Experiencing the Craft in Kentucky: An Evening at Salyersville Lodge
This past weekend, a few of us from King Lodge No. 461 made our way to Salyersville, Kentucky to attend their outdoor Master Mason Degree — and it was a trip well worth the drive.
While we weren’t able to make it for the entire weekend, we arrived in time for Saturday evening’s supper and the second section of the degree. The event was hosted by Salyersville Masonic Lodge and took place under the open sky, surrounded by brothers from Kentucky, Tennessee, and beyond.
One of the unique aspects of Kentucky Masonry is the flexibility in their ritual work. Unlike Tennessee, Kentucky lodges are not bound to a rigidly standardized ritual, so each lodge brings its own flavor and delivery to the degree. Witnessing this variation in the work was not only educational but also a powerful reminder of the universal truths we all share, regardless of jurisdiction.
The fellowship was top-tier. Supper featured a full spread of smoked pork loin, BBQ, and bologna — all cooked on-site with a smoker that had been rolling all day. Bro. Ken Albritton, Worshipful Master of Rhea Lodge No. 47 and member of Sinking Creek Lodge No. 575, joined us for the trip and officially gave the meal his blessing as the Grandmaster of the Knife and Fork Degree. That alone made the trip worth it.
We also had the pleasure of visiting with Bro. Charlie Reynolds from Warrensburg Lodge No. 631, whose presence added to the great fellowship shared throughout the evening.
Events like this remind us that Masonry doesn’t stop at state lines. Whether we’re gathered around the altar or a BBQ pit, the brotherhood is alive and well — and always ready to welcome a traveler.
If you haven’t experienced a degree weekend at Salyersville, mark your calendar for next year. It’s held the last weekend in July and is open to all Master Masons.
📍 Salyersville Masonic Lodge, Salyersville, KY
To the brothers of Salyersville Lodge: thank you for the hospitality, the great food, and the Light.
Article by
Bro. Weston Leonard, Secretary
