Elmira, New York, Masonic Temple, 1912

The Ralph B. Duncan postcard collection consists of postcards with a Masonic connection, either a building used for Masonic purposes, a person connected to Freemasonry, or a subject concerning Freemasonry. Mostly made during 1907-1940s, there are some that are both earlier and later, which can be determined by changes in postcard conventions. Included are portraits, views of buildings, cartoons, among other subjects. Most of the postcards of buildings are in the United States, with some from other countries such as Germany and France. The portraits generally are of American historical figures who were known or believed to be Freemasons. The buildings included were used for Blue Lodges, Scottish Rite, York Rite, Shriners International, International Order of the Rainbow for Girls, Order of the Eastern Star, DeMolay International, amongst other Masonic bodies and auxiliary groups. There are also some postcards that depict or mention other fraternal organizations, such as the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.