Lyon County Jail Addition Cornerstone

For nearly 300 years Masons have joined with communities throughout the United States to lay cornerstones and celebrate the construction of new buildings that are dedicated to the principles and values that Masons share. The dedication ceremony features the symbolic laying of the building’s cornerstone, which is said to support the entire structure.

Last evening, the Grand Lodge officers and members of Delta Lodge in Marshall were privileged to ceremonially lay a cornerstone at the Lyon County Jail. This remodeled and expanded jail facility will increase the capacity of the facility as well as make it safer and more functional. It is an impressive facility.

And the cornerstone ceremony is an impressive one, as well. After proceeding to the site in formal procession, the stone is symbolically tested by the working tools of a Mason: the plumb, level, square and gavel. Corn, wine and oil are then poured on the stone, denoting nourishment, refreshment and joy. An oration was given by Grand Orator Bill Callister, followed by comments from the Chair of the Lyon County Board and the ceremony was closed with prayer.

If you have never witnessed a cornerstone dedication ceremony, I encourage you to do so. There will be another most impressive ceremony when the Grand Lodge dedicates the new Amplatz Children's Hospital at the University of Minnesota Riverside Campus October 24 at 11:00 a.m. Watch the Minnesota Mason and the Grand Lodge website for details, and plan to attend if you can.