On The Highest Hills And In The Lowest Vales

Traditionally ancient Masons met "on the highest hills and in the lowest vales" to ensure privacy.  In an attempt to continue that tradition, Masonic Lodges have sought out unique places to hold special communications.  Two such meetings in particular seem to be the record holders in this regard.

On April 10, 1936, the Brothers of Winnedumah Lodge 287 of Bishop, California, held a meeting near the lowest point in the United States in Death Valley National Park.  Members of 50 Lodges from 10 surrounding states joined the gathering at 270 feet below sea level.

On the other side of the spectrum, in 1910, Cascade Lodge 5 of Banff, Alberta, Canada met west of Calgary near the summit of Mt. Aylmer.  Held at an elevation of 3161 meters or 10,371 feet, 18 Lodge members and 13 visitors attended.