The Masonic Plate
While at first glance, A#14506 would seem to be a simple pewter plate, it is, in fact, one of the most extraordinary artifacts recovered from the Whydah.
Inscribed on the top of the plate, near the rim, is the oldest reliably dated representation of the hallmark of freemasonry.
How did the primary symbol of this centuries-old fraternal order come to be carved on a pirate’s dinner plate?
From 1688 to 1745, British history was marked by an intermittent, yet bitter, conflict for control of the English crown. Having been forced into exile, James II and his heirs, together with their supporters (known as “Jacobites”), struggled for generations to regain power.
Through long research, we have learned that a significant number of masonic lodges were sympathetic to the Jacobite cause, and provided it with covert support. We have also learned that many pirates of the early 18th century supported the Jacobites. Moreover, we have found instances of collaboration between Jacobites and pirates, including individuals associated with Samuel Bellamy and his crew.
In light of this evidence, we therefore believe that this mysterious inscription was prompted by collaboration between Bellamy’s pirates, and one or more Jacobite supporters who were also masonic initiates.
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