Raised in a Barn: A Memorable Third Degree for Pine Grove Lodge No. 409

by Brothers Timothy Moyer; Ken Dubbs, J.W.; and Daniel Guldin, W.M.

After a conversation with his wife’s cousin (Brother Ken Dubbs, Junior Warden of Pine Grove Lodge No. 409), Brother Charles Mickshaw was intrigued by the potential to learn more about the “old ways” of the Masons and the history of the fraternity.

“I was drawn to what seemed like joining an organization that not only took care of each other, but non-Masons as well,” he said.

On May 18, Charles was raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason in a truly distinctive setting. Seeking to re-create the simplicity and character of Freemasonry’s earlier days, the officers and brethren of Pine Grove Lodge No. 409 conferred the Third Degree in a historic Pennsylvania barn.

Worshipful Master Daniel Guldin envisioned a memorable experience that would reflect Masonic gatherings from two centuries ago. What began as the simple idea of being “Raised in the Barn” quickly became a significant undertaking.

Brother Josiah Meck, P.M., Cressona Lodge No. 222, generously offered his family’s historic barn in neighboring Schuylkill Haven for the occasion. The property has remained in the Meck family for more than a century, and its rustic character provided the perfect setting for the occasion. With its hand-hewn floor timbers, towering sliding doors and absence of modern conveniences, the barn offered an authentic glimpse into an earlier era.

The brethren transformed the space into a temporary lodge room, creating preparation areas, arranging furniture and regalia and spending countless hours rehearsing and refining the ritual. Brother Edward Wolfe, P.M., who has presided over more than 100 degree conferrals during his Masonic career, served as Worshipful Master for the evening.

Temperatures exceeded 90 degrees that day, and without air conditioning, the brethren endured the heat with determination and good spirits. Their efforts were rewarded.

At 7 p.m., the degree commenced. Candlelight flickered across the barn, illuminating the brethren gathered throughout the room. A single beam of light shone upon the Holy Bible as Brother Charles knelt before the altar. The rustic surroundings, solemn ritual and fellowship of the brethren created an atmosphere that was both memorable and meaningful.

Beneath the light of a new moon, more than 20 brethren welcomed Charles as a Master Mason, including Brother Don Bixler, District Deputy Grand Master of the 58th Masonic District.

“It was truly amazing to walk through the door and see the barn lit up with the many candles,” Charles said. “In that moment, I was in awe and just taking it all in. I’m extremely grateful to my lodge brothers for taking the time and effort to create this unique experience on my behalf.”

The evening concluded in the finest Masonic tradition: fellowship among brothers, shared memories and the satisfaction of having participated in an experience that will not soon be forgotten.

For those in attendance, the raising was more than a unique degree conferral. It was a reminder that while the surroundings may change, the lessons, bonds and traditions of our ancient fraternity remain timeless.