Illustrations of Masonry. 1772. by William Preston

Illustrations of Masonry. 1772. by William Preston. Freemasonry. Masonic Ritual

Throwback to the late 18th Century. Some historical reading material on a quiet evening. William Preston's "Illustrations of Masonry" should be on every Mason's reading list.

In a great measure, this work explained and taught Freemasonry to Masons around the world. So popular was Preston’s “Illustrations of Masonry” (originally published in 1772) that the author saw it published in twelve editions during his lifetime, as well as being translated into several languages. This is one of the true Masonic bestselling classics. This photographic reproduction of the 1867 edition contains valuable additions by noted Masonic author George Oliver and a contemporary foreword by Michael. R. Poll.

The Mason's Words. The History and Evolution of the American Masonic Ritual. Robert G. Davis, 33°, GC

The Mason's Words. The History and Evolution of the American Masonic Ritual. Robert G. Davis, 33°, GC

The Mason's Words, by Ill. and M.W. Robert G. Davis, is essential for anyone interested in the history and evolution of Masonic Ritual in America.


Freemasonry is entirely built around traditions. From time immemorial, those who have belonged to the world's oldest and largest fraternal order have metaphorically passed between the pillars of Solomon's Temple to nurture within themselves a harmonious bond between tradition and modernity. This is the story of the Masonic ritual, the language and ceremonial forms that have evolved into the present structure of American Freemasonry, defined its lodge space, and offered its members the same stablizing influence of instruction that has prevailed on every continent for nearly 400 years. The reader will discover that the language of the world's oldest fraternal society has also made its own interesting journey, and been tested by the most powerful and the most humbling of men. The result is, that, in Masonic lodges across America, and, indeed, the world, men from every walk of life, of all ages, every social category and every spiritual and philosophical conviction are able to find a basis for reflection on who they are, why they are here, and what has meaning to them. By its common language delivered in a common culture of fraternal relationship, Freemasonry is enabled to exemplify a univeral brotherhood of man. This is the story of the Mason's words; the history and evolution of the American Masonic ritual. It is an interesting bit of history that is perhaps all the more fascinating because it is so rarely known.

Origin of the Royal Arch. George Oliver. York Rite. Freemasonry

Origin of the Royal Arch. George Oliver. York Rite. Freemasonry

I reread the Royal Arch ritual and floor work for the first time in a couple years prior to a degree rehearsal last week (I'm helping out in a Royal Arch conferral in early December). When I got home, I figured I'd go through my bookshelves and reread a bit more on the history. I picked up this copy of George Oliver's "Origin of the Royal Arch" about 5 or so years ago from Michael R. Poll of Cornerstone Book Publishers.



This is a photographic reproduction of George Oliver's classic 1867 work on the history of the Royal Arch of Freemasonry. This work has long been considered a "must have" of all students of the York Rite.