When you think of a fraternity, what comes to mind?
Perhaps this guy?
John Belushi in Animal House
Or maybe these…
Disposable red party cups
But actually many of them look like these guys...
South Wales Masons
To get this: My link
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Behold, the Freemasonry Society! A fraternity for adults (Males only, sorry ladies).
Whaaat is this?
While on a long lunch break I took a quick tour of one of the local Freemason temples we have here in Washington, DC. located at 1733 16th St NW.
Impressive building, right?
Image credit: CH
It was founded by this guy...
Image credit: CH
Albert Pike, who spoke several languages and was in the US cavalry during the Indian Wars of the mid-19th century. If you look really closely in the photo you can see a white mask of his face which was made upon his death and still contains a few hairs from his beard stuck inside it. (Creepy???)
The architecture is amazing and has several rooms of note inside.
Image credit: CH
The entrance and steps up to the main chamber
Image credit: CH
The main hall-those books are holy books from all of the main religions including a Quran
Image credit: CH
A sword for official ceremonies
Image credit: CH
And a neat library for when you need to study for the many exams you must pass to be a Freemason
Image credit: CH
Who cares though?
So what? Why should you care about the Freemasons?
Well for starters many famous world leaders are part of this fraternity including about a third of US presidents as well. The group was originally started by masons in Europe who formed it to provide a convenient face for their rock carving society. Every member must adhere to certain rules and pass entrance exams while also believing in a higher power or deity. (But not necessarily a god.) Politics and religion are strictly taboo however.
Here’s a picture of yours truly standing outside the temple. If you’re ever in Washington, DC I highly recommend a visit.
Thanks for reading!
CH
*For more information please visit the Scottish Rite’s website.
https://scottishrite.org/headquarters/visitors/