Grand Master Charles K. Cunningham, of Galion Lodge No. 414, learning of the dire need of a 77-year old Ohio Mason and his wife, sent a ]etter on February 2, 1960, to all the Lodges:

For more than four months, a brother of Mantua Lodge No. 533, and his wife, were patients in Phoenix General Hospital, Phoenix, Arizona. Then word came that our Home, to which they had been voted admission, was ready to receive them.

They were stretcher cases. The commercial airlines were not equipped to transport them. To bring them by rail was impractical because of the changes and layovers required. Mantua Lodge, faced with the obligation to deliver them to the Home, responded gloriously and they were transported by private airplane ambulance from Phoenix to Springfield, at a cost to the Lodge of more than $1,500. (Mantun Lodge had 179 members at July 31, 1959.) An appeal to its membership has brought $600 to date and the Lodge will find a way to pay the balance.

But this is only part of the story. After our brother's car and trailer had been sold to meet expenses, hospital bills of more than $2,600 and doctor's bills of $500 are still outstanding. A sympathetic staff of the Sojourners Relief Association in Phoenix has done everything possible for our brother. Phoenix, a vacation land, is burdened with many such situations, but this is probably the most aggravated its Relief Association has faced. It hopes that Ohio Masonry can help it defray, at least in part, the expense of the care given to those who are now residents of our Home.

He asked for the assistance of the Lodges. He was amazed at the overwhelming response. He was able to as sure the hospital it would be paid, so the couple was released and flown to the Home in Springfield. The total hospital bill was $8,908.20. "Ohio Masons responded magnificently to this appeal," said the Grand Master, "and vividly demonstrated that the warm spirit of brotherly love glows fervently in their breasts."

Early in the year, Grand Master Cunningham learned, through newspaper advertisements and other items, there were appendant bodies that considered themselves above the Grand Lodge. On April 14, 1960, he sent a letter to all the District Deputy Grand Masters, Worshipful Masters, and Secretaries of the Lodges. In it he said: "The Grand Lodge of Ohio is always desirous of and ready to cooperate fully with all recognized Masonic Bodies in programs that are beneficial to the Fraternity. However, The Grand Lodge of Ohio will firmly resist any invasion or infringement of its sovereignty or independence, and will record all such incidents.

Symbolic Masonry is the fountainhead of all Masonry and its origin and organization antedates all other Masonic Bodies whose memberships are predicated symbolic upon membership."

During the Annual Communication held on October 14, Grand Master Cunningham emphasized what he had said in his letter, because there were organizations that had ignored it: "This Grand Lodge could, if it became regrettably necessary, by one single piece of legislation divorce without exception all appendant groups without disturbing the fundamental structure or identity of this Grand Lodge while, in turn, none of the appendant groups could divorce itself from this Grand Lodge and still legitinmately use the word Masonic."

The Grand Master recommended legislation be adopted prohibiting any other Masonic-related organization from calling itself "sovereign." The Jurisprudence Committee said the Code provided for the supremacy of the Grand Lodge. No further legislation was necessary.

For the first time in 21 years there was a loss in membership. This did not alarm Grand Master Cunningham. He said: "A continuing decline in the annual number of candidates and a progressive loss in membership are a basis for concern only when they occur unchanged over an extended period. Precedent indicates that the number of candidates and size of membership may run in irregular cycles, and may be subject to influence by a number of factors."

His report continued: "If the size of membership is the principle criteria for appraising the Fraternity, then the solution is simple. We have but to discard the unanimity of the ballot box, relax the investigating committees, and start a wholesale solicitation. All of these would soon
multiply our numbers appreciably, but at the same time we would be losing those principles which have identified our Order for centuries. Quality accompanied with quanatity is a rarity in nature and, likewise, a rarity in human organizations. Masonry occupies the unique position of being the largest Fraternity in the world, and at the same time it enjoys an unexcelled reputation for the honesty, integrity, moral and spiritual quality of its members."

He graphically illustrated the membership trends. In 1880, the first year of his study, the membership was 34,840, and there had been a net gain of 656. In 1914, the membership was 96,075; in 1920, it had increased to 148,480; by 1930 it had reached a high of 209,707. Then
the "Great Depression" struck; it declined to 172,403 by 1940. During World War II membership increased to 219,503 by 1946. It stood at 282,793 at the end of 1959.

In 1890, the membership was slightly less than one percent of the total population of Ohio. At the time of the 1960 Annual Communication it was 3.2 percent. This caused the Grand Master to exclaim: "While the population of Ohio had almost tripled within 70 years, Masonry was increasing its membership ninefold or, in other words, three times the growth of the population.

"Freemasonry has evidenced its value to the citizens for Ohio and they have responded by making Ohio the second largest Grand Jurisdiction in North America."

Several Lodges had extended special recognition for unusual service to their members by making them "Honorary Past Masters." This caused Grand Master Cunningham to say: "Honorary Past Masterships may have a useful place in our future Masonic life, however, until that place can be clearly ascertained, perhaps we should make haste slowly."

With his own father, C. K. Cunningham, Jr., present, the Grand Master, Charles K. Cunningham, raised his son, Carlton Dean Cunningham to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. This historic event took place in Galion Lodge No. 414 on September 7, 1960. The Grand Master searched the records and said this was "the first time in our history that a Grand Master has raised his son during his tenure of office."

A Special Committee found the grave of Past Grand Master Samuel Wheeler. It was located in an old cemetery at Unionville, Ohio, on Star Route 84, two miles east of Madison. The Committee found the grave in a deplorable condition. A search for some of the history of Samuel
Wheeler was made, but ]ittle was found. He received his degrees in Old Erie Lodge No. 3 in 1814. In the same year, he became a member of Rising Sun Lodge No. 22 in Ashtabula. In 1816, he affiliated with Temple Lodge No. 28 and was its Worshipful Master in 1822. He officiated on
September 26, 1826, in Rising Sun Lodge No. 22 as the Grand Master for services for Rev. Bro. Roger Stearles. In January, 1826, Wheeler was elected Grand Master. He was recorded as being from Unionville, Geauga County. He presided over the Annual Communication that required three days in January, 1827. Then it appears he dropped from sight.

An exhaustive search was made to learn more about Past Grand Master Samuel Wheeler by a Special Committee. It said: "The Masonic history is meager since the records of Old Erie Lodge No. 3 prior to 1853 were destroyed by fire and the early records of Temple Lodge No. 28 cannot be found. The early records of Rising Sun Lodge No. 22 have been well preserved but the information is

The Ritual Committee continued to praise the typewritten Ritual. It said it "will probably be necessary to print a new edition of our Cipher Rituals early in 1962 and the Committee will be happy to have suggestions from the members of the Grand Lodge for changes which will prove to be improvements."

Past Grand Master Carl Weir Ellenwood, in his Foreword to his Fraternal Reviews, said half the Grand Lodges reported losses in membership. The need for better Lodge leadership was a concern throughout the country. "One of the hopeful signs," he said, "is that the present leaders
of Masonry are beginning to see the problem and need of study of its causes and suggested solutions." Everyone was talking about educational programs, but "some of the edcational programs seem a little too dogmatic and stodgy in their character, but we are in a period of 'cut and try' so far as the educational programs are concerned."

Soon after his election, Grand Master Charles H. Strayer, of Sanford L. Collins Lodge No. 396, searched for a theme he could use for the year. He wanted one because he "saw large and successful corporations originate and adopt themes in their efforts to create interest and make their product desired by the buying public." He turned to the "Book of our law" and found what he was seeking: "Let your light so shine that they may see your good works your Father which is in heaven." It was found in St. Matthew 5 :16. He had 5,000 cards printed with this theme and readily passed them out during the year.

During the Conference of Grand Masters in the District of Columbia held on February 20 - 21, 1961, Grand Master Strayer spoke at length twice. He spoke in opposition to the question "Should This Conference Endeavor to Organize an International Masonic Conference?" In his
closing remarks he said: "If I believed that conferences such as proposed would be helpful in solving any of the problems which exist in any country, I would be arguing the affirmative instead of the negative of the question that we are discussing."

His second talk was on the need for public relations. "Please believe me," he said, "I do not suggest any direct form of solicitation for candidates. But I am a firm believer in letting the world know more about our Craft."

The Masons of Ohio were saddened by the death of Dr. James J. Tyler, the long time Grand Historian. He had died on June 15, 1961. Three days later, his funeral services were conducted by Old Erie Lodge No. 3. Among the many awards that Dr. Tyler had achieved during his Masonic career was the Pierpont Edwards Medal of the Grand Lodge of Connecticut. A month later, on July 31, 1961, Roscoe Raymond Walcutt, president of the Board of Trustees of the Ohio Masonic Home passed away.

Lebanon Lodge No.26 was in charge of the dedication services when a monument was unveiled over the grave of Thomas Corwin and his wife on July 29, 1961. The ceremonies took place in Lebanon Cemetery, with arrangements made by the Committee on Historical Monuments of the
Ohio Monument Builders Association. Thomas Corwin had served The Grand Lodge of Ohio as Grand Master in 1828. He had a remarkable career. Among other things he was a Congressman in 1830, Governor of Ohio in 1840, United States Senator in 1845, Secretary of the United States
Treasury in 1850, and United States Minister to Mexico in 1861. He died December 18, 1865.

Mexico didn't forget his many contributions. A short time before the dedication services, it sent a delegation to place a wreath on Corwin's grave. For the dedication ceremonies, it sent "a remembrance."

A faded document was found by the Warren County Historical Society which read:

THOMAS CORWIN MATTER ABRAHAM LINCOLN

President of the United States of America To THOMAS CORWIN of Ohio, Greetings:

In reposing special trust and confidence in your Integrity, Prudence and Ability I have nominated and by and with the advice and consent of the Senate do appoint you Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to Mexico, authorizing you hereby to do and perform all such matters and things as to the said place and office doth appertain or as may be duly given you in charge hereafter, and the said office to hold and exercise during the pleasure of the President of the United States for the time being.

In testimony whereof I have caused the seal of the United States to be unto affixed. Given under my hand at the city of Washington, the 22nd day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-one and of the Independence of the United States of America the eighty-fifth.

By the President, ABRAHAM LINCOLN
William H. Seward, Secretary of State

Some historians claimed this was one of the most brilliant appointments made by Lincoln.

Grand Master Charles H. Strayer opened the Annual Communication on October 13, 1961, in Toledo. The net loss for the year was 1,052. "For the second time in succession," said Grand Secretary White, "we show a net loss following a period of 14 years of declining net gains."

Grand Master Strayer was pleased to report that after years of discussion, "a badge of distinction" had been acquired for the Past District Deputy Grand Masters. He added: "The Jewel was to be in the form of the square and compass, gold with a blue background with the letters PDDGM in a semi-circle at the bottom. I am very happy to report that the jewel has been prepared as planned and that they have been distributed through our Grand Lodge office."

The Committee on Public Installations reported it was deadlocked. It had been for two years. Consequently, they were unable to reach a decision and asked the present Committee be discharged. It said, however, "Your attention is directed to the fact that our Code contains no provision which prohibits public installation of officers."

The Special Committee on Lodge Size Limitation came back with a mixed report. On the plus side it indicated smaller Lodges have a larger percentage of their members attending; more members were able to participate in the conferring of the degrees and in other ways; if the larger Lodges were broken up into smaller ones more men would be petitioning because they could be active; an example was given on the Lodges in London, England which number less than 100 members.

On the negative side, it indicated smaller Lodges would be prone to have financial difficulties; the financing of Temples would be more difficult because all the Lodges meeting in the Temple would be represented on a Board and large Boards are difficult to deal with; many of the Templers are filled every night so smaller Lodges would have no place to meet; when a maximum membership was reached the only way new petitions could be accepted would be when an older member passed away.

The Committee added: "Even the members of this Committee do not agree on a desirable number of Brethren in a Lodge." It did note Lodges organized in the suburbs are "generally showing gains, while the large Lodge in the center of our metropolitan areas are declining. If this condition continues, it is possible that the problem will eventually solve itself." It hasn't.

It was agreed that a Public Relations Committee should be established, and "The Committee on Public Relations shall prepare and disseminate, or arrange for the dissemination and publication of appropriate news releases, radio and television scripts, articles of public interest concerning the Masonic Fraternity, announcements of activities of the Grand Lodge and Subordinate Lodges, as will as of the Grand and Subordinate Lodges of other Jurisdictions, and shall publicize the noteworthy achievements of members of the Masonic Fraternity, as with due regard for Masonic principles, laws, customs and usages. The Committee shall take no action which may affect Grand Lodge policy without the approval of the Grand Master.

Because it was felt too many "splinter groups" were sapping the strength of the Lodges, the Grand Lodge agreed:

Members of Lodges chartered under the Grand Lodge of Ohio, and Masons residing within its Jurisdiction, are hereby prohibited from becoming members of any organization which confers degrees in accordance with a prescribed ritual, and which requires Masonic affiliation as a prerequisite to membership (other than those organized or chartered by or under the control
or authority of existing organizations) unless such organization was in existence in the Jurisdiction of Ohio on January 1, 1955, or unless such organization shall hereafter be authorized by action of this Grand Lodge."

"Outdoor meetings" concerned Grand Master Strayer. The number of requests for Dispensations had increased dramatically. He met with his Advisory Committee to discuss the situation. It "was the opinion of the committee anything that created interest in our Order, such as has been created by these meetings, was worthwhile and in all probability good public relations." The approval of the location, it was decided, should be left to the discretion of the District Deputy Grand Master for the district involved.

On December 1, 1961, Grand Master Daniel C. Jenkins, of New Lexington Lodge No. 250, received a letter from A. B. Bonds, Jr., President of Baldwin-Wallace College. He suggested that a $2,000 scholarship be established in the name of The Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Ohio. In conferring with the Advisory Committee, the Grand Master found unanimous support for such a scholarship. The Grand Master added: "It is my ardent hope that this will be but the beginning of a program of this nature which our Grand Lodge can undertake as a service to youth." It was just the beginning.

On the world front, an historical moment took place on February 2, 1962. John H. Glenn, Jr., became the first American to orbit the earth. This feat proved the American space program was on target, and would lead to Americans becoming the only men to walk on the moon. In 1978, John Glen would join Concord Lodge No. 688.

Grand Master Daniel C. Jenkins convened the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge on October 12, 1962. In his Address, he said he had received a number of requests for installations with invited guests. He sent the Lodges a letter on October 27, 1961, specifying the conditions under which he would issue Dispensations for these meetings. There was nothing in the Code prohibiting installations with guests who weren't Masons, but he felt legislation should be introduced setting forth the criteria to use.

Legislation was introduced to accomplish this. It was laid over until the following year when the lengthy resolution was reduced to read simply: "The officers of a Lodge must be installed in a tyled meeting of the Lodge, or, with the consent of the Lodge, at a meeting to which guests not
members of the Craft may be invited. If the latter, there must be strict compliance with the prescribed Ceremony of Annual Installation of Lodge Officers."

The Grand Lodge of India had been formed by 145 Lodges formerly holding Charters from Ireland, Scotland, and England. The Fraternal Relations Committee recommended it be officially recognized by The Grand Lodge of Ohio. It was.

The Committee on Masonic Education and Information said it had issued three bulletins during the year. The first was entitled, "What Is Freemasonry?", the second, "Questions and Answers Regarding Masonic Information," the third, "The Office of Worshipful Master."

The Committee on Service to Youth submitted a resolution which the Grand Lodge adopted. It stated:

SCHOLARSHIP PLAN OF THE GRAND LODGE OF FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS OF OHIO

I. NAME

The scholarship granted under this plan shall be known as "The Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Ohio Scholarships."

II. PURPOSE
The purpose of these scholarships is to aid able and deserving young people to secure an education at an accredited college, university, or theological seminary of his or her choice.

The Public Relations Committee said it had met with two qualified public relations counsels who were members of the Fraternity. They would submit a suggested proposal, set up a program, and have an estimate of its cost at a later date. The committee had met with a company that did "a great deal of work in the making of signs." It had been suggested that a sign be placed on highway in prominent locations so visitors would know where the Masonic Temple was in the town. The sign suggested "would be a square and compass in color on a circular field. Below this would be a small panel, 8" x 24" giving the name of the Lodge and other pertinent information. The Grand Lodge approved the report of the Committee.

Upon the recommendation of the Jurisprudence Committee the Grand Lodge adopted an amendment to Section 11 of the Code which reads: "1. Neither the Master nor Wardens of a Lodge can resign during their term of office, except for reasons satisfactory to and with the consent of the Lodge and the Grand Master; nor can a Brother elected to an office decline to be installed, unless he has served in the same station the year last preceding, or, for good cause, is excused by the Lodge."

Under the chairmanship of Robert A. Hinshaw, no time was lost in establishing twenty-six $400 scholarships. The only qualifications for these was established as "being need and high scholarship." The colleges selects were: University of Akron; Baldwin-Wallace College; Bowling Green State University; Heidelberg College; Hiram College; Kent State University; Marietta College; Methodist Theological School in Ohio; Miami University; Mount Union College; Muskingum College; Ohio Northern University; Ohio State University; Ohio University; Ohio ; Wesleyan University; Otterbein College; University of Toledo; United Theological Seminary; Western Reserve University; Wilmington College; Wittenberg University; College of Wooster; Youngstown University.

In addition, the scholarship of $2,000 offered by Dr. Alfred Bonds, President of Baldwin-Wallace College, continued, and was known as "The Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Ohio Scholarship."

The citizens of Loudenville celebrated "Hugo H, Young Day" on August 20, 1963. Young, a fifty-year mason, founded a corporation now known as The Flexible Company, in 1913. He has continued in the active management of the company, which was formed to develop Young's invention of flexible wheel suspensions. The company is a leader in the building of passenger buses and ambulances.

The Grand Lodge met on October 18, 1963, and Grand Master Ralph M. Francisco, of Riverview Lodge No.717, said he had issued 53 Dispensations to hold installations with non-Masonic guests present.

Grand Master Francisco said he had refused to permit Lodges to confer the title "Honorary Past Master." He felt: "The desire of the Brethren of a Lodge to honor one of their number for long or outstanding service is a warm, friendly, and brotherly gesture, and is highly commendable. Nevertheless, there are many ways in which this can be accomplished other than by conferring the tile of 'Honorary Past Master.'

Grand Secretary White said, "Work on the microfilming of our Annual Returns is in progress and will continue routinely." In reporting a net loss of 1,690, he stated: "Again the larger and older Lodges record the greater losses, although some of the larger Lodges which carry on active programs still report net gains. It is quite apparent that we continue to be dependent upon local leadership."

For their outstanding work for Ohio Freemasonry, the Grand Master presented special plaques to Ed M. Jenkins and Anthony J. Lista.

The Ritual Committee outlined the rules and regulations Lodges must follow for installations where non-Masons are invited. Among these was one that had caused these installations to be frowned upon for years. "That portion of the installation as to any objection to installations of any officers, must be conducted in a Lodge at labor with only Master Masons present." When the Installing Officer is ready to proceed with the installation, he declares the Lodge at recess. Non-Masons are then seated.

After the guests have been seated, the Installing Officer states: "We are happy to say that the Brethren of this Lodge still approve the choices which have been made and will proceed to install those officers." However, if the Worshipful Master-elect isn't installed, the appointive officers cannot be either.

A resolution was adopted providing for the appointment of District Educational Officers. After the Grand Lodge officers had been installed, and the District Deputy Grand Masters presented, the Grand Master announced the appointment of the newly created District Educational Officers.

Several Lodges had purchased special road signs, said the Committee on Public Relations. These were made of fluorescent material, with a Square and Compasses in a golden color on a background of blue.

Grand Master Cohn B. Montis was among the more than three thousand Masons gathered in Cleveland for "International Masonic Day" on September 12, 1964. He later said it was one of the greatest and most thrilling I experiences in his entire career. Over one thousand Canadian Masons, many with their ladies, were present, In the afternoon, the Master Mason Degree was conferred in the Masonic Auditorium on Euclid Avenue.

About 9,000 were present in the Cleveland Public Hall in the evening. It was the scene of a "two-and-one-half-hour indoor parade." The participants included: "every organization in northeastern Ohio predicating its membership upon Masonry." Even the ladies' organizations added "to this brilliant ceremony." At the conclusion, Grand Master Montis addressed the large gathering. He spoke of "the wonderful feeling of brotherhood existing between the Ma both countries."

The Grand Master said it appeared that Brooklyn Lodge No. 454 was the first to start intervisitations when, in 1936, it traveled to Toronto to visit St. George Lodge No. 367. "This was enjoyed so much," he added, ‘by those who made the trip that the following year the visit was reversed and St. George was entertained in Cleveland by Brooklyn Lodge. These trips soon became important events of both Lodges and the examples set by them were soon followed by many others, until at the present time more than a dozen Cleveland Lodges participate in such events."

The Chairman of the Grand Lodge Scholarship Committee, Robert A. Hinshaw, reported a Grand Lodge Scholarship Foundation had been incorporated by the State during the year. This was done to "put the scholarship program on a self-sustaining basis." He said two individuals
had made contributions to it of $1,000 and $500. Information about the Foundation's plans would be distributed during 1965.

Grand Master Cohn B. Montis, of Bigelow Lodge No. 243, opened the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge on October 16, 1964. He said he had issued Dispensations to the Lodges to commemorate the 175th anniversary of the inauguration of George Washington as President of
the United States. The Masons of Ohio were permitted to attend religious services on April 26, 1964, clothed as Master Masons.

Once again it was necessary for a Grand Master to caution against the circulation of chain letters. He said when one is received to "destroy it at once." He also found that pennies were being stamped with the emblem of Freemasonry: "The defacing of these coins and their circulation should be discouraged by every thinking Mason and we should never be a party to the continuance of such a practice. You should refuse to accept these pennies and those responsible should be warned that to stamp our emblems on them does not have the approval of Masonry in Ohio."

Grand Master Montis noted that since 1949 the Worshipful Masters attending the Grand Lodge Communication had received a per diem allowance of $10 per day and mileage of 6¢ for each mile traveled. He felt an increase was in order. He paused in his Address to ask for unanimous
consent to consider raising the per capita by 25¢. This would permit per diem to be paid at the rate of $15 per day; mileage at the rate of 8¢ per mile. Unanimous consent was granted. The per capita was increased to $3.00, with $2.20 continuing to go to the Masonic Home; 80¢ being retained for the operation of the Grand Lodge.

The Committee on Masonic Education and Information reported area workshops had been added to the educational program during the year.

The Committee on Charters and Dispensations offered a "word of caution." The Grand Master had, on two occasions during the year, issued Dispensations permitting the White Shrine of Jerusalem to meet permanently in two Lodge rooms. "The power of the Grand Master to authorize a Lodge to grant such permission on a temporary basis is of questioned," it said. "Whether the Grand Master is empowered to authorize a Temple Company so to do is doubtful. In any event, the committee questions the wisdom of permitting permanent occupancy of a dedicated Lodge Room by a White Shrine, in the face of the refusal of the Grand Lodge on two separate occasions in recent years, to amend Section 63 of our Code to permit Lodge Room
occupancy by the White Shrine of Jerusalem."

The Committee also refused to grant "a warrant or Dispensation for a Lodge of Research." It suggested the petition be turned over to the incoming Grand Master "for consideration and action." The Dispensation was issued by Grand Master Edgar L. Ott, who installed the officers
on January 30, 1965.

By the slim margin of 44 votes, a resolution to adopt statewide concurrent jurisdiction was defeated. But the same resolution was submitted for action in 1965, when it was again defeated.

The Committee on History stated that it was still trying to collate the events "by subject rather than by years, so by looking in the index to the supplements for any given subject all material, records, events, edicts, correspondence or happenings will be found at one place and under one heading." The Committee was assuming an impossible task. Similar Committees had been working in the same vein for a number of years without any material being presented to the Grand Lodge.

The following year, the Committee would report it expected to have a history of the Ohio Masonic Home completed by the next Session of Grand Lodge. It had found the author of 15 books residing at the Ohio Masonic Home. He had offered to write the history up-to-date.

Grand Master Edgar L. Ott, of Community Lodge No. 684, called the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge to order on October 15, 1965. Once again John W. Bricker added his welcome to Columbus. The Grand Orator, Robert A. Hinshaw, said: "We meet today as Masons working for the day when men everywhere shall beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks, thereby establishing true and lasting peace."

Grand Master Walter A. Porter of Virginia was called upon to respond for the many distinguished guests. "I would like you to know that your Grand Master and were the first two Grand Masters ever to ride in the Apple Blossom Festival at Winchester, Virginia," he said. "We were there to observe, on the following day, the centennial celebration of the entering, passing, and raising of President McKinley. We were highly honored by being invited to attend and participate in that parade. It was my pleasure to receive M. W. Pro. Ott and three of the Illustrious Past Grand Masters of The Grand Lodge of Ohio as well as a great company of the Brethren of William McKinley Lodge of Canton. That, indeed, has been one of the highlights
of my year as Grand Master of Masons in The Commonwealth of Virginia."

Grand Master Ott followed this theme in his Address:

One of the highlights of the year was the visitation of Winchester Hiram Lodge No. 21, Winchester, Virginia, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the raising of William McKinley, who became the twenty fifth President of the United States. Our Grand Secretary also attended this event as did M.W. Bros. L. Todd McKinney and Frank W. Nicholas.

In the morning, I was privileged to assist M. W. Bro. Walter A. Porter, Grand Master of Virginia, in the unveiling of the plaque erected at the site of the former Masonic Temple where William McKinley received his degrees in Freemasonry.

Some 150 members of William McKinley Lodge No. 431, Canton, Ohio, were in attendance and conferred the Master Mason Degree at the James Wood High School in the afternoon, followed in the evening by a skit, presented by the Virginia Craftsmen, depicting some of the events occurring near the time of Brother McKinley's acceptance into the Order. The skit was written by Bro. Allen E. Roberts of Virginia and entitled "William McKinley – Freemason."

I was proud of the work performed by Wor. Bro. Eugene G. Strebel and the officers of William McKinley Lodge and thrilled by the gracious hospitality extended by our Virginia Brethren.

This was a significant story of the power of Freemasonry, in that McKinley was a major in the Union Army and was accepted into the fellowship of Winchester Hiram Lodge, located in a Confederate stronghold, just two weeks after the close of the conflict between the states.

The Grand Master said he was proud for Ohio to have been the "host to the Supreme Council, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, in its one hundred fifty-third annual meeting held in Cleveland. . . . . However, this session ended on a note of extreme sadness as the Sovereign Grand Commander, Illustrious George E. Bushnell, 33 , passed away in his hotel suite a few hours after the conferral of the 33 The Grand Lodge of Ohio extends its deepest sympathy to the Supreme Council in the loss of its eminent leader."

The Scholarship Committee continued granting scholarships to the same schools. During the year, several individuals and Lodges had contributed to the Scholarship Fund.

A Charter was granted to Ohio Lodge of Research, "empowering it to carry on the work of a Lodge of Research, with its headquarters at Worthington, Ohio, but with authority to meet elsewhere in the state of Ohio, as may be convenient; provided that said Lodge of Research shall not be authorized to confer degrees nor shall its Master and Wardens be entitled to voice or vote in this Grand Lodge."

Robert A. Hinshaw told the Grand Lodge he had the honor of representing Ohio at the 100th anniversary of The Grand Lodge of West Virginia. He had presented it with a large portrait of William B. Thrall, the Past Grand Master of Ohio, who constituted The Grand Lodge of West Virginia. In return, The Grand Lodge of West Virginia presented The Grand Lodge of Ohio with a copy of the old record book of Fredericksburg Lodge No. 4 of Virginia. He presented this copy to The Grand Lodge of Ohio library.

The Committee on Masonic Education and Information reported it had issued bulletins entitled "Lodge Education Officers Manual"; "The Grand Master"; and "What Is Freemasonry?" Of the 666 Lodges reporting, all had appointed Lodge Education Officers. It had held six area workshops during the year. It had acquired, on a loan basis, the library of the late Frank H. Marquis, which had been bequeathed to Mansfield Lodge No. 35. The books were to be housed in the Grand Lodge Library in Worthington until such time as the Lodge might ask for their return.

On Sunday, September 18, 1966, the Scottish Rite Wing of the Rickly Memorial Hospital was dedicated. It was named for the Scottish Rite because the greater part of the money for the wing came from the Valleys in Ohio. It was a 97-bed addition, making it possible to transfer those needing medical attention to it almost immediately after the dedication.

The Annual Communication for 1966 was held on October 21 with Grand Master George F. DeSilver, of McMillan Lodge No. 141, presiding.

Grand Secretary Andrew White reported the loss in membership for the year was 1,278. Then he added:

Even though we have nearly halved our losses in the current year, even though the continuing losses sustained by our sister Jurisdiction in New York may have resulted in our becoming the largest Grand Lodge in the United States, we should still be challenged by the example set for us by our Grand Master. He has shown us that many losses are avoidable by the simple exercise
of brotherly love. Too often we rely on our Secretary to maintain our membership. The experiences of the past year teach us what is possible when Masters, Wardens, and Brethren share the responsibility of encouraging restorations and preventing suspensions.

Five hundred eight Lodges sent 5,280 names of members "who had suspended themselves by failing to pay their dues" to the Grand Master. He sent a personal letter to each of them. This resulted in 4,682 being reinstated. The Grand Master said: "Almost 50% of our suspensions came from those 168 Lodges" that had not answered his letters requesting names.

Much was learned from this effort by Grand Master DeSilver. Many told why they had let themselves fall be hind in their dues. The Grand Master was grateful for the assistance he had received from many of the Lodges and committees. He was happy to report the incoming Grand Master would continue the program of personal concern.

The Jurisprudence Committee noted that for years there had been several requests for an amendment or outright repeal of Code Section 40, "Intoxicants." It claimed this section was one of the most controversial sections, if not the most controversial section, in the Code. It requested
the incoming Grand Master to appoint a committee to study the whole subject.

The same Committee asked for unanimous consent to consider amending Section 26 of the Code. Legislation was introduced to permit statewide concurrent jurisdiction. After the legislation was introduced, however, unanimous consent was refused for its consideration. It was ordered to lie over until the next Annual Communication.

The Grand Lodge Scholarship Committee reported:

Over the past four years, 25 scholarships in the amount of $400.00 each have been awarded each year on the basis of scholarship and merit to 25 young men and women enrolled in selected Ohio colleges, universities and theological seminaries. During each year this program has been in existence the Ohio Council of Deliberation of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite for the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction has contributed an additional $400.00 to the committee, making it possible to award a total of 26 $400.00 scholarships. . . . Feeling that the colleges, universities and seminaries were better qualified than the committee to select the deserving scholars the awarding of the scholarships have always been left entirely to the discretion of the scholarship board of the institution.

The Chairman of the Committee on Time and Place stated: "Inasmuch as our Grand Master-elect is from Jackson, Ohio, and his house might be the biggest meeting place in town, I doubt if you could all get in his house. He has expressed a desire to hold the 1967 Annual Communication in Columbus, Ohio. The Fourteenth District would be vary happy to extend this courtesy and, in behalf of the committee, I therefore move that the 1967 Annual Communication be held in Columbus, Ohio, on October 20 and 21, 1967."

Past Grand Master Carl Wier Ellenwood noted in his foreword to the Fraternal Reviews that apathy and indifference appear to be running rampant throughout Freemasonry and the country as a whole. He believed the answer to this problem was causing a lack of attendance at
meetings. He believed "the cure is often difficult to come by in an organization which depends on voluntary officer-ship."

Grand Master Ben R. Evans went overseas in June. On the ninth, he was a guest of The Grand Lodge National of France for the dedication of its new Grand Lodge building. The 150th anniversary of the Supreme Grand Royal Arch of Scotland was held in Edinburgh on the 16th. He was there. He was in England when the United Grand Lodge celebrated its 250th anniversary.

The celebration began on June 27 and went on for four days. Sixty-four Grand Masters were present in the Royal Albert Hall when the Duke of Kent was installed as Grand Master. So were 6,500 other Master Masons. Grand Master Evans also visited Jordan Lodge No. 201 to witness a regular business session and the conferring of the Fellowcraft degree.

During a dinner held on the 26th, the Grand Master presented a special plaque to the United Grand Lodge of England. Grand Secretary Stubbs of England later wrote: "The plaque has been placed in the museum here were it will always stand as a pleasant reminder of your Grand Master and his daughter's visit to our celebration."

Grand Master Evans, of Morning Dawn Lodge No. 7 opened the Annual Communication of The Grand Lodge of Ohio on October 20, 1967, in Columbus. Once again John W. Pricker addressed the delegates:

This order with forty-nine similar organizations throughout the country can change the course of history. Sometimes we become discouraged, sometimes we get mad when we see what is going on in the country. Some times we look over the schoolbooks and don't like what we read, we do not like the kooks and the beatniks and the dirty, filthy leaders of some causes on the campuses of the various communities. We don't like the spread of the drug habit, we don't like the infidelity on the part of people. We do not like the lack of patriotism and dedication to the cause of country that is apparent on every side. Certainly, we do not like the onsurge of atheism promoted in our midst too often by those who ought to know better, and financed too often by foreign money. . . .

The first organization destroyed by totalitarian government, communist or whatever you want to call it, is the Masonic Order because tyranny cannot stand up in the face of men dedicated to the worship of God, to the service of their community, and to the betterment of their fellowman, meeting anywhere, particularly behind tyled doors. So this order carries a great responsibility in again renewing faith in the Almighty, reestablishing a patriotic attitude toward the laws of the land. And let me say in passing that no one has the right to choose what laws he will obey. Those laws are written by the representatives of the people under a representative government and each one has the obligation to obey them. . . .

The first bill passed under Governor St. Clair was to do away with rioting, and there was a fine fixed upon any more than three that might be engaged in rioting, a fine of $16.00, and a six-month penalty to assure good behavior thereafter. Now that was in the very beginning of our state.

Bricker said he was disturbed by the rioting and destructive strikes that had taken place in Ohio in recent years.

The Grand Orator, Donald M. Thomson, noted this was the 65th Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge held in Columbus. The first time it met in this city was in 1818. At that time there were 25 Lodges represented; this year670 Lodges were represented.

Grand Secretary Andrew J. White, Jr., began his report from Hawaii where "lovely girls, in microscopic bikinis, paddle in the water or sun themselves on the sand. Like their sisters on the mainland, they have found where the boys are."

"Two years ago, without fanfare," he added, "we instituted a Grand Secretary's Bulletin. It was designed for better communication with the Secretaries of Subordinate Lodges, for whose eyes its message was intended." Over the course of time, Grand Lodge officers had contributed
articles to it. He was hopeful that a better duplicating machine could be installed in the Grand Lodge office to produce the Grand Secretary's Bulletin.

He said he had been selected as the First Vice President of the Masonic Relief Association of the United States and Canada. He was also elected to the same office in The Philalethes Society, of which he was also selected a Fellow.

A Special Committee on the State of the Craft made a substantial report. It had reviewed many areas including the Ritual. It had been suggested the lectures be put on tape. The Committee discarded this as not being feasible. The need for a Grand Lodge publication was brought out and the committee agreed this was something that should be done. It believed the Masonic funeral service should be revised to "express a positive attitude toward death. We are not gathered by the side of our departed Brother to bemoan his loss, but to reassure the family that he has passed on to his heavenly reward." It also believed each District should have a school for officers; the Education and Information Committees' work should be extended; statewide concurrent jurisdiction would help; DeMolay should be encouraged; there should be more District Deputy Grand Masters; a good public relations program should be instituted; and reviews should be made of Grand Master's recommendations because too many are allowed to just fade away.

Once again a majority favored statewide concurrent jurisdiction, but the two-thirds majority was lacking.

The Committee on History commended the Grand Master for requesting each Lodge to prepare its history. A pamphlet had been sent to each Lodge suggesting a method of compiling the history. It complimented the 28 Lodges that had complied with the request.

The Special Committee on Section 40 that had been appointed by the Grand Master to study the liquor question reported on its history. The first action by the Grand Lodge governing the use of alcoholic beverages was taken in 1884. No prior action was necessary because until April 17, 1883, it was illegal to sell alcoholic beverages in the state of Ohio. Then the Ohio legislature changed the law. The various changes made in Grand Lodge law throughout the years were covered, the last being in 1964.

The committee noted a survey of the membership would indicate 90 percent of the members favored no repeal of the law as it now reads. It concluded: "Your committee feels that repeal of the section in its entirety is almost universally unpopular among our members, that to do so
would create much disharmony and, perhaps, many voluntary withdrawals. The members of this committee also feel that the repeal would be ill-advised at this time."

For some time the White Shrine of Jerusalem had been endeavoring to obtain permission to meet in Masonic Lodge Halls. This was finally resolved when an amendment to the second paragraph of Section 63 of the Code was adopted: "Provided, however, that any organization whose membership is predicated upon Masonic affiliation or upon the Masonic affiliation of grandfather, father, brother, husband, or son or upon the recommendation of a Master Mason, with the consent of the Masonic Bodies jointly occupying such hall or rooms may be permitted to use said Masonic hall or rooms, for its meetings and social purposes only, but shall not permit the use of such facilities, either separately or with it jointly by any other society organizations."

The Columbus Dispatch magazine section was commended for the pictures and articles on the Snow House and the New England Lodge building. These had been in the May 21 and October 29, 1967, editions of the newspaper.

In the article accompanying the picture of the Snow House, the reporter, Bill Arter, wrote: "Royal Arch Masonry in Ohio began in this house and Snow organized in it the first Commandery of Knights Templar in the Northwest Territory."

The second article, written by the same reporter, said: "When James Kilbourne and his little band journeyed to the forested site of Worthington in 1803, they carried a charter from the Masonic Grand Lodge of Connecticut. The settlers at once formed New England Lodge No. 4 –
still an active and flourishing organization."

Arter said the Temple was completed in 1820. Then "honoring a tradition that Solomon's Temple was dedicated seven years after completion, it was not dedicated until 1827." He closed his account by writing: "It was an inspired decision to join the new building to the old and to design it in pleasant harmony of proportion and detail. It is most interesting that all the architectural mementoes of Worthington Masonry are preserved. They include the 1803 Kilbourne House, the Snow House of 1817, the Temple and the Horace Wright House (now the Sharon Memorial Building) where the legal lodge met during the 1890's while they were locked out by their clandestine brethren."

Early in 1968, Hospital Visitation in five veterans' hospitals started in Ohio. This was made possible through The Grand Lodge of Ohio in cooperation with The Masonic Service Association. It was the culmination of many years of effort on the part of many of the leaders of Ohio Freemasonry.

During the year more than 2,200 Masons and their families enjoyed an "Hawaiian Carnival Travel Program" sponsored by the Grand Lodge. It was reported "an over whelming majority of them speak strong words in praise of it." Many asked, "Where do we go next year?"

On August 3, 1968, for the first time, an "All-Masonic Home Day" was held. Over 1,500 Masons and their families were present for the festivities. They went from every section of the state. Many saw the Home for the first time.

The Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge was held in Toledo on October 11, 1968. Grand Master Donald E. Kretzinger, of Pyramid Lodge No. 701, said he was highly pleased with the visit to Hawaii. "This was the first time your Grand Lodge has ever taken part in any event of this nature," he added. "It was the feeling of your Grand Master and other Officers that it would be a fine thing for the Brother Masons of Ohio, as other sister Jurisdictions are doing and have been doing for years, to join together for a 'once-in-a-lifetime' vacation . . . the large numbers who have availed themselves of this opportunity testifies to the wide acceptance of this idea."

Grand Master Kretzinger asked the members to get behind the building of a Chapel at the Ohio Masonic Home. He felt such an edifice should be available every day in the week for prayer and meditation.

Seventy-three Lodges, reported the History Committee, had written their histories and sent them to the Grand Lodge office.

The Chairman of the Public Relations Committee reported:

There was a time when I thought that public relations and membership went hand in hand. I have changed my thinking somewhat. The Great Grand Lodge of New York had all the public relations possibilities known to man. They had the Ernpire State Mason; they have operated cruises, they had an exhibit at the World's Fair, yet they have shown losses far exceeding ours. It is because of their large loss that we are the largest Jurisdiction in these United States. It seems to me, my Brethren, that no committee on public relations can do the work. I think it is up to each individual Mason – any man who puts an emblem on his coat lapel – to consider himself part of our public relations and conduct himself in such a manner that he is a credit to our Fraternity. May I say this in closing, "Let your light so shine upon men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven."

The Committee on Ways and Means approved an appropriation of $1,000 to assist the order of DeMolay.

Grand Master Robert A. Hinshaw, of Concord Lodge No.688, lost no time in putting his ambitious program to work. He met with the District Deputy Grand Masters on October 25, 1968. He had added several extra ones for the larger districts, making forty-seven in all for the twenty-five districts. He outlined his nine-point program and emphasized his theme: "The Difference Between the Impossible and the Possible Is a Measure of Man's Will."

The following day, the District Educational Officers joined the group. A full-scale leadership program which had been developed in conjunction with the Committee on Masonic Information and Education was presented. Each district was charged with the responsibility of holding at
least one Leadership Training Workshop.

Statewide concurrent jurisdiction had been proposed and defeated for several years. Grand Master Hinshaw sent a letter to each District Deputy Grand Master on January 21, 1969. He explained the many benefits such jurisdiction would have for Ohio Freemasonry. The wisdom of this approach was evident. During the Annual Communication, a three-year trial period was approved by an overwhelming margin.

Within his letter he told this story:

There's an Arab Chief who tells the story of a spy who had been captured and sentenced to death by a general of the Persian army. The general had fallen on a strange and rather bizarre custom. He permitted the condemned person to make a choice. He could either face the firing squad or pass through the Black Door.

As the moment of execution drew near, the general ordered the spy to be brought before him for a short, final interview, the primary purpose of which was to receive the answer of the doomed man to the question: "Which shall it be - the firing squad or the Black

This was not an easy question, and the prisoner hesitated, but soon made it known that he much preferred the firing squad. Shortly thereafter, a volley of shots in the courtyard announced that the grim sentence had been fulfilled.

The general, staring at his boots, turned to his aide and said, "You see how it is with men; they will always prefer the known to the unknown. It is characteristic to be afraid of the undefined. And yet I gave him his choice."

"What lies behind the Black Door?" asked the aide.

"Freedom," replied the general, "and I've known only a few men brave enough to take it."

Grand Master Hinshaw held a "Recognition Dinner" in Columbus on February 17, 1969. It was in honor of Miss Ruth Tansing. During the ceremonies, he presented her with an award reading: "With the deep appreciation for the thirty-five years of devoted service as secretary to the Grand Secretary of The Grand Lodge Free and Accepted Masons of Ohio." Engraved on the plaque were the names of the 34 Grand Masters she had served under. It was signed by Robert A. Hinshaw, Grand Master 1968-1969.

A bell tolled a friendly link between Freemasonry and a Roman Catholic Church. The story was told during the 100th anniversary of Harrisonville Lodge No.411. Many dignitaries were invited, including Robert A. Hinshaw, the Grand Master, and Father Frank Patala, Pastor of St.
John's Catholic Church. The Father thanked the Lodge for its gift of a bell. Several members of his church, also present, added their appreciation. So, the history of the bell was told.

On May 29, 1882, Brother E. P. Brooks was commissioned to purchase a 120 pound bell for the Masonic Temple. The bronze bell was duly purchased and hung in the belfrey of the Temple prior to July 12, 1882, the date the Temple was dedicated.

It is not possible to determine the exact cost, as it was paid for along with carpeting and other items, but as near as can be determined, the cost was about $80.

For many years, the bell was rung to announce all Lodge meetings. However, in the 1930's the beifrey became unsafe and the use of the bell was discontinued.

In 1965, St. John's Catholic Church, which had stood as a landmark for southern Athens and Northern Meigs counties for 116 years, was destroyed by fire. It was a country church with a rather small congregation with no wealthy members. However, with a great deal or work and sacrifice, they did rebuild the church and it came to our attention that they were trying to find a bell.

Since the Harrisonville Lodge had no further use for their bell, it was decided to donate it to the church.

They gratefully accepted the offer and on May 20, 1967, a delegation from Harrisonville Lodge and one from St. John's Church, including Father Frank Patala, removed the bell from the steeple of the Temple and moved it to St. John's Church.

In appreciation of this gesture of friendship, the members of Harrisonville Lodge were extended a special invitation to attend the dedication of the new St. John's Catholic Church on June 18, 1967. Several of the members attended and were graciously received and individually introduced as members of Harrisonville Lodge No. 411.

Bishop John K. Muzzio also highly commended the Harrisonville Masonic Lodge "for the act of brotherly love in donating the bell for the new St. John's Catholic Church. It is an indication of true ecumenicalism and love of man for fellowman regardless of his religion or political background."

Several other high church officials were present and all were lavish in their praise of this act of friendship by Harrisonville Masonic Lodge.

On June 11, the Grand Master sent a letter to all of his District Deputy Grand Masters which stated: "I have been trying to stress the fact all year that I firmly believe we, as Ohio Freemasons, need to examine ourselves, analyze what we see, and then plan and execute with determination any corrective action that is indicated. I feel this process must be a continuing one if Ohio Freemasonry is to remain vital, is to project a favorable image, is to attract the leaders it will need in the days to come, and if it is to retain the interest of those it does attract"

Grand Secretary Andrew J. White, Jr., was elected President of the Masonic Relief Association of the United States and Canada during the meeting held in August.

The Annual Communication was held in Columbus on October 17, 1969. Grand Master Robert A. Hinshaw introduced John W. Bricker. Bricker in turn introduced Governor and Brother James A. Rhodes. Rhodes claimed Bricker was the greatest Governor Ohio ever had.

In the opening of his Address, the Grand Master said: "The year 1969 has been one almost unparalleled in history for its accomplishments. Undoubtedly, the high point of the year – and one of man's greatest achievements, that of setting foot on the moon – was accomplished in July
by two heroic men; one a native Buckeye, the other a 32nd degree Mason from New Jersey."

In his conclusion, Grand Master Hinshaw stated: "My words of caution revolve around the word 'change.' Change, you know, is indispensable to progress. When one condemns change, he is condemning progress.

"It is not change, but man's ability to adjust to change, that gives rise to most of the troubles and problems of the world. People, organizations, government - all must recognize that acceptance of and adjustment to change is a continuing process in our lives."

He added: "As individual Freemasons – and as a Grand Lodge – we must be able to examine each situation that presents us with an opportunity for change or choice with an open mind. We must learn to listen well, not be afraid to question well, and then settle back and do some
solid thinking."

He believed people fell into three separate groups: "The emotional thinker"; "The negative thinker"; "The true creative thinker."

He went on to say: "My only word of caution then would be that there are problems facing Ohio Freemasonry and these problems need answers. We all know this. We have faced problems for 160 years. We have been meeting them – successfully answering some with good, satisfying
solutions. Some we have ducked and refused to face, perhaps because we do not yet have the answers, or do not have the courage to face the problem, or are unwilling to make a change."

The Grand Lodge approved a resolution that would prohibit "any portion of The Grand Lodge of Ohio head quarters building at Worthington to be used by a business organization or person for commercial or business purposes."

By a resolution, the Grand Lodge once again prohibited the "commercial or political use of the name of Masonry."

An award of merit was presented to Stuart E. Halwig, for the work he had done to develop and support the Masonic Service Association Hospital Visitation Program in Ohio.

The Special Committee on Masonic Publication, headed by Royal C. Scofield, noted a questionnaire had been sent to all the Lodges in Ohio. He said in his report:

The questionnaire shows plainly that most of our Lodge officers receive only one publication, their own Lodge bulletin and many do not have even a bulletin. From the names received, it appears that each cop of the Grand Secretary's Bulletin, which is sent to the Master, Wardens, and Secretary of each Lodge, is also read by two or three additional Brethren and thus it would
seem that the officers of our Lodges are presently well covered.

During the year, many Brethren were asked to submit articles but few answered our request. Suggested topics are of little value unless they can be written, and then in a manner that interests a majority of the readers. To have a Grand Lodge publication will require a constant source of articles which at the present time are not available. Your committee is of the opinion that a Grand Lodge publication will require the services of at least one who is a professional in this field. Problems of financing and operations must be solved also.

The Committee on Masonic Education and Information said it had sent out a bulletin entitled "Symbols, Emblems and Allegories of the Master Mason Degree." It had also prepared a leadership manual and these were passed out at the meeting of the District Deputy Grand Master last October. The Chairman of the Committee, Charles K. Cunningham, and Past Grand Master Ben Evans presented the leadership program at the Midwest Conference which was held in Wichita, Kansas, in May, 1969. It was noted that the Midwest Conference would meet in Worthington in May, 1972.

A representative of Lancaster Lodge No. 57 recounted the problems the Grand Lodge had, beginning in 1838, with a proposed Grand Lodge building to be erected in Lancaster. The project was abandoned in 1844. In 1863, the lots which the Grand Lodge had purchased were sold at a loss.

The representative added: "The lots and foundation were acquired by the English Lutheran Church for the erection of a church edifice on the foundation walls. The plaque was removed and given to Lancaster Lodge and kept by it in the Temple but when that edifice was destroyed by fire, more than twenty-five years ago, the plaque was lost in the rubble. Now, fortunately, it has been found, and has been furbished, refinished and re-presented. It will now be placed in our Museum in our new Grand Lodge building in Worthington, there to remain, we hope, for many centuries to come. The Museum, where it will be on display, is in our oldest Lodge building in Ohio, erected in 1820, by New England Lodge No. 4."

A Special Committee on a Masonic Manor reported. But its report consisted of a series of questions which it asked the Brethren to consider. It also asked that the committee be continued and permitted to make a further study.

A Special Committee on Grand Lodge Proceedings reported: "Due to increased prices in material and labor, a special committee was appointed by our M. W. Grand Master, Bro. Robert A. Hinshaw, to study and consider the possible deletion of sections of our Proceedings in order to decrease the number of pages.

"Your committee therefore desires to recommend the following deletions: Statistics in Grand Secretary's Report; Ohio Masonic Home Report; Securities (now listed twice); List of Fifty Year Emblem recipients.

"In doing so approximately 51 pages can be deleted, subject to the approval of the Grand Master and incoming Grand Master." The report was adopted.

The decade came to an end with much of the world in chaos. Cults of varying types and degrees were flourishing among the youth. Adults of varying types were violently condemning the United States and extolling the "virtues" of Communism. Yet, these individuals continued to enjoy the freedom and fruits of the capitalism they deplored.

The space program of the United States was severely criticized by many. They claimed, among other things, the money spent "on the moon" should be going for welfare and social programs. These critics ignored the proof of others that not one cent was spent "on the moon"; the program provided work and technological advances for the people of the United States.

The fighting in Viet Nam was the excuse used to disrupt schools of higher learning. Discrimination was another excuse used by these students and other groups to riot in many cities and on the grounds of many schools. Underground groups blew up buildings with little fear of punishment. The hands of law enforcement agencies were tied by the Supreme Court of the United States or acts of the Congress. And they would be tied even tighter in the first years of the decade to follow.

The decade found a President of the United States, a candidate for the Presidency, and a civil rights leader being assassinated. In Russia, Nikita S. Khrushchev, who had promised Communism would bury the United State, became a "non-person." Leonid I. Breshnev became the Russian leader.

Much of the turbulence of the sixties would carry over into the seventies.

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