Historian's Report - September 2025

Brethren and distinguished guests,

This evening we gather beneath the banner of fraternity and history to mark a moment of profound significance: the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States Navy. In September of 1775, while the embers of rebellion were still glowing and the idea of independence was only beginning to take root, the Continental Congress authorized the creation of a naval force. It was a bold and untested endeavor—but one that would ultimately help secure the freedom of a nation.  

As Masons, we often look to the role of the Craft in shaping the civic and moral fabric of our republic. Tonight, let us reflect on four Brethren whose Masonic principles guided their service, and whose names are forever interwoven with the early history of American sea power.  

First, **George Washington**. Though a man better known for leading armies on land, Washington understood the sea's strategic importance. When Congress hesitated, he personally directed the purchase and fitting-out of small schooners to intercept British supply ships. These modest beginnings—sometimes called “Washington’s Navy”—foreshadowed the larger fleet to come. His Masonic virtues of foresight, prudence, and leadership set the pattern for all who followed.  

Next, **Benjamin Franklin**, diplomat and Brother of the Craft. In France, while negotiating alliances, Franklin also orchestrated naval strategy through privateers and Continental captains. He authorized John Paul Jones to command the *Bonhomme Richard*, even presenting him with the famous banner inscribed with words of defiance. Franklin’s faith in the power of reason and civic duty—virtues nurtured at the Masonic altar—enabled him to rally European support around a fledgling American Navy.  

Then we must honor **Colonel John Glover**, of Marblehead, Massachusetts. A Brother and leader of the “Marblehead Mariners,” he transformed a band of fishermen and sailors into one of the first seafaring regiments of the Revolution. Glover's men became expert at transporting troops across rivers and seas, most famously ferrying Washington’s army across the ice-clogged Delaware on that fateful Christmas night. His blend of seamanship and Masonic loyalty preserved the very survival of the cause in its darkest hour.  

Finally, **John Paul Jones**, the Father of the American Navy and proudly a Mason. His boldness in action and immortal words—declaring that he had not yet begun to fight—captured the spirit of defiance that defined our Revolution. Guided by courage, but also by the ethical compass of the Craft, Jones carried the fight to Britain’s own shores and proved that America would not be intimidated.  

Together, these Brothers remind us that our Navy was not born in the docks and shipyards alone, but in the hearts of men devoted to liberty, fraternity, and the pursuit of higher principles. Their Masonic values—Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth—echo still across the quarterdecks of modern warships and in the service of every sailor who stands watch upon the seas.  

And so, as we commemorate this 250th anniversary, we do more than celebrate a branch of the armed forces: we celebrate a legacy of vision, sacrifice, and moral fortitude. Let us remember that the light of Masonry, quietly shaping character, helped to steer the course of our nation’s Navy from its infancy to the global force it is today.  

Brethren, may we continue to uphold these same virtues in our own lives, and may the example of Washington, Franklin, Glover, and Jones remind us that great undertakings are achieved when guided by faith, fraternity, and fortitude.  

Thank you, and may the Supreme Architect of the Universe watch over our sailors, and indeed, us all.