VIENNA, IL (WSIL) - A tradition that dates back to the 18th century, A dedication ceremony for the Johnson County courthouse cornerstone was held Saturday morning.
The ceremony dates back to the 1790s when President George Washington performed the first Masonic cornerstone ceremony. In fact, according to grand master David Lynch, not much has changed from the traditions then to today.
"This ceremony was the same ceremony used by George Washington when he laid the cornerstone,� said Lynch, “so it's been around that long. It's the same words that have not changed."
A large crowd was at the Johnson County Courthouse to witness Saturday's dedication. Workers continue putting the final touches on the new courthouse and Lynch explains the importance of the cornerstone and its dedication.
"We dedicate the cornerstone because the cornerstone is the first stone usually laid in the northeast corner of the building, representing the area north, which is dark, being brought to the area east, which is light because the sun rises in the east,� said Lynch.
Lynch says there's always a curiosity factor people have about free Masons which he credits some to the large crowd, but Lynch also believes people respect what Freemasons stand for.
"I did not anticipate this many people down here,� said Lynch. “And it's really exciting to have them, to have them show up here, to witness this. We as Masons love doing the ceremony. It means a lot to us to see, to do it, and to have it done"
Grandmaster Lynch goes on to say that the Freemasons go on to perform very few cornerstone ceremonies anymore. Grand Master Lynch says this is only the second time he's performed this ceremony in the past 10 years.
