Records dating as far back as the mid 1800’s describe the pre-meeting tradition where cigars were distributed to the Brethren so that they could enjoy a smoke during or after a gathering. This custom is considered a time for Brethren to relax, exchange ideas, and enjoy the simplicity and fellowship that is the very essence of Brotherhood. As my fellow Brethren and I would enjoy our cigars together, the discussion would eventually lead to the same realization: there was no kind of accessible cigar on the market for Freemason smokers that carried the square and compass, nor any other Masonic Emblem. Upon coming to this conclusion, the topic of the conversation shifted into countless private meetings. The symposium consisted of talk concerning the possibility of creating, not only a Masonic themed cigar, but a quality cigar that would not just physically represent Freemasons all over the world, but contain within it a quality that could match the caliber of excellence that the Brethren themselves contain. The dream of creating and proudly possessing such a cigar was never extinguished in WB Ed Kashouty’s heart, a past master of Mariners Lodge #150 in Barnegat NJ. The idea continuously reinvented itself over and over in WB Ed Kashouty’s mind. As an avid cigar smoker, each time he had held a cigar in his hand, he’d look down, imagining his own well-needed cigar as a reality that would one day, not only be in his hand, but be available to Freemasons all over the world. As the ambition continued to grow inside him, he kept researching and studying and trying to find the right place to begin the creation of his dream, Masonic Cigars. Eventually, WB Ed Kashouty got together with Brother George Dakrat, who is also an ardent cigar smoker. With a perfect occurrence of events and without purposely seeking each other out, paths crossed, and WB Kashouty and Brother George Dakrat, became acquainted with Brother David Blanco, an established entrepreneur, well rounded in the tobacco industry, already having created exemplary lines of cigars. As they got to know each other, ideas of creating and branding the highest quality cigar were in the midst of their discussions. Ideas of a top quality cigar geared towards Freemasons, friends, and supporters were deliberated. Before they knew it, Brother David Blanco ,WB Kashouty’s and Bro George Dakrat flew to the Plasencia Factory in Esteli Nicaragua to create amazingly blended lines that cater to the most sophisticated smokers
“..and our charity boundless as the wants of our fellow creatures..”
Charity being one of the most fundamental aspects of Freemason Teachings, a way to incorporate charity into such a meaningful company was a must. Part of our proceeds is donated to several Masonic or Community Charities and educational groups.
