Freemasons at Gettysburg: A Historical Account of Masonic Brotherhood During the Civil War
This 142-page historical book documents the remarkable presence of over 50 Freemasons at the Battle of Gettysburg during the American Civil War. Written by Sheldon A. Munn and published by Sunbury Press, this work serves as a tribute to the Friend to Friend Masonic Memorial.
Historical Background and Context
The fraternity of Freemasons, traced to the 10th Century BC and introduced into England in 926 AD, faced an unprecedented challenge when the Civil War erupted in 1861. This conflict forced Freemasons from both northern and southern states to choose sides, testing the very foundation of their brotherhood and the principles of Masonic unity.
What This Book Covers
"Freemasons at Gettysburg" provides detailed documentation of how Masonic brothers maintained their bonds of unity despite fighting on opposite sides of the battlefield. The book reveals how these men continued to practice their core principles of brotherly love and good will, even amid the chaos and division of America's bloodiest battle.
Through extensive research and historical documentation, this work demonstrates that the men who joined under the Masonic order would not sever their bonds of brotherhood under any circumstances, regardless of which uniform they wore.
Book Specifications
The perfect-bound paperback measures 8.5 x 5.5 inches and contains 142 pages filled with dozens of vintage photographs and historical maps. These visual elements provide authentic period documentation that brings the historical narrative to life, offering readers a comprehensive view of the Masonic presence at Gettysburg.
For Readers Interested In
This book appeals to multiple audiences: Civil War historians seeking detailed accounts of the battle's participants, Freemasons interested in their fraternity's role during America's most challenging period, genealogists researching Masonic ancestors, and students of American history exploring the social dynamics of the Civil War era.
The work fills a unique niche in Civil War literature by focusing specifically on the Masonic experience at Gettysburg, offering perspectives not typically covered in standard military histories of the battle.
