Ep 23. Decoded-Episode 23

Decoded is a TV show that comprises ten seasons involving investigations into the secrets and mysteries behind various theories and urban legends in the United States. The show is hosted by Brad Meltzer, who is a well-known writer and historian, and he leads a team of experts who explore the stories by analyzing codes, documents, and other cues and artifacts that could reveal the hidden truths behind the various legends.

Episode 23 of season 1 of Decoded addresses a fascinating hypothesis that suggests that the Freemasons and other secret societies had a significant impact on the shaping of the United States. Brad and his team attempt to decode the symbols and clues that point to the involvement of these secret organizations in the founding of America.

To unravel the mystery of the Freemasons and their connection to the founding fathers, Brad and his team head to Boston, the cradle of American democracy. Their first stop is the Massachusetts State House, which has a gilded wooden dome that features depictions of the Founding Fathers and several Masonic symbols, such as the all-seeing eye and the square and compass.

Next, the team visits the Granary Burying Ground, the final resting place of several prominent Americans, including Paul Revere and John Hancock, who were both members of the Freemasons. To investigate further, they head to the Paul Revere House, where they find an unusual symbol inscribed on the front door. The symbol closely resembles the emblem of the Knights Templar, a medieval secret society that had links to the Freemasons.

The team then visits Faneuil Hall, a historic marketplace that was also used for public meetings and debates during the colonial period. Brad and his team analyze the hall's architecture and decorations to uncover any possible connections to the Freemasons. They discover that the hall's ceiling features a painting of a hand extending from a cloud and holding a laurel wreath. The hand represents the hand of God, a common symbol in Freemasonry.

Moving on, the team investigates the Pine Tree Shilling, a coin that was minted in Massachusetts in the 17th century and features a pine tree and the letters "NE" on one side. The team suggests that the pine tree symbolizes the tree of life, a common symbol in the Freemasonic tradition. Furthermore, the letters "NE" could stand for "New England" or "New Eboracum," which was the original Latin name for New York City. The team speculates that the coin may have been used by the Freemasons to communicate messages secretly.

To delve further into the Freemasonic connections, the team heads to the Green Dragon Tavern, where the Sons of Liberty, a secret organization that played a vital role in the American Revolution, held their meetings. The tavern is known for a secret room that allegedly served as a meeting place for the Freemasons and the Sons of Liberty. Brad and his team investigate the room for any clues and find a pillar that features a carving of an acacia tree, which is a symbol of rebirth and immortality in Freemasonry.

Finally, the team visits the Bunker Hill Monument, which is a tall obelisk erected in memory of the Battle of Bunker Hill, a significant event in the American Revolutionary War. The monument features several Masonic symbols, such as the all-seeing eye, the square and compass, and the acacia tree.

Overall, Decoded season 1 episode 23 sheds light on the mysterious connections between the Freemasons and the shaping of America. Brad and his team uncover several clues and symbols that suggest that the Freemasons had a significant impact on US history. The episode is a fascinating exploration of the hidden histories behind some of America's most iconic landmarks and symbols.