Tonight, Ed Thompson and I travelled to Ridings Tablers Lodge in Beverley. The Lodge was opened in due form, and once the necessary Masonic business had been concluded, we were treated to an excellent talk by Worshipful Brother Barry Longstaff, assisted by three members of the Ridings Tablers Lodge.

The presentation focused on the cyphers and symbols of the Third Degree Tracing Board, often known as the Harris Board. Every element of this beautiful board was interpreted in turn, revealing meanings and lessons that many of us overlook in regular when looking at this tracing board.

One thing that stood out for me and I found particularly interesting were the three small masonic characters. At first glance, they look like the letter ‘L’ facing backwards, but they are, in fact, the cypher of the letter ‘C’. In our Masonic symbolism, these represent chalk, clay, and charcoal.

But what do they truly mean to us as Freemasons?

• Chalk reminds us to keep our words clear and our intentions pure, just as chalk marks are easily read yet easily wiped away. It teaches humility in our speech, knowing that words should leave no stain upon others.
• Clay represents our mortal frame, soft enough to be moulded but strong enough to build with. It reminds us that we are always being shaped by our experiences, and we too have the power to shape and support those around us.
• Charcoal may seem dark, but it burns with inner fire. It symbolises the hidden strengths within us, glowing steadily beneath the surface, ready to bring warmth and light when needed.

Together, these simple elements teach a profound lesson. As Masons, we are called to mark our words with care, shape our deeds with integrity, and let our inner light burn brightly for the good of others.

Worshipful Brother Barry Longstaff’s talk was a welcome reminder that even the smallest symbols carry meaning if we take the time to look a little deeper.

- Anthony James (WM)