William H. Scott *

Illustrious Sir William H. Scott

Potentate - 1943

“Let us never forget that our first duty is to win the war and make every contribution to that end. Let us face the new year with faith, hope and charity.” With these words, Potentate William H. Scott embarked upon the year 1943.

Gas rationing prevented many of the Nobility from getting to the Temple. The bowling alley area was converted into a hospital room for the Office of Civilian Defense to use for training and as headquarters during mock air-raid drills.

The 25th annual Crippled Children’s Ball netted $56,400 which was invested in War Bonds. A joint ceremonial with El Mina Temple at the Auditorium in April attracted 105 new Nobles. An all-star Minstrel Show at the Mosque in May, for every Shriner and his family, was a tremendous success. A Luncheon Club, which met in the dining room every Tuesday at noon, was organized in June.

Imperial Potentate and Mrs. Albert H. Fiebach were entertained by Potentate and Mrs. Scott during the Imperial Sir’s official visit. There were no All-State meetings held in 1943. However, the Imperial meetings were again held in Chicago, Ill., but for business only. Many members of the Uniformed Units in all Texas Temples were now involved in civilian defense work and 198 Arabia Nobles were in the armed forces.

At the Fall ceremonial 112 candidates crossed the hot sands, the largest class since 1928. A “Firecracker” (cold sands) ceremonial was held on July 3 — only 25 candidates were allowed and obtained.

Two bingo parties drew large crowds and a Halloween party in October was well attended. Cooperating with the Goodfellows organization, the Wrecking Crew made 537 toy wagons for distribution to needy children at Christmas.

The year ended with a gain in membership, but total membership continued to lag with over 1,000 fewer members than in 1929, when the all-time total had reached 4,310.