Sword
of a 33rd Degree
Sovereign
Grand Inspector-General
This unusual Scottish Rite 33rd
Degree ceremonial sword was custom made for Illustrious Brother W. G. Oxford
by the Brantley Uniform and Regalia House of Chicago, Illinois. The
ivory handle is engraved with the 33rd Degree double headed eagle wearing the
Crown and the Teutonic Cross underneath. The opposite side of the handle
has the engraved initials of Brother Oxford. This sword measures 32 3/4
inches in total length and has a very fancy brass scabbard.
This beautiful sword represents the
Thirty-third and Last Degree of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite.
The Latin Constitutions of 1786 call it Tertius et trigesimus et
sublimissimus gradus, that is, the Thirty-third and Most Sublime
Degree; and it is styled the Protector and Conservator of the Order.
The same Constitutions, in Articles I and II, say:
"The Thirty-third Degree
confers on those Freemasons who are legitimately invested with it, the
quality, title, privilege, and authority of Sovereign, Supremorum, Grand
Inspectors-General of the Order. The peculiar duty of their mission is
to teach and enlighten the Brethren; to preserve charity, union, and fraternal
love among them; to maintain regularity in the works of each Degree, and to
take care that it is preserved by others; to cause the dogmas, doctrines,
institutes, constitutions, statutes, and regulations of the Order to be
reverently regarded, and to preserve and defend them on every occasion; and,
finally, everywhere to occupy themselves in works of peace and mercy."
