Unlocking the Code: Masonic and Fraternal Aprons
June 30 through December 9, 2007
A new exhibition on Masonic and fraternal aprons opens June 30 in the National Heritage Museum's Van Gorden-Williams Library. "Unlocking the Code: Masonic and Fraternal Aprons" draws from the Museum's preeminent collection to explore the symbols of Freemasonry, as well as the techniques used to make this ceremonial garb from the 1700s to the 1900s, and the influence of Masonic aprons on the design of those used by other fraternal groups. In addition, a selection from the collection of the Grand Lodge of Masons in Massachusetts will be part of the exhibition. The Grand Lodge holds one of the top apron collections in the country, which includes pieces from around the world over a period of two centuries.
Aprons are one of the best-known symbols of Freemasons. When the fraternity was founded in the 1700s in England and America, the group looked to the traditions and tools of actual stonemasons to develop their ritual and philosophy. The protective leather aprons worn by stonemasons and other workmen in the 1600s and 1700s inspired the painted, printed and embroidered symbolic aprons in the exhibition.
During the late 1700s and early 1800s, aprons were made from leather, silk, cotton and linen and were decorated with symbols and motifs that Masons learned as part of their ritualized degree ceremonies. Some were hand-painted or hand-embroidered, while others were printed using designs from books, certificates and other materials for inspiration. Throughout this exhibition, the aprons are paired with archival and library materials that relate to their design.
The exhibition will be on view through December 9, 2007, with a rotation in mid-September to preserve the aprons for future study and exhibition, as well as to share a greater number from the Museum's collection with our visitors.
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