Walker-Benson Series
Historic Walnut Pen — Walker–Benson Series
Hand-Turned from the Masonic Cemetery of Fredericksburg Lodge No. 4
This limited-edition pen is crafted from historic black walnut wood reclaimed from the Masonic Cemetery of Fredericksburg Lodge No. 4, Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons—a site established in 1784 and resting place to generations of early Freemasons, their families, and founders of the Fredericksburg community.
The walnut tree from which this pen was made stood for generations in the Walker–Benson family section of the cemetery. Over decades of growth, the living tree gradually enveloped the gravestones of Catherine Walker (1820–1821) and Mary Jane (Walker) Lewis Benson (1776–1857) until their markers became visibly embedded within the trunk. When the tree died of natural causes and was respectfully removed, a portion of its wood was preserved so its remarkable history could continue.
Each pen in this series carries that story forward—transforming a natural memorial into a lasting heirloom.
A Cemetery with National Significance
Fredericksburg Lodge No. 4 organized in 1752 and established its cemetery in 1784. Today, approximately 270 graves rest within its sandstone walls. Those interred represent early Fredericksburg families from England, Scotland, Ireland, Switzerland, and American towns such as Boston and Williamsburg. Many brethren buried here also served in the Continental Army during the American Revolution, reflecting the Lodge’s role in helping to shape both a community and a nation.
Craftsmanship & Heritage
The Walker family was closely tied to early Fredericksburg craftsmanship. Alexander Walker (1771–1830) was a respected cabinetmaker and town councilman, traditionally credited with furniture associated with Mary Ball Washington. In that same spirit of artisan skill, each pen is individually hand-turned, allowing the natural grain of the walnut—and its history—to guide the final form.
No two pens are alike.
