Bayard Commandery #15 Roanoke,Va.

06/16/2026

Congratulations Companions!!!

Hello Companions. D.C. Shanks Royal Arch Chapter #31 and High Priest Skye Blackwell would like to welcome it’s newest members Dwayne Ruff & Bryan Mattox.

06/05/2026

Bayard Commandery No. 15
Chartered November 13, 1889

Bayard Commandery was first conceived on February 2, 1889, in the office of Winch and McCahan, on Saturday evening, that office being located in the old Masonic Lodge building at number 6 Campbell Ave, S.W. Winch and McCahan were realtors and land developers in Roanoke at the time.

Sir Knight William H. Pleasants, who later became Grand Master of Masons in Virginia, was the Master of Ceremonies. The purpose of the meeting was to settle on a name for the Commandery and to name the first officers.

The name “BAYARD” was suggested because Seigneur Pierre Terrail DeBayard was a French military hero and also a Knight Templar. DeBayard was born in 1473 and died in 1524. All present liked the name, and it was so ordered.

The following officers were named:

W.F. Winch – Commander
Wm. H. Pleasants – Generalissimo
H.N. Claxton – Captain General
H. Groves – Senior Warden
J.R. Hanthorne – Junior Warden
John Chaimers – Prelate
R.S. Roberts – Recorder
A. McD. Smith – Standard Bearer
John G. Osborne – Sword Bearer
F.L. Wood – Warder
W.H. Walthall – Tiler

It was not until October 16, 1891, that William F. Winch is recorded as the first Treasurer. The above officers were agreed upon and later appointed by the Grand Commander.

Sir Knight Winch made a motion that each of the Charter members pay a fee of $5.00, the same to apply on dues. After the organization of said Commandery, the motion was carried out and thus ended the first recorded meeting of Bayard Commandery.

February 16, 1889. It was ordered that all the members procure uniforms so the Commandery could properly confer the orders. The cost of $80.00 would cover a complete uniform. Much has changed since then.

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06/02/2026

On Saturday, May 30th, Commonwealth York Rite College No. 50 conferred the Knight of York degree on nine (9) candidates at Meridian Lodge No. 284, located at MAHOVA, Your Masonic Community, in Richmond, VA.

Congratulations to the newest Companion Knights and to the officers of Commonwealth YRC No. 50 for a job well done.

05/25/2026

05/25/2026

On this Memorial Day, we honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. Their courage, dedication, and legacy will never be forgotten. May we remember them with gratitude and continue to uphold the freedoms they fought to protect.

05/21/2026

Another sneak peek at some of the collectibles that will be available during the Grand Commander's official visits across Virginia.

This limited edition print was custom designed specifically for this chivalric year and created with the spirit of Templary in mind. Rich in symbolism and tradition, it was made to be more than just a keepsake. It is meant to become part of the legacy we share.

Each official visit will have a limited number available, and once they are gone, they are gone. And with the price only being at $20, these won't last long.

Whether displayed in your office, study, Commandery, or home, this piece was designed to stand proudly on any Templar wall.

All proceeds from these prints will benefit the Holy Land Pilgrimage Program and help continue its mission of faith, education, and experience for future generations.

05/13/2026

Brother Brad Paisley, 32°, is an active Freemason, and member of Hiram Lodge #7 in Franklin, Tennessee. Paisley has made our fraternity proud for years, demonstrating our Masonic values through more than just his artistic contributions. Even as a young emerging artist in 2000, Paisley used his influence to help those most in need when he secured a sponsorship deal with USA Meats. With this sponsorship, the Brad Paisley Foundation used the funding to benefit the Children’s Miracle Network, St. Jude’s Research Hospital, the Opry Trust Fund, and the American Cancer Society...

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05/07/2026

Sir Knights of Bayard #15, Please give a warm and hearty welcome to out newest member of our Commandery, Sir Knight Michael Smith. Several of our members were in attendance at the 204th Grand Conclave to usher Companion Michael Smith into Knighthood. A great time was had by all.

05/07/2026

Sir Knights, our Brethren at DeMolay Commandery, No. 4 will be hosting their Bicentennial Celebration on August 1st, 2026 at 12:00. Please R.S.V.P. to [email protected] The meal will be $20 and it includes their bicentennial coin.