Freemasonry has been a subject interesting to me since I learned that my first Texas ancestor, Napoleon Storey, was a freemason. So it was with great pleasure that I took the opportunity to enter and photograph a masonic lodge, informed by the local masonic leader about the organization as I did so.
This was a composite of famous American freemasons.
I was able to look and photograph all I wanted. The masons offered no explanations as to the meaning or use of the objects in the ceremony hall; nor did I ask them.
In the center of the hall.
The dining hall. This was my favorite place. There was a lingering smell of sandwiches and good country cooking. On the wall are members of the Order of the Eastern Star, a related organization for men and women dedicated to public service.
This was the founder of the order in Grand Prairie. His portrait was very high on the wall above my head, and it was difficult to get a good picture. I found his appearance, emblematic of the mid-19th century American Romantics, striking.
Since my tour I have noticed several other masonic lodges in my area. Everything I learned before and since confirms much of what sensed, that freemasonry is very much a part of the history of Texas, most prevalent in smaller and once-larger towns. Due to its place in Texas history and undoubted influence on the towns where I have lived as well as my ancestry I want to know much more.