After climbing the first flight of stairs, on the landing is a bust of Albert Pike and one of his most famous quotes. Albert Pike is an important figure in the history of the Scottish Rite in the US. He was a Grand Commander, or elected CEO, of the Southern Jurisdiction, and he wrote the book Morals and Dogma. Pike is credited with a revival of the organisation during the time after the Civil War. He travelled the country helping the organisation to grow and thrive. Outside the Temple Room is the Tyler’s chair. It is the Tyler’s job to ensure that no one enters the lodge who is not permitted. He will traditionally carry a sword. Our chair has “Know Thyself” carved in it the back, which was often found at the entrance to ancient temples.