| High Twelve International History |
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History and FoundingThe first High Twelve club was chartered on May 17, 1921, in Sioux City, Iowa. The organization was founded by E. C. "Wallie" Wolcott, a former minister and Master Mason who was the YMCA's General Secretary at the time, along with eight of his business associates, all of whom were Master Masons. The Name: "High Twelve" is a traditional Masonic term that refers to noon—the time to call off from labor for refreshment. Accordingly, many High Twelve clubs meet at noon, often for a meal. Purpose and Principles High Twelve is often described as a social extension of the Masonic experience. Its key aims include: Fellowship: To provide an hour of Masonic fellowship independent of the formal ritual of a Blue Lodge (the primary Masonic lodge). Service: To dedicate their efforts to service for the fraternity, the community, and the nation. Masonic Support: To encourage members to be active in their Blue Lodges and support the principles of Freemasonry in their daily lives. Philanthropic Focus: High Twelve International is strongly focused on youth and education. Its two primary philanthropic endeavors are: Masonic Youth Groups: It provides strong support to youth organizations like the Order of DeMolay, Rainbow Girls, and Job's Daughters. The Wolcott Foundation: This foundation was established to provide Fellowships (scholarships) to graduate students at George Washington University who are pursuing public service careers in government. Structure and Membership. Membership: Membership is open only to Master Masons in good standing in a lodge recognized by the Grand Lodge in that jurisdiction. Meetings: Meetings are generally informal, focusing on business, fellowship, and a guest speaker or program on various subjects. They contain no formal ritual. Structure: High Twelve International has a network of clubs worldwide, with over 300 active clubs globally. |
