The International Widows Sons Masonic Riders Association was formed in the year 2000, wherein the original design was adapted by the founding members of each chapter. Sometimes as an organization grows, changes and adjustments are made in order to secure the continued growth of the organization.

The Illinois Grand Chapter was the first and founding chapter of the Widows Sons, yet they found that they were very slow in expanding in their state. After much discussion and careful review, they determined that our Masonic brothers, our families and non-Masonic friends had difficulty in associating the original Widow’s logo design with our Masonic roots. Therefore it was decided that it was in the best interest of the Widows Sons and Illinois Grand Chapter to design a new or 2nd generation logo which would be more acceptable to our members and potential future members. Rather than attempt to effect a change in logo throughout the entire organization, we refer to the new design as the “Modern Design” logo. Chapters within the Northern Jurisdictional territory are free to use either the original or updated logo, according to what each chapter feels will best ensure their success. The Grand Chapter in England has also adopted a new logo which is more amenable to their region and membership.

In designing the new logo, we felt that we needed to incorporate more Masonic symbolism into the design, as the Widows Sons Masonic Riders are a Masonic Riding Association. The new design has been well received by our members, our brethren, and those who we have met in public. The following section explains the symbolism behind the Modern Design logo…….

The stone triangle or pyramid represents the 3 degrees in craft Masonry. The 3 points of the triangle represent the 3 Lesser Lights or 3 Burning Tapers which are a part of the furnishings of every Masonic Lodge.

The All-Seeing-Eye within the pyramid represents the watchfulness of the Great Architect of the Universe. It reminds us that we are always being watched or observed, and to therefore govern ourselves accordingly while in public, or while in the company of our Brethren.

Within the points of the triangle are symbols representing 3 Officers Jewels; the Square, Plumb, and Level. These working tools are also representative of the 3 Lesser Lights and their Masonic interpretations.

The Rising Sun at the apex of the pyramid is representative of the fact that there are Masonic Lodges in all points of the globe. It can truly be said that “the sun never sets on Freemasonry”. The sun also represents the Worshipful Master of each Lodge, so the sun is positioned above the pinnacle of the pyramid and above the Square, or Masters Jewel.

The wings represent personal freedom and liberty which is an ideal Freemasons have embraced since the beginnings of our ancient and noble fraternity. Wings are also a symbol which is much embraced by those who enjoy sport motorcycling, and is used in many motorcycle related logos such as Harley Davidson, just to name one example.

The words “Meet on the level & Part upon the square” were added to remind our non-riding Brethren that the Widows Sons are Masons above all, and we should be greeted and treated as such. It is our hope that this will help our Brethren to overcome any prejudices or preconceptions they may have regarding those who ride motorcycles. The phrase also stimulates the curiosity of Non-Masons who see our logo and may cause them to inquire about its meaning. This allows us to respond about its Masonic nature and inform them about Freemasonry and our fraternity.

The Widows Sons and above text were changed to the color red as red is representative of passion, and reflects our passion towards Freemasonry, the Widows Sons organization, and sport motorcycling.