This idea originated at the Tall cedar’s meeting, where I became aware that it was common for a group from a visiting Forest to steal the Tall’s gavel, in turn the victim would return the visit and steel it back. In a conversation with Wor. Bro. George Ramsey, we decided that this idea could be used to stimulate visitation and interest between Lodges. From this, the idea of presenting the Gavel to the visiting Lodge with the most members present was born, having five or more was added to encourage planned group or Lodge visits.
Mounting the Gavel on an attractive Plague with an appropriate poem describing the fulfillment that a person receives when he gives of himself to aid another or shows interest in another or his program, was used to make the challenge more inviting. This became a reality when Bro. Raymond C. Arsenault agreed to make the plaque for me.
The Traveling Gavel has made twenty-two visits in the 34th, 35th, 36th and 36B districts. It has brought out approximately four hundred-fifty visitors as recipients and challengers. We have seen the effect that it has had on our meetings, doubling the attendance on nights that the Gavel was presented, not to mention the personal relationships that are formed between junior officers and the fellowship that is enjoyed by all. Most of the recipients brought fourteen visitors or more, several in the twenties, with the largest being thirty-nine. On several occasions the attendance with recipients, challengers, and members was sixty or better with one going over a hundred.
In conclusion, I feel that this idea has added much to bind lodge relationship in the Tidewater area and I am extremely pleased to have been a small part of it. Wouldn’t it be great if this idea or a modified version could spread throughout the state.
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