Tall Cedars of Lebanon of North
America
Written by the late J. Edward
Bullen, Past Grand Tall Cedar
Baltimore no. 45, Supreme Historian 1970-1975.
It all started in 1843 with some very energetic
and imaginative Master Masons who dreamed up the idea of a Tall Cedar Degree,
and in those days the degree was called " The Ancient and Honorable Rite of
Humility." The name "Tall Cedar Degree" does not reveal itself other than the
possibility of a somewhat shorter title than the aforementioned, and this was
to remain as such until we adopted the title of " Tall Cedars of Lebanon of
the United States of America" upon incorporation in 1902.
It was some time around 1846, after the meetings of the Grand Lodge and some
of the Blue Lodges in the Pennsylvania and New Jersey area that they would
have the Tall Cedar Degree performed., and from what I can gather, it was a
form of hazing in which the candidates for the degree were gotten from those
willing to receive it, and it was put on by those who had already received the
degree. However, there was a great lapse of time and nothing was heard about
this degree until the early 1850's when a Dr. Thomas J. Corson from the New
Jersey area started conferring the degree as he had received it in
Philadelphia.
As you well know, around that time your only means of travel was the horse and
buggy, and the train, so this degree was not performed often, but rest assure,
whenever they had a good gathering of Master Masons, the Tall Cedar Degree was
put on. It was always so much clean fun to see someone get the works, even as
it is today. Some " Old Timer" spoke of a jury of men being housed in the
hotel in a town in New Jersey, that heard the Tall Cedar Degree was to be
performed. The Deputy Sheriff being a Mason took those that were also Masons
to see it performed and after it was over brought them back to the hotel. It
must have been really something to go to all that trouble.
Upon the death of Dr. Corson in 1879 the Tall Cedar Degree was continued by
Dr. Stevens , who organized the first regular degree team and went to several
cities and towns throughout the New Jersey area performing the work.
It seems that Glassboro, New Jersey, was the focal point for the performance
of the Tall Cedars Degree, for whenever that had enough candidates the work
was put on. In 1887 Dr. Stevens and his degree team came to the town and
conferred the degree on Frank W. Bowen and Orlando M. Bowen, and thirteen
other candidates. I mention the names of these brethren because they were part
of the charter group that formed the Tall Cedars of Lebanon. Even today, The
Pitman Masonic Club in Pitman, New Jersey is where the 34th degree is
performed, and perhaps is the aftermath of he Tall Cedar Degree.
In similar manner as the 34th degree is now conferred, at Pitman Masonic Club
on May 24, 1901, fifty-four Master masons who had received the Tall Cedar
Degree met in Glassboro, New Jersey, to watch and confer the degree on 53
candidates from Glassboro, Clayton, Williamstown, Manuta, Woodbury and
Philadelphia, with the following as officers. They were Grand Mogul Frank W.
Bowen, Vice-Mogul Jacob Bibo, Treasurer T.C. Allen, Secretary Dr. F.A. Stanger,
Conductor S. Stanger Iszard, Assistant Conductor Charles W. Wood, Inside
Announcer W.H. Jones, Outside Announcer B.T. Ferrell, Preparer of the Forest
Bresier Westcoat, Jr. Chaplain Rev. John H. Algar.
I mentioned above officers' titles to give you an idea of what comprised Tall
Cedar Degree Team,. It seems that the library of the Grand Lodge of
Pennsylvania has a manuscript in its archives written in 1864 by Brother
William H. Adams, Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge, recording the secret
work, and a description of the degree.
Four Master Masons who received the Tall Cedar Degree later became Supreme
Tall Cedars, They were Frank W. Bowen, and Orlando M. Bowen in 1887, David H.
Lukens in 1888, and Johns S. Broughton in 1889. The above brethren along with
several others (fifteen in all, charter members of our organization) assembled
in the State Capitol of New Jersey, in the City of Trenton, on March 18, 1902
for the purpose of establishing a fraternal order to be know as the Tall
Cedars of Lebanon of America for fun, frolic, and fellowship. These brethren
felt that since this form of friendship and sociability occurred so
infrequently and had little form, that by incorporating they could eliminate
the haphazard, disorganized methods of conferring the Tall cedar Degree and
thus stabilize and preserve a worthwhile ceremony.
I honestly believe that in the Prologue and Royal Court we have one of the
most beautiful ritualistic works and we are indeed thankful to Rev. George S.
Gassner who was instrumental in making up the ritual. It comes directly from
the first book of Kings Chapter 5 verses 1 though 10, and the second book of
Chronicles, Chapter 2 verses 8 and 9. Of the two passages, the first book of
Kings, Chapter 5 is more specific. It revolves around the building of the
Temple of Jerusalem, and that King Solomon had to rely in the help of King
Hiram of Tyre who send his Hewers of Wood into the forest of Lebanon to strike
down and shape all the tall cedars for use in the Temple thus the Tall Cedars
of Lebanon have a biblical background and performance of the Tall Cedar Degree
in the Blue Lodges at the conclusion of their meetings brings us closer to our
Masonic forbearance.
Thus, from March 18, 1902 to 1971, we are known as the Tall Cedars of Lebanon
of the United States of America, However, on November 13 1971 in our 70th year
of existence we instituted a Forest in Canada, and be came known as the Tall
Cedars of Lebanon of North America. While our strength of membership
lies in the eastern section of the United States were are slowly expanding
westward.
All down through the years the Tall Cedars of Lebanon had in one way or
anther, on occasion contributed to worthy causes, However they really became
of age when they decided that "no organization could continue to prosper
unless it had a definite uplifting objective for the benefit of humanity."
These were the remarks of the Most Worshipful Grand Master Harry Campbell of
Washington, DC in 1933. After years of investigation and research in 1951 they
found not only a worthy cause but one which desperately needed support --
muscular dystrophy. Up until 1972 we supported the Metabolism Unity on the
tenth floor of the Research Center in New York City through our Contributions
and Life Fund Memberships in the National Charitable Objective.
When the Metabolism Unity of the Research Center was closed in 1972 the
Supreme Forest was advised that the Muscular Dystrophy Association and the
Muscular Dystrophy Association of America were going to submit monies in the
form of research grants to various universities and colleges in the search and
cure for muscular dystrophy, and they would welcome our support in this
endeavor. It was decided that the Tall Cedars of Lebanon of North America
would become a part of this project with the Jerry Lewis Tall Cedar Day Camp
in the summertime. Thus while one aspect of our National Charitable Objective
fades away another one comes into the forefront with the possible finding of a
cure for the dreaded disease through the project and to provide for a little
bit of fun for these children in the summertime.
Before I close I would like to leave this thought with you. Should you meet a
Cedar wearing a pyramid upon his head, greet him for he is always glad to
extend to you the hand of friendship for he carries in his heart compassion,
friendship and love for his fellow man -- that is why he is a Tall Cedar.
Tall Cedar of Lebanon Fezes
KNOW YOUR PYRAMIDS
Legend:
TCL
= Tall Cedars of Lebanon
Forest = Forest Name & Number
SF = Supreme Forest
|
STYLE |
FELT |
LETTERS |
TRIM |
TASSEL |
LEFT |
RIGHT |
TO BE WORN BY |
|
|
|
A |
Green |
Yellow |
Green |
Green |
TCL |
Forest |
Members in
general |
|
|
|
B |
Yellow |
Red |
Green |
Green |
TCL |
Forest |
Members of
units |
|
|
|
C |
White |
Green |
Black |
Black |
TCL |
Forest |
Elective
Officers of Constituent Forests |
|
|
|
D |
Red |
Yellow |
Green |
Yellow |
TCL |
Forest |
Grand Tall
Cedars |
|
|
|
E |
Red |
Yellow |
Green |
Green |
TCL |
Forest |
Past Grand
Tall Cedars |
|
|
|
|
F |
White |
Green |
Black |
Yellow |
TCL |
Forest |
Appointed
Officers & Unit Heads |
|
|
|
G |
Purple |
White |
White |
White |
TCL |
Forest |
Forest
Chaplain |
|
|
|
H |
Red |
Yellow |
Yellow |
White |
TCL |
Forest |
Past
Scribe/Treasurer w/5yrs. Service;
Trustee w/5
cons. yrs. of service |
|
|
|
I |
White |
Red |
Red |
Red |
TCL |
SF |
Appointed
Supreme Forest Officers |
|
|
|
J-1 |
White |
Red |
Red |
Green |
TCL |
SF |
Past SF
Appt. Officer w/3 yrs. Service |
|
|
|
J-2 |
White |
Red |
Green |
Green |
TCL |
SF |
Past/Present
SF Committeeman
w/3 yrs.
Service |
|
|
|
K |
White |
Red |
Purple |
Purple |
TCL |
SC |
Supreme
Chaplain |
|
|
|
L |
White |
Gray |
Gray |
Gray |
TCL |
TCFT |
TCF Trustee |
|
|
|
M |
White
“
“ |
Silver
“
“ |
Silver
“
“ |
Silver
Gray
Green |
TCL
“
“ |
TCFD
“
“ |
TCF Chairman
TCF Director
Past TCF
Director |
|
|
|
N |
White
“
“
“
“
“
“
“
“
“ |
Red
“
“
“
“
“
“
“
“
“ |
Gold
“
“
“
“
“
“
“
“
“ |
Red
Red
Red
Red
Red
Green
Green
Green
Gold
White |
TCL |
SD
SDSTC
JDSTC
SS
ST
PSD
PST
PSS
STC
PSTC |
Supreme
Director
Senior
Deputy STC
Junior
Deputy STC
Supreme
Scribe
Supreme
Treasurer
Past Supreme
Director
Past Supreme
Treasurer
Past Supreme
Scribe
Supreme Tall
Cedar
Past Supreme
Tall Cedar |
A special "Thank You" to Bro.
Tyler Anderson of Sandia Mountain Lodge #72, AF&AM, Jurisdiction of NM for
submitting the "Know Your Pyramids" chart above and some pictures of Tall
Cedar Fezes from his collection. Thank you Bro. Tyler!
How to become a Tall Cedar.
Membership into
the Tall Cedars is open to all Master Masons
in good standing.
If you are interested in joining or require more information:
Contact:
The
Supreme Forest Office:
4309 Linglestown Road, Suite 116
Harrisburg, PA 17112
Since 1972 the Tall Cedars have supported the Muscular Dystrophy Association,
by helping those children that need it the most. They have donated over
$17,000,000
to this most important cause.
Ritual of the Tall Cedars of Lebanon
Opening
GRAND TALL CEDAR, one rap:
We are about to open ... Forest, No. ..., of Tall Cedars of Lebanon. Those who
are not Tall Cedars will retire.
Brother Sentinel,
Sentinel rises
and salutes
you will guard the door, and allow no one to enter without the Password and
the Card of the current year.
Brother Senior and Junior
Deputies, they advance to the centre of the Forest
and salute you will examine those present, and allow no one to
remain without the Password and Card of the current year.
The Senior
Deputy examines those on the right, and the Junior Deputy those on the left.
When all have been examined, the Deputies advance to the center of the Forest
and salute.
SENIOR
DEPUTY: Grand
Tall Cedar, we have examined all present, and find them to be Tall Cedars in
good standing.
GRAND TALL
CEDAR: All
present being Tall Cedars, we are now ready to open the Forest.
Opening Ode
Tune:
Maryland, My Maryland.
O Lebanon, dear Lebanon!
Tall Cedar trees of Lebanon!
We labor in the forest green
On Lebanon, dear Lebanon.
The timbers to the line we
hew,
For temple roof-beams, straight and true,
From mighty cedar trees
which grew
On Lebanon, dear Lebanon.
Instead of
the Opening Ode, one stanza of The Star-Spangled Banner or of America, may be
sung.
GRAND TALL
CEDAR: The
Chaplain will now pronounce the Invocation.
CHAPLAIN:
Almighty Ruler of the Universe, we thank thee for the health and strength that
permit us to come together. The labor of the day is over, and we are met for
pleasure and refreshment. Help us to enjoy them without excess, and may
harmony and brotherly love unite us. Amen.
ALL:
May it ever be thus.
GRAND TALL
CEDAR: By virtue
of the power and authority in me vested by the Supreme Forest, I hereby
declare ... Forest, No. ..., open and ready for the transaction of business
one rap.
Order of
Business
Opening
Reading of
Minutes
Reports of
Committees
Communications
Unfinished
Business
New Business
Bills
Petitions for
Membership
Initiation
Closing
General Directions for
the Royal Court
The Full Form
of the Royal Court is a dramatic and spectacular presentation of the calling
and employment of the workmen of Sidonia, to become hewers of timber in the
forest of Lebanon.
It is not
prescribed nor intended that the full ceremonies of the Royal Court shall be
used at every meeting of the Forest. In most Forests, it will be found more
satisfactory and more effective, if used at only a part of the meetings, say,
once, or twice, or at the most, three times in each year. Each Grand Tall
Cedar is at liberty to use his own discretion as to which Form shall be used.
But, if at all possible, it should be presented at least once a year in each
Forest, either in Full Form, or Plain Form.
It should be
presented in a serious, dignified manner, and made as impressive as possible.
All entrances and exits should be tyled and kept closed until the conclusion
of the Secret Work. The members of the Forest should remain seated, and all
unnecessary conversation and movements be avoided. The ceremonies of the Royal
Court admit much elaboration in costumes and properties, and may be made very
spectacular, especially in the entry of the King and his enthronement, and
also the entry of Prince Azariah.
In working
the Royal Court, the great aim should be to have the different movements
follow one another in immediate and rapid succession. The whole ceremony has
been planned as a whole, and there should be no break in the action, at any
time.
If the Grand
Tall Cedar is to take the part of the King, he should call some one to preside
over the Forest and transact the preliminary business, while he is putting on
his costume. The Princes and Rangers should be all READY TO ENTER as soon as
the Royal Court is announced. Delay is ABSOLUTELY UNNECESSARY, if the
different officers and the Chief Ranger will so STUDY THE RITUAL that they
know where their parts come in.
The Guide
should have the candidates arranged in the ante room in such manner that they
can be brought in immediately, when the order is given by the Grand Tall
Cedar.
All the
movements and marching in the Royal Court should be with the greatest dignity
and formality, and especially without levity or, appearance of haste.
The
directions as to the movements of the Rangers, as given in the Ritual, must be
governed by local conditions, such as the size of the room, and the location
of the entrances. The Grand Tall Cedar and the Chief Ranger are at liberty to
make such changes as will add to the beauty and impressiveness of the work.
At ordinary
meetings, or in small Forests which have not suitable costumes, or where the
room is small, the Short Form may be used, but the Sidonian Degree should be
given IN FULL at every meeting of the Forest. The stunts may be omitted at the
direction of the Grand Tall Cedar, but this should be done only for weighty
reason.
If a Forest
has no costumes or uniformed Rangers it may call upon some neighboring Forest.
Very many of the Forests, having fully costumed Degree Teams and uniformed
Rangers, will welcome an invitation to make a visitation and display their
work. These friendly visitations are a most important feature in the life of
any Forest, and greatly help to create and maintain that fraternal feeling
which is the foundation of our Order.
The work of
the Royal Court will be made most impressive and effective in every Forest by
the institution of a Degree Team, who may, or may not be officers of the
Forest. It will generally be found that the Grand Tall Cedar has enough to do
without undertaking to memorize and perform one of the parts in the Royal
Court. In order to be effective, it is absolutely necessary that all the parts
be memorized, and the work done without a book in sight. In every Forest there
may be found five members, possessing good voices and dramatic ability, who,
with proper rehearsal together, can render the work of the Royal Court with
dignity and impressiveness. This Team should continue from year to year, with
only such changes as may be necessary. It will be found useful to have some
understudies who can fill in when one of the members of the Team is
unavoidably absent.
The parts of
the King and Chamberlain are the most important, and it is especially
necessary that the Chamberlain be thoroughly familiar with the movements of
the Ritual, as from his position on the floor, and in the ante room, he can
give directions to the other members of the Team and to the Rangers.
The salute in
the Royal Court is made by stretching forth the right hand on a level with the
shoulder, palm down, and bowing deeply. It is answered by the King stretching
forth his sceptre, or by bowing his head. Always salute when addressing the
King. When one is addressed by the King he shall salute, or, if seated, shall
rise and salute.
When Supreme
Officers, or other visitors are present, a suitable time for addresses may be
found while the candidates are being prepared for the Sidonian Degree.
Where the
dressing room is back of the stage, the Rangers may enter and form in front of
the Throne. Princes enter from wings, and stand right and left of Throne.
Chamberlain enters from wings, and says: “Arise, my Lords, etc.” King follows,
and goes to Throne.
Initiation (Full Form)
When the time
for Initiation has come, the Grand Tall Cedar—or some one designated by
him—shall rise and say:
GRAND TALL
CEDAR: Brother
Tall Cedars, we are about to sit as the Royal Court of King Hiram of Tyre, in
order that we may increase the number of workmen in the Forest. The Royal
Court is no place for laughter and levity: that will be given opportunity in
due season. In the presence of the King, the greatest order and decorum must
prevail.
Brother Guide,
the Guide rises and salutes you will admit
the workmen who are in waiting, and place them in order in the audience
chamber.
The Guide
salutes and retires.
Brother Sentinel,
the Sentinel rises and salutes you will
inform the Chief of the Royal Rangers that we are ready to receive his Majesty
as soon as the workmen are admitted to the Royal Court. After his entry, you
will close the door, and allow none to pass until after the Secret Work.
The Sentinel
salutes, retires to inform the Chief of the Royal Rangers, and then returns to
his place at the door.
The Guide
brings in the candidates quietly, and places them standing in the rear of the
Court. They are not to be hoodwinked, and there must be no attempts at fun.
All the proceedings in the Royal Court must be orderly and full of dignity.
When all have entered and are arranged in order, the Guide shall say to them:
GUIDE:
You are now in the Royal Court of King Hiram of Tyre. You represent skilled
wood carvers, and will wait here in silence until you are summoned to the
royal presence.
The Sentinel
shall then inform the Chief of the Royal Rangers that the workmen are in the
Royal Court.
Ceremony of Enthronement
The
procession shall form in the ante room in the following order, as soon as the
workmen have gone out, and must be ready to move as soon as the Sentinel gives
the word that the workmen are arranged in the Royal Court.
1. Heralds
and trumpeters.
2. Royal
Rangers.
3. Princes
Zadok and Adoniah.
The
trumpeters shall sound a blast outside, as a signal to open the doors, and
continue blowing until the procession has fully entered the Court, where it
marches once around. Then, marching towards the throne, the Rangers and
Princes shall halt, open ranks two paces apart, and raise their swords, or
spears, or right hands, forming an archway. Immediately, the Chamberlain.
shall enter and say:
CHAMBERLAIN:
Arise, my Lords!
All arise. Behold his Majesty, the
King!
The King
shall then enter the Court. Preceded by the Chamberlain, he marches slowly
between the ranks of the Rangers. At the foot of the throne, the Chamberlain
shall halt and allow the King to ascend the throne, where he remains standing.
The Princes shall then pass between the Rangers, and on reaching the throne
salute the King, and take their places, Zadok on the right .and Adoniah on the
left of the King, where they remain standing. Then the King shall take his
seat on the throne and say:
KING:
Lords of the Royal Court, I greet you with a kingly salutation. May health and
happiness abide with you, and may long life and prosperity be your portion.
One rap.
All are
seated. The Rangers march to the rear of the Court, and form in line in front
of the candidates. The Chamberlain retires to the ante room and immediately
returns. He approaches the King and salutes.
CHAMBERLAIN:
Your Majesty, an
Ambassador from King Solomon is in waiting.
KING:
You will bring him at once into the Royal Court, that we may receive him with
the honor due to his exalted Master.
The
Chamberlain salutes and retires. The Rangers march to the entrance to receive
Prince Azariah and his retinue. The procession enters the Royal Court in the
following order:
1.
Trumpeters.
2. Royal
Rangers, in fours.
3. Guards of
Prince Azariah, wearing purple capes, and carrying swords, or spears.
4. Attending
Lords and retinue—in costume.
5.
Chamberlain.
6. Prince
Azariah.
The
trumpeters sound a blast as Prince Azariah enters, and the procession
moves forward. When they
are in front of the throne, the Rangers file right and left in twos and halt,
leaving space in the center for the Chamberlain and Prince Azariah. They
approach the King and salute. The entry of Prince Azariah may be made as
gorgeous and spectacular as desired.
CHAMBERLAIN:
Your Majesty,
this is Prince Azariah who bears a message from King Solomon.
KING:
And what is thy message, most noble Prince?
AZARIAH,
salutes: Most
excellent King Hiram of Tyre, my worshipful Lord and Master, King Solomon,
sends royal greetings, and bade me say that he is building a Temple in
Jerusalem. The stones thereof are hewed in the quarries near the city, but he
earnestly desires that it may be roofed with timbers of cedar. Therefore he
begs that thou wilt command thy servants to hew timbers in the forest of
Lebanon. It is well known unto him that there is not among us any that can
skill to hew timbers like unto the Sidonians.
Salutes.
KING:
Prince Azariah, thy request is most freely granted. Return to thy royal and
illustrious Master and tell him that I rejoice greatly in his wisdom, and will
do all his desire concerning timbers of cedar for the Temple. My servants
shall cut wood out of Lebanon, as much as he shall need,. and we will bring it
in floats by sea to Joppa, so that he may carry it overland to Jerusalem. May
peace abide with thee and thy royal Master.
The
Chamberlain and Prince Azariah salute. The Rangers re-form in fours and lead
the procession as it
retires from the Forest. The Chamberlain immediately returns and takes a
position in front of the candidates. The Rangers remain in line outside, ready
for the proclamation.
KING:
My Lords, you have heard the request of my illustrious brother, King Solomon,
and the promise I have made. In order to accomplish this vast undertaking, we
must have more workmen in the Forest. Therefore it is my royal command that
Princes Zadok and Adoniah, accompanied by the Royal Rangers, shall forthwith
travel throughout the Kingdom, and make public proclamation, calling upon all
workers in wood to present themselves at the Royal Court.
The Princes
rise and salute the King.
ZADOK:
The command of your Majesty shall be immediately obeyed.
KING:
May your journey be prosperous.
The Princes
salute and retire to the ante room where the Rangers are waiting in line. The
procession shall immediately re-enter the Royal Court, with the Princes and
trumpeters in the center of the Rangers. They shall march once around the
Court. When the Princes are at the center of the standing candidates, the
procession shall halt and face the candidates. After a blast is sounded by
the trumpets, the proclamation shall be made,
either by one of the Princes, or by the two in concert.
Hear Ye! Hear Ye! By command
of his royal Majesty, King Hiram of Tyre, all workers in wood not now
employed, shall forthwith present themselves at his Royal Court, for labor in
the forest of Lebanon. Long live the King!
ALL:
Long live the King!
The
proclamation having been made, the
procession shall march
around and halt in front of the King. The Princes advance two paces and
salute.
ZADOK:
May it please your Majesty, we have obeyed the royal command, and proclamation
has been made throughout the Kingdom.
KING:
Most noble Princes, you have my royal approbation. Let us hope for a willing
response.
Then the
Chamberlain shall face the candidates and say:
Workmen, you have heard the
royal proclamation. He that will offer himself for labor in the forest of
Lebanon, let him hold up his right hand.
Candidates
all raise their right hands. The Chamberlain signals for them to be lowered,
faces about, marches quickly to a position between the Princes, and salutes.
CHAMBERLAIN:
A message, your Majesty!
KING:
And what is your message, my Lord Chamberlain?
CHAMBERLAIN:
Your Majesty, there are ... workmen in the Audience Chamber who crave an
audience with the King.
KING:
Have you ascertained their business?
CHAMBERLAIN:
They are workers in wood who have heard the royal proclamation, and desire to
offer themselves for labor in the forest of Lebanon.
KING:
Their prompt compliance is most gratifying, and I will presently receive them.
You will return to these workmen, and remain with them in the Audience Chamber
until they are summoned to the royal presence.
The
Chamberlain salutes and returns to the candidates where he takes a position at
their right, facing the King.
KING:
Princes Zadok and Adoniah, they salute
there are workmen in the Audience Chamber to whom I must soon grant an
audience. Before I hear them, you may present before me the Chief of the Royal
Rangers who accompanied you throughout the Kingdom.
The
Chief of the Royal
Rangers shall advance until he is in line with the Princes. All salute.
ZADOK:
King Hiram, I present before you, Joab, the Chief of the Royal Rangers, who,
with his faithful band, is ever ready to undertake any duty in your Majesty’s
service.
KING:
I have heard of you Joab, that you are a man of valor, and of great skill to
command your Rangers. It is my pleasure that you now display their skill
before this Royal Court.
Princes and
Chief Ranger salute. The Princes return to their places and are seated. The
Rangers perform their evolutions, ending with a military salute.
KING:
I thank you Chief Ranger Joab, for this exhibition which does great credit
both to you, and to your well trained men. You will assist Princes Zadok and
Adoniah in bringing before me the workmen who are in the Audience Chamber.
The Princes
rise and salute. The
Chamberlain arranges the candidates in ranks of two or four at the rear
of the Court, and takes his position at the right of the line. The Rangers
file left and march to the rear of the Court, passing just in front of the
line of candidates. Princes Zadok and Adoniah fall in line behind the Rangers,
and when the candidates are reached, Prince Zadok takes a position at the foot
of the line. The Rangers continue their march without halting, and the
Chamberlain and candidates fall in behind Prince Adoniah. The Rangers file
left along the side of the Court, and again file left and march across the
Court in front of the King. When the candidates are in a line before the King,
they shall be halted by the Princes. Prince Adoniah is at the left of the line
Prince Zadok at the right. The Rangers and Chamberlain continue their march
without halting, and retire to the ante room, where they prepare for the
Sidonian Degree.
ZADOK:
Your Majesty, these are workmen from the cities of the Kingdom, who desire to
become hewers of timber in the forest of Lebanon.
KING:
Are they of good report?
ZADOK:
They are well known to me, and to many of the brethren.
KING:
Are they skilled in any craft?
ZADOK:
They are skilled wood carvers, master workmen, but hearing of the-need for
more hewers of timber, they have offered themselves for your service.
KING:
Workmen, you are welcome, for there is great need for more, hewers in the
Forest. From Holy Writ, and from our previous teachings, we learn that at the
building of the Temple, King Solomon sent to King Hiram of Tyre desiring that
the Sidonians might hew cedars of Lebanon for use in the Temple. These timbers
were hewed in the forest, brought down to the sea, conveyed in floats to
Joppa, and thence overland to Jerusalem. A fraternal Brotherhood existed at
that time among the hewers of timber in the forest of Lebanon, as well as
among the hewers of stone in the quarries at Jerusalem. The Hewer’s Fraternity
was known as the TALL CEDARS OF LEBANON. It was instituted by a royal decree
in the days of King Amaram, so that the workers in Lebanon should live and
work together in harmony and brotherly love. To this Fraternity only were
imparted the secrets of the Forest. Do you desire to learn these secrets?
CANDIDATES:
I do.
KING:
Are you willing to bind yourself to us by a solemn and lasting obligation?
CANDIDATES:
I am.
KING:
Then place your right hand over your heart, and in an audible voice repeat
after me.
The
candidates face the altar, standing in a semi-circle. The Princes stand just
behind the right and left sides of the altar facing the candidates. When all
are in position, the King descends from his throne and takes his place between
the Princes, just behind the altar. In places where it is convenient the
lights may be turned off, except the lights upon the altar, which should be
red or green. If the whole altar is not made of cedar wood, there should be
some pieces of rough cedar, or cedar boughs laid upon it.
Obligation
I, ...—in the presence of
his Majesty—King Hiram of Tyre,—the Princes Zadok and Adoniah,—with these Tall
Cedars as my witnesses,—and before this altar of cedar wood,—do hereby promise
and vow—that I will never reveal—any of the secrets of this Order—that may
now,— or at any future time,—be imparted to me as such.
Furthermore, I promise—that
I will firmly support—the Supreme Forest and its officers,—and will abide by
and loyally obey—all laws, rules, regulations,—orders and edicts—lawfully
promulgated by them;—and in the same manner—will loyally support the
officers,—and obey the authority and laws—of this, or any other Forest—with
which I may be connected.
Furthermore, I promise—that
I will neither alter nor change,—subtract from, nor add to,—the written or
unwritten Work of the Order—as set forth by the Supreme Forest,—nor will I
hold Cedar communication—with any Tall Cedar—who is not a member in good
standing—in a lawfully chartered Forest.
Furthermore, I promise—that
I will never consent to,—nor assist in the introduction—into any of the
ceremonies of the Forest,—or into any meeting or festivities—under its name or
auspices,—of anything indecent,—obscene,—irreverent,—immoral, —or harmful to
the person or property of any one.
To the faithful
observance—of all these promises,—I sincerely vow,—binding myself anew—by all
the penalties—of any obligations—I have ever taken elsewhere. So help me
God,—and keep me ever firm and true-in this my solemn vow.
At the end of
the Obligation, the lights shall be turned on.
ADONIAH:
Tall Cedars, Before you is the altar of cedar wood. The original meaning of
the word “cedar” is, “grimly rooted, strong tree.” So may you ever be firmly
rooted and strong in your love for our Order. And as the cedar wood is
everlasting, so is the solemn obligation which you have just taken. Ever be
mindful of your threefold promise of Secrecy, Loyalty, and Decency.
ZADOK:
Brother Tall Cedars, we welcome you in Friendship, Love, and Brotherhood. Tall
Cedarism is but another name for Hospitality and Good Cheer. Friendliness,
Sociability, and Good Fellowship are the cardinal principles of our Order, so
that when you meet a Tall Cedar, you may be certain that you are meeting a
Friend, a Brother, and a Good Fellow. We welcome you as members of ... Forest,
Number ....
KING:
The ceremony through which you have just passed is not a mere show and
spectacle. It has a deep and serious meaning. You have represented skilled
wood carvers; artists, as well as craftsmen. The work of hewing timber is very
rough for your skillful hands, but you were so loyal to your King, that as
soon as you heard of his need, you offered yourself for any service. By such
loyalty and willingness, you have shown us the grandeur of patriotism, the
dignity of labor, and the beauty of willing service.
You may still be artists,
for the highest and truest art is not so much in the thing produced, as in the
spirit in which the thing is done. He is indeed the true artist who puts his
whole heart and soul into whatever his hands find to do. All labor is equally
honorable, and to every one who does his best with a willing heart and mind,
the Great Master will say: “Well done, good and faithful servant, thou shall
have a great reward.”
You will now be instructed
in the Secret Work.
The sign of a Tall Cedar is
.... This is called the Hewing Sign, and is symbolic of your labor as a Hewer
of wood in Lebanon. On entering or retiring from a Forest, when in session,
you will advance to the center of the Forest and throw this sign to the Grand
Tall Cedar, who will answer it in this manner, thus signifying that
everything that goes on in the Forest is to be kept under cover.
The Pass-word is ....
The Test is ....
The Grip is made thus: ....
The Sign of Welcome to the
Supreme Officers is made by throwing the Hewing Sign three times, and saying
in a loud voice “Welcome” with each Sign.
The Response to the
Invocation is, “May it ever be thus.”
After the
Secret Work is concluded, KING:
You will receive the Card of the current year from the Scribe, without which
you will not be able to gain admittance to this or any other Forest. Your
Pyramid should always be worn at the meetings of the Forest, and at such other
times as requested by the King.
You are now duly obligated
Tall Cedars, but before you can learn the skill to hew timber, it will be
necessary for you to receive further instructions, and be obligated as
Sidonians. We are told in Holy Writ, that “there is none among us who can
skill to hew timber like unto the Sidonians,” and only to duly obligated Tall
Cedars may their secrets be imparted.
These secrets will be given
you in the Sidonian Degree which is to follow. It teaches that the real spirit
of Tall Cedarism is the spirit of mirth and enjoyment. A regular Cedar is a
gentleman, a credit to society, and to our Order. He scatters sunshine,
dispels gloom, spreads good cheer, is full of joy and laughter. Fun, Frolic,
and Fellowship are the three great teachings of this Degree. Let your Fun be
always clean and harmless: your Frolics full of innocent merriment: your
Fellowship sincere in its friendliness and sociability. Thus will you prove
that you have caught the true spirit of Tall Cedarism, and that you are a good
Friend, a good Brother, and a good Sidonian.
A list of
those who are to take the stunts shall be prepared in advance, and given to
the King.
KING:
You must all take the Sidonian Obligation, but a few have been selected for
personal and individual instruction as overseers of the workmen. As their
names are called, the following Cedars will step forward and arrange
themselves in a line before me.
The King
reads the list of names, and the Cedars come forward and arrange themselves
before him.
KING:
Tall Cedars, you have been signally honored in being the chosen ones upon whom
will be exemplified the striking ceremonies of the Sidonian degree.
A very
amusing feature may be introduced here by the King reading fake telegrams and
letters, referring to the selected ones before him. These letters purport to
come from wives and friends, and are full of harmless, but funny personal
allusions, such as boasts they have made that they are not afraid, and that
they hope they will get their money’s worth, talking in their sleep, etc.,
etc.
You will now retire to the
ante room, and be prepared for the honors that await you. The other newly-made
Cedars will remain standing as they are, and strictly do as they are told.
The ones who
are to receive the stunts will then retire to the ante room. As soon as they
have left the Court, the King and Princes shall return to their places, and
the King shall say:
Lords of the Royal Court, we
have finished our labors, and largely increased our numbers. I therefore
declare this Royal Court dissolved, and the Grand Tall Cedar shall preside
over the Lodge of Sidonians. May peace and harmony ever abide with you.
Farewell!
ALL:
Long live the King!
Then the
King, preceded by the Princes, shall retire, and the Grand Tall Cedar shall
resume his station. The candidates remaining in the Forest shall immediately
be arranged in a rectangular body in the center of the Forest, leaving
sufficient space on all sides for the procession at the beginning of the
Sidonian Degree. They shall be hoodwinked as soon as they are placed in
position, the object being to mystify them, and keep them guessing as to what
is going to happen to them, and what is coming next. As the candidates are
being hoodwinked, they must be carefully instructed that they are to answer,
“You Bet” in a LOUD voice, to all the questions asked them by the Grand Tall
Cedar. This answer is to be given by the candidates alone. Rangers
and members must keep
silent.
The
Sidonian
Degree should follow as quickly as possible.
Closing
GRAND TALL
CEDAR: By virtue
of the power and authority in me vested by the Supreme Forest, I hereby
declare ... Forest, No. ... closed, until called together by the Grand Tall
Cedar. one rap
Tall Cedars of Lebanon – Sidonian
Degree
General Directions
This is the
amusing and funny section of our work, and anything that is calculated to add
to the sport of the occasion is permitted. But strict care should be taken
that nothing indecent or obscene be introduced. There is abundant opportunity
for ‘clean, wholesome fun, without descending to coarseness and vulgarity.
Tall Cedarism stands for hearty recreation and genuine diversion of a
wholesome character that leaves no nasty taste. While it is true that some of
our proceedings are rather uproarious, and could hardly be called dignified,
yet we should always keep within such bounds that we need not be ashamed to
ask any member of the Fraternity to become a Tall Cedar, because we are afraid
he would be offended by the coarseness of the work.
The selected
ones should be dressed in grotesque garments, with funny masks, etc., being
careful to avoid indecency and vulgarity.
In the
stunts, care should be taken not to be too rough and especial watchfulness
should be observed in the use of the electric current. Some are physically
unable to stand a strong shock, and a serious accident might result which
would be a great detriment to Tall Cedarism everywhere.
Although it
is neither necessary nor desirable that the Grand Tall Cedar should go upon
the floor during the working of the stunts, yet he should exercise a strict
oversight upon what is being done, and should promptly check anything which
oversteps the proper bounds.
While the
stunts are being worked, the members should remain seated, and the floor kept
absolutely clear of every one who is not actively engaged in the work.
The Forest is
to be carefully instructed that the members are to keep absolute silence
during the playing of the slow music at the entrance of the candidates, but as
soon as the lively music begins, the noise may break loose and Bedlam can
reign until the candidates are halted before the Grand Tall Cedar.
It is very
important that the stunts should not be continued too long, or too often
repeated. A short, quick, snappy succession of stunts is very funny, but the
same stunts over and over become very tiresome to those looking on. Too many
different stunts should not be used at one meeting. Don’t show everything you
have. Save some for the next time. Simple, home-made stunts are often as
successful as the elaborate and expensive ones. Aim for variety and novelty,
as the members do not care to see the same old things, meeting after meeting.
Above all, do
not keep them going until every one is tired. Many a good meeting has been
spoiled by long drills, and long stunts. Quit while they want more, and they
will come back to see the rest of it. Ten minutes should be the limit for the
drill, and thirty to Forty-five minutes are enough for the stunts. Longer than
this is sure to be tiresome to those who are looking on.
Sidonian Degree
The selected
ones must be securely hoodwinked. They should have their shoes untied, and be
dressed in fantastic costumes, but nothing vulgar or obscene should be
allowed. They should be carefully instructed that they are to answer “YOU BET”
to the questions asked by the Grand Tall Cedar. Accompanied by the Rangers,
and led by the Guide, they shall enter the Forest and march around very slowly
to the tune of the Dead March, or a Funeral March, (Chopin’s is suggested).
Perfect silence should be kept in the Forest during the slow march. When the
line is in front of the Grand Tall Cedar, it shall be halted by the Guide.
GRAND TALL
CEDAR, in slow and solemn tones:
Brother Guide, what is the meaning of this funeral procession? What is the
reason for this solemn, doleful music?
GUIDE:
Grand Tall Cedar, there is a meaning and a good reason. I know of no other
appropriate manner to bring them in, for they are dead ones.
GRAND TALL
CEDAR: Alas, it
is too true. They look like dead ones. They walk like dead ones. They are dead
ones. And although we hate to do it, it is our manifest duty to put some new
life into these dead bones. Brother Guide, lead them on again,. and see if you
can bring them back to life.
Lively music
begins,—like “Hot Time in the Old Town”—and the candidates are hurried around
the Forest at a lively gait, amid great noise and cries of “Step High,” etc.
When they are in front of the G. T. C. they are halted again.
GUIDE, in
solemn tones:
Take off your shoes, lest you defile this venerable Lodge of Sidonians.
Shoes are
taken off and thrown in a heap in the center of the Lodge. If it is thought
best, especially in the winter season, taking off the shoes may be omitted.
The candidates shall then be placed in line before the Grand Tall Cedar who
shall say:
Brother Guide, where did you gather up this collection of bums and
ragamuffins? Why have you dared to bring these hoboes and degenerates into
this venerable Lodge of Sidonians?
GUIDE:
Grand Tall Cedar, I know that their appearance is forbidding, and that they do
not look like brothers, but I can assure you that these are Tall Cedars, who
desire to be instructed in the secrets of the Sidonians, and to learn the
skill to hew timber.
GRAND TALL
CEDAR: How do you
know that they are Tall Cedars?
GUIDE:
Because they are in possession of the Secret work and the Pass-word.
GRAND TALL
CEDAR: Let them
Sign.
All the candidates throw the Hewing dates throw Sign.
GRAND TALL
CEDAR: Let them
give the Pass-word.
All the
candidates give Pass-word.
GRAND TALL
CEDAR: The Sign
and the Pass-word are correct. This shows us how easy it is to be mistaken,
for appearances are often deceitful. Young Cedars, do you desire to be taught
our secrets?
CANDIDATES,
in a very loud voice:
You bet!
This answer
is to be given by the Candidates alone. Rangers and members should remain
silent.
GRAND TALL
CEDAR: Do you
want to learn the skill to hew timber?
CANDIDATES:
You bet!
GRAND TALL
CEDAR: Do you
want all that is coming to you?
CANDIDATES:
You bet!
GRAND TALL
CEDAR: Will you
take it as we give it?
CANDIDATES:
You bet!
GRAND TALL
CEDAR: Have you
got your nerve with you?
CANDIDATES:
You bet!
GRAND TALL
CEDAR: Are you
game and full of ginger?
CANDIDATES:
You bet!
GRAND TALL
CEDAR: Are you as
stupid as you look?
CANDIDATES:
You bet!
GRAND TALL
CEDAR: Are your
heads made of wood?
CANDIDATES:
You bet!
GRAND TALL
CEDAR: Such being
the case, it is high time you were taken in hand. You are surrounded by a
hundred Sidonians who are skilled in cutting wood, and it is clearly necessary
that your wooden heads should be well trimmed at this time. Moreover, you must
again give us your promise. You have been obligated as Tall Cedars, by a
solemn and lasting obligation which must always be regarded most seriously and
sacredly. Now, you are to take another obligation which will be binding only
in a Lodge of Sidonians, and only while you are taking it. Raise both hands
above your heads, and in a loud voice repeat after me.
Sidonian Obligation
I, ...—in the presence of
this Lodge of Sidonians,—erected for the trimming of blockheads,—and now
assembled for that express purpose,—do hereby show my full assent—and give my
hearty thanks—for what I am about to receive.
MOREOVER—I promise—that I
will not show the white feather,—but will take all that is coming to me—like a
little man.
MOREOVER—I promise—that I
will lend a brother Sidonian—a sum not exceeding—thirty cents,—if I have no
other use for it.
MOREOVER—I promise—that I
will not marry any widow—grass or sod—or the mother-in-law of any Sidonian,—without
her full consent.
MOREOVER—I promise—that at
any free feed—I will not eat or drink—more than my skin will hold.
MOREOVER—I promise—that when
I am—in the company of Sidonians,—or visit a Lodge of Sidonians—I will
endeavor to conduct myself—as a perfect lady.
Here may be
introduced any localisms.
MOREOVER—I promise—that
three times in the year,—at New Year’s,—St. Patrick’s Day,—and Yom Kippur,—at
the dead hour of midnight—I will rise from my bed,—divest myself of all
apparel,—put on my slippers,—my pyramid,—and a smile,— and clad only in my
birthday suit—will parade up and down street,—and will climb to the top of ...
some
high place—and
there, with the icy winds of winter—blowing around my manly Corm,— will raise
my face to the skies—stretch forth my hands to the stars—and there renew this
obligation.
Here the
hoodwinks may be raised on all except the selected ones, in the front.
MOREOVER—finally I
promise-that I will not forget the words of this Obligation—as long as I
remember them,—and in token of my submission,—I kneel on both knees,—bow my
face to the ground,—and in this helpless position,—call for succor—from the
great Sidonian saints,—O saints hear us! O saints help us!—Jift up thy mighty
arms—O great saints—Knockus and Whackus!
GRAND TALL
CEDAR: Brother
Sidonians, the great saints have evidently heard and answered your call for
succor. They stretched forth their mighty arms, and found an easy mark. We
know that you enjoyed it, but more is still to follow. The best is yet to
come. You will now retire to the ante room, and return one by one, for further
trimming and instruction.
The selected
ones shall then retire to the ante room. The others shall be seated anywhere
in the Forest. As the selected ones finish their stunts, they shall be seated
in the Forest without retiring again to the ante room. When the stunts are
finished, they shall all be brought in a body before the Grand Tall Cedar.
GRAND TALL
CEDAR: Brothers,
you have wandered long in the Forest, and have passed through many novel,
striking, and even shocking experiences. We hope that you have not been
inconvenienced by our polite attentions, which were all intended for your good
and our pleasure. We have had a lot of fun: did you enjoy it?
CANDIDATES:
You bet!
GRAND TALL
CEDAR: Have you
had a good time?
CANDIDATES:
You bet!
GRAND TALL
CEDAR: Are you
sorry it is all over?
CANDIDATES:
You bet!
GRAND TALL
CEDAR: Are you
fully satisfied?
CANDIDATES:
You bet!
GRAND TALL
CEDAR: Did you
get your money’s worth?
CANDIDATES:
You bet!
GRAND TALL
CEDAR: Are you
glad you’re a Tall Cedar?
CANDIDATES:
You bet!
GRAND TALL
CEDAR: Will you
try to bring in Saplings?
CANDIDATES:
You bet!
GRAND TALL
CEDAR: Will you
help us give them what you got?
CANDIDATES:
You bet!
GRAND TALL
CEDAR: It is
well.
I congratulate you on being
good sports and having such willing spirits. You are now full-grown Sidonians,
and may retire to the ante room and return when you are properly clothed.
The ordinary business of the Forest may then be resumed.
