Symbols of Our Story Masonic Apron, 1823 1990.22.01 This splendid Masonic apron was designed by Samuel D. Bettle in 1823. Freemasons wear symbolic aprons around their waists during Masonic ceremonies. The garment is the quintessential element of Masonic regalia, and since at least 1709 has been known as the "badge" of a Mason. Dozens of Masonic symbols adorn this intricate design, which is intended to illustrate the progression through the three degrees of Craft Freemasonry. The journey begins at the foundation with "Silence and Circumspection," and progresses upward through the grades to an angelic scene with the words "Hail! heavenly Virtue! thine's a Sacred flame!" Long the sides of the design are other important Masonic symbols, such as the Bee Hive, the Altar of Incense from Solomon's Temple, the 47th problem of Euclid's Elements of Geometry, Jacob's Ladder, and more. Help us preserve this piece of Masonic history—and others like it—for future generations. To make your contribution, visit

Bound for Preservation A Daily Advancement in Masonic Knowledge, edited by Wallace McLeod (2003) This book, published in 2003 by the Masonic Book Club, collects forty-six speeches given by the members of the Blue Friars. The Society of Blue Friars is a Masonic organization, established in 1932 with the purpose of recognizing Masonic authors. It operates with minimal formalities, lacking fixed rituals or ceremonies, and does not collect dues or fees. It is led by a Grand Abbot, currently Masonic researcher Arturo de Hoyos. Membership in the Blue Friars is highly selective, with only one new Friar appointed each year. The Society holds an annual meeting called the "Consistory" during Masonic Week in Washington, D.C., where the new Friar presents a research paper. The 2025 meeting of the Society of Blue Friars will be held tomorrow, where Ric Berman, Ph.D., will be recognized as the newest Friar. Dr. Berman is the author of numerous important works on Masonic history, such as The Foundations of Modern Freemasonry: The Grand Architects, Political Change, the Scientific Enlightenment, 1714-1740; From Roanoke to Raleigh: Freemasonry in North Carolina, 1730-1800; and Espionage, Diplomacy & the Lodge: Charles Delafaye and The Secret Department of the Post Office.

Bound for Preservation Material Culture of the American Freemasons by John D. Hamilton, 1994 This extremely informative volume is a substantial exploration of the physical artifacts associated with Freemasonry in America. It was published in 1994 by the University Press of New England. Author John D. Hamilton worked at the Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library in Lexington, Massachusetts, and the work features many objects in the museum collection of that institution. The book features seven chapters, each focusing on different types of Masonic objects, from lodge room furnishings to funereal accoutrements. Hamilton meticulously documents these artifacts, detailing their provenances and historical associations, providing readers with a rich catalog of items like inlaid desks, blindfolds (known as "hoodwinks"), casket handles, and door knockers. The strength of the book lies in its breadth of coverage, showcasing a wide array of Masonic material culture from the collections at the Museum of Our National Heritage, thereby offering an invaluable resource for understanding the tangible aspects of Freemasonry. The Material Culture of the American Freemasons remains a significant contribution to the study of Freemasonry's material heritage. It serves not only as an extensive catalog but also as a starting point for further scholarly inquiry into how these objects reflect and influence Masonic identity and practice. The book's detailed entries offer insights into the complexity of American Masonic history, providing data that could be used to explore patterns of object usage, symbolism, and the evolution of Masonic rituals. Help us preserve this book—and others like it—for future generations. To make your contribution to our library conservation and expansion efforts, visit

Go Washington Commanders! @Commanders

@FosterSunn The colors have no meaning unless specifically mentioned in our post.

@NationalMallNPS Just don’t try that kite and key experiment.

Bound for Preservation Native American Freemasonry by Joy Porter, 2011 Joy Porter’s book, Native American Freemasonry: Associationalism and Performance in America (University of Nebraska Press, 2011), offers a fascinating exploration of how Indigenous communities engaged with Freemasonry, a historically European fraternal organization. Porter delves into the ways Native American leaders and intellectuals participated in Masonic lodges, using them as spaces for networking, cultural adaptation, and even political strategy. By examining historical figures such as Ely S. Parker and Charles Eastman, she reveals how Native Masons navigated a complex social landscape, leveraging Masonic ideals of brotherhood and mutual aid to assert their place in American society. Porter highlights how Masonic rituals and symbolism resonated with Indigenous traditions, creating a unique space where Native identities and Masonic principles intersected. Her work sheds light on the performative aspects of Freemasonry, demonstrating how Native participants adopted, adapted, and sometimes subverted Masonic practices to serve their own communal and political goals. By uncovering this overlooked history, Porter not only enriches our understanding of Native American agency but also broadens the conversation about how marginalized groups have historically engaged with fraternal organizations. She writes extensively about Arthur Caswell Parker, a pioneering archaeologist, ethnologist, and museum curator who significantly advanced the study and public understanding of Native American history and culture. A Seneca scholar, he was instrumental in professionalizing the field of archaeology, particularly in his work on Iroquois material culture and early Indigenous sites in New York. As the first Native American to serve as the director of the Rochester Museum and Science Center, Parker transformed its exhibits, emphasizing the importance of Indigenous perspectives in museum displays. His story is just one of many that Joy Porter relates in this book! Help us preserve this book—and others like it—for future generations. To make your contribution to our library conservation and expansion efforts, visit

Symbols of Our Story Bible, Square, and Compasses from Gerald Ford White House Degree Ceremony On Tuesday, January 11, 1977, a fascinating event took place in the White House’s famous Oval Office. President Gerald R. Ford, a Michigan Freemason, received the degrees of the Holy Royal Arch and Royal and Select Master during a ceremony led by the Grand Chapter and Grand Council of the District of Columbia. The Royal Arch degree, considered an extension of the Master Mason degree, explores the reconstruction of King Solomon's Temple, focusing on finding lost secrets, symbolized by the intrepid recovery of the Ark of the Covenant. This journey involves several trials, ultimately leading to the discovery of profound Masonic truths and the restoration of lost knowledge. The Royal and Select Master degree in Masonry focuses on the virtues of secrecy, fidelity, and the importance of guarding sacred knowledge, teaching Masons to be trustworthy and discreet. The Holy Bible is an important part of Masonic ceremonies. The Square and Compasses are tools of the stonemasons’ art, adopted by fraternal or speculative Masonry in order to teach philosophical and moral lessons. These items were only used one time, for this unique ceremony. President Ford (1913–2006) visited the George Washington Masonic National Memorial on a number of occasions, including the dedication of a plaque honoring him that is now on display in the Memorial’s Theater. Help us preserve this piece of Masonic history—and others like it—for future generations. To make your contribution, visit

RT @AlexandriaVA: Here's your guide to reveling in winter in Alexandria—partake in Restaurant Week, plan a romantic date and attend beloved…

Plan now to attend our 2025 Washington's Birthday Gala! Celebrate and share your love and support for the Memorial and its mission on February 22, 2025. Join us!

The Memorial is closed Monday, January 6 for inclement weather. ❄️The property is closed to visitors today.🌨️ Be safe, everyone!

Bound for Preservation Constitutions, 1723–1896 & Appendix of A.D. 1776 in Facsimile, 1899 This beautiful volume, prepared with Victorian flair, summarizes the Constitutions of English Freemasonry from 1723 to 1896. Here, it is possible to learn many of the fundamental concepts of Masonry and the specific regulations that governed the eighteenth-century fraternity. Especially useful is facsimile of the very rare Appendix to the 1776 Book of Constitutions. This 1776 material include beautiful details about the consecration ceremony of the original Freemasons’ Hall in London, including the beautiful songs that were performed during the ceremony! Help us preserve this book—and others like it—for future generations. To make your contribution to our library conservation and expansion efforts, visit #MasonicHeritage

We’re excited to share the latest edition of our LIGHT newsletter, packed with the most up-to-date information about the Memorial and its work! In this issue: 📷 Matthew T. Szramoski provides an invigorating update on new initiatives and future plans for the Memorial. Dive into his article to see how we are breathing new life into our cherished institution. 📷 Shawn Eyer offers a fascinating look back at the history and significance of the George Washington statue, just in time for its 75th anniversary. 📷 Tyler Vanice discusses our ongoing efforts to preserve and enhance the Masonic legacy through the Turn the Page campaign. Discover the treasures within our museum’s walls and the planned enhancements that will make these resources accessible to all. 📷 Timothy Strawn rounds out our newsletter with a thoughtful piece on the importance of community support and engagement. Learn how you can contribute to sustaining the beacon of light that is the George Washington Masonic National Memorial. And in this issue you can learn all about our very special upcoming events: 📷 Statue Rededication: Join us on February 22, 2025, for the 75th anniversary rededication of the George Washington statue in Memorial Hall, featuring Clifton Truman Daniel as our special guest. 📷 2025 Washington’s Birthday Gala: Mark your calendars for February 22, 2025, and join us for a grand celebration at the Memorial, including a formal reception and a banquet that celebrates the legacy of Brother George Washington. We encourage you join us in celebrating and supporting our rich Masonic heritage. Each article in the new issue of LIGHT offers unique perspectives and updates that are sure to enrich your connection to the Memorial. Warm regards and all the best for 2025!

Bound for Preservation Well-Springs of American Freemasonry by H.L. Haywood, 1953, This book offers an in-depth look at the history and development of Freemasonry across the United States. This book is a comprehensive survey that explores the origins, growth, and adaptation of Masonic institutions from their European beginnings to their establishment and evolution within America. Haywood, a prolific Masonic scholar, meticulously details how Freemasonry was introduced to the American colonies and how it spread across the nation, leading to the formation of numerous grand lodges. Each state's Masonic history is analyzed, providing insights into the unique contributions and characteristics of each lodge. Haywood's work is known for its accessible approach, making "Well-Springs of American Freemasonry" an essential read for those interested in the historical and cultural impact of Freemasonry in America. Help us preserve this book—and others like it—for future generations. To make your contribution to our library conservation and expansion efforts, visit

The Memorial wishes a Happy Hanukkah to all who celebrate it!

Merry Christmas from all of us at the George Washington Masonic National Memorial!