The
Phylaxis
VOL XXXV No 1
SPRING 2008
Special Edition
Prince Hall Masons
Celebrating Black History
The Phylaxis Society
A Society for Prince Hall Freemasons
Who Seek More Light and Who
Have Light to Impart
ELECTED OFFICERS
John B. Williams, FPS (Life). . . . . . . . . . . . President
433 East Ramona Drive; Rialto, CA 92376
Ulysses Cooper, FPS . . . . . . . . . . . 1st Vice President
1307 W. 200 N; Clearfield, UT 84017
The Phylaxis
PUBLISHED BY THE PHYLAXIS SOCIETY
Post Office Box 2212
Tacoma WA 98401-2212
Web Site: www.thephylaxis.org
PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE
Raymond T. Coleman, FPS, Chairman; Brian Abrams, FPS;
Michael Delgado, FPS; Ralph McNeal, FPS;
and Ezekiel Bey, FPS.
Larry Moore, MPS . . . . . . . . . . . . 2nd Vice President
114 Corey Ave., Rear; Braddock, PA 15104
Harold H. Bendaw, FPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Treasurer
12617 Indian School Rd. NE; Albuquerque, NM 87112-5030
David Archibald, FPS . . . . . . . . . Executive Secretary
2206 East Sweet St.; Tacoma, WA 98404
Look for us on the Internet at:
www.thephylaxis.org
Jessie Watkins, MPS . . . . . . . . . . Financial Secretary
PO Box 5674; Albuquerque, NM 87185-5674
APPOINTED OFFICERS
John B. Williams
Phylaxis Magazine Editor
Howard Harvey
Council of 459 President
Donald O. Nelson Council of 459 1st Vice President
Ras Cannady
Council of 459 2nd Vice President
Robert Campbell
Council of Representatives President
Edward B. Darnell
Budget Chairman
Warren Broomer Audit Chairman
Lawrence Haley
Curator
Roy H. Althouse
Resident Agent
Clayvon Wesley
Special Assistant
COUNCIL OF 459 DIRECTORS
Stephen Hill
Digital Archives
Ras Cannady
Council of Chapter Presidents
Ronald Wilson
Life Membership
John U. Washington
Book Department
Charles Johnson
Special Affairs (Documentary)
Hayward Robinson
Public Communications
Ralph McNeal Commission on Bogus Masonic Practices
John W. Newson
Jno G. Lewis Medal of Excellence
Brian Abrams
Scottish Rite Institute
James “Rocky” Dallas York Rite Institute
Herby Price, Jr.
Historical Sites
Ulysses Cooper
Phylaxis Gift Shop
The Phylaxis magazine
The Phylaxis magazine is the official publication of the Phylaxis Society.
Any article appearing in this publication expresses the opinion of the
writer, and does not become the official pronouncement of the Phylaxis
Society. All rights reserved. No part of this work may be reproduced
or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical,
or stored in any retrieval system, without written permission from the
publisher. Articles in The Phylaxis magazine are received from many
sources and sometimes reflect opposing views. The views and opinions
expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the Phylaxis
staff or the Phylaxis Society.
Page 2 — THE PHYLAXIS — Spring 2008
Membership Information
Inquiries relative to membership must be addressed to the
Financial Secretary at the address below. Dues are $35.00
per year, which amount includes a subscription to The
Phylaxis magazine for one year. Any regular Mason may
become a member of the Phylaxis Society. Individuals
and organizations who do not qualify as members may
subscribe.
Subscription and Membership: $35 per year
MAIL RENEWALS AND NEW MEMBERSHIPS TO:
Post Office Box 5675
Albuquerque, NM 87185-5675
CONTENTS
From the President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
From the Membership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Celebrating Black History. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
A World Without Black People . . . . . . . . . . . . .
African American Scientists and Inventors . . .
African American Pioneers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The Buffalo Soldiers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
African American Legends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Historic African Kings and Queens . . . . . . . . .
3
3
4
6
9
12
17
18
21
22
FROM THE PRESIDENT
Prince Hall Masons are
getting better at public relations—what is called “PR.”
Notwithstanding the dubious tactics used by slick PR
professionals, Masonic PR is
not intended to be misleading or fraudulent. When we
undertake positive projects
and tell positive stories, we
are simply letting the world
know who we are and what we do. You have heard us
say it before, and you will hear us say it again: No one
will tell our story if we do not care to tell it ourselves.
This entire edition of the Phylaxis magazine is devoted
to a program Prince Hall Masons have used with tremendous effect to let the communities in which they
operate know that they exist and let them know that
they are responsive to the needs of the community.
In some jurisdictions, Black History is a mandated
celebration. If it’s something we are going to do anyway,
why not organize it so that we achieve other worthwhile
objectives. This magazine shows you how to involve
your lodges and chapters in community activities that
will be meaningful and fulfilling; it shows you how to
bring goodwill toward your lodge; and it shows you
how to generate laudable publicity about your work.
This magazine is centered around a paper presented
to the Phylaxis Society in 2005. President Joseph A.
Walkes, Jr., recommended that the paper be submitted
for consideration as a Phylaxis Masterpiece. In March
of 2007, it was accepted as such and Dr. Ras T. Cannady
was elected an Actual Fellow of the Phylaxis Society,
bringing the number of surviving Fellows so honored
to ten.
Our goal in this issue is to entice you to use the road
map presented here by Dr. Cannady. If you do, please
do us the favor of sending photos of your work so that
we can use them at our annual session or in future issues of the Phylaxis Magazine.
Hold on to this copy of the magazine. I am certain
that, in years to come, someone will come to you and
inquire about this important issue.
FROM THE MEMBERSHIP
Brother Williams,
The Phylaxis Society should accept advertising in
the magazine to help pay the bills.
Jerry Butler (IL)
Dear Brother Butler,
We have resisted the commercial approach as a
means of keeping our autonomy and of avoiding any
hint that our integrity can be bought and sold. For a
special issue such as this one, which will have expanded distribution beyond our usual membership, we have
sought to find a sponsor and have made an exception.
It will continue to be our policy to avoid advertisers in
our regular editions.
This special issue of the Phylaxis Magazine departs
from the area of Masonic research but it does not venture far away. Here we focus on imparting light about
our history—our Prince Hall history and Black History in general.
jbw
ON THE COVER
A Black History Exhibit was set up in the lobby of
Kucera Middle School just inside the main entrance
to the administrative offices. The exhibit includes the
items inside the display case as well as the banner and
posters. Schools are notoriously theme oriented, and
most of them will welcome material that is in tune with
the season.
Make certain your exhibit is what it claims to be—
an exhibit about black history. Your lodge will get recognition as well, but you might not get away with making the exhibit about your lodge.
John B. Williams, FPS Life
President
THE PHYLAXIS — Spring 2008 — Page 3
INTRODUCTION
Special Edition
Black History
By John B. Williams
Well-planned black history exhibits in strategic locations
will help Prince Hall Masons to:
• Gain a reputation for community involvement
• Reach out to youth of all races
• Encourage the study of Black History
• Promote cultural diversity
• Publicize the story of Prince Hall
• Introduce the community to your Masonic lodge
This special issue of the Phylaxis magazine
presents an excellent blueprint that Prince Hall
Masons can use to put together black history
exhibits at local schools and libraries. When a
Prince Hall lodge or a Phylaxis chapter sponsors
such a display, they achieve several important
goals:
1. They put our history and our heritage
on public display in places where it can get wide
exposure, not only to children of our race, but to
children and adults of other races as well.
2. Schools and libraries welcome this kind
of assistance. In some cases they may not have
staff members with the knowledge and skills to put
together a meaningful exhibit on black history.
3. The lodges and chapters that sponsor
such exhibits can get valuable, positive exposure
Page 4 — THE PHYLAXIS — Spring 2008
in their local community through news releases,
city proclamations, and through word of mouth
publicity.
Past Master Ras T. Cannady, PhD, shares
some of the ideas he uses in putting together the
kind of black history exhibits that attract attention
and that tell a story whose time has come. His vast
library of books and pamphlets and his extensive
collection of photos, posters, and memorabilia give
him an advantage that many of us do not have, but
the information he uses is widely available to us
all. The presentation made by Brother Cannady
at the Phylaxis Society’s 32nd annual session in
2005 was deemed a masterpiece and is the basis
for this special issue of the Phylaxis. There are
so many reasons that Phylaxis Society members
should take heed to the methods outlined in this
presentation, so read this issue from cover to
cover, and make use of whatever you find to be
helpful.
Brother Cannady is a member of the MWPHGL
of California where Black History is a mandated
program, but his exhibits go far beyond the
mandate, and they have a long-term effect on
the youth of the community, some of whom have
inquired about our Masonic youth programs. He is
frequently consulted about black history exhibits
and has gained the reputation as being the “blackhistory guru” of the Inland Empire. He has been the
focal point for black history exhibits sponsored by
the Inland Empire Chapter of the Phylaxis Society
for several years, and some of those exhibits are
documented herein.
Library Exhibit. Before making a donation of books to Kucera
Middle School, a few Prince Hall
Masons examine an exhibit created
by Dr. Cannady for display in the
school library. Public schools are
theme oriented and they welcome
seasonal material throughout the
year to display in classrooms, lobbies, and libraries. Every school
that we have approached has been
immediately receptive to having us
put together a black history exhibit
to display.
The Author
Dr. Ras T. Cannady serves as Second Vice
President on the Council of 459 for the Phylaxis
Society and he serves as the Director of Chapter
Presidents. He was recently elected an Actual
Fellow of the Phylaxis Society, only ten of which
are currently active within the Society.
THE PHYLAXIS — Spring 2008 — Page 5
A Phylaxis Society Masterpiece
Prince Hall Masons
Celebrating Black History
By
Dr. Ras T. Cannady, Ph. D., FPS, Life
The key to putting together an effective black history
exhibit is to present compelling material to an accessible
audience. Schools and libraries are excellent candidates for
black history exhibits. First of all, they are theme-oriented
institutions and they are constantly looking for seasonal
material. There is a good chance that Masons can form
a partnership with schools and libraries in neighborhoods
of virtually any ethnicity. Schools and libraries are looking
for material and will welcome Masons to help them set up
displays for Black History Month. Also, they offer a safe
environment for your exhibits, some of which you will want
safeguarded from vandalism.
Newspapers are also sensitive to seasonal and thematic
material and they will gladly publish news releases about
your exhibit during Black History Month. Your news release
will naturally have a brief statement about your lodge, its
purpose, and its goals. Most newspapers will also welcome
photos showing your members interacting at the site of
the exhibit. In line with this, city councils will usually issue
proclamations to your organization as the sponsor of the
Page 6 — THE PHYLAXIS — Spring 2008
exhibit if they are approached to do so.
Partnering with schools creates an outlet to promote your
scholarship program, your youth program, and other Masonic
activities. It also gives you an opportunity to put black history
in front of the students all year long though gifts of books,
pamphlets, and posters on topics of your choosing—books
on Prince Hall, for example.
Masonic lodges have much to gain by sponsoring such
exhibits. Such activity goes naturally with the Masonic ideal
of seeking and dispersing light. It should be especially
appealing to members and chapters of the Phylaxis Society
who are even more committed to seeking and spreading
light.
The students benefit from these exhibits, often in unexpected
ways. Interesting and relevant displays encourage reading
skills and encourage independent research. It is not always
possible to anticipate how wide-ranging the motivational
impact these exhibits can have on student and adult audience
members.
Community Newspaper. The Precinct Reporter is an African-American newspaper in San Bernardino, California that serves several communities in the Inland Empire of Southern California. Having
advance notice that Prince Hall Masons would make a presentation at Kucera Middle School, the paper sent a photographer to cover the event and gave the event front-page coverage. Newspapers of all
sizes welcome news about African-American history during Black History Month.
Displays. Colorful displays are
an essential part
of an effective exhibit. Mount posters
on a sturdy backing
and reuse them from
year to year rotating
them from one venue to
the next each year.
THE PHYLAXIS — Spring 2008 — Page 7
PRINCE HALL MASONS
PROMOTING BLACK HISTORY
CULTURAL AWARENESS
AND DIVERSITY
IN THE SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Educators agree that interesting and relevant reading
material will help children develop proficient reading
habits as well as give them invaluable information about
the subject. Material about black history certainly fits
the bill as being interesting and relevant because it is
about “who they are.”
The study of Black History is needed not only during
February, Black History Month, but it must be integrated
into school curriculums and into our lives. We can use
Black History as an instrument in achieving significant
personal and/or targeted educational objectives.
In addition, looking at the rapidly changing
composition of our public schools, neighborhood, and
work environment in major cities, we have to educate
not only our youth but people of other ethnicities to do
away with misconceptions and stereotypes associated
with African Americans.
Black History exhibits are tools to promote cultural
awareness, ethnic pride and self esteem which are
important in establishing self worth, aspiration, direction
in life, dedication, and are important in strengthening
the family unit of African Americans who have yet
to learn of their truly commendable heritage. It is
One way to achieve all of these objectives is through
especially important for our African-American youth.
exhibits
held in the public schools.
It is important for them to know they have a glorious
heritage. Despite the prominence of slavery in AfricanSince the year 2000, the Inland Empire Chapter of
American history, African-American men and women
are descendant from African Cultures that have made the Phylaxis Society has targeted schools in which
to host exhibits to show the contributions of African
contributions globally.
Americans to our society. Two of the schools are
Combating low literacy in the African American Pepper Tree Elementary School in Upland and Kucera
Community must start with us in understanding our Middle School in Rialto, both located in San Bernardino
history and in knowing the trials and tribulations and County, California.
contributions of significant historical African-American
The demographics of Kucera Middle School is quite
men and women documented in Black History. It gives
a very compelling message, which would be: If you different from Pepper Tree Elementary in that Pepper
have a desire and if you work hard to achieve success, Tree Elementary has an African American student
you can overcome anything and become successful. population of approximately 5% with no African
Americans in elected or appointed positions in the
Only if you believe, can you succeed.
City of Upland or on the Board of Education including
Children need to acknowledge prerogatives, and principals and teachers. The City of Rialto in which
realize there must be alternatives. Aptitude and Skills Kucera is located has two African Americans on the City
need to be assessed and educational pursuits must be Council, one black school board official, an Africanhoned. They must have stick-to-it-ness, and they must American Superintendent and various black principals
and other administrators and teachers.
seize the opportunities.
Page 8 — THE PHYLAXIS — Spring 2008
A WORLD WITHOUT BLACK PEOPLE
This is a story of a little boy named Theo, who woke up one morning and asked
his mother, “Mom, what if there were no Black people in the world?” Well, his
mother thought about that for a moment, and then said, “Son, follow me around
today and let’s just see what it would be like if there were no Black people in the
world.” Mom said, “Now go get dressed, and we will get started.”
Theo ran to his room to put on his clothes and shoes. His mother took one look
at him and said, “Theo, where are your shoes? And those clothes are all wrinkled,
son. I must iron them.” However, when she reached for the ironing board, it was
no longer there.
You see Sarah Boone, a black woman, invented the ironing board, and Jan E.
Matzelinger, a black man, invented the shoe lasting machine.
“Oh well,” she said, “please go and do something to your hair.” Theo ran in his
room to comb his hair, but the comb was not there. You see, Walter Sammons, a
black man, invented the comb.
Theo decided to just brush his hair, but the brush was gone. You see, Lydia O.
Newman, a black female, invented the brush.
Well, this was sight: no shoes, wrinkled clothes, hair a mess. Even Mom’s hair,
without the hair care inventions of Madam C. Walker, well, you get the picture.
Mom told Theo, “Let’s do our chores around the house and then take a trip to the
grocery store.” Theo’s job was to sweep the floor. He swept and swept and swept.
When he reached for the dustpan, it was not there. You see, Lloyd P. Ray, a black
man, invented the dustpan.
So he swept his pile of dirt over in the corner and left it there. He then decided
to mop the floor, but the mop was gone. You see, Thomas W. Stewart, a black man,
invented the mop. Theo yelled to his mom, “Mom, I’m not having any luck.”
“Well, son,” she said, “Let me finish washing these clothes, and we will prepare
a list for the grocery store.” When the wash finished, she went to place the clothes
in the dryer, but it was not there. You see, George T. Samon, a black man, invented
the clothes dryer.
Mom asked Theo to go get a pencil and some paper to prepare their list for the
market. So, Theo ran for the paper and pencil but noticed the pencil lead was
broken. Well, he was out of luck because John Love, a black man, invented the
pencil sharpener.
THE PHYLAXIS — Spring 2008 — Page 9
A WORLD WITHOUT BLACK PEOPLE
(CONTINUED)
Mom reached for a pen, but it was not there because William Purvis, a black
man, invented the fountain pen.
As a matter of fact, Lee Burridge invented the typewriting machine and W.A.
Lovette the advanced printing press. Theo and his mother decided just to head out
to the market.
Well, when Theo opened the door, he noticed the grass was as high as he was
tall. You see, John Burr, a black man, invented the lawn mower. They made their
way over to the car and found it just wouldn’t go. You see, Richard Spikes, a
black man, invented the automatic gearshift, and Joseph Gammel invented the
supercharge system for internal combustion engines. They also noticed that the
few cars that were moving were running into each other and having wrecks because
there were no traffic signals. You see, Garrett A. Morgan, a black man invented the
traffic light.
Well, it was getting late, so they walked to the market, got their groceries, and
returned home. Just when they were about to put away the milk, eggs, and butter,
they noticed the refrigerator was gone. You see, John Standard, a black man,
invented the refrigerator. So, they just left the food on the counter.
By this time, Theo noticed he was getting mighty cold. Mom went to turn up the
heat, and what do you know? Alice Parker, a black female, invented the heating
furnace. Even in the summertime, they would have been out of luck because
Frederick Jones, a black man, invented the air conditioner.
It was almost time for Theo’s father to arrive home. He usually takes the bus,
but there was no bus, because its precursor was the electric trolley, invented by
another black man, Elbert R. Robinson.
He usually takes the elevator from his office on the 20th floor, but there was no
elevator because Alexander Miles, a black man, invented the elevator.
He usually dropped off the office mail at a nearby mailbox, but it was no longer
there because Philip Downing, a black man, invented the letter drop mailbox, and
William Barring invented the postmarking and canceling machine.
Theo and his mother sat at the kitchen table with their heads in their hands. When
the father arrived, he asked, “Why are you sitting in the dark?” Why? Because
Lewis Howard Latimer, a black man, invented the filament within the light bulb.
Theo quickly learned more about what it would be like if there were no black
Page 10 — THE PHYLAXIS — Spring 2008
A WORLD WITHOUT BLACK PEOPLE
(CONTINUED)
people in the world, especially if they were ever sick and needed blood. Dr. Charles
Drew, a black scientist, found a way to preserve and store blood, which led to his
starting the world’s first blood bank.
Well, what if a family member had to have heart surgery? This would not have
been possible without Dr. Daniel Hale Williams, a black doctor, who performed the
first open-heart surgery.
So, if you ever wonder, like Theo, where would we be without black people? Well,
it’s pretty plain to see. We would still be in the DARK!
Author Unknown
Sample Black History Themes and News Releases
Build your black history exhibits around a theme. These are some of the themes
we used and sample news releases for each:
PAGE
African American Scientists And Inventors
12
African American Pioneers
17
The Buffalo Soldiers
18
Lest We Forget - African American Legends
21
Historic African Kings And Queens
22
THE PHYLAXIS — Spring 2008 — Page 11
AFRICAN AMERICAN SCIENTISTS AND INVENTORS
Sample Theme and News Release
In recognition and celebration of Black History
Month, an Exhibit, “CELEBRATING BLACK
HISTORY MONTH: AFRICAN AMERICAN
SCIENTISTS AND INVENTORS” was held in 2000
at the Pepper Tree Elementary School, Upland, CA. It
was also displayed in 2001 at the Ethel Kucera Middle
School, Rialto, CA.
Patents are documents that give legal ownership to
one’s idea or product.
This Exhibit will acquaint you with great African
American Scientists and Inventors. Among others, you
will meet the “Real McCoy,” who kept trains moving
without failure and downtime, Jan Matzeliger taught us
how to mass-produce shoes, Garrett Morgan brought
Throughout time, African American Scientists and order to our streets, and Charles R. Drew taught us how
Inventors have been represented in almost every field. to effectively save blood for future use.
In fact, African Americans have been responsible for
It is hoped that this Exhibit will offer a unique
the advancement of major industries. The standard of
opportunity
for other racial groups to have a better
living enjoyed by America today would not be possible
if it were not for African American Scientists and understanding of the African American experience
and contributions to our society. “FOR AS MUCH
Inventors.
AS WE KNOW ABOUT THE CONTRIBUTIONS
Many of the slave masters took actual credit for their AFRICAN AMERICANS HAVE MADE IN
slaves’ creative ideas. African American Scientists AMERICAN AND WORLD HISTORY, WE STILL
and Inventors were not always able to obtain patents. HAVE A LOT TO LEARN.”
Donate Books. Included in
the library exhibit are books
donated by Prince Hall Masons about Prince Hall Masonry.
A book on our founder, Prince Hall,
makes an excellent addition to the
school library.
Page 12 — THE PHYLAXIS — Spring 2008
AFRICAN AMERICAN PIONEERS
Sample Theme and News Release
In recognition and celebration of Black History
Month from February 1st - 28th, 2002, an Exhibit,
“CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH:
AFRICAN AMERICAN PIONEERS,” was held at
the Ethel Kucera Middle School Library, located at
2140 West Buena Vista Drive, Rialto, CA. It was also
displayed at Pepper Tree Elementary School February
2001.
Often when we think of pioneers we think of the
wild, wild west and explorers. Actually, a pioneer can
be anyone who paves the way. An inventor, songwriter,
scientist, builder, or artist could be a pioneer in their
chosen field. In this exhibit, you’ll learn about many
famous African American Pioneers from different
walks of life. Each did something that made him or her
unique—a pioneer!
When you carefully examine the history of America
you’ll discover that African Americans were very much
a part in the building of this country. They were true
pioneers in many ways. You will read about Matthew
A. Henson who assisted in discovering the North Pole,
Jean Du Sable settled and founded what is now the City
of Chicago, and James Beckworth discovered a very
important pass through the Sierra Nevada Mountain,
which opened up a new route to California. This
Exhibit will also acquaint you with Carter G. Woodson,
the “Father of Black History,” and Mary Fields known
as “Stagecoach Mary,” was as tough as any man. You’ll
enjoy the stories of Clara Brown, Captain Cuffee,
William Whipper, Barney Ford, and Biddy Mason, who
were highly successful in business and became very
wealthy.
In this Exhibit you will also see pioneers who were
members of the Prince Hall Masonic Fraternity such
as Prince Hall, Richard Allen, Absalom Jones, Martin
Delaney, members of the Buffalo Soldiers, and members
of the 54th Massachusetts Colored Regiment.
This Exhibit will serve as an educational jewel that
will touch everyone’s heart with worthy pride about the
African American experience and contribution to our
society. Benjamin Quarles, the noted scholar in the
field of African American History, once stated; “When
our history books do not mention the Negro (African
American), significant omissions result. When he is
mentioned solely with reference to problem areas, an
incomplete distorted picture emerges. In either case
a more balanced focus is desirable.” The African
Americans contained in this Exhibit provide a balance
of the scope and magnitude of African American
indisputable accomplishments and contributions to
shaping America. Overcoming obstacles such as
poverty, prejudice and often poor education did not stop
these pioneers from reaching their dreams. The secret
to their success was that they kept their sights on their
goal. Anyone can do the same thing with their life. Set
goals, make the most of your education and never say,
“I quit.”
Publicize Prince Hall. Include books such as
Black Square and Compass by Joseph A. Walkes, Jr., to be placed in the school library.
THE PHYLAXIS — Spring 2008 — Page 13
THE BUFFALO SOLDIERS
Sample Theme and News Release
In recognition and celebration of Black History Month
(February 2003), an exhibit entitled, “CELEBRATING
BLACK HISTORY MONTH: THE BUFFALO
SOLDIERS”, will be held at the Ethel Kucera Middle
School, located at 2140 West Buena Vista Drive, Rialto,
CA.
Black Soldiers did not disappear from the military
scene following the surrender of General Robert E.
Lee at Appomattox, Virginia. Instead, after the war the
radical republicans insisted that in order to meet the
need for additional troops in the west, the “Blacks in
Blue” should be given a place in the regular Army. In
March 1866, the U.S. Senate began discussing an Army
bill that provided for the Army, that consisted of sixtyseven (67) regiments, five of artillery, twelve (12) of
cavalry, and fifty (50) of infantry. Benjamin F. Wade
proposed that two of the cavalry regiments should be
composed of Black enlisted personnel. His amendment
was accepted and the amended bill was passed in the
Senate by a vote of 27 to 5. The passing of the bill
provided for the first Black contingent in the regular
army, consisting of six regiments, the 9th and 10th
Cavalry and the 38th, 39th, 40th, and 41st Infantries.
In March 1869, Congress, in reorganizing the Army,
reduced the number of regular infantry regiments, and
the four Black infantry units were merged into two
consisting of the 24th and 25th Regiments. Thereafter,
Sections 1104 and 1108 of the revised statues stipulated
that the enlisted men of two regiments of cavalry and two
infantry should be “colored.” Just what was the status
of these soldiers? Regimental pride and morale in Black
units were high and alcoholism was virtually unknown
among most frontier regiments. Their desertion rate was
the lowest in the army. The 9th Cavalry, “The Army and
Navy Journal” later recalled, the Army was astonished
of reporting not a single desertion in twelve months.
Between 1869 and 1890, the period of the Indian
Wars, Black Soldiers won fourteen (14) Congressional
Medals of Honor, Twenty Nine Orders of Honorable
Mention, and Nine Certificates of Merit. Black Soldiers
considered themselves representatives of their race.
Page 14 — THE PHYLAXIS — Spring 2008
“They are possessed of the notion, that the colored
race and people of the whole country are more or less
affected by their conduct in the Army”, as noted by
Chaplain George M. Mullins.
Black Soldiers helped significantly in making the
west safe for white settlers. They were used to control
Indians, guard the U.S. Mail, protect railroads, and
protect the needs of the frontiersmen. The “Buffalo
Soldiers,” as the Indians called the troops, participated
in two hundred (200) or more major and minor
engagements.
Just why were these Soldiers called “Buffalo
Soldiers?” That name was given to them not only
because of the way they looked, with Black skin and
kinky hair, but also for the courage in which they fought
like a Buffalo. These Soldiers carried the name proudly,
for it had been given to them by the Indians.
These Soldiers were also Masons and belonged to
the following Prince Hall Lodges: Eureka Military No.
135, Baldwin No. 16, Gillespie No. 140, Military Lodge
No. 152, Mata Military No. 138, and Joppa Military
No. 150. These Lodges supported the traditions of
the fraternity in upholding of Masonic obligations and
ritualistic work. Their failure to maintain minutes of
their communications or submit reports to their Grand
Lodge is the reason that little is known of their existence
within the Prince Hall Family.
Did the Buffalo Soldiers receive recognition for their
fame? Every time we see a picture on T.V. or in the
movies, its either John Wayne in “She Wore A Yellow
Ribbon”, Randolph Scott, or Audrey Murphy, who
played in a lot of cavalry pictures.
About one-hundred twenty-six years (126) later it
took General Colin Powell, and Commodore Philpot to
have a Buffalo Soldier monument dedicated in honor
of these illustrious Soldiers. This Monument can be
seen at Ft. Leavenworth, Kansas. The monument was
dedicated on July 25, 1992.
Letters of Thanks. Prince Hall Masons present books and
certificates to the school and the school sends letters of thanks
to Masonic leaders, all of which adds to the PR potential of the
event. Don’t be afraid to suggest to whom letters of thanks can
be addressed.
THE PHYLAXIS — Spring 2008 — Page 15
Media Event. Masons donate books about Prince Hall Masonry to the library
of the City of Rialto at City Council meeting. Books are accepted by one of the
African-American council members the Honorable Deborah Robertson, who later
requested a membership application for the Order of the Eastern Star. Establish
a working relationship with African-American civic leaders by involving them in
your project.
The council meeting was telecast on public access television.
Page 16 — THE PHYLAXIS — Spring 2008
LEST WE FORGET—AFRICAN AMERICAN LEGENDS
Sample Theme and News Release
In recognition and celebration of Black History Month
(February 2004), an exhibit entitled, “CELEBRATING
BLACK HISTORY MONTH: LEST WE FORGET—
AFRICAN AMERICAN LEGENDS” was held at Ethel
Kucera Middle School, located at 2140 West Buena
Vista Drive, Rialto, CA.
The display entitled “Lest We Forget—African
American Legends” attempts to convey the poignant
message of African-Americans’ struggles by capturing
the images of courageous men and women who walked
on the well-traveled paths toward freedom, whether it
be freedom by expression of mind, or freedom by way
of symbolism.
Kwame A. Appiah and Henry Louis Gates, Jr. were
donated to the school by the chapter. Chapter members
present for the book presentation and photo opportunity
at the Kucera School were Ras T. Cannady, Freddie
Johnson, John Washington, and John B. Williams, all
original charter members of the Inland Empire Chapter
of the Phylaxis Society.
The exhibit also included a section on slavery for
the students to see. “Slavery is just a paragraph in
our textbooks,” says Chapter President, Dr. Ras Tafari
Cannady. “We want Black Children to understand
their history and grasp their connection to the past.
The children need to recognize the African-American
contribution in all aspects of society so that they can
The men and women in the display encompassing have a better idea of their ancestor’s great legacy,” said
artists, patriots, martyrs, athletes, educators, social Dr. Cannady.
activists, religious, civil rights, and Prince Hall Masons
are only a small array of the many freedom fighters who
The Phylaxis Society is an international organization
served as a reminder, and as an educational tool for the of Prince Hall Freemasons who seek more light and
next generation of leaders, who also wish to emancipate have light to impart. The Society provides a universal
themselves.
center and bond of union for Prince Hall Freemasons
everywhere who desire to pursue the study of
The exhibit was developed by and placed on loan by Freemasonry, and the African-American Experience.
the Inland Empire Chapter of the Phylaxis Society. The The Society in no way interferes with the legislative
Inland Empire Chapter adopted Kucera Middle School and ritual affairs of any Masonic body.
for Black History Month 2004.
It should be noted that the City of Rialto proclaimed
The Chapter first adopted Ethel Kucera Middle “February 2004 as Black History Month” for the Ethel
School in 2001. We developed and displayed Black Kucera Middle School. The exhibit was extended
History exhibits at the school entitled “Black Inventors through the month of March 2004 at the request of
and Scientists” in 2001, “Black Pioneers” in 2002, Principal David Price in order for it to be viewed by
“The Buffalo Soldiers” in 2003, and “Lest We other educators within the Rialto Unified School
Forget - African American Legends” earlier this District and surrounding area. Next year, in 2005, the
year. The books entitled, Black Square and Compass: Inland Empire Chapter plans to develop an exhibit on
200 Years of Prince Hall Freemasonry by Joseph A. “Historic Kings and Queens of Africa” at the Kucera
Walkes, Phylaxis Society Founder; and Africana: The Middle School.
Encyclopedia of the African American Experience by
THE PHYLAXIS — Spring 2008 — Page 17
HISTORIC AFRICAN KINGS AND QUEENS
Sample Theme and News Release
In recognition and celebration of Black History
This Exhibit, Historic African Kings & Queens,
Month (2005), an exhibit entitled “Celebrating Black gives an overview of significant Black rulers of ancient
History: Historic African Kings And Queens” was held Africa, and an insight into their respective kingdoms.
at Kucera Middle School, Rialto, CA.
These notable African kings and queens, whose stories
are organized herein according to dates of their reigns,
To fully understand the development of Africa and played a major role in Africa’s progress and majesty.
its present-day turmoil, one must know the history of
this magnificent continent, which is four times the size
It is hopeful that this Exhibit - Historic African Kings
of the United States and three times the size of Europe. & Queens - will give Black Americans a more in-depth
At one time, long before Europe emerged from the understanding, appreciation of, and linkage to their
dark ages, Africa was a pillar of advanced technology origin and history. Black America has every reason to
and superior civilizations. African kingdoms such as be proud of its rich, vibrant African heritage.
Ghana and Mali, and cities such as Jenne and Timbuktu
were the mecca of intellectual centers which boasted
mathematicians, astronomers, architects, physicians,
jurists, and great material riches (gold, silver, ivory,
salt, etc.). African civilizations charted the stars, built
the pyramids, created written languages, established the
calendar as we now know it, and developed networks
of world trade as early as 4000 B.C. In fact, most
historical experts recognize Africa as the “cradle of
humanity.”
Tribal wars and the lucrative slave trade are the
primary reasons that brought about the depopulation
and downfall of the great ancient African states. It is
documented that the Afro-European slave trade began
in 1441, at the hands of the Portuguese. It was not
long thereafter that the Portuguese were joined by the
Spanish, French, Dutch, and English as slave traders. In
1619, the first slaves were reported in English America.
The participation of countries in the African slave trade
became so profitable that slaves were viewed as “black
gold” and beasts of burden. Europeans established
trading posts along the West African coastline where
beads, guns, whiskey and ivory were bartered for
African slaves.
Page 18 — THE PHYLAXIS — Spring 2008
Colorful and Compelling. Look for art work to use in your exhibits—posters,
drawings, models, and so forth. Some can be found in book stores and some
can be found in online stores on the Internet.
THE PHYLAXIS — Spring 2008 — Page 19
Commercial Sources. Material released by commercial
sources can be found at no charge for use in your displays.
Page 20 — THE PHYLAXIS — Spring 2008
Metropolitan Newspapers. Even major newspapers will give space
to African-American topics during black History Month.
THE PHYLAXIS — Spring 2008 — Page 21
Lodge Newsletter. Don’t forget to send an article to the publisher of your
lodge newsletter and to the editor of your grand lodge bulletin. If Shriners,
Scottish Rite Masons, or York Rite Masons participate, send articles to the
editors of their respective publications.
Page 22 — THE PHYLAXIS — Spring 2008
Civic Recognition. Obtaining city and county proclamations
can result in additional PR. How to get one? Ask!
THE PHYLAXIS — Spring 2008 — Page 23
Displays. Colorful displays are
an essential part
of an effective exhibit. Mount posters
on a sturdy backing
and reuse them from
year to year rotating
them from one venue to
the next each year.
• Gain a reputation for community involvement
• Reach out to youth of all races
• Encourage the study of Black History
• Promote cultural diversity
• Publicize the story of Prince Hall
• Introduce the community to your Masonic lodge
The PHYLAXIS SOCIETY
PO Box 5675
Albuquerque, NM 87185-5675
Return Service Requested
NONPROFIT ORG.
US POSTAGE
PAID
SAN BERNARDINO, CA
PERMIT NO. 3021