Necropolis may be the biggest Freemason symbol in Europe
Glasgow's most famous cemetery could be a giant masonic symbol. The city's Necropolis, 37 acres, may be one of the world's biggest Freemasonry sites. Historian Ronnie Scott claims to have discovered unseen patterns in the design of the iconic 19th-century cemetery. Research has suggested the Necropolis is a landscaped metaphor and its layout mirrors the masonic journey "from darkness to light". Scott will tell the world's first conference on the history of Freemasonry that the land may be one of Europe's most important masonic sites. The cemetery could attract crowds to rival the masonic-influenced Rosslyn Chapel. (eveningtimes)
New Masons Drawn by Brotherhood, Not Myths
In the 18th century, the word on the cobblestone street was that Freemasons were an occult group promoting a pagan agenda through the America. Members themselves call Masonry "the craft," and the Masonic founders of America built the roads around the U.S. Capitol in the form of a 5-pointed star, a pagan symbol. Then there is that "seeing eye" pyramid on the dollar bill, a known Masonic symbol. Although the reality of Freemasonry is less mysterious, it's appealing to a younger generation, which is picking up the torch. The World War II generation that makes up the mass of Freemasonry membership in the US is dying at a quick rate. (npr)
Inside the Freemasons -- Book by former member
Masonry Unmasked, by former Mason John Salza, is a book worth mentioning because it is well-written and informative. Without histrionics or overwrought conspiracies, it tells you everything you need to know about the Masons, their structures, and their beliefs. In a clear, interesting way, Salza explains that Masonry dates back to the stonemasons who built the great cathedrals of medieval Europe. The actual birth of modern Masonry came on June 24, 1717, when the Grand Lodge of England was founded, taking masonry from an operative organization to one that was an esoteric club with rituals. (speroforum)