South Dakota Masons Rededicate Statehouse Cornerstone

On June 20, 2008, 200 Freemasons and thousands of spectators took part in the rededication of the laying of the cornerstone of the statehouse of South Dakota. Pierre Mayor-elect Laurie Gill and Gov. Mike Rounds were among the dignitaries present, along with numerous state legislators, Supreme Court Officials and other State dignitaries. Local actor Don Boyd presented a reenactment of General William H. Beadle’s original keynote address from 1908.

South Dakota's Masons originally laid and consecrated the Statehouse cornerstone on June 25th, 1908. A century later, Del Kroon, Grand Chaplain, gave an opening prayer, and Most Worshipful Brother Denny Robinson, Grand Master, led the grand line in rededicating the cornerstone. Also participating in the ceremony were Virgil Andersen, Deputy Grand Master; Jack Welker, Sr. Grand Warden; Dean Behrens, Jr. Grand Warden; and Leslie Spies PGM, Grand Secretary. They were assisted by Shrine Chanters and Shrine Band members from throughout the state.

Grand Master Robinson presented Governor Rounds an official replica of the George Washington Gavel which was used during the ceremony. (photo above)

I've had the honor of meeting and speaking with now Past Grand Master Robinson on several occasions in my travels, and this was an outstanding way to wrap up his year in the Grand East. Congratulations to the brethren of South Dakota.