Our journal
2-1 April 19, 2026
1. Alexander C. Cherkas
Editor’s Note
Recorder. 2026. 2(2-1): 241.
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Recorder. 2026. 2(2-1): 241.
Abstract:
In presenting this special issue (No. 2-1) of Recorder, we continue the journal’s mission to expand and deepen the study of the history of the York Rite in the United States, with particular attention to those dimensions of Masonic life that have long remained on the periphery of scholarly inquiry. The current issue is devoted to the activities of the Ladies Auxiliary of Warren Commandery No. 63 (Pennsylvania) during the formative decade from 1938 to 1949—a period that witnessed profound transformations both within American society and within the Masonic community itself...
In presenting this special issue (No. 2-1) of Recorder, we continue the journal’s mission to expand and deepen the study of the history of the York Rite in the United States, with particular attention to those dimensions of Masonic life that have long remained on the periphery of scholarly inquiry. The current issue is devoted to the activities of the Ladies Auxiliary of Warren Commandery No. 63 (Pennsylvania) during the formative decade from 1938 to 1949—a period that witnessed profound transformations both within American society and within the Masonic community itself...
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Original Research
2. Natalia Shevchenko
Activities of the Ladies Auxiliary of Warren Commandery No. 63, Knights Templar (Warren, Pennsylvania): Results of the First Decade (1938–1949)
Recorder. 2026. 2(2-1): 242-288.
Number of views: 6 Download in PDF
Recorder. 2026. 2(2-1): 242-288.
Abstract:
This study analyzes the minute books of the Ladies Auxiliary of Warren Commandery No. 63 (Warren, Pennsylvania) for the years 1938–1949 and aims to reconstruct the evolution of this organization within the broader context of Masonic and social history in the United States. Based on these sources, the process of the Auxiliary’s formation as an institutionalized structure is traced, including the development of by-laws, the establishment of governing bodies, and the organization of regular activities. It is demonstrated that, even at an early stage, the Auxiliary performed not only supportive functions for the Commandery but also showed independent initiative in charitable and social activities. Particular attention is given to the transformation of its work during the Second World War, when the organization became part of the system of civilian mobilization, actively participating in Red Cross efforts and supporting servicemen. In the postwar period, a transition is observed toward a localized model of operation focused on community assistance, the strengthening of internal solidarity, and the maintenance of cultural and social activities. By the end of the period under study, the Ladies Auxiliary had developed into a stable social institution with an established structure, a solid financial base, and a broad range of charitable practices. Thus, its activities reflect key processes of social adaptation and self-organization of women’s associations within the Masonic environment of the United States in the mid-twentieth century.
This study analyzes the minute books of the Ladies Auxiliary of Warren Commandery No. 63 (Warren, Pennsylvania) for the years 1938–1949 and aims to reconstruct the evolution of this organization within the broader context of Masonic and social history in the United States. Based on these sources, the process of the Auxiliary’s formation as an institutionalized structure is traced, including the development of by-laws, the establishment of governing bodies, and the organization of regular activities. It is demonstrated that, even at an early stage, the Auxiliary performed not only supportive functions for the Commandery but also showed independent initiative in charitable and social activities. Particular attention is given to the transformation of its work during the Second World War, when the organization became part of the system of civilian mobilization, actively participating in Red Cross efforts and supporting servicemen. In the postwar period, a transition is observed toward a localized model of operation focused on community assistance, the strengthening of internal solidarity, and the maintenance of cultural and social activities. By the end of the period under study, the Ladies Auxiliary had developed into a stable social institution with an established structure, a solid financial base, and a broad range of charitable practices. Thus, its activities reflect key processes of social adaptation and self-organization of women’s associations within the Masonic environment of the United States in the mid-twentieth century.
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3.
Full number
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4.
Cover
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