George Washington, commander-in-chief of the American army in the
revolution, was a mason, as were all the other generals, with the
solitary exception of Arnold the traitor, who attempted to deliver West
Point, a most important position, into the hands of the enemy. It was
this treasonable act on the part of Arnold which caused the gallant
Andre's death, and ultimately placed a monument over his remains in
Westminster Abbey. On one occasion, when the American army had met with
some serious reverses, General Washington called his _brother officers_
together, to consult in what manner their effects could be the best
counteracted. Differing as they did in opinion, the commander-in-chief
postponed any action on the subject, by remarking, "Let us consult
brother Jonathan," referring to Jonathan Trumbull, who was a well-known
mason, and particularly distinguished "for his sound judgment, strict
morals, and having the tongue of good report."
George Washington was initiated a mason in Fredericksburg, Virginia,
Lodge No. 4, on the 4th of November, 1752, was passed a fellow craft on
the 3rd of March, 1753, and raised to the sublime degree of a master
mason on the 4th day of August, 1753. The hundredth anniversary of this
distinguished mason's initiation is to be celebrated in America
throughout the length and breadth of the land.