Box 1

A collection of Anti-Masonic documents collected by the Supreme Council.

The letter, marked as confidential, was written by Abner Phelps (1779-1873) to Samuel Breck (1771-1862). Phelps writes about the nomination of Lothrop, mentions that John Clark has not given any money to the Masons, and other political commentary.

Letter from Edward D. Barber to David Robinson. Dated about 1832. This letter from Anti-masonic politician Edward Barber petitions Major General David Robinson, a veteran of the Revolutionary War, to use his influence to help rally support behind the Anti-Masons and their statewide convention.

A postcard issued by jeweler and silversmith John Harriott, with examples of jewels and references on the reverse. Pictured are a Past Sachem Jewel and Past Pocahontas Jewel.

Collection consists of two Victorian era trade cards, both issued by C. M. Englehart & Son. In one document, the jewelers Charles M. Englehart and his son William F. Englehart of Philadelphia advertise their ability to create individualized Masonic mark medals (a type of crest or coat of arms) for Royal Arch Masons. In the second document, the same jewelers advertise "Masonic Marks," unique, personal designs chosen by Masons for the Mark Master Mason degree.

Letter from the Masonic Historical Publishing Company to John A. Cassil dated March 19, 1892. In this letter, the Masonic Historical Publishing Company requests that John A. Cassil of Howard, Ohio, send a personal photograph and $18.50 for the creation of a copper plate etching of Cassil. The etching of Cassil will be used in the publication of the company’s “Knights Templars of America Illustrated.”

The New York Era, a weekly publication in operation from approximately 1860-1882, announces it will devote a "liberal portion of its columns" to the reporting of Freemasonry. It concludes with a solicitation to subscribers.

For freedom and country, salesman's sample honor certificate. Dated 1942. A salesman's sample honor certificate created by the Ihling Brothers and Everard Company. Imprint at the bottom of certificate reads, “© 1942, Ihling Bros. Everard Co. Kalamazoo, Mich.”