Like Many Masonic Orders, the origin of the Secret Monitor is shrouded in mystery, but one theory claims that it originated in Holland during the rebellion against Spain in the late 16th and early 17th Centuries.

There the story of the friendship between David and Jonathan was used to create a system of code of recognition for the rebels.  Later it was taken to the United States by Dutch settlers emigrating to the New York area.

The Order was brought to England by Dr. Issachar Zacharie, an Englishman born in Chatham, who, after serving in the American Civil War, settled in California and joined the Order of the Secret Monitor.  He returned to London in 1875 and formed a Grand Council in 1877.

Conclaves spread steadily, both in the British Isles and overseas and up until 1969, the Grand Council in London administered all Conclaves in England.  Then a Province was constituted for Lancashire and Cheshire followed by others for Yorkshire and the South West Counties.

Today the Order has a well developed Provincial and Grand Council hierarchy similar to other Orders in Freemasonry.  Membership of this Order is highly prized and is by strict invitation.

Being a Master Mason is the only qualification for membership of the Secret Monitor.

REGALIA:  Breast Jewel

For a more detailed History of the Order please click here.