The Universal Language of Freemasonry - ArchiMeD - Johannes ...

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Chapter 9 - Masonic and Anti-Masonic Literature
regalia for the Officers; wig and beard for the Forest Patriarch; old hats
and coats for Escort and candidate in street scene; "I am blind" placard
and tin cup; hoodwink; uniforms and axes for Foresters; costume for
"death;" false camera; saw, sawbuck, and stick of wood; false
wineglasses; paraphernalia for wedge test; goat. 1929
According to these explanatory notes prefacing the ritual, many of the articles
are obtainable locally at very little cost, and all can be purchased at moderate
prices from the Supply department of the Secretary's office. Upon request, the
members will be sent a catalogue. 1930 The ad for the "Royal Bumper" springs
from such a supply catalogue which is a piece of evidence that a whole trade has
been established concerning fraternal regalia and equipment, including fun
articles which were quite popular until, presumably, the end of the first half of
the 20 th century.
Unlike the Freemasons, the Modern Woodmen of America have less solemn
ceremonies, and thus subject their candidates to funny tests that have been
referred to in our chapter 7.3.3.1. During their "Ceremony of Adoption" into the
Fraternal Degree, the Past Consul tells the candidate that, before he can receive
the full benefits of Woodcraft, he has to undergo tests of his physical ability to
prove that he can do the practical work of a Woodman. He dismisses the
applicant into his fate with the words "I now place you in the hands of these
merry Foresters. Go with them, obey them, and fear not." 1931 The following stage
directions read thus:
1929 Official ritual of Modern Woodmen of America, p. 17.
1930 Ibid.
1931 Ibid, p. 50.