on blue in the center of the apron. They may be ornamented with blue strings or tabs two inches wide with silver or white tassels, and may be edged with silver or white braid and fringe. Past Masters - The same as Lodge Officers, except that the jewel of a Past Master shall be embroidered in the center of the apron either in gold, silver or blue. They may be ornamented with blue strings or tabs two inches wide with silver tassels, and may be edged with silver braid and fringe. They may be further ornamented with three emblems one-half inch broad embroidered in blue and silver, one at each bottom corner and one on the fall or flap, said emblems being described as perpendicular lines upon horizontal lines, thereby forming three sets of two right angles, the length of the horizontal lines to be two and one-half inches each end of the perpendicular lines one inch each."
  • (D)
    • In GC1930, District Grand Officer aprons are covered by what is now item (E). (1930-175)
    • GC1953: Section 817; "District Grand Officers, present and past, and Officers appointed by District Deputy Grand Masters - Aprons of white lamb-skin of the same dimensions, with purple lining and edging two inches in width on the body and one and a half inches on the fall or flap; purple strings two inches in width and gold tassels; the emblems of their offices within a double circle in which must be inserted the name or number of the District painted or embroidered in gold or in purple and gold in the center of the apron. If Masters or Past Masters, they must have the Master's emblems painted or embroidered in gold or in purple and gold."
      • Proposed 12/12/1962, 1962-225; amended 06/12/1963, 1963-155, to read: "District Grand Officers, present and past - Aprons of white lamb-skin or other fabric of the same dimensions as those of Lodge Officers, with purple lining and edging two inches in width wide on the body and one and a one-half inches wide on the fall or flap; the jewels of their offices within a double circle in which must be inserted the name of the District embroidered in gold or in purple and gold in the center of the apron. They may be ornamented with purple strings or tabs two inches wide with gold tassels, and may be edged with gold braid or fringe. (Gold may be interpreted to mean of gold color.)"
  • (E)
    • GC1843: Part First, 2:1, amended 12/09/1914, 1914-363, replacing "The Apron of the Deputy Grand Master" with "The Apron of the Deputy Grand Master and of the District Grand Masters."
    • GC1930: 1930-175; this is item (D), and reads: "District Grand Officers, present and past, and Officers appointed by District Deputy Grand Masters - Aprons of white lamb-skin of the same dimensions, with purple lining and edging two inches in width on the body and one and a half inches on the fall or flap, purple strings two inches in width and gold tassels; the emblems of their offices within a double circle in which must be inserted the name or number of the District painted or embroidered in gold or in purple and gold in the center of the apron. If Masters or Past Masters, they must have the Master's emblems painted or embroidered in gold or in purple and gold.
    • GC1953: Section 817; "Grand Officers of the Grand Lodge, present and past, (except as otherwise provided herein) - Aprons of white lamb-skin of the same dimensions with purple lining; and edging three and a half inches in width, purple strings two inches in width and gold tassels; the emblems of their offices within a wreath composed of a sprig of acacia and an ear of wheat painted or embroidered in gold or in purple and gold, in the center of the apron. If Masters or Past Masters, they must have the Master's emblems painted or embroidered in gold or in purple and gold."
      • Proposed 12/12/1962, 1962-225; amended 06/12/1963, 1963-155, to read: "Grand Officers of the Grand Lodge, present and past, (except as otherwise provided herein) - Aprons of white lamb-skin or other white fabric of the same dimensions as those of Lodge Officers; purple lining; purple edging not in excess of three inches wide on the body and two inches wide on the fall or flap; the jewels of their offices within a wreath composed of a sprig of acacia and an ear of wheat embroidered in gold or purple and gold in the center of the apron. They may be ornamented with purple strings or tabs two inches wide with gold tassels, and may be edged with gold braid and fringe."
  • (F)
    • GC1843: Part Third, 7:1, IV-641; "The clothing of a Grand Officer shall be a purple velvet sash and collar, gold or gilt jewel, and white apron, trimmed with purple ribbon."
    • GC1918: Section 253, Section III; 1918-353; "The Aprons of the other Grand Officers shall be of white lambskin, lined with purple; edging of purple three and a half inches wide; with purple strigns; ornamented with gold, having the emblems of office, in gold, in the center."
    • GC1930: 1930-176; this is item (E), and reads: "Grand Officers of the Grand Lodge, present and past, (except as otherwise provided herein) - Aprons of white lamb-skin of the same dimensions with purple lining and edging three and a half inches in width, purple strings two inches in width and gold tassels; the emblems of their offices within a wreath composed of a sprig of acacia and an ear of wheat painted or embroidered in gold or in purple and gold, in the center of the apron. If Masters or Past Masters, they must have the Master's emblems painted or embroidered in gold or in purple and gold."
    • GC1953: Section 817; "District Grand Masters, present and past - The same as the Deputy Grand Master, but with the name of the District within a double circle surrounding the emblem of office."
  • (G, H)
    • GC1918: Section 253, Section III; 1918-352; The Apron of the Deputy Grand Master and of a District Grand Master shall be of the same material and lining, having the emblem of his office in gold embroidery in the center, and the pomegranate and lotus alternately embroidered in gold on the edging. The emblem of a District Grand Master shall be within a double circle bearing the name of the District."
    • GC1930: 1930-176; item (G) is item (F), and reads: "District Grand Masters, present and past - The same as the Deputy Grand Master, but with the name of the District within a double circle surrounding the emblem of office."
    • GC1930: item (H) is item (G), and reads: "Deputy Grand Master, present and past - The same material and lining as that of the Grand Master, having the emblem of his office in gold embroidery in the center, and the pomegranate and lotus alternately embroidered in gold on the edging." (1930-176).
    • GC1953: Section 817; In this revision, the text of these items are the same as in GC1930.
  • (I)
    • In GC1930, 1930-177, Past Deputy Grand Master aprons are covered by item (G).
    • In GC1953: Past Deputy Grand Master aprons are covered by item (G).
  • (J)
    • GC1918: Section 253, Section III; 1918-352; The Apron of the Grand Master shall be of white lambskin, lined with purple, ornamented with the blazing Sun, embroidered in gold in the center; on the edging the pomegranate and lotus, with the seven-eared wheat at each corner, and also on the fall, - all in gold embroidery, the fringe of gold bullion, with purple edging and strings.
    • GC1930: Section 817, 1930-177; In this revision, this is item (H).
    • GC1953: Section 817; In this revision, this is item (H) and reads: "Apron similar to the historic apron worn by the Grand Masters of the United Grand Lodge of England as illustrated in the printed Proceedings of this Grand Lodge for 1915 opposite page 331, with the substitution of purple as used by this Grand Lodge in place of the blue used as purple by the United Grand Lodge of England."
  • (K)
    • GC1930: Section 817, 1930-177; In this revision, this is item (I).
    • GC1953: Section 817; In this revision, this is item (I).

References

  • I-138, 10/04/1768, contains a description of aprons used at the installation ceremony for Grand Master John Rowe: "Voted that those Masons, not in Office who choose to have lined Aprons at the Installment, be directed to Line them with Green Silk."
  • I-148, 11/11/1768, contains a description of aprons used at the installation ceremony for Grand Master John Rowe: "It was agreed that those Brethren who do not choose to Line their Aprons, with Green Silk, may wear them Plain, or Line them with any other Colour'd Silk but Blue or Red, and no Precedency be taken by any Brother with a Lined Apron, to those who wear Plain ones."
  • 1915-39, 06/10/1915, refers to Grand Master Melvin Johnson's comments on regalia. ". . . I have procured from the official manufacturers to the Grand Lodge of England a Grand Master's apron worn by His Royal Highness the Duke of Connaught, Most Worshipful Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of England, and by his predecessors for more than a century at least, except in the color of the border, lining, and strings which is purple, while the color used by our Mother Grand Lodge is garter blue. Gauntlets for the Grand Master have been ordered, but not yet received. The gauntlets which I am now wearing are the identical ones worn by M. W. Abraham H. Howland, Jr. who was Grand Master from 1884 to 1886 inclusive. When the new gauntlets are received these will be placed with other curiosities of the Craft. Conformity will gradually be made in the regalia of other Grand Officers, gauntlets being for the present worn only by the Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, and District Grand Masters."

Sec. 818. REGALIA IN PROCESSIONS OR FUNERALS

No Brother shall appear clothed in any of the regalia of the Craft in any procession or at any funeral (except a Masonic funeral), public assembly or meeting, or at any place of public resort unless the Grand Master or District Grand Master, as the case may be, shall have previously given a Dispensation for Brethren to be there present in Masonic clothing.

Earlier Revisions

References

none.

Sec. 819. PRE-1930 REGALIA

Nothing herein provided shall apply to any jewels, chains, collars, or aprons in use prior to A.L. 5930.

Earlier Revisions

References

none.

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