Who are the Tall Cedars?
We strive to be the premier Masonic fraternity where members and their families can enjoy fun, frolic, and fellowship.
Visit our
About Us Page to learn more.
Why should I join?
What makes Tall Cedars Different from other Masonic Organizations/Bodies?
Lot's of things, we love to see your significant others and family members, and we aim to keep our meetings and events fun and stress free.
Also, our ritual is older than our organization!
Yes, you read that right, our organization started out as a fun degree (called the Ancient Rite of Humility) that was conducted in PA and DE during the 1840's before we were instituted as an organization in 1902.
Today that degree is referred to as the Sidonian Degree and is the second degree of our order.
What is your "funny hat" called and where does it come from?
What is the mythology of your organization?
Our order was created around the legend of the workmen in the Forests of Lebanon that chopped large timbers to be used in the building of King Solomon's Temple. To learn the rest of the story Join us!
Do you have a charitable cause and what is it?
We do!
Our philanthropy is known as the
Tall Cedar Foundation
which was created in 1951 to raise funds for the research of muscular dystrophy, and they have donated over $19,000,000 to this worthwhile cause.
In 2023, the Tall Cedars’ Foundation evolved its focus to one that recognizes the need to support families of children with muscular dystrophy, as well as a continued partnership with non-profits engaged in research and development work to find a cure.
As part of a new strategic planning initiative, the Foundation has adopted a revised mission, vision, and guiding principles. Using our Muscular Dystrophy Relief Fund (MDRF), the Foundation provides direct support to families through grants to enhance their child’s quality of life and scholarships to attend summer camps.
Moreover, we continue to collaborate with other nonprofits that work directly with researchers seeking to develop therapeutics and ultimately discover a cure. With this shift, the Foundation transitioned from benefiting a singular entity to showcasing its collaborative spirit—which has a direct impact on the lives of families in our local communities.
Why do Cedars wear a white rose?
The rose was adopted as our primary symbol in the 1970s, after Essex Forest No. 8 began selling roses at local events to raise money in support of the Foundation’s mission.
Henceforth, the rose has become a symbol of hope for the children and families we serve. Initially, the roses were pink (in partnership with a national organization which funded research for muscular dystrophy). In 2022, we transitioned to the white rose, and members now proudly display and sell these to support our cause.
Where do you meet?
If your lodge, body or building would like to host us for a meeting, please let us know.
How often do you meet?
Next year, we are planning a few Saturday meetings to encourage our members that have conflicts on the first Thursday to attend and participate.
How much is it to join?
How much are dues?
Do I have to go to every event?
No! That is part of the beauty of being a Tall Cedar, we don''t force our members to attend events they don't want to. If there is a meeting or event you have to miss, you can let us know, and we'll be sad that you aren't able to make it but we understand.
Can I bring my signifcant other and family?
Yes, Family is almost always welcome except for the occasional closed meeting, of which we will let you know ahead of time. and they are always welcome to enjoy our presentations and outings.