Celebrating over 150 Years of Service 1840-1990,

"To Masonry--that wonderful philosophy whose origin predates all history-- a hundred years is but a passing day."

JOHN ALEXANDER RAMSEY

Past Grand Master of Kentucky 1899-1900 _________________________________________________________

The cornerstone of Masonic customs as developed by Ancient Operative Masons, have preserved the valuable teachings which have been passed down for over 5,000 year to the Speculative Masons today. The original lodges were made of stonemasons as members. These craftsman built cathedrals, abbeys, temples and National edifices dating back before the 17th century. These craftsmen were master builders and knowledgeable architects who preserved their skills and trade secrets of the building art among themselves. These skills were only taught to those who were proven to be worthy of the Craft.

Operative Masons applied their art in the construction of many famous structures from the dawn of man in the Cradle of Life to contemporary times. Imhotep The Wise was the first architect to construct a building made of stone. The building being the step pyramid built at Saqqara for the 3rd-dynasty pharaoh Djoser(c.2686–c.2613 BC) and, through this, pioneered the use of hewn stone in building. This work was completed about the year 3000 B.C. In 2900 B.C., Architects of King Khufa built the Great Pyramid of Gizeh. Then came the temple of Solomon at the Holy City of Jerusalem. More recently, Speculative Masons participated in the laying of the corner stones of many famous contemporary buildings, including the White House, the U.S. Capitol, and many, many federal courthouses.

With this rich Masonic heritage, our Brethren took great pride in the construction of their Lodges. Just as when the good man of the house calls together his friends and neighbors, he makes all the necessary arrangements for their receptions, in order that they may derive the fullest enjoyment from his hospitality. Masons likewise extend such hospitality at their gatherings. Thus, the etiquette of Masonic fellowship continues to be practiced as it existed generations ago ..............