Hughy A. Johnson *

Illustrious Sir Hughy A. Johnson

Potentate 1942

In January, 1942, when Noble Hughy A. Johnson became Potentate, the country was engaged in World War II. “We must cooperate 100% in the victory program outlined by the Civilian Defense Authorities”, stated Potentate Johnson in his first letter to the Nobility. Before his year as Potentate ended, Major Johnson was called up for active duty.

On his official visit to Arabia Temple in March, Imperial Potentate Thomas C. Law admonished the entire Nobility of Shrinedom to “cooperate in whatever it takes to protect and perpetuate the precious mode of life which has made this country happy, free and great.” Although the entertainment program was lessened to some extent, it was not eliminated. All Temple and Unit activities continued, but many Nobles were involved in Civilian-Defense work, such as Auxiliary Police and attending schools for Civilian Air Raid Wardens and First Aid instruction. The ladies knitted sleeveless sweaters for the Army and Navy.

The annual Crippled Children’s Ball netted a handsome $38,200. Two ceremonials brought in 95 new Novices. Tickets sold for 50 cents at the Circus, featuring Clyde Beatty’s Wild Animal Act, in the Coliseum.

All-State was held at Maskat Temple in Wichita Falls, Texas. Potentate Johnson and the representatives attended the Imperial meetings in Chicago, Illinois, at which there were no frills or parades, strictly business.

The Temple was saddened by the passing of Past Potentate W. L. “Bert” Childs on March 23rd.

A barbecue was held at the Bear Creek Gun Club in April for the Nobility and their families and the annual Orphans’ picnic to Sylvan Beach was held in June.

As the year drew to a close, a new Honor Roll was unveiled which contained the 156 names of Arabia’s nobility, all of whom were mailed their 1943 dues cards.

A mammoth Christmas party at the Coliseum on December 23rd was enjoyed by Masonic Fraternity members and their families.