The Original Nine DeMolay: Pioneers of a Lasting Legacy

The history of the Order of DeMolay is intrinsically tied to the nine original founders, whose dedication and vision birthed an organization that has influenced the lives of countless young men. These nine individuals, each symbolized by a pearl in the DeMolay crest, laid the cornerstone for an enduring legacy. As we delve into the lives of these remarkable men, we gain insight into the profound impact they had on the organization and its values.

Ivan M. Bentley: 

The First DeMolay Ivan Merritt Bentley holds the distinction of being the very first DeMolay, initiated on March 18, 1919. Tragically, his life was cut short in an accident in 1921, making him the first to transition from a pearl to a ruby in the emblem.

Louis G. Lower:

The First Active DeMolay Legionnaire Louis G. Lower, the first DeMolay and the inaugural Active DeMolay Legionnaire (LOH), was a pivotal figure in the organization's early days. His tragic death in 1943, resulting from an intoxicated security guard's actions, marked the second transition of a pearl to a ruby.

Edmund Marshall: 

The Scholar and President Edmund Marshall, a Chevalier crowned in 1920, graduated from the University of Missouri and rose to become President of the Kansas City Board of Trade. His passing in 1966 marked the fourth pearl's transformation into a ruby.

Clyde C. Stream: 

The Technical Engineer Clyde C. Stream, a technical engineer with the Sagano Electric Company, retired to Bradenton, Florida, after a successful career. His passing in 1971 led to the fifth pearl becoming a ruby.

Gorman A. McBride: 

The First Master Councilor Gorman A. McBride, the second Obligated DeMolay and the first Master Councilor of the Mother Chapter, had a remarkable career as a lawyer and director of activities at ISC Headquarters. His death in 1973 signified the sixth transition from pearl to ruby.

Ralph Sewell: 

The Musician Ralph Sewell, a skilled pianist and organist, became the Credit Manager for H. D. Lee Mercantile Company, known for Lee jeans. His passing in 1976 resulted in the seventh pearl's transformation into a ruby.

Elmer V. Dorsey: 

The Successful Businessman Elmer V. Dorsey, a successful businessman, later moved to Texas, where he served as an Advisor to the Richardson Chapter. His passing in 1979 denoted the eighth pearl's transformation into a ruby.

William W. Steinhilber:

The Stock and Bond Broker William W. Steinhilber, captain of the first DeMolay baseball team and a prosperous stock and bond broker, passed away in 1992, changing the ninth pearl into a ruby.

Jerome Jacobson: 

The Lawyer and Financier Jerome Jacobson, a distinguished lawyer and financier, lived his entire life in Kansas City. His passing in 2002 marked the final transition from pearl to ruby, symbolizing the completion of the transformation.

The Heart of DeMolay Dad Frank Land, the founder of DeMolay, represented the third ruby on the DeMolay crest. His indomitable spirit and dedication to the organization persisted even as he battled the effects of scleroderma. Dad Land's unexpected passing in 1959 left an indelible void, reminding us annually on November 8 to honor his memory.

The legacy of these nine pioneers is etched into the very fabric of DeMolay. Without their vision, dedication, and unwavering commitment, the organization would not exist. As we remember their contributions, we pay homage to the founders who paved the way for generations of young men to embrace the values of character, leadership, and service that continue to define the Order of DeMolay.