A very RARE and interesting Freemasonry book, new and improved edition published in 1805...." THE FREEMASON'S MONITOR; OR, ILLUSTRATIONS OF MASONRY: In Two Parts. By Thomas Smith Webb, Past Master of Temple Lodge, Albany, G.H.P. of the Grand R.A. Chapter of Rhode-Island, and Grand Master of the Providence Encampment of Knights Templars, &c. A New and Improved Edition." Called the "Founding Father of the York or American Rite" Thomas Smith Webb (1771-1819) was the author of "The Freemanson's Monitor, or Illustrations of Masonry". The work had a significant impact on the development of Masonic ritual in America. Born in Boston, Webb apprenticed to a printer at the age of 16 before moving to Keene, New Hampshire. He was conferred three degrees of ancient craft Masonry by the Rising Sun Lodge. After moving to Albany, NY, he first published "The Freemason's Monitor, or Illustrations of Masonry" in 1797. Consisting of 2 parts, with an account of the "Ineffable Degrees of Masonry", the work also included several of his Masonic songs. Enlarged and improved editions followed. In the same year as he published his "Freemanson's Monitor", Webb presided over a convention of committees in Boston for the formation of a general Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, and as chairman of the committee presented a constitution which was adopted in 1799. His work led to the formation of the Grand Encampment of the United States. Webb was the first president of the Psallonian Society and of the Handel and Haydn Society. Webb subsequently served as the first Grand Commander of what became the Grand Commandry of Knights Templar and the Appendant Orders of Massachusetts and Rhode Island, as well as Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Rhode Island. book in acceptable condition for age. Inside stains and foxing scattered on various degrees-see photos-. Externally wear on edges and corners, wear head and tail of spine with some losses-see photos. Text readable, complete, binding strong Very RARE