The temporary exhibit, “Organizations of Lyon County” is open on the 2nd floor of the Lyon County Museum. The exhibit will close in 2027. The exhibit features objects, photographs, and documents from the Lyon County Museum’s collection related to organizations in Lyon County. Examples include: Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, American Legion, Lions Club, Rotary, Kiwanis, Knight of Columbus, Masons, 4-H, and much more.

The theme of the exhibit coincides with the America 250 and America Gives Initiative. The United States has a long history of service and civic engagement. The initiative encourages Americans to take a “Year of Service” pledge, fostering community, patriotism, and a lasting culture of giving back to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026. The initiative is designed to be inclusive and to highlight the American history and spirit of service in all its forms.

One of the artifacts on display in the exhibit is a Masonic apron in a frame that once belonged to James H. Hall (Jan. 5, 1876-Aug. 6, 1956) of Marshall. The apron was donated to the Lyon County Museum by the Delta Lodge #119 A.F. & A.M. of Marshall in 2018. The apron was hand made by Margaret Bell in Antrim County, Ireland in about 1775 for her husband, William. The apron was passed down the generations and ended up with the great-great-grandchild of the Bells, James H. Hall. James was a member of Delta Lodge #119 and the apron was displayed in the Masonic Temple in Marshall for many years.

The Masonic apron is a symbolic garment worn by Freemasons as part of their regalia during Masonic rituals, ceremonies, and other formal events. It represents honor, purity, and initiation. Like most Masonic symbols, aprons came to Freemasonry via the ancient stonemasons who wore them to protect themselves from flying chips of stone and to keep dust of their clothes. For more information on the history of Masonic aprons, check out the Illinois Freemasonry or the Grand Lodge of Ohio websites, which have great information on the history and meaning behind Masonic aprons.

The photograph featured this week from the Lyon County Museum’s collection is the Masonic apron in its frame on display in the “Organizations of Lyon County” exhibit.

The Lyon County Historical Society (LCHS) is a nonprofit, member-supported organization. LCHS operates the Lyon County Museum at 301 West Lyon Street in Marshall. The Lyon County Museum is open year-round to visitors. To contact us, visit our website: www.lyoncomuseum.org, call: 507-537-6580, email: director@lyoncomuseum.org, or on our Facebook page.