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A group of three original Prince Hall Masonic certificates documenting the advancement of Nathaniel J. Jones through fifteen years of Maryland Freemasonry, culminating in his appointment as Commander-in-Chief of Hiram Consistory No. 2.
The earliest certificate, dated July 1976, records Jones's Master Mason status in Mt. Lebanon Lodge No. 22 under the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Maryland. Printed in blue with elaborate Masonic symbolism, it bears handwritten entries, officers' signatures, and an embossed gold seal.
The second certificate, dated October 27, 1986, records Jones's elevation to Grand Inspector General of the 33rd Degree and membership in the United Supreme Council, Southern Jurisdiction, Prince Hall Affiliation. It features a decorative laurel border, Scottish Rite insignia, an embossed seal, and signatures of senior officers.
The final certificate, dated April 6, 1991, documents Jones's installation as Commander-in-Chief of Hiram Consistory No. 2, Orient of Maryland. Established in Baltimore in 1887, Hiram Consistory No. 2 is an important institution in the history of Prince Hall Scottish Rite Freemasonry.
Together, the documents form a cohesive record of one individual's progression from lodge membership to senior Scottish Rite leadership within Maryland's historically African American Masonic tradition.
Details
Dates: 1976, 1986, 1991
Recipient: Nathaniel J. Jones
Organizations: Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Maryland; United Supreme Council, Southern Jurisdiction; Hiram Consistory No. 2
Format: Three original printed certificates with handwritten entries and embossed seals, unframed
Dimensions: Approximately 11 × 16 inches (1976); 16 × 20 inches (1986); 12½ × 18 inches (1991)
Condition
Age toning, light scattered spotting, and minor handling wear. The 1976 certificate has folds along the upper and lower edges, visible on the reverse. The 1986 certificate shows scattered toning and light staining, particularly toward the lower portion. The 1991 certificate shows mild toning and light handling wear. Embossed seals remain attached. Previously framed; now unframed. Please review photographs for condition.
Subject: Historical
Topic: Freemasonry / Fraternal Organizations
