National Treasure

The new movie A National Treasure, starring Nicholas Cage, opened in theaters on November 19, 2004. It is, quite frankly, refreshing to see a movie portraying the Masonic fraternity in a positive way. All through the movie there are positive references to the fraternity stressing the significance of the Founding Fathers to our national identity. Many of the early patriots identified as Masons are well known and easily recognizable. There is only one reference that is not correct. Early in the movie Charles Carroll, identified as the last survivor of the fifty six patriots who signed the Declaration of Independence, is portrayed as a Freemason. Charles Carroll was not a member of the fraternity. (Historically it is believed the reason he was identified as a Mason is that he was present at the laying of the cornerstone of the B & O Railroad.)

The movie is entirely fictional which must be kept in mind when you view it. There is no National Treasure nor were Freemasons ever involved in collecting such valuable objects as the movie suggests. The movie indicates that Masons were involved in safeguarding valuable items on behalf of all humanity. Masonic principles and values are referenced many times.

The movie is rated PG because of “mild violence.” It really is a family movie and one all Masons should enjoy. It might even be fun for a lodge to have a “movie night” and sponsor members and their families who wish to attend. You will come away from the movie feeling good about the Masonic fraternity.

Most sincerely and fraternally,

RICHARD E. FLETCHER, PGM

Executive Secretary