Fred F. Dexter, Jr. *

Illustrious Sir Fred F. Dexter

Potentate - 1953

“Each One Bring One” and a goal of one million members was the objective of the Imperial Council for 1953. Accordingly, Illustrious Potentate Fred F. Dexter, Jr. made plans for Arabia Temple to do its share. For the first time, all Nobles were admonished to bring their candidates to the stated meetings for initiation over the “Cold Sands” in a dignified manner. This practice was carried out throughout the year and with two hot sand ceremonials in the Spring and Fall, 581 candidates were initiated.

Over $200,000 was raised for the Crippled Children by the annual Ball and the combined efforts of the Shrine Clubs, the Nobility, and other masonic affiliated bodies.

A stag trip was made to the All-State meetings in El Paso via train. Over 200 Unit men, officers, and Nobility made the trip. In July, a special train took 250 Nobles and their ladies to New York City to the Imperial meetings. Remmie L. Arnold of Acca Temple in Richmond, Va. was elected Imperial Potentate.

The Great Dunninger, a world-famous telepathist, entertained over 5,000 members and their families as well as all members of the masonic fraternity for promotional purposes. Tickets were free for this event held in the Temple from August 17 to 21. Eighty-one Garden Clubs affiliated with the Houston Federation of Garden Clubs, participated in beautifying the grounds, surrounding the Crippled Children’s Clinic with permanent plants, flowers, and trees. The Bowlers contributed two TV sets for the children.

Another very successful Circus was held from November 4th to November 14, with the Shrine Clubs all bringing thousands of children to see the show. Holiday balls by several of the units closed a fine year for Potentate Dexter. The Temple membership had reached an all time high of 8,053.