2013 Sankey Lecture

The 2013 Richard A. Sankey Lecture at Brock University was an interesting topic: Native American Freemasonry: Joseph Brant to the 21st Century. Professor Joy Porter of the University of Hull, England, UK engaged the audience in the thesis that many aboriginal leaders in the 1700’s and 1800’s (and up to today) were Freemasons, and she chronicled their experience in the United States and Canada.

Three members of Brant Lodge No. 663 attended, and enjoyed the opportunity to have a photo taken, and book autographed by the Professor. W.Bro. Maennling shared our Lodge contact information with the Professor, who was not aware of Joseph Brant Museum – perhaps we will be of assistance to her in her future researches.

Brethren, this event is held in March each year and is an excellent way to learn how researchers use primary source data to inform readers about Freemasonry – a valuable contribution to our collective history and tradition. Please visit the Sankey Lectures website to learn more about the event, and future events. There are videos of past lectures available for all to view.

Particularly noteworthy was a brief comment from a professor of History at Brock University, who shared with the audience that the Library website’s most visited pages are the Masonic Special Collections, and in particular the digitized proceeds of Ontario Grand Communications throughout the years. This is proof positive that Freemasonry is engaging Brothers and Citizens in an upsurge of interest.