Michigan Masonic Museum and Library

Commemorative notepad for the 1962 annual meeting of the Shrine Recorder's Association held in Toronto, Canada.

Vintage pewter masonic bric-a-brac. Date of manufacture unknown. Measures 3 1/4" x 3".

The MMML would like to thank MWBro. Leonard Davis PGM (GM 2022 - 2023) for visiting the museum yesterday and donating on behalf of MWBro. Larry Judson PGM (GM 2023-2024), this authorized limited edition of an original painting signed and created by Bro. Red Skelton (iconic TV comedian and freemason). We look forward to displaying it in a place of honor at the MMML for all to enjoy.

Thank you so much, MWBro. Larry for your donation and MWBro. Leonard for delivering it on your behalf!

Vintage wallhanging or grave decoration (measuring 7" x 7") from the Order of United American Mechanics (or perhaps the Junior Order of United American Mechanics), a nativist organization that had nothing to do with Freemasonry. The UOAM started around the 1850s to protect American-born workers and was notoriously anti-Catholic and anti-immigrant. The fact that they used the square and compasses as the integral part of their symbol is a great example of how the general public may get confused about the true symbols and principles of Freemasonry.

Mid-century Masonic pocket knife made in Germany. Measures 3 1/4" closed. Not sure of the exact date of manufacture, but thanks to a comment from last time we posted (thank you!), it's safe to say this knife WASN'T manufactured from 1935 to 1945 during the N**i regime.

This small Order of the Eastern Star book (5" x 3") is a collection of short devotions offering Bible verses to be referenced for each day of the year. The original book "Daily Food for Christians" was published by Alexander Hatch in 1820 London and was a very popular book in the 1800s produced by various publishers and organizations (all having the original Alexander Hatch devotional content). The publishing date of this OES version is unknown, but can be no later than the owner inscription on the first page of 1953. OES America Chapter #234 was listed as meeting in St. Joseph, Michigan according to the 1953 Grand Chapter of MI proceedings, but currently meets in Benton Harbor according to the Grand Chapter of Michigan, OES website.