Join us for an enlightening episode of MAGI, the Masonic Authors Guild International podcast, as we delve into the hidden treasures of the Nebraska Masonic Museum and Library. Host Glenn Visscher leads the exploration, peeling back the layers of history stored within this remarkable institution.

In this episode, we sit down with Most Worshipful Thomas Hauder, past Grandmaster and ardent supporter of the museum, to uncover the fascinating journey of Nebraska's Masonic archives. Discover the rich tapestry of artifacts, from ancient Egyptian setting malls to magnificent Masonic volumes, and learn how these treasures were painstakingly cataloged and preserved.

Tom shares anecdotes about unique items such as General Pershing’s York Rite sword and the iconic piece of the White House stone gifted by President Harry Truman. Through Tom’s engaging storytelling, listeners will sense the passion and dedication behind this labor of love, as well as the challenges and triumphs involved in managing such a vast collection.

Whether you're a history buff, a Masonic enthusiast, or someone who loves uncovering hidden gems, this episode promises to captivate and inform. Learn how the Nebraska Masonic Museum and Library continues to preserve and share its invaluable heritage with the world, and find out how you too can experience these historical wonders.

Tune in, get inspired, and join us in preserving the rich legacy of Freemasonry.

Resources:

https://glne.pastperfectonline.com/

https://glne.org/

Welcome to another intriguing episode of MAGI: Short Papers, where your hosts Mark Tabbert and Robert Cooper explore the hidden and fascinating histories behind freemasonry and other secret societies. In this episode titled "Secret Societies in America: W.S. Harwood," we delve into the compelling essay written by WS Harwood in 1897, which paints a vivid picture of the golden age of fraternity in late 19th-century America.

Discover how fraternal organizations provided economic relief, social unity, and moral guidance while also uncovering the darker side of secret societies, where extravagant spending and the allure of ritualistic mysticism sometimes led men away from their families and business endeavors. Through Harwood's insightful observations, we examine the staggering financial contributions these societies made for the welfare of their members, which amounted to hundreds of millions of dollars.

Join us as we navigate the complexities of these fraternal orders, their impact on American society, their charitable works, and the potential downsides that came with their rise in popularity. Whether you are a student of history, a freemasonry enthusiast, or simply curious about the secret societies that shaped America, this episode promises to be an enlightening and thought-provoking journey into a hidden world.

Tune in to MAGI: Short Papers and unravel the secrets of American fraternal orders with us!

Subscribe to help support more content like this at patreon.com/MAGIAcademics.

Are you curious about the untold stories of African American Freemasonry and its significant impact on democracy in the United States? Join us in this enlightening episode as our host, Mark Tabbert, sits down with esteemed guest Dr. Chernoh Sesay Jr., Ph.D., an expert in black Atlantic and colonial American history.

Together, they dive deep into Corey D.B. Walker’s groundbreaking book, A Noble Fight: African American Freemasonry and the Struggle for Democracy in America. Dr. Sesay unpacks Walker's exploration of how African American Freemasonry emerged as a powerful force against exclusionary norms and played a pivotal role in shaping black political thought, identity, and community formation from the 18th century through Reconstruction.

Discover the intricate ways black Masons leveraged Masonic ideals to challenge societal norms, while simultaneously striving for recognition and equality. Learn how they balanced pragmatism and principles to represent and uplift black communities. Mark and Dr. Sesay critique the book's strengths and its missed opportunities, particularly regarding the spread of Freemasonry from Boston to the southern states and the rich, diverse tapestry of backgrounds within black lodges.

This episode promises a thoughtful discussion that combines history, philosophy, and literary theory, making it perfect for anyone interested in Freemasonry, African American history, or the broader nuances of American democracy.

Tune in for an intellectually stimulating conversation that awards Corey D.B. Walker’s work with MAGI’s coveted seal of approval, affirming its importance and impact on Masonic and democratic studies. Whether you're an academic, a history enthusiast, or just a curious mind, this episode will leave you with profound insights and plenty to ponder.