DeMolay International
History
DeMolay
Our Namesake
The Knights Templar, sanctioned by the Roman Catholic Church in 1128 to protect the route between Jerusalem and Acre, became renowned for their bravery in the Crusades, attracting wealth and influence. Jacques DeMolay became Grand Master in 1298, but as the Crusades failed, the Templars faced growing envy from European lords. In 1305, King Philip the Fair of France sought their wealth and power, leading to the Templars' persecution beginning in 1307. DeMolay and many others were imprisoned and tortured for seven years. Despite this, DeMolay remained loyal, refusing to betray his comrades. In 1314, he was executed by burning, alongside Geoffrey de Charney, for recanting a forged confession, symbolizing ultimate loyalty and friendship
The Start
How It all started
The Order of DeMolay, also known as DeMolay International, was founded in Kansas City, Missouri in 1919 by Frank Sherman Land, a 33rd Degree Mason. The organization began after Land met with Louis Lower, a young man who had lost his father in 1918. Land listened to Lower and learned that he, like others, wanted companionship, leadership, and inspiration. Land suggested that Lower invite some friends to a meeting at the Scottish Rite building to discuss starting a club. Nine young men attended the meeting, including Lower, Ivan M. Bentley, Edmund Marshall, Gorman A. McBride, Jerome Jacobson, William W. Steinhilber, Elmer Dorsey, Clyde C. Stream, and Ralph Sewell. They agreed that the idea of a club was a good one, and the Order of DeMolay was born.
Crown
The Emblem
The insignia was designed by the founder of our great Order, “DAD” Frank S. Land. He designed it as a pin and symbol that recognizes us as DeMolays. This emblem is to be worn only by DeMolays and their representatives. Every part of this insignia has a particular significance, and we as DeMolays should know them by heart.
Dad
The Title "Dad"
The original members of DeMolay were reluctant to call Frank Land “Frank” because of their age difference, and felt that “Mr. Land” was too formal. Louis Lower started calling him Dad and the others soon followed. The boys and Dad Land agreed that Dad carried respect and confidence, and Frank Land was proud to be so designated. With time, the title Mom was added to recognize female Advisors.