A LEWIS is device which was used by builders to raise heavy stones. In Freemasonry, a Lewis is a Mason whose father was also a Mason. A Lewis is entitled to wear a "Lewis jewel," engraved with both the father's and son's names. Like the device used by operative masons, it is emblematic of doubled strength. Lewis jewels may have multiple bars for brothers with several generations of Masonic legacy.
In some jurisdictions, the requirement that a person be at least 21 years old is lowered to 18 for a Lewis.
Pictured below is my Lewis jewel, which I wore today on my father's 39th yahrzeit.
Joseph Cohen was initiated as an Entered Apprentice at Americus Lodge #83 in Woodbridge, NJ on April 7, 1942, passed to the Fellowcraft degree on June 16, 1942 and was raised a Master Mason on November 17, 1942. He was thirty years old when he was initiated into the craft. Later, he joined the Scottish Rite and was raised to the sublime 32nd degree, Master of the Royal Secret.
On 6 Iyar 5735 (1975) the roll of the workers was called and Brother Joseph Cohen did not respond. Heeding the summons of the Master, he had laid down his working tools. He was sixty three years old when he was admitted to the Celestial Lodge.
Largely out of a desire to connect with my deceased father and to share his experience, I joined the Freemasons in 1991 and have since, like him, became a 32nd degree Scottish Rite Mason. I dedicate my Masonic service as Grand Chaplain of the District of Columbia to the memory of my father and brother, Joseph Cohen.
His apron, more ancient than the Roman eagle, more precious than the Golden fleece, was unblemished.