A Brief History of
BLAZING STAR LODGE No.17

Located in Schiefflin, Margibi County, a steady spark became the Blazing Star Lodge No. 17.

A light set to guide brothers and the community. The lodge was dispensed on July 23, 1971, at a time of solemn national reflection after the passing of Most Worshipful Brother William V. S. Tubman. Men of the craft answered the call, and on October 4, 1971, the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge constituted and consecrated the new Lodge under the gavel of Most Worshipful Brother McKinley A. Deshield, Sr.

Blazing Star was born in part to serve brethren in uniform. Many military brothers stationed at the Schiefflin barracks found regular travel to distant communications burdensome. To honor their duty and enable their attendance, the Grand Lodge approved a local body easily reached from the barracks, a practical light for those who guarded the nation by day and sought fellowship by night.

Worshipful Brother Albert P. Just served as the first Worshipful Master, and under his charge, the Lodge laid its foundation in character as much as in mortar. Hands and hearts came forward: thirteen distinguished brethren were named Honorary Past Masters, and the craft’s work drew on generous support and sincere zeal.

Through seasons of peace and seasons of trial, the Blazing Star Lodge held fast to the square and compasses. The 1980 upheaval left wounds across Masonic temples in the land; the Lodge’s temple was damaged. Yet the flame survived in the breast of each brother.

Under the Mastership of Worshipful Brother George E. Haddad, the brethren rebuilt. With patience, skill, and fraternal labor, the Temple rose again on November 24, 2011. The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge, led by Most Worshipful Brother George E. Henries, dedicated the restored house of fellowship.

Now, approaching five decades, Blazing Star Lodge No. 17 continues to practice Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. It stands as a simple but steadfast beacon, a place where the work at the altar and the work in life are kept in balance, where military and civilian brethren alike find a home beneath the same square, seeking light, virtue, and the betterment of humankind.