Widow Sons: The Brotherhood of Masonic Riders and Their Charitable Mission

The term Widow Sons has its roots in Freemasonry and holds symbolic meaning. It is often associated with the Biblical figure Hiram Abiff, a key figure in Masonic lore who is referred to as “the widow’s son” in some traditions. This reference comes from the story of Hiram, a master builder of King Solomon’s Temple, who was murdered during its construction. According to the Bible (1 Kings 7:13-14), Hiram was the son of a widow from the tribe of Naphtali, where the title “widow’s son” originates.

For Freemasons, this symbol represents brotherhood and the obligation to support the families (especially widows and orphans) of deceased Masons. The Widow Sons Masonic Riders Association was named after this symbolic connection, embodying the values of charity and fraternity.

In the context of Freemasonry, the title highlights the commitment to look after the families left behind by their departed brothers, especially widows, emphasizing compassion and duty.

Widow Sons

The Widows Sons is an international association that merges Freemasonry with motorcycle riding, primarily focusing on aiding the widows and orphans of Master Masons. Established in the late 1990s, the association was founded by Carl Davenport in Chicago, Illinois.

The name “Widows Sons” comes from a symbolic reference within Freemasonry, related to Hiram Abiff, a central figure in Masonic tradition, often called “the widow’s son” based on Biblical stories.

The association has chapters worldwide, and while its core mission is to support the families of deceased Masons, it also serves as a bridge between the motorcycle community and Freemasonry.

The Widows Sons promote brotherhood, charity, and Freemasonry through their activities, including charity rides and events. However, while the group is Masonic in nature, it remains a riding association rather than a formal Masonic lodge.

Widow Sons Hells Angels

The Widows Sons and the Hells Angels are distinct and separate organizations, even though both are associated with motorcycles. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences:

Widows Sons:

• Masonic Riders Association: It is a group of Freemasons who enjoy riding motorcycles. Their primary purpose is charitable work, particularly to aid widows and orphans of Masons.
• Legal and Fraternal: Widows Sons is not a motorcycle club (MC) in the traditional sense. Instead, it is a charitable riding association deeply tied to Freemasonry’s values.
• Global Presence: The association has chapters worldwide and actively promotes the principles of Freemasonry within the motorcycle community.

Hells Angels:

• Outlaw Motorcycle Club (MC): The Hells Angels are a well-known motorcycle club that originated in the United States in 1948. They are categorized as an “outlaw” group, meaning they operate independently from the American Motorcyclist Association’s rules.
• Controversial History: The Hells Angels have been involved in various criminal activities over the years, though not all members participate in illegal actions. Their reputation is built on a counter-culture image of freedom and rebellion.

While the two organizations both involve motorcyclists, they have completely different structures, purposes, and reputations. Widows Sons focus on charity and Freemasonry, while the Hells Angels have a more rebellious and, at times, lawless image. There is no formal connection or rivalry between the two groups, as their missions and communities do not overlap significantly.

Widow Sons Members

Members of the Widows Sons Masonic Riders Association are Master Masons who share a passion for motorcycling. Membership is limited to men who are in good standing within a recognized Masonic Lodge. To join, one must first be a Freemason, which means they have gone through the traditional process of becoming an Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and finally, a Master Mason.

Here are some key aspects of Widows Sons membership:

• Masonic Requirement: All members must be affiliated with Freemasonry, emphasizing brotherhood and charity. Their affiliation with the Masonic tradition means they adhere to the values of the fraternity, including loyalty, moral uprightness, and philanthropy.
• Motorcycle Enthusiasts: Members must ride motorcycles that are legal for street or highway use. This aspect ties together their passion for riding with their commitment to Freemasonry.
• Charitable Focus: The organization focuses on aiding widows and orphans of Masons, as well as supporting various charitable initiatives through benefit rides and events.
• International Chapters: The association has grown globally, with chapters in various countries, and members participate in local, national, and international charitable events.

Widows Sons members are deeply connected to both Freemasonry and the motorcycle community, using their platform to promote Masonic principles and charitable work.

Widow Sons chapters

The Widows Sons Masonic Riders Association has chapters worldwide, each operating under the core principles of Freemasonry while adding a passion for motorcycling. Chapters can be found in numerous countries, including:

1. United States: The Widows Sons originated in the U.S. and has since grown to include many state-based chapters. Each chapter operates independently but remains aligned with the association’s mission of supporting Masonic widows and orphans.
2. United Kingdom: The Widows Sons has a strong presence in the UK, with various regional chapters like Widows Sons East Midlands and Widows Sons Scotland. These chapters participate in charity rides and Freemason events.
3. Canada: Canadian chapters are active in charitable work, organizing events to support both Masonic and non-Masonic causes.
4. Australia: Australia has an expanding chapter network that contributes to charitable causes, often focusing on the well-being of Masonic families in need.
5. Other countries: Chapters have been established in several other regions, including Europe, South America, and Asia, reflecting the global spread of Freemasonry and motorcycling enthusiasm.

Each chapter operates with a degree of autonomy but maintains the association’s mission of brotherhood, charity, and support for Masonic widows and their families.

Widow Sons Initiation

The Widows Sons Masonic Riders Association initiation process is closely linked to the rules and traditions of Freemasonry. Since the group requires its members to be Master Masons in good standing, the primary initiation is into Freemasonry itself. To become a member of the Widows Sons, an individual must have already completed the Masonic initiation and reached the degree of Master Mason. Here’s a breakdown of how the process generally works:

Freemason Initiation:

Before becoming a Widows Son, the candidate must first go through the three degrees of Freemasonry: Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason. Each of these degrees involves rituals, symbolic teachings, and obligations that are central to Masonic tradition. Joining the Widows Sons:

After becoming a Master Mason, the individual can apply to join a local chapter of the Widows Sons. The chapter typically verifies their Masonic standing. While there isn’t a widely publicized “initiation ceremony” specifically for Widows Sons, the process often includes a formal introduction to the group’s purpose, values, and commitment to charity. Some chapters may hold private rituals or ceremonies that focus on brotherhood and the Masonic obligation to assist widows and orphans. Chapter-Specific Rites:

Each Widows Sons chapter may have its unique customs or rites during the initiation, which would align with the charitable and fraternal principles of Freemasonry. The specifics of any initiation rituals within the Widows Sons are generally kept private and in line with Masonic traditions of confidentiality. However, what is universally emphasized is the dedication to charity, brotherhood, and motorcycle riding.

Widow Sons Patches

Widows Sons patches are an essential part of the group’s identity, symbolizing their affiliation with Freemasonry and their membership in the Masonic Riders Association. The patches often have distinct designs that reflect both Masonic symbolism and motorcycle culture. Here’s a breakdown of common elements found in Widows Sons patches:

Common Features of Widows Sons Patches:

1. Square and Compasses: This is the most recognizable symbol of Freemasonry. Many Widows Sons patches incorporate this Masonic emblem, representing the fraternity’s principles of morality, truth, and brotherhood.
2. The Skull and Crossbones: Some chapters include the skull and crossbones, which is a common Masonic symbol representing mortality and the brevity of life.
3. Widow’s Son Reference: The phrase “Widow’s Son” may be included on the patch, referring to the Biblical figure Hiram Abiff, a central figure in Masonic lore, who is often called “the widow’s son”.
4. Chapter-Specific Designs: Individual chapters often design their own variations of the patch to distinguish their regional group. These can include local symbols, flags, or icons relevant to their area.
5. Motorcycle Imagery: Many patches prominently feature motorcycles, reinforcing the group’s dual identity as both Freemasons and bikers.
6. Back Patches and Rockers: Similar to traditional motorcycle clubs, Widows Sons members often wear large back patches. These typically feature the main logo in the center, with top and bottom rockers identifying their chapter name and location.
7. Support Patches: There are also smaller patches for supporters of the group who may not be full members, signifying their support for the Widows Sons’ charitable efforts.

Purpose of the Patches:

• Identification: The patches signify membership and distinguish Widows Sons members from other motorcycle groups.
• Symbolism: They serve as a visual representation of Masonic ideals, such as charity, brotherhood, and a commitment to helping widows and orphans.

Widows Sons patches carry significant meaning for both Masons and bikers, blending Masonic symbols with the culture of motorcycle riding to represent the group’s unique mission and identity.

Widow Sons Lodge

The Widows Sons Lodge is a bit of a misnomer, as the Widows Sons Masonic Riders Association (often simply called the Widows Sons) is not a traditional Masonic lodge but rather a riding association for Master Masons who share a passion for motorcycles. The group operates as a fraternal organization that supports Freemasonry’s core values, with members engaged in charity work, particularly for the widows and orphans of Masons.

The Widows Sons are made up of Masons who join local chapters, which may sometimes be colloquially referred to as “lodges” within the motorcycle club. However, these chapters do not perform Masonic rituals or functions in the same way a traditional Masonic lodge does. They are riding clubs that align with Masonic principles, using motorcycles to foster brotherhood and charitable endeavors.

While Masonic lodges conduct official rites and meet regularly for Masonic purposes, the Widows Sons chapters come together as a social and charitable group of motorcycle riders who also share the bond of Freemasonry.

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What Does It Mean to Be a Widow’s Son in The Masons?

To be a “Widow’s Son” in Freemasonry is to identify with the legacy and moral virtues of Hiram Abiff. Freemasons view themselves as metaphorical “sons” of Hiram, aligning with the values he represents, such as:

• Integrity: Hiram Abiff was known for his unwavering loyalty and moral strength, especially in the face of death.
• Skill and Craftsmanship: As a master builder, Hiram represents the ideal of mastering one’s craft and using skills to create and build for the benefit of others.
• Sacrifice and Honor: Hiram’s refusal to betray the secrets of his craft, even under the threat of death, symbolizes loyalty to one’s principles and dedication to truth.

By calling themselves “Widow’s Sons,” Freemasons emphasize their commitment to uphold these values in their personal lives and in the brotherhood.

Who Will Help the Widow’s Son?

The phrase “Who will help the Widow’s Son?” is a call to Freemasons for brotherly support and mutual aid. It signifies the willingness of a fellow Mason to step forward in times of need, extending the hand of brotherhood to assist and protect one another. This phrase symbolizes the unity, loyalty, and responsibility Masons have for each other, just as they are metaphorical sons of the widow (the mother of Hiram Abiff).

In practical terms, it refers to the Masonic principle of looking out for fellow members, especially in times of hardship, loss, or grief. It also represents the idea that a Freemason should always be ready to help the widow or orphan in his community.

What Is the Legend of the Widow’s Son?

The legend of Hiram Abiff, also known as the “Legend of the Widow’s Son,” is central to the Master Mason degree and serves as a moral allegory for Freemasons. The story goes as follows:

• Hiram Abiff, the master builder of King Solomon’s Temple, was entrusted with the sacred knowledge of building the temple, including the secrets of the craft.
• He was approached by three fellow craftsmen (often referred to as “ruffians”) who demanded that Hiram share the “Master’s Word” (a secret password that signified mastery of the craft).
• Hiram, remaining true to his principles and duty, refused to reveal the secret. In their anger, the ruffians struck him, ultimately killing him.
• After his death, Hiram’s body was hidden, but eventually discovered and brought back by King Solomon’s men. Hiram was laid to rest with honor, and his loyalty, integrity, and craftsmanship became the symbolic cornerstone of Masonic teachings.

In this legend, Hiram Abiff represents the ideal Mason who remains steadfast in his values, even in the face of death. The “Widow’s Son” legend teaches the importance of faithfulness, moral rectitude, and the eternal quest for truth.

Symbolic Meaning of the Legend:

• Death and Resurrection: The legend of Hiram Abiff’s death and subsequent “raising” by King Solomon’s men is seen as an allegory for spiritual rebirth and enlightenment.
• Moral Courage: Hiram’s unwavering refusal to reveal the secrets of his craft even under duress is a symbol of Masonic commitment to ethical integrity and the protection of sacred knowledge.