Scrimshaw
Whale Tooth with Masonic
Symbolism
This scrimshawed whales tooth is
circa 1840 and depicts many of the early symbols of Freemasonry. During
the 19th century and the great Age of Sail, many Masonic Brethren "went
down to the sea in ships." Their maritime professions ranged from
ship builder, or ship's Master, to simple mariner. Wherever they
traveled, Masonry traveled with them. A number of duly constituted
Masonic Lodges were created in the East Indies, South and Central America, the
Mediterranean and other ports around the world where seafaring Brethren could
meet and enjoy fellowship. Traveling certificates, often printed in
three or four languages, attested that they were Master Masons in good
standing and eligible for admittance to these foreign Lodges. During
long voyages, there were other opportunities to reaffirm the dual bonds that
bound them to the sea and Masonry. Without official sanction, Freemasons
seldom lost an opportunity to hoist Masonic flags and pennants while underway,
or in port, in efforts to recognize one another. These displays often
resulted in meetings where brotherhood and good fellowship could be more
thoroughly enjoyed. In a number of countries, the Papal bull of 1738
continued to prevent the conduct of open Masonic meetings ashore, but probably
gave rise to their safe retreat aboard sovereign ships lying at anchor in the
harbor. Life at sea was hazardous in the 19th century, and necrology
published in Grand Lodge Proceedings often grimly announced "death at
sea" of many mariner Brethren. Despite the hazards of life on the
briny deep, Freemasonry proudly rode the waves as the legacy of the above
whales tooth will testify.
A special
"Thanks" from Brother Al Lohman, a 30 year collector and 30+ year
Masonic Lodge member from Wisconsin. Al trades on eBay under the User ID
"lochlohman"
