Displaying Emblems for the Masonic Reenactor Suggestions

[MasonicCav]

The use of masonic regalia at a re-enactment has been an ongoing question for many people in the field. I have gotten questions numerous times about the display of rings, watch fobs, patches on jackets, lapels, and accoutrements.
Here are a few things to consider when opting to place your Masonic affiliation on your uniform or rather incorporate them into your impression.


Display of any fraternal insignia on the United States Army Uniform may not have been the most common practice in the Army of the 19th century much as it is today.My suggestion would be to find methods sanctioned by your Grand Lodge
that would be preferable and honorable to your fraternity.

(Cups, Flasks, and Tankards) Seems to be rather common use or display of the masonic emblems even in colonial times. Many lodges, including mine here in Pennsylvania have numerous examples of masonic dinnerware, and decanters
dating well into the early 18th century. Flasks and cups are a very good period way of displaying your affiliation in good standing. This is also supported by archival evidence
both in masonic collections, and military museums. ( I have a leather mug with a square and compass I tie to my saddle and use at events)

(Swords, Sabers, and Canes). There are a few examples of Masonic engraving on Civil War Swords. Some archival evidence exists, and the primary saber contractor for the
Union army (Ames) was also making swords and regalia for members of the York Rite of Freemasonry. Some folk art canes are also available where Masonic symbols have been carved or otherwise engraved into the wood.

(Pipes and Tobacco) A very good option many tavern pipes, and colonial “churchwardens” display Masonic emblems rather extensively on the bowl.Some even have the Masonic record of the member who owned the pipe. Meerschaum, and Briarwood pipes have also been found with rather extensive
masonic affiliations.

(Canteens, Powder flasks) Supported by the most archival evidence to date, is the engraving or placement of Masonic emblems on powder flasks, or canteens. Engraving was commonly on old wooden canteens, and there are many examples of Masonic scrimshaw and engraving on colonial and Civil War powder flasks and powder horns.
Gold or Silver bullion square and compasses on a federal tin canteen in my opinion is acceptable. Both existed at the time of the war, but unfortunately the wool on the sides of the canteen were more likely to be used for patching up trousers then to stay on the canteen for very long.

(Rings, Watches, Fobs and Jewelry) Probably the most common display of masonic affiliation yesterday as it is today. Supported by evidence still in many masonic collections most being engraved with the name of the member who owned it.


There is a point of debate as to the common use of masonic emblems, in the wake of the Morgan Affair. Being about 40 yrs old at the time by 1860 Masonic affiliation was on an upswing by 1850, and many of the people involved in the affair would have been about 60-70 years old by the time Fort Sumter was fired upon. Many lodges in the period
were constituted during the 1850-1890 time period when many people were seeking to join organizations like Red Men, Odd Fellows, and Elks.

These are some suggestions, I would highly recommended that if you have any questions about tastefully displaying a masonic emblem in your re-enacting impression you should contact your lodges current Master, or speak with your District Deputy Grand Master as to how best to do it.

Some examples of early masonic items
http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/masonicmuseum/tableofcontents.htm

Scottish Rite Masonic Collections in Massachusetts

http://www.monh.org/


Jonathan Welch PM
Charles M. Howell Lodge #496
Millersville, (Lancaster County) PA
Valley of Lancaster and Harrisburg Scottish Rite
35th Battalion of Virginia Cavalry PACS Affiliated