Our History

A single spark changed the lives of millions of young men

Frank S. Land, a community leader who, at the age of 28, already had a successful business career as a restaurateur behind him, Land met Louis G. Lower in January 1919. Lower was a sixteen-year-old boy who had recently lost his father, Elmer Lower serving in World War One.

Near the end of the war, Land became concerned with the problems of boys who had lost their fathers. He thought "how lonely it must be for a boy not to have a man to talk with, or a man to provide some type of inspiration and direction." Frank decided there was a need for an organization where boys would have the opportunity to associate with other boys, a place they could share common interests, learn responsibility and other skills that would benefit them throughout their lives. His ideal model for this organization included having business or professional men, Masons, taking interest in the young people, being a friend to them, advising them, and perhaps even providing them with employment opportunities.

Dad Land worked tirelessly for the Order of DeMolay until his death on November 8, 1959. Hundreds of other devoted workers aided in the creation and extension of the Order of DeMolay, but looked to one man for guidance. Frank S. Land was the charismatic leader of the Order. Frank S. Land was truly a great man, a proud American, and a person who came to be known by millions, simply as "Dad". Frank Land's life touched, and continues to impact generation after generation of young people, young men looking to better themselves by emulating the lessons and examples by which he himself lived.

Our Namesake

Jacques DeMolay

The namesake of the Order of DeMolay was born in Vitrey, Department of Haute Saone, France in the year 1244. At the age of 21, DeMolay joined the Order of Knights Templar.

The year 1307 saw the beginning of the persecution of the Knights. Jacques DeMolay, along with hundreds of others, were seized and thrown into dungeons. For seven years, DeMolay and the Knights suffered torture and inhuman conditions. While the Knights did not end, King Philip managed to force Pope Clement to condemn the Templars. Their wealth and property were confiscated and given to Philip’s supporters.

During years of torture, Jacques DeMolay continued to be loyal to his friends and Knights. He refused to disclose the location of the funds of the Order and he refused to betray his comrades. On March 18, 1314, DeMolay was tried by a special court. As evidence, the court depended on a forged confession, allegedly signed by DeMolay.

Jacques DeMolay disavowed the forged confession. Under the laws of the time, the disavowal of a confession was punishable by death. Another Knight, Geoffrey de Charney, likewise disavowed his confession and stood with Jacques DeMolay.

King Philip ordered them both to be burned at the stake that day, and thus the story of Jacques DeMolay became a testimonial to loyalty and friendship.

Today the name DeMolay carries with it a constant reminder to be loyal and true to friends, promises, and obligations.

The Emblem

The insignia was designed by the founder of our great Order, “DAD” Frank S. Land. He designed it as a pin and symbol that recognizes us as DeMolays. This emblem is to be worn only by DeMolays and their representatives. Every part of this insignia has a particular significance, and we as DeMolays should know them by heart.

The Title "Dad"

The original members of DeMolay were reluctant to call Frank Land “Frank” because of their age difference, and felt that “Mr. Land” was too formal. Louis Lower started calling him Dad and the others soon followed.

The boys and Dad Land agreed that Dad carried respect and confidence, and Frank Land was proud to be so designated.

Being founded in 1919, DeMolay served many young men whose fathers passed serving in World War One. The adult Advisors often became parental figures to those who joined.

With time, the title Mom was added to recognize female Advisors.

Today all trained DeMolay Advisors are known as "Dad" or "Mom" respectively as to pay homage to our founding and the role they play in our young men's lives.