Mount Bonnell Lodge No 2 PHA

08/10/2026

🖤🔵 THE LEGACY OF PRINCE HALL FREEMASONRY 🔵🖤

“From whence we came, we must never forget.”

This powerful image captures the dignity, pride, and perseverance associated with the early generations of Prince Hall Freemasonry.

While this particular portrait appears to be a modern historical-style recreation rather than an authenticated period photograph, the clothing and Masonic regalia evoke the late 1800s to early 1900s, particularly the era when Black Freemasonry was growing throughout the United States.

The story behind the regalia reaches back much further.

🔹 March 6, 1775 — Prince Hall and 14 other Black men were initiated into Freemasonry in Boston.

🔹 September 29, 1784 — African Lodge received its charter from the Grand Lodge of England, becoming African Lodge No. 459.

🔹 1847 — African Grand Lodge adopted the name Prince Hall Grand Lodge, honoring its founder.

🔹 1871–1873 — The foundations of Prince Hall Masonry were being established in Texas, including the lodges that would become the foundation of the Texas Grand Lodge.

🔹 August 19, 1875 — Representatives met in Brenham, Texas, to organize what became the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Texas.

So when we look at an image like this, we’re not simply looking at an old-fashioned suit, apron, and Masonic collar.

We’re looking at a visual representation of a generation that understood that Freemasonry could be a vehicle for education, brotherhood, leadership, self-improvement, community advancement, and Black self-determination.

The man in this image could represent the many Brothers who walked through an era when simply having the opportunity to assemble, organize, educate, lead, and build institutions was itself an act of perseverance.

1775 → 1784 → 1847 → 1875 → TODAY

More than 250 years of history.

More than 150 years of Prince Hall Masonic history in Texas.

The regalia changes.
The generations change.
The world changes.
But the obligation remains.

Know your history.
Honor the Brothers who came before you.
Teach the Brothers coming behind you.
And leave the Craft better than you found it.

🔵⚫ Prince Hall Freemasonry — A Legacy of Light, Leadership & Service. ⚫🔵

“What we do for ourselves dies with us. What we do for others and the world remains and is immortal.”

#1775 #1875

*****Historical note: I would date the style represented in this particular image broadly to approximately 1890–1930, rather than assigning it a specific year. The portrait itself should not be presented as an actual photograph from that period without provenance. The historical dates above are documented independently of the image.*****

08/10/2026

07/26/2026

One of the best lessons I’ve learned in Freemasonry is this:

You get out of Masonry what you put into it.

If you only show up for meetings, that’s probably all you’ll get. But if you take the time to learn, ask questions, participate, build relationships, and serve others, Masonry will give you so much more than you ever expected.

It’s not just about wearing an apron or holding a title. It’s about becoming a better man, a better husband, a better father, a better friend, and a better leader in your community.

The lessons are there. The wisdom is there. The Brotherhood is there.

But like anything worthwhile in life, you have to invest your time and effort to receive the full benefit.

The same principle applies outside the Lodge. Whatever you pour your heart into—your family, your faith, your career, or your community—you’ll usually get back in proportion to what you give.

Freemasonry doesn’t change a man overnight. It gives him the tools. It’s up to him to use them.

07/23/2026

Become an Odd Fellow!

Oriental Lodge No. 3499, Grand United Order of Odd Fellows, invites you to learn about one of the world’s oldest fraternal organizations dedicated to Friendship, Love, and Truth.

📅 Sunday, August 30, 2026
🕓 4:00 PM

Come discover our history, values, and commitment to serving our community while meeting members and learning what it means to become an Odd Fellow.

RSVP: [email protected]

We look forward to welcoming you!

07/22/2026

From Darkness to Light

At first glance, this picture may seem overwhelming, but its message is actually simple: life is a journey of learning, growing, and becoming a better person.

The darkness at the bottom represents the struggles we all face—fear, confusion, mistakes, and uncertainty. As your eyes move upward, you see people helping one another, families together, places of worship, symbols of faith, hope, and charity, and reminders that wisdom is gained one step at a time.

The rainbow reminds us of God’s promises and hope after life’s storms. The ark represents salvation and perseverance through difficult seasons. The shining temple above symbolizes our highest goals—not just success, but living a life of integrity, purpose, and service. The all-seeing eye is a reminder that God sees our actions, our intentions, and our hearts.

Throughout the image are symbols from Scripture, history, and Freemasonry, all pointing to timeless values:

* Seek truth.
* Love your family.
* Help your neighbor.
* Keep your word.
* Continue learning.
* Walk by faith.
* Leave the world better than you found it.

The phrase “From Darkness to Light” isn’t about becoming perfect. It’s about choosing wisdom over ignorance, compassion over selfishness, and hope over despair. Every day gives us another opportunity to take one more step toward becoming the person God intended us to be.

No matter where you are on your journey, remember this: light isn’t something you find all at once—it is something you walk toward, one step at a time. ✨

07/19/2026

Rest in Peace, My Brother. 🕊️

Words cannot fully express the sorrow we feel at your passing. Your presence, your spirit, and the impact you made on those around you will never be forgotten. You were more than a Brother—you were family, and your memory will forever remain in our hearts.

We love you, and we pray that you now rest in perfect peace, free from pain and surrounded by eternal light. Though your earthly labor has ended, your legacy of love, friendship, and Brotherhood will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing you.

To your family and friends, please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time. May God wrap His loving arms around each of you, bringing strength, comfort, and peace that surpasses all understanding.

A special prayer of protection goes up for your precious daughter. May God watch over her every step, surround her with His angels, grant her wisdom beyond her years, and remind her daily that her father’s love will always live within her heart. May she grow in grace, courage, and purpose, carrying forward the best parts of you.

Sleep peacefully, my Brother. Your work here is complete, but your light will never fade. Until we meet again, may the Grand Architect of the Universe keep you safely in His eternal care.

Rest well, Tremont Blackshear Barrow. You are loved. You are missed. You will never be forgotten. 🖤🕊️

07/19/2026

Congrats to our very own District 24 - Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Texas photographer!!! RW LJ Austin Jr.