Introduction

     Hello, fellow brothers and traveling men, my name is Taylor Nauta, and I am a Master Mason from Louisiana. As the name of this page implies, this blog is devoted to topics pertaining to Freemasonry in America. On this site, I'll post Masonic news, share interesting Masonic articles and videos from around the web, and I'll write articles pertaining to Masonic trivia that both the initiated and the uninitiated may enjoy.

      I, myself, am a constant student of Theology, Music, Astronomy, History, Mythology, Philosophy, and Esoteric Symbolism. Since becoming a Mason, I've been amazed at the profound depths of ancient tradition veiled within the allegories and illustrated by the symbols of Freemasonry. As most of you surely know, Freemasonry draws its elements from many ancient sources. Having elementary knowledge of some of these sources can enrich your Masonic experience.

    If one so chooses, a Master Mason can attend his Blue Lodge, learn the work, go through the motions, and give no thought to the origins and underlying meaning of it all. There's nothing wrong with that. After all, the most important thing is to apply the moral teachings of Freemasonry to your life, thereby improving yourself and refining your character. However, if one is so inclined, there is much more to be gained from paying close attention to what's going on in your Blue Lodge. There are a lot of awesome, beautiful, and profound lessons of great antiquity hidden in plain sight throughout the ritual and symbolism of Masonry and if a Brother Master Mason has a working knowledge of esoteric concepts, he can then see through the surface lessons of allegories and symbols to perceive their deeper layers. 

    I'm certain that one could study Freemasonry their whole life and never know everything there is to know about it. In my opinion, that makes Freemasonry all the more exciting to study. As I continue to study and learn more about the Craft, I'll endeavor to share what light I can with my brethren across the nation. As we each continue on in search of more light, I believe that it's our duty to share some of that light with our fellow brothers so far as they are entitled. After all, a candle loses nothing by lighting another candle. 

     If there's a particular Masonic topic any of you brothers would like to see highlighted on here, let me know in the comment section. If it's something I don't know much about, I'll research it and post what I've learned. Of course, keep in mind that NO SECRETS of Freemasonry will ever be revealed by me or any other faithful Mason who remembers his obligations. Only historical content, background information, and interesting trivia as it pertains to the Fraternity will be discussed here. However, those who have been initiated, passed, and raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason will perceive much from the grammar and rhetoric used in this blog. 

    Feel free to share American Traveling Man with your Masonic friends. 

Fraternally, 

Brother Taylor Nauta

New River Lodge No. 402 F&AM

Gonzales, Louisiana