Thursday, February 17, 2011

Happy Birthday Brother George Washington!

Happy Birthday Brother George Washington!

While researching information regarding Brother George Washington, an interesting fact is that he was born in accordance of the Julian calendar, which was the calendar used at the time of his birth, February 11, 1731. According to the Gregorian calendar, adopted in 1752, George Washington’s birth date was February 22, 1732.

Brother George Washington was an honored and respected Mason. At the age of 20, Washington was initiated as Apprentice on November 4, 1752 in Fredericksburg, VA. It was with his compassionate nature, appreciation and understanding of the Masonic system that he flourished, and on August 4, 1754 George Washington was raised to Master Mason. As his character suggests he was a ‘Just and Upright Mason’.
In his Presidential and Masonic career he presided in the cornerstone ceremony for the US Capitol in 1793.

George Washington was noted as a noble opponent, as well as a Brother. This was witnessed while a British traveling Lodge fell into the hands of American forces after being defeated; chests belonging to the British Lodge with contents of jewels and other treasures were ultimately surrounded to the American forces. Upon learning this, George Washington with his elegance and honor demanded the contents to be returned to the Lodge and regiment. With this noble act he gained much respect from the opponents.

On December 18, 1799 George Washington was laid to rest and buried at Mt. Vernon with Masonic rites.