Hello again, my Brothers!

I am a member of many concordant bodies, one of which is the Shrine. I am a member of Cyprus and Oriental Shrine Temples. I would like to give Craftsmen followers a little more info on one of New York State’s most northern Shrine Temples. Brothers Jeffery Lindstrand and Byron Moak have provided me with a fantastic glimpse into how Oriental started and some notable/historical members of this great Temple. To be transparent — they helped write most of what is below. I must give credit where credit is due!

The Oriental Shrine Temple was founded on February 21, 1877, with a meeting presided over by Illustrious Noble Jesse B. Anthony. He was at that time Grand Potentate by virtue of a Dispensation dated February 7, 1877, issued by the Imperial Grand Council of the Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine (the original name of the Shriners). Grand Potentate Anthony declared Oriental Temple duly organized and in order for the transaction of business. A second meeting was held three days later, and nine names were proposed and accepted for membership. Each member paid their dues of one dollar to join. From these humble beginnings, Oriental Shrine Temple has continued to thrive for 144 years.

In March 1942, during World War II, a unique Ceremonial was held. Oriental Temple named General Douglas MacArthur an honorary member of the Temple. He was sent his honorary membership along with a special telegram and a special resolution. On April 29, 1950, Oriental and Cyprus Temple jointly held the Harold Lloyd Ceremonial. Lloyd was a world-famous actor and comedian. Brother Lloyd was best known for his appearance in silent comedy films. He held his own with the likes of Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton. He was also the Imperial Potentate at that time and was making an official visit to the area. That day 65 novices were initiated at the Troy Masonic Temple. A Parade was then held from City Hall to the Washington Avenue Armory for an evening program. During that program, Illustrious Potentate Lloyd was made an honorary member of the Oriental Temple.

Oriental celebrated its 100th Anniversary on May 28, 1977, at the Lake Placid Club with 600 guests and 75 novices. Representatives from 12 other Temples attended and marched in a parade through the town.

Oriental has a very active Patient Transportation Unit. Over the past few years, the volunteer Shriner drivers and riders have taken between 60-82 trips per year to Shriner’s Hospitals (trips were paused during the COVID19 pandemic for safety reasons). The brothers that help with the transportation are called Shepherds. They provide safe transport to the hospitals for the children/parents — one more way Shriners help give back to society.

The most popular public event for the Oriental Shriners is their Annual Shriners Circus. Each year during the summer, Oriental sponsors a professional Circus to come to the area and hold several shows at various locations. There are usually 5-6 days of shows with 2 or more shows on most days. These shows feature Shriners handing out clown noses, coloring books, and programs for all attendees. Additionally, Keystone Kops and Clowns usually assist and entertain attendees even before they enter the Big Top. This is always a great time for both young and older fans!

I hope you have enjoyed this little look inside Oriental Shrine. If you ever have a question about how to join or how to get a child in need to the hospital, please feel free to contact me directly. Again, a BIG thank you to Brothers Jeffery and Bryon for their help with this article!