Behold the George Washington as Master Mason Statue. This bronze figure isn’t just a depiction of our first president. It’s a tribute to his deep involvement in Freemasonry. George Washington wasn’t just a Founding Father he was also the first master of Alexandria Lodge. This statue honors that significant aspect of his life.
Sculpted by Donald De Lue this statue has a fascinating history. It wasn’t created in one fell swoop. De Lue’s initial work appeared in 1959 at the Louisiana Lodge. Later a plaster model wowed visitors at the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair. This bronze version? It’s a replica cast in Italy. It stands proudly thanks to Robert Moses. He was instrumental in securing its permanent location near the former Masonic Center.
The statue’s dedication in 1967 coincided with the return of Flushing Meadows-Corona Park to the city after the World’s Fair. This isn’t the only one of its kind. Similar statues exist in Wallingford Connecticut and Detroit Michigan. Think of this statue as a fraternal twin. Identical yet miles apart.
Notice the pedestal. It’s North Carolina pink granite. A detail often overlooked. This choice of material likely wasn’t random. Pink granite represents strength and permanence. Just like the ideals the Freemasons and George Washington embodied.
So next time you see the George Washington as Master Mason Statue remember more than just his presidency. Remember his Masonic brotherhood. Remember the journey this statue took from Louisiana to the World’s Fair and finally to its present home. This isn’t merely a statue. It’s a time capsule a testament to history and the enduring legacies of significant men.