By: Arthur Candenquist
In 1860, the mood of the people of the United States was explosive, as factions in the North and the South focused on the current events of the day and clamored for a war which might guarantee the independence of a confederation of Southern states and complete disunion of the country. Just as adamant in the North were factions which demanded the end to slavery and states’ rights, and clamored for war as a means to preserve the Union.
Just as determined to maintain peace and unity were men of the North and of the South who were banded together in the fraternity of Freemasonry. While often supporting the causes in each section of the country which drove the events of the day. Freemasons in the North and South worked just as hard to prevent disunion and war, and further the ideals and precepts of Freemasonry. Their only creed was the Brotherhood of Man and the Fatherhood of God.
Through narrative and slides, Arthur Candenquist explains the background of the Masonic fraternity, and presents the story of the Freemasons on both sides who worked to maintain peace and harmony in the country, and then, when war was a reality, these men supported the causes in which they believed, yet never forgot that Masons North and South were true brothers in the fraternity and entitled to all the rights and privileges accorded Freemasons. We will also look at actual incidents of the War, where soldier-Masons on both sides rendered aid and assistance without respect to uniform or flag.
Both sides saw the establishment of Masonic military lodges, where Freemasons could continue to practice the rituals and business of the fraternity away from their home lodges.
And when peace finally returned in 1865, Freemasons on both sides worked just as hard to bind up the Nation’s wounds and get on with the business of reunification.
Unity Lodge No. 146 