MASONIC
INK
The signs and symbols of Freemasonry that have become a work of modern art
“My body is a memorial”
Tattoos often represent thoughts and feelings that we have not spoken about or acknowledged, even to ourselves. There are no laws that prevent Freemasons from getting tattoos. As the art form has evolved, so has the level of skill and artistic detail in the work — expanding from traditional Masonic symbols to intricate, permanent, personalized expressions of Masonic principles and values.
This month’s spotlight
“One of the coolest things about Freemasonry is that, wow, there is this tradition. I’m learning the same things that people throughout history have learned. To me, there is nothing better. I love that connection. I love that I’m part of that history. The fact that I can go to the Grand Lodge of New York and see the history that goes back to George Washington is so cool to me. I wish I could tattoo George Washington. What do you think he would wear?”
More Masonic Light
Read our latest blog posts featuring discussions and presenations
Remembering September 11
Craftsmen Online remembers September 11, 2001 with the words of MW Carl J. Fitje, Past Grand Master, Grand Lodge of New York.
Traveling Men
As most Masons know we love to refer to ourselves as Traveling Men. But do you travel? Have you really taken advantage of how and what traveling means in our prestigious fraternity?
Brother Thomas W. Bradley
Brother Thomas W. Bradley’s life would forever change after becoming a Freemason. His life focus would shift from craftsmen, Civil War veteran, to an upright man and Mason.
The Working Tools of Entered Apprentice
Within each degree, the instruction on the Working Tools is one of the most beautifully written parts of Masonic ritual. We examine how an Entered Apprentice can literally divide their time with the use of the 24-inch gauge.
Early Establishments of Masonic Regulations
After Freemasonry emerged into public view in 1717, a treasure trove of Masonic manuscripts was discovered and made public. Bro. Jim Simpson reviews these Masonic texts and teachings.
The Annual Daniel D. Tompkins Graveside Dedication
The annual Tompkins’ Graveside Dedication has become a cherished tradition among the Masons, who take the opportunity to reflect upon the celebrated, yet tragic, life of Most Worshipful Brother Daniel D. Tompkins.
The 33 Degrees in Freemasonry
There are 33 degrees in Freemasonry. Our degrees began in France in the year 1725. The new class of scholarly men (Speculative Masons) had discovered written legends from the old Operative Masons.
Clandestine Masonry
Often, when we think of clandestine masons, the idea of someone wearing a masonic ring purchased at an estate sale, possessing an apron that is not their own, or claiming to know “our secrets.”
1945 Grand Lodge
In April 1945, as Most Worshipful Froessel was concluding his first year as Grand Master, he was confronted with a Grand Lodge dilemma – balancing his Masonic obligation by the laws of the land.
The Grand Lodge of Rhode Island
While the Grand Lodge of Rhode Island is a small Masonic Jurisdiction, we have a large and historic heritage with connections to our colonial Brethren.
Share some ink
Is there a Brother that we should feature in an upcoming article? Let us know! Send his contact information in an email by clicking the button below.