[Pharmboy]

Did they not give rise to the Scottish Rite side of Freemasonry?

[gargoyle]

...I have read a couple of books my stepson owns on freemasonry. I believe you are correct...By the way, thanks, the history is an absolutly fascinating read...

[drjoe]

Read all about it in Foucault's Pendulum by Umberto [Name of the Rose] Eco. Fascinating!!

[curmudgeonII]

The Scottish Rite is a series of masonic degrees brought to this country [from France], originally in Charleston, SC in 1802. There is some thought that it might have been transferred to France from Scotland by some of the court officials of Mary Stuart. [The unfortunate Queen who was beheaded by Queen Elizabeth.]

[SR71A]

Did they not give rise to the Scottish Rite side of Freemasonry?

The Masonic organization for males under 21 is called The Order of DeMolay. I know, I was one, but even at 16, I could recognize idiotic mumbo-jumbo when I saw it, and I dropped out. =) I think I was the High Left Chamberlain, or some such ridiculous title. They have their degrees, and secret handshakes, and all that crap. Don't ask me to reveal the high secret handshake, though; I might have to report you and you'll be murdered under a bridge at the full moon or something. =)

Ah, the Masons, and the Knights Templar -- the Templars were the original conspiracy crowd. They would have had tinfoil helmets, if it was around in those days.

[ExSoldier]

YORKRITE. Most Jews who become Masons go the Scottish rite. Because (as I understand it) to go Yorkrite you must absolutely swear to be of the CHRISTIAN faith. That is my next step as a Mason.

[Redleg Duke]

Read "Born In Blood" by J. J. Robinson. A fascinating and comprehensive history. If he is correct, they are the foundation of Free Masonry.

[TomHarkinIsNotFromIowa]

It has been said.