The George Washington Masonic National Memorial: A Centennial Celebration of Freemasonry's Unprecedented Cooperation
Written by Rough Ashlar with research assistance from ChatGPT
On November 1, 1923, Freemasons from all over the United States gathered in Virginia to participate in a special Masonic cornerstone ceremony. This event marked the beginning of the construction of the George Washington Masonic National Memorial, which is now a landmark of the Alexandria skyline. The Memorial serves as a tribute to George Washington and his virtues, as well as a symbol of the unity and cooperation that exists among Freemasons.
The laying of the Memorial's cornerstone was made possible by the unprecedented cooperation between the state grand lodges and national appendant bodies, including the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite. The prominent Scottish Rite Masons who supported this monument to George Washington and Freemasonry included notable figures such as President Calvin Coolidge and William H. Taft, both of whom were present at the ceremony.
The George Washington Masonic National Memorial is a monument and museum located in Alexandria, Virginia, USA, that is dedicated to the memory and legacy of George Washington, who was a prominent Freemason. The monument, which is over 300 feet tall, was built in the neoclassical architectural style and features many impressive architectural elements such as massive columns, domes, and an observation deck that provides a breathtaking view of the surrounding area.
The monument was established as a national memorial in 1950, and its construction was initiated in 1923, when Freemasons from across the United States laid the cornerstone of the monument on Shuter's Hill, a prominent location in Alexandria, Virginia. The monument serves as a tribute to George Washington's life, his principles, and his contributions to the country. It also celebrates the values and principles of Freemasonry, including brotherhood, charity, and service to the community.
The George Washington Masonic National Memorial also serves as a museum and research center, offering visitors an opportunity to learn about the life and times of George Washington and Freemasonry. The museum features exhibits, artifacts, and documents that showcase the rich history and traditions of Freemasonry in the United States.
Overall, the George Washington Masonic National Memorial is a significant landmark and a testament to the shared values and principles of Freemasonry. Its neoclassical design, impressive architectural features, and rich history make it a popular destination for visitors and a source of inspiration for Freemasons and others who value the principles of brotherhood, charity, and service.
As we celebrate the Memorial's cornerstone centennial in 2023, it is essential to recognize the impact of this event on the Freemason community. The Memorial stands as a testament to the shared values and principles of Freemasonry, and its construction was made possible through the unity and cooperation of Masons from across the United States.
To mark the centennial celebration of the laying of the Memorial's cornerstone, Masons from across the Nation came to Alexandria on February 20, 2023, to participate in the George Washington parade in Old Town Alexandria and the rededication of the cornerstone. Members of various lodges, including Lodges of Virginia’s 24th Masonic District for Liberty Lodge No. 95, Mentow Lodge No. 180, and Bedford Lodge No. 244, all attended the event, demonstrating the continued unity and support of Freemasonry and paying tribute to a General, Founding Father and Brother.