The History and Ideology behind “Uncle Bud”.

Two Brothers who wanted to promote traveling in the 17th Masonic District started “Uncle Bud”. Bro. Brent Arthur from Conasauga 396 and Bro. Jamey Taylor from Cleveland 134 took the gavel to the District meeting that year and “Uncle Bud” was awarded to the Lodge with the most members present. In May 1999 a plaque was awarded to the Lodge that had maintained possession of “Uncle Bud” the most.

The rules for taking possession of “Uncle Bud” are listed below. The ideal has been a hit and even though the set time has passed by 7 years now the ideal and “Uncle Bud” is still traveling. Accompanying him is a book that lists his travels from the East to the West, and the North to the South.

For a full history and to see who has traveled with “Uncle Bud” please look for “uncle Buds” current location. Then go to take Lodge follow the rules below and see if you Lodge name will be added to the ledge of that noble cause with these two Brothers has started and still continues till this day.

District 17 Traveling Gavel Rules

1. How to take possession of the Gavel:
   1. Any communication of the Lodge Stated or Called is eligible for Visiting Lodges to take Possession of the Gavel
   2. At least Five Members of a Lodge must be present to take the Gavel.
   3. The visiting party must inform the Master of the Lodge, which has possession, that they wish to take hold of the gavel.

1)      The Lodge, which has the most Members present, takes the Gavel. In the event of a tie, The Lodge with the fewest number of members takes the gavel.

2. The Master of the Lodge, which has possession, may ask the visiting lodge who will take the gavel to close the lodge on which ever degree it is to open.

a.       The visiting Lodge must comply with this request, in order to take Possession.

b.      If the winning lodge does not comply possession may be passed to the next Lodge which is eligible.

3. In order to insure accurate records please fill in the date your lodge took possession of the gavel. A plaque will be awarded to the Lodge, which keeps it the Longest thru May 1, 1999.
4. When your lodge takes possession please call:

Jamey Taylor, Cleveland #134

Brent Arthur, Conasauga # 396

To let us know where the gavel is, this way word can be spread to keep visitation going.