Michigan Masonic Museum and Library

08/29/2026

The Square and Compasses Part 11

08/29/2026

Here is another example of brotherly love and affection we saw during our visit to Grand Ledge #179 this past Wednesday. This chair, forever reserved for one particular brother, holds a place of honor in Grand Ledge's lodge room. It was the chair used by Bro. Samuel Chadwick, one of the earliest MMs raised by Grand Ledge after they received their charter in January 1866 (Bro. Chadwick was raised in February 1866) and from which he performed his duties as Secretary of that lodge for 36 years after being installed in that office in 1867 until his death in 1903.

08/28/2026

The MMML would like to thank the brothers from Grand Ledge #179 for inviting us over to Grand Ledge to offer some masonic education during their social evening this past Wednesday. This great group of brothers and prospects had awesome energy and personality which can be illustrated by the playful photo they have hanging near their social area of their Worshipful Master, WBro. Raymone Gude ("The Gude"). It is not just a celebration of his stylings years ago, but the photo plaque also contains a quick reminder that "Section 4" of the GL of MI Bluebook is where his brothers can find the section dealing with the "Power and Duties of the Worshipful Master" if they ever need it ;). Brotherly love and affection have rarely been better displayed.

Great things are happening at Grand Ledge #179! Thanks again, Brothers!

08/27/2026

The Square and Compasses Part 10

08/27/2026

Postcard postmarked in 1919 of the temple in Battle Creek, MI. It was built in 1913 and has been the home of the Battle Creek area masonic groups ever since. If you get the chance, stop by the Battle Creek Temple and see their marble and brass model of King Solomon's Temple. It's amazing!

08/26/2026

The Square and Compasses Part 9

08/26/2026

This suave brother's photo is from the 1893 membership portrait book at Tecumseh #69. He wears a Shrine lapel pin and a Scottish Rite chain/watch fob. Very dapper!

08/25/2026

Another photo from Tecumseh #69 portrait book circa 1893. This brother proudly wears a shrine pin on his tie and R.A.M. chain fob.

08/22/2026

08/22/2026

Old membership portrait books were very popular at lodges in the late 1800s. Check your own lodge to see if you still have yours. This photo is one we saw while visiting Tecumseh Lodge #69 a couple of years ago from their membership portrait book dated 1893. Now THAT is a Tiler sword!