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The Degree of Past Master

         For many years this degree was conferred upon those who had served as Masters of Masonic Lodges.  In some states this practice is still maintained, yet in America, with probably one exception, it is conferred upon all those who have attained the degree of Mark Master.  In English lodges the degree is known as that of Installed Master.  There is no Past Master degree in English, Scottish or Irish chapters.  The degree deals primarily with administration, retaining some of the old instruction once given to those who were actually chosen to preside.

          The gavel is very properly used as the emblem of this degree because it has very generally been accepted as an emblem of power.  The gavel is used in all deliberative bodies today, more as a means of calling for order, than demonstrating the power vested in its user.  The degree teaches the value of Harmony and Justice.