Gifts for the Brother leaving the East
The plaque marks the year. The polo and the hoodie are what he wears to every degree after.
A Past Master has done the hardest year in the Lodge, and the gift that thanks him has two parts. The first is the plaque: name, Lodge, “Worshipful Master” and the year, in gold on slate, presented at the installation of his successor. The second is something he will actually use: the polo with the Lodge name embroidered under the emblem, because he will be at every degree next year in the front row.
The Past Master hoodie and tee say “Served with Honor,” which is the Lodge’s line, not his; give them from the line or from family, not from himself. The champagne flute is for the toast to the Past Masters at the festive board, and the wooden valet box gives his Past Master’s jewel a home on the dresser.
For the Past Master
The plaque, the polo, the hoodie, and the pieces for the toast and the jewel.
Name, lodge, office
Personalized slate plaque
Name, lodge, office, and years set in gold on natural stone. The recognition piece for an installation or a Past Master.
Lodge name embroidered
Past Master polo, personalized
Navy polo, gold square and compasses at the chest, your lodge name below. For the Brother who earned the title.
For the Past Master
Past Master hoodie
“Served with Honor” under a gold square and compasses. For the Brother who sat in the East and handed on the gavel.
For the Past Master
Past Master tee
“Served with Honor” in gold under the square and compasses. Heavyweight cotton, five colors, S to 3XL.
For the toast
Engraved champagne flute
The emblem laser-engraved into the flute. Made for the installation toast and the anniversary after.
For the dresser
Wooden valet box
The square and compasses in gold on the lid. A dignified home for the watch, ring, cufflinks, and pocket change.
For installation night
Engraved cufflinks
Square and compasses in a clean engraved-line finish. Gold plated or stainless steel. The finishing touch for the tux.
Name and lodge engraved
Personalized leather journal
Name and lodge engraved on the black vegan-leather cover, revealing gold beneath. A working companion for the Secretary.
When to present it
The moment for a Past Master’s gift is the festive board on installation night, after the incoming Master has received his. By custom the Installing Master or the Senior Warden makes the presentation on behalf of the line. If the Lodge gives the Past Master polo as well as the plaque, the polo is handed over at the next stated meeting so he can wear it that night.
A family can give a second gift at home. The engraved journal and the valet box are the natural choices, because the plaque and the polo have already come from the Lodge.
What to avoid
Only give Past Master pieces to a Brother who has served as Worshipful Master. It sounds obvious, but a well-meaning family member buying a “Past Master” hoodie for a Senior Warden is a mistake worth avoiding. If you are not certain, the Lodge Secretary will tell you. The etiquette guide covers the rest, and the engraving guide has the layouts. Most pieces are made and shipped in the United States, and each listing shows its processing time before you buy.
Before you order
Should the plaque say Worshipful Master or Past Master?
“Worshipful Master 2025” names the year he served; “Past Master 2025” names the year he stepped down. The convention is to engrave the year of service under “Worshipful Master.” Either is correct.
Can the Past Master polo carry his name as well as the Lodge?
The polo is embroidered with the Lodge name and number under the emblem. For a name as well, message the shop on Etsy before ordering; the layout depends on the length of the Lodge name.
Is a gift expected from the Lodge?
Custom varies by Lodge. Where a Lodge presents a plaque or a Past Master’s jewel, the pieces here are what it can add to the jewel or give in place of one.
Is Meet Upon The Level connected to a Grand Lodge?
No. Meet Upon The Level is an independent shop run by a Freemason for Brethren and their families. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by any Grand Lodge, and every order is placed and paid for through Etsy.