the true masonic chart

Front matter

Hy MATH i o From a €. FRANCHERE'S

Post Office Building, Main STREET,

~ NORTH SAN JUAN. a Set ATA

Preface To The First Edition

Havine been honored by the approbation of the Officers of the General Grand Chapter of the United States, and of most of the Grand Lodges, and Officers of Grand Lodges ir he individual States, as a Grand Lecturer; and having, by virtue of their sanction and authority, officiated in that capacity for several years; the Author of this volume has had an opportunity of witnessing the mode of lecturing and working, in many different Lodges. {t is not surprising, therefore, if, in the course of his experience, some errors in the practice of these branches should have fallen within his observation. ‘These have undoubtedly originated from a want of uniformity; and although they may not be considered as radical evils, in relation to the hidden mysteries of the Fraternity, yet they would certainly be regarded as defects in that system, the perfect preservation of which is at once the pride and glory of every enlightened mason.

Among these errors may be mentioned—the improper flassification of masonic emblems; and a difference in the mode of working.

To obviate these inaccuracies is the object of this work. It contains a classification of the emblems, together with illustrations, which have been approved and adopted by a majority of the Lodges of the United States. So far, therefore, as they are connected with the mode of working, and of lecturing, the evils which have been suggested, will be obviated by an attention to this treatise: and so far only does the Author claim any merit in having contributed towards establishing a standard, which he flatters himself may serve as a safe and sure guide to his Brethren, in some parts of their labors.

The illustrations, &c., are selected from the compilations of Preston, Webb, and other established authorities, accompanied by such alterations and amendments as were deemed necessary to a strict conformity with the Anceent System.

With a hope that his exertions to benefit them may not prove fruitless, the Author respectfully submits his work TO THE FRATERNITY OF FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS THROUGHOUT THE UNITED STATES.

Preface To The Third Edition

Srycz the publication of the first edition of the Mascnre Crarrt, it has been adopted as a Text-Book by most of the Lodges and Chapters in this country.

The highest expectations of the Authur have been more than realized in the reception of the first and second ec.tions by his Masonic Brethren. Its beneficial effects in promoting a uniformity in our mode of working and lecturing, have induced him to present to the Fraternity the third edition, with some additions and emendations. If his labors shall in any degree contribute to the advancement of a Society in which he feels a lively interest, he will be abundantly compensated. It has been his constant aim to place the Masonic Institution upon its proper basis. The correct Mason will ever be more esteemed than the over-zealous or coldly indifferent members of the Society. A Mason who is thoroughly acquainted with the tenets and nature of this Institution, ranks it among the first of human origin, and as in. euicating the purest of moral principles, and as having a powerful tendency, where strict discipline is judiciously administered agreeably to the tenets of the Institution, to improve the morals of its members, and to open and expand their hearts to acts of charity and pure benevolence. Those who elevate masonry to a level with revealed religion, and those who rank it below the standard of pure morality, are equally unacquainted with its true object.

That every Brother and Companion may possess a correct knowledge of the nature and principles of our excellent Institution, and that their conduct may be such through life as to convince all with whom they may have intercourse, that our great aim is to inculeate FRIENDSHIP, MORALITY, BROTHERLY LOVE, and CHARITY, is the earnest and sincere wish of Tue AvTnor.

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ADVERTISEMENT.

In presenting the feurth edition of Tuz Masonic Crap? to the Fraternity, the Author is happy to state that but few alterations in the last edition are necessary, except in the Emblems and Hieroglyphics, which are much improved by new designs, emendations, and additions. While he believes the work has been much improved in accordance with the principles of the Institution, he yet feels. conscious that some defects may be discovered by the scrutinizing eye of his more experienced Brethren: he would therefore solicit their forbearance and candor. In taking a retrospective view of the Institution, it is truly gratifying to every upright and correct Mason, to notice the great improvement which has been made within a few years past. In an institution like ours, however, which is founded on the Morau Law or (sop, and requires that all her members should walk in accordance thereto, we can easily discern that much remains to be done. Especially should it not be forgotten, that the very nature of the Institution forbids the admission of any to membership, except men sustaining the straitest moral character, and that no Lodge can be justified in receiving candidates solely for the purpose of increasing their members or their funds, Let them strictly adhere to the Masonic rule, and let the “internal and not the external qualifications of the man” be the standard for admission. As every man, on entering a Lodge, first puts his trust in Gop, and then takes the “‘ Hoty Scriptures to be the rule and guide of his faith and practice,” so none should be suffered to remain members who deviate therefrom.

It is the intention,of the Author of this little volume, by the leave of Divine Providence, to present to his Masonic Brethren, as soon as convenient, a new and improved edition of the “ Masonic Boox or Constitutions,” a work which is often alluded to, but seldom seen, except in a few Lodges. It is designed to give a brief History of Masonry from its commencement up to the present time comprising also observations on the regulations of Lodges, duties of Officers, admission of Candidates, duty of Discipline, forms of Petitions, Warrants, Charters, &c. &c., with a complete list of all the Encampments, Councils, Chapters and Lodges in the United States. The Author is well aware, that in many parts of our country, which have been highly tavored with Masonic light and knowledge, a work of this kind would be of minor consequence; but there are many sections which have not been thus highly favored, and where it would tend to advance the true interests of the Institution.

The Author would improve this favorable opportunity, in calling upon all Christian Masons to lend their aid in elevating the Institution to its proper level, by influencing every Mason, by example, exhortation and persuasion, to live up to the moral precepts which are inculcated in it ;—at the same time to guard them against relying on any merit in their own works as a title to that Rest beyond the grave, which is prepared for the children of God—and to point them to Him who is the Way, the Trutu and the Lirs, to the Lion of the tribe of Judah, to the great Warcuman of Israel, to our Divine REDEEMER, whose name is the only name which is given under Heaven whereby men can be saved, who has made an atonement for sin by the shedding of his own blood, and who has promised that whosoever believeth on Him shall not perish but have everlasting life.

That all his Brethren may not only be found Worthy, Free and Accepted Masons, but qualified by the Spirit of our Goo for a seat in that House not made with hands, Eternal in the tleavens, is the earnest prayer of

/ Tue AvTHOR

Introduction

Form of a PETITION to be signed by a Candidate Sor Initiation.

To the W. Master, Wardens, and Brethren of

Lodge No. , of Free and Accepted Ma-

sons.

The subscriber, residing in , of lawful age, and by occupation a ——_——,, begs leave to state, that, unbiased by friends, and uninfluenced by mercenary motives, he freely and voluntarily offers himself as a candidate for the mysteries of masonry, and that he is prompted to solicit this privilege by a favorable opinion conceived of the Institution, a desire of knowledge, and a sincere wish of being serviceable to his fellow-creatures. Should his petition ye granted, he will cheerfully conform to all the ancient established usages and customs of the Fraternity. (Signed) AaB.

The following recommendation is to be signed by two members of the Lodge to which the application is made:

- Turis may certify, that we the subscribers are personally acquainted with Mr. A. B.; and from a confidence in his integrity, and the uprightness of his intention, do cheerfully recommend and propose him as a proper candidate for the mysteries of Masonry.

Recommended by Coe: Avouched for by E. F. 2.

14 INTRODUCTION.

ON OPENING AND CLOSING LODGES.

Tue ceremony of opening and closing a Lodge with solemnity and devorum, is universally admitted among Masons; and though the mode in some Lodges may vary, and in every degree must, in some particulars, still an uniformity prevails in every Lodge, and the variations, if any, are only occasioned by want of method, which a little application might easily remove. ‘To conduct this ceremony with propriety, ought to be the study of every mason, but more especially those who are called to officiate as officers of the Lodge, To those of our brethren who are thus honored, every eye is naturally directed for propriety of conduct and behavior; and from them, our brethren who are less informed will expect an example worthy of imitation. From a share in this ceremony, no mason can be exempted: it is a general concern, in which all must assist; the first notice of which is given by the W. M., with a request of the attention and assistance of his brethren. No sooner has it been signified, than every officer repairs to his station, and the brethren rank according to their degrees. The next object is to detect impostors among ourselves; and for this purpose recourse is had to our peculiar rites as masons. This object being accomplished, our next care is directed to the external avenues of the Lodge, and the proper officers, whose province it is to discharge that duty, execute their trust with fidelity, and by certain mystic forms, of no recent date, intimate that we may safely proceed.

At opening the Lodge, two purposes are wisely effected : the master is reminded of the dignity of character which he is to maintain from the elevation of his office, and the brethren of the reverence and respect due from them in their sundry stations. These are not the only advantages re-

INTRODUCTION. 15 pulfmg from a due observance of this ceremony; the mind is drawn with reverential awe to the Supreme Architect of the Universe, and the eye fixed on Him who is the only author of life and immor tality. Here we are taught to worship and adore the supreme Jenovan, and to supplicate his protec tion and assistance in all our well-meant endeavors. After the customary salutations, the master pronounces the Lodge to be opened in due and ancient form, and assumes the government, and under him his wardens; the brethren with one accord unite in duty and respect, and tne business of the meeting is conducted with order and harmony.

At the closing of a Lodge, a similar ceremony takes place as at opening:—the avenues of the Lodge are guarded; a recapitulation of the duties of the officers is rehearsed ; a proper tribute of gratitude is offered up to the Great Author of our existence, and his blessing invoked and extended to the whole fraternity.

If it should be deemed necessary that the Lodge be opened in the several degrees, for dispatch of business, when that in the first degree shall have been finished, the W. Master, after due inquiry of the wardens and brethren, will proclaim it to be his will and pleasure that the Entered Apprentices’ degree be dispensed with for the purpose.of opening on the Fellow Craft degree, and all who are not Fellow Crafts are requested to retire. When the necessary precautions are taken that none remain but those who are entitled to this privilege, the sentinel is again reminded of his duty, and the Fellow Craft’s degree opened in due form, When the business in this degree shall have been finished, the Lodge is dispensed with, as in the first degree, and a Master’s Lodge opened in due form. After the business in the Master’s Degree is finished, the

16 INTRODUCTION.

Lodge is closed and the labors of the Fellow Crafts resumed: if nothing should offer in this degree, the Lodge is closed and the labors of the Kntered Apprentices resumed. Should nothing fur ther offer in this degree, the records of the evening having been read and approved, the Lodge is closed in due and ancient form.

These are but faint outlines of the ceremonies which prevail among masons, in every country, and distinguish all their meetings.

FORMS OF PRAYERS, CHARGES, &c.

A Prayer used on openng a Lodge.

Most holy and glorious Lord God, the great Architect of the universe, the Giver of all good gifts and graces: Thou hast promised, that “where two or three are gathered together in thy name, thou wilt be in the midst of them, and bless them.” In thy name we assemble, most humbly beseeching thee to bless us in all our undertakings, that we may know and serve thee aright, and that all our actions may tend to thy glory, and to our advancement in know ledge and virtue. And we beseech thee, O Lord God, to bless our present assembling, and to illuminate our minds, through the intercession of the Son of Righteousness, that we may walk in the light of thy countenance; and when the trials of our probationary state are over, be admitted into THE TEM- PLE “not made with hands, eternal in the heayens.” So mote it be. Amen.

A Prayer at Closing.

Supreme Architect of the universe, accept our humble praises for the many mercies and blessings which thy bounty has conferred on us, and especially for this friendly and social intercourse. Pardon, we beseech thee, whatever thou hast seen amiss in ua

INTRODUCTION. 17 since we have been together; and continue to us thy presence, protection, and blessing. Make us sensible of the renewed obligations we are under to love thee supremely, and to be friendly to each other. May all our irregular passions be subdued, and may we daily increase in Faith, Hope, and Charity ; but more especially in that Charity, which is the bond of peace, and the perfection of every virtue May we so practice thy precepts, that, through the merits of the Redeemer, we may finally obtain thy promises, and find an entrance through the gates into the temple and city of our God. So mote it be. Amen.

Benediction at Closing.

May the blessing of Heaven rest upon us and all regular masons! May brotherly love prevail, and eveiy moral and social virtue cement us!

So mote it be. Amen Charge at Closing.

BretTuREN :—

We are now about to quit this sacred retreat of friendship and virtue, to mix again with the world. Amidst its concerns and employments, forget not the duties which you have heard so frequently inculcated, and so forcibly recommended in this Lodge. Be diligent, prudent, temperate, discreet. Remember, that around this altar, you have promised to befriend and relieve every brother, who shall need your assistance. You have promised, in the most friendly manner to remind him of his errors, and aid a reformation. These generous principles are to extend’ further. Every human being has a claim upon your kind offices. Do good unto all. Recommend it more “especially to the household of the faithful.” Finally, brethren, be ye all of one mind; live in peace; and may the God of love and peace delight to dwell with and bless you.

RECOMMENDATIONS

{For the information of those of the Fraternity with whem the Author of this little volume has not had the pleasure ot an acquaintance, he would submit the following, from 4 large number of Certificates, in testimony of his masonic qualifications. ]

TO THE FRATERNITY OF FREE AND AC- CEPTED MASONS THROUGHOUT THE UNITED STATES OF NORTH.

AMERIC A—GREBTING.

KNOW YE, That we, the undersigned, having duly examined our worthy Companion, Jeremy L. Cross, do find him well skilled and correct in the Lectures and mode of working in the three first Degrees of Ancient Free Masonry, as received, sanctioned, and directed to be taught, by the several Grand Lodges of New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Vermont, New York, and New Jersey; also, with the Lectures and mode of working in the several Degrees of Mark Master, Past Master, Most Excellent Master, and Royal Arch Masonry, as sanctioned and directed to be taught by the Officers of the General Grand Royal Arch Chapter of the United States of North America We do therefore cheerfully recommend him as fully competent to teach the same.

Duly appreciating the utility that would arise from a greater uniformity in our mode of working and Lecturing; and as the good of the INSTITUTION demands it; we do therefore earnestly recommend to the whole PRATERNITY, to receive, sanction, and adopt the same.

Witness owr Hands:

M. &. and Hon. DEWITT CLINTON, Gen. Grand High Priest of the Gen. Grani Royal Arch "Chapter of the U. States of America: also Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of New York.

M. E. “HENRY FOWLE, Esq.,D. G. G. H. Priest of the G.G. R. A. C, of the U.S. A.; also Deputy Grand High Priest of the Grand Chapter of Massachusetts.

M. E. THOMAS SMITH WEBB, Esq., P. D. G. G. H. Priest of the G. G. R. A. C. of the U.S. Av; also Past Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Rhode Island.

M. E. JOHN SNOW, Esq. G. G. ‘King of the G. G. R. A. C. of the U.S. A.; also G. HL. Priest of the Grand Chay ter of Ohio.

RECOMMENDATIONS, 19

M E. JOHN HART LYNDE, Esq., P. G. G. King of the G. G. R. A. C. of the U.S. A.; also Past Senior G: Warden of the Grand Lodge of Connecticut.

M. E. PHILIP P. ECKEL, Esq., G. G. Scribe of the G. G. R. A.C. of the U.S. A.; also Past G. High Priest or the Grand Chapter of Maryland and Dist. of Columbia.

M. E. PETER GRINNELL, Esq., G. G. Treasurer of ihe G. G. R. A. C. of the U.S. A.

M. E. OTIS AMIDON, P. G. G. Secretary of the G. G R. A. C of the U.S. A.

M.W. JOHN HARRIS, Grand Master, fthe Grand

M. W. FRANCIS J. OLIVER, G. Master, }\ of the Grand

R. W. JOHN DIXWELL, Deputy G. M. Lodge of

R. W. AUGUSTUS PEABODY, Senior Massachu- G. Warden, setts.

M. W. JOHN CARLILE, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Rhode Island.

R. W. LYMAN LAW, Deputy G. Master,) of the Grand

M. W. LEMUEL WHITNEY, G. Master of the Grand Lodge of Vermont.

M. W. JAMES GILES, G. Master of the Grand Lodge of New Jersey

WE, the undersigned, Officers in the General Grand Royal Arch Chapter of the United States of America, po apPpROvE and REcoMMEND “The True Masonic Chart, or Hieroglyphic Monitor,” designed and arranged by our worthy Companion, Jeremy L. Cross, as entitled to the attention and use of the Craft; being a valuable assistant in elucidating the various Masonic Emblems, and enabling the diligent Craftsman to acquire the Lectures in the several degrees of Aw sient Free Masonry.

M. E. DEWITT CLINTON, General Grand High Priest HENRY FOWLE, Deputy Gen. Grand High Priest. JOHN SNOW, General Grand King.

PHILIP P. ECKEL, General Grand Scribe.

PETER GRINNELL, General Grand Treasurer.

JOHN ABBOT, General Grand Secretary.

DAVID G. COWAN, General Grand Marshal.

JOHIN HARRIS, Past. Gen. Grand Marshal; also M

WG. Master of the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire ,

20 RECOMMENDATIONS.

WE, the Subscribers, Officers of the Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Connecticut, having examined “The Masonie Chart, or Hieroglyphic Monitor,” designed by our Worthy Companion, R. W. Jeremy L. Cross, for the use and instruc- ‘ior. of the Craft, with pleasure recommend the same as a necessary and useful Manual for all Free Masons; ccntaining an elegant and comprehensive view of all the Symbols used in Lecturing upon the several Degrees of Ancient Masonry. fe M. E. LYMAN LAW, G. H. Priest. M, E. LABAN SMITH, D. G. H. Priest. E. DAVID DEMING, G. King.

E. THOMAS H. CUSHING, G. Scribe Comp. HENRY CHAMPION, G. Treasurer HORATIO G, HALE, G. Secretary.

MENZIES RAYNER, G. Chaplain.

SAMUEL GREEN, G. Marshal.

Extract from the Proceedings of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Connecticut, May, A. L. 5820.

RESOLVED, That this Grand Lodge approve of the Masonic Chart, published by Brother Jeremy L. Cross, and recommend it to be used as a Masonic Text-Book in all the Lodges working under this jurisdiction.

A true copy from the minutes.

Attest—WM. H. JONES, G. Secretary.

Extract from the Proceedings of the Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Connecticut, year of R. A. M. 2350.

RESOLVED, That this Grand Chapter approve of the Masonic Chart, published by Companion Jeremy L. Cross, and recommend it to be used as a Text-Book iu the several Chapters under their jurisdiction.

A true copy from the minutes.

Attest- E. GOODRICH, Jun., Grand Secretary.

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Section First

TuE first section consists of general heads ; which. though short and simple, carry weight with them, and qualify us to try and examine the rights of others to our privileges, while they prove ourselves. It also accurately elucidates the mode of initiating a candidate into our ancient order.

A Prayer used at the Initiation of a Candidate.

Vouchsafe thine aid, Almighty Father of the universe, to this our present convention; and grant that this candidate for masonry may dedicate and devote his life to thy service, and become a true and faithful brother among us! Endue him with a campetency of thy Divine Wisdom, that by the secrets of our art he may be better enabled to display the Beauties of Holiness, to the honor of thy holy name! So mote it be. Amen.

The following passage of scripture is rehearsed during the ceremony.

Behold! how good and how pleasant it 1s for brethren to dwell together in unity:

“It is like the precious ointment upon the head. that ran down upon the beard, even 2

Aaron’s beard, that went down to the skirts of his garment:

As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the Lord commanded the blessing, even life for evermore.

Towards the close of the section is explained that peculiar ensign of masonry the lamb-skin, or white leather apron, which is an emblem of innocence, and the badge of a mason; more ancient than the golden fleece or Roman Eagle ; more honorable than the star and garter, or any other order that could be conferred upon the condidate at that or any future period, by king, prince, potentate, or any other person, except he be a mason; and which every one ought to wear with pleasure to himself, and honor to the fraternity.

This section closes with an explanation of the working tools, which are, the twenty-four inch gauge and the common gavel.

The twenty-four inch gauge is an instrument used by operative masons to measure and lay out their work ; but we, as free and accepted masons, are taught to make use of it for the more noble and glorious purpose of dividing our time. It being divided into twenty-four equal parts, is emblematical of the twenty-four hours of the day, which we are taught to divide mto three equal parts; whereby are found eight hours for the service of God, and a distressed worthy brother ; eight for our usual vocations; and eight for refreshment and sleep.

The common gavel is an instrument made use of by operative masons to break off the corners of rough stones, the better to fit them for the builder’s use; but we, as free and accepted masons, are taught to make use of it for the more noble and glorious purpose of divesting our hearts and consciences of all the vices and superfluities of life ; thereby fitting our minds as living stones for that spiritual building, that house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens,