Logan Lodge No. 575

I had the distinct honor tonight of addressing the members of Logan Lodge No. 575 in Indianapolis at their stated meeting at Indiana Freemasons' Hall. This is the second time I have spoken at Logan, and it is always an extreme pleasure. This lodge was truly on the ropes several years ago, and in danger of closing, when a dedicated group of its existing members were joined by brethren from around Indianapolis who joined and kept their proud heritage alive.

Logan Lodge was chartered in 1888, and is named after Major General John A. Logan, one of the most famous and popular Union Army generals of the Civil War. After the war, Logan became a fierce Republican, an Illinois senator, and presided over the impeachment trial of Andrew Johnson. He was a staunch supporter for the cause of Veterans, and was one of the primary advocates of creating Memorial Day as a national holiday (a day that is important all across America, but especially in Indianapolis).

My talk to the lodge was about my book, Solomon's Builders, and the real and imagined Masonic symbolism that may or may not be designed into the city of Washington D.C. Unfortunately, I failed to bring up the fact that Logan Circle in D.C. is named after John A. Logan, and a beautiful equestrian statue of the general dominates the center of the neighborhood.

The greatest honor of the evening was to be given an honorary membership in Logan Lodge. I am greatly appreciative to all of the brethren of this outstanding group of Masons, and I am humbled by their kindness. Thanks to Wbro. Kyle Fahrner, WM, Wbro. Frank Duncan, Secretary, Wbro. James Lindsey, PM, Wbro. Gary Messer and all of the brethren and many friends at Logan Lodge.