Masonic Monument NC
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Description: The Masonic monument at Black Camp Gap is a towering structure, standing at a height of 12 feet and boasting a base that spans 9 feet in width. It comprises three concrete tiers, meticulously adorned with no less than 687 distinct stones and minerals. This remarkable assemblage includes stones sourced from renowned locations such as Plymouth Rock, Pike's Peak, a brick hailing from the White House, personally contributed by Franklin D. Roosevelt, a fragment from an Egyptian pyramid, and a piece of history from the Alamo. The sizes of these stones vary greatly, ranging from mere ounces to a substantial 170-pound stone originating from an outpost built by Hernando de Soto in Cuba during the 1500s. These stones were meticulously documented at the time of the monument's construction in 1938. Facing eastward, the front of the monument features a prominent triangular design on its middle tier, which serves as the focal point for one of the primary inscriptions. On the lower east side tier, two smaller triangles bear additional inscriptions. Furthermore, many of the individual stones that adorn the memorial are inscribed with Masonic symbols or donor identification. This impressive monument marks the historic location of a vault that once safeguarded Masonic keepsakes contributed by 30 Grand Councils spanning the United States and Canada. To protect against potential looting, an iron fence was installed around the monument in 1954, and in 1978, a wooden covering was added to further shield this significant site. A stone stairway provides access to the marker, and in close proximity, you'll find a plaque honoring Troy Wyche, the visionary behind the monument, as well as a National Park Service sign that provides a comprehensive account of the marker's history.