Sir Ernest Shackleton is listed in the United Grand Lodge of England’s website as being a famous past
member. He was a member of Navy Lodge No 2612. His story is well known to most. He led three
Antarctic expeditions, pushing the boundaries of human endeavour. He is perhaps most well-known
for his actions during the ill-fated Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition, 1914–1917. Disaster struck
this expedition when its ship, Endurance, became trapped in pack ice and was slowly crushed before
the shore parties could be landed. The crew escaped by camping on the sea ice until it
disintegrated, then by launching the lifeboats to reach Elephant Island and ultimately South Georgia
Island, a stormy ocean voyage of 720 nautical miles (1,330 km; 830 mi) in an open boat and
Shackleton's most famous exploit. Shackleton's concern for his men was such that he gave his
mittens to photographer Frank Hurley, who had lost his during the boat journey. Shackleton suffered
frostbitten fingers as a result.
The mission failed. It is a paradox then that this is regarded as Shackleton’s most famous exploit.
The reason, I believe, lies in his words and deeds whilst facing extreme conditions and hardship. It
would be comforting to think his involvement in Freemasonry contributed to the courage and
integrity he showed.
He is attributed as having an unconventional approach. Especially his interviewing and selection
methods. He valued character and temperament as important as technical ability. He asked
unconventional questions. Physicist Reginald James was asked if he could sing; others were
accepted on sight because Shackleton liked the look of them, or after the briefest of interrogations.
Shackleton also loosened some traditional hierarchies to promote camaraderie, such as distributing
the ship's chores equally among officers, scientists, and seamen. He also socialized with his crew
members every evening after dinner, leading sing-alongs, jokes, and games.
Shackleton exemplified the principles of Freemasonry:
Brotherly love. His tolerance and respect for comrades by valuing their character as well as abilities.
Relief. His support for the unit he led, even suffering frostbite to help.
Truth. His honesty, integrity, and fair dealings in sharing out the work without fear or favour to rank.
