While the Brethren of Texas Lodge no.46 being pioneers and cattlemen, have traditionally focused on a attire of a more perfunctory style, an interest in history is a common trait among Masons.

As such, I thought it might be beneficial to share some historical context found while browsing the web. Many Lodges today, wear a “dark suit” or “Tuxedo” as the traditional dress. But there are many centuries of facinating history behind these traditions. Please enjoy as you explore some of this history below.

For your educational edification, I present to you “The history of the Suit“, as presented by the Gentlemen’s Gazette.

Another interesting find is “The History of the Cowboy Boot” from The National Cowboy Museum in Guthrie Oklahoma. A Cowboy boot should look like the “figure of a woman, or a coke bottle.”

What about an event that does not specify a dress code at all, or is “Black Tie” or “Cocktail Attire”. Again,Sven from the Gentlemen’s Gazette can assist us in understanding.

How about “Black Tie” and “White Tie”?  What is the difference, and when should one wear black or white?

How about “Black Tie Optional” dress?

What about the “Whole 9 yards?”, AKA the Kilt? As you may know, the Scot’s invented many things, “as necessity is the mother of intention”. Who can make their blanket, their daily dress? A Scotsman in a great kilt. How about the Sporran? The ancestor of the “fanny pack”.

While Texas Lodge may not require these formal dress codes, it is still fascinating to learn about, and information you might use while being a traveling man, and Freemason at large.

Sincerely,

Loren George McKechnie

Secretary of Texas Lodge no.46 F.&A.M. of California