Tall Cedars of Lebanon of North America Supreme Forest

Overview

The Tall Cedars of Lebanon of North America Supreme Forest, now known as Tall Cedars of Lebanon International, is a fraternal organization that functions as an appendant body to Freemasonry. It is open to Master Masons and emphasizes a motto of "Fun, Frolic, & Fellowship", reflecting its social orientation.

History

The history of the Tall Cedars of Lebanon traces back to around 1843, when some imaginative Master Masons developed what was initially called the "Ancient and Honorable Rite of Humility." This degree was conferred on Master Masons after Blue Lodge meetings and was characterized by its roughhousing nature. The formal organization was established on March 18, 1902, in Trenton, New Jersey, by a group of fifteen Master Masons, including Frank W. Bowen, Orlando M. Bowen, David H. Lukens, and Johns S. Broughton[1][3][4].

The organization was formally incorporated as the Tall Cedars of Lebanon of the United States of America. In 1971, it expanded its scope and became known as Tall Cedars of Lebanon International, reflecting its expansion into Canada and other regions. The name change to Tall Cedars of Lebanon International was officially adopted in 2023[1][5].

Organization

The organization meets in groups called Forests, each headed by a Grand Tall Cedar. These meetings often take place in local Masonic halls. The Supreme Forest, which serves as the national governing body, is headquartered in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania[1][3].

The Tall Cedars claim a membership of approximately 6,300, with activities mainly concentrated in the eastern United States, particularly in New Jersey and Pennsylvania[1]. The organization also has forests in Mexico, El Salvador, and Brazil[1].

Activities and Charitable Work

The Tall Cedars are known for fostering social connections and camaraderie among Freemasons. Beyond its fraternal activities, the organization has a strong charitable focus. Historically, it has supported research into muscular dystrophy and other neuromuscular diseases through the Muscular Dystrophy Association. In recent years, the Tall Cedars have redirected their efforts towards providing support to children and families affected by these conditions at a local level[1][3].

The Tall Cedar Foundation, the charitable arm of the organization, plays a crucial role in these efforts. Additionally, the Tall Cedars operate the Jerry Lewis Tall Cedar Day Camp, which aims to provide a fun experience for children with neuromuscular diseases[3].

Additional Degrees and Activities

The organization includes two additional side degrees: the Royal Court and the Sidonian. There is also a marching band known as the Royal Rangers[1].

Legal Status

The Supreme Forest Tall Cedars of Lebanon is classified as a 501(c)(8) organization, which means it operates as a fraternal beneficiary society, providing benefits to its members[4].