Friend to Friend

A monument to putting asides one’s differences to be a kind and humble person with a common bond.  I had read about this monument, and how majestic and inspiring it actually is when you are standing in front of it.   As we happened to be in the neighbourhood on our way to visit Jamie, I thought we could not pass up an opportunity to see it in person.

The monument is dedicated as a memorial to the Freemasons of the Union and the Confederacy, by the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, and states that their bond as Freemasons enabled them to remain as brothers undivided, even as they fought in a divided nation, faithfully supporting the respective governments under which they lived.  This is a lesson that I think so many today could benefit from being reminded of.

The statue is Union Captain Henry Bingham, a mason and staff assistant to General Hancock, himself wounded, rendering aid to the fallen Confederate General Lewis Addison, who would die on the battlefield of Gettysburg. Around this bronze monument is the list of States which fought at the Battle of Gettysburg.  It is indeed a profound monument to those who shared fraternal membership yet fell on two different sides of the war.  If you ever find yourself in Gettysburg Pennsylvania or close by, I recommend a day trip to see the grounds of this cemetery and the museums in town.

Editors Note: This week’s post is the first being written out of the country, while on a trip to visit my sister.

Right end inscription

Left end inscription