Cornerstone kudos to Masons

Dear Editor,

I was very happy to read the McCook Gazette article: “Masons lay cornerstone for McCook Aquatic Park” (May 21 issue).

Having family in McCook and Cambridge and being a 5th generation Freemason myself, I very much approve of this wonderful historic ceremony. As the article noted: President George Washington (a Mason) laid the cornerstone for the U.S. Capitol dressed in Masonic regalia.

Additionally, most U.S. State Capitol buildings and County Courthouses have Masonic cornerstones, too. What was missing from the article is “why” is corn, wine and oil poured over the cornerstone in such a ceremony.

Corn symbolizes ‘health’; wine symbolizes ‘prosperity’, and oil symbolizes ‘peace’ and smooth functioning (harmony). Thus, when taken together, these elements in unison comprise a rich heritage and symbolize best wishes for the future of the building. I applaud the Blue Lodge Masons and York Rite Masons of McCook for their outstanding community service.

I am a member of Blue Lodge and York Rite, so I know the effort that has gone into making a successful ceremony.

Sincerely,

James A. Marples,

Longview, Texas