Welcome to the official page for the Eureka Challenge, the Masonic knowledge proficiency competition sponsored by the Grand Lodge of Illinois A.F. & A.M. Here you’ll find information about this enjoyable, exciting game which provides an opportunity for long-time Masons to apply their knowledge of the Craft while also giving newer members the chance to learn more about our Fraternity.

Developed in 2002-2003 by the Lodge Education/Programs Committee, the Eureka Challenge is a unique platform for promoting and recognizing Masonic knowledge. Equally important, this powerful education channel can be used to convey virtually any subject matter the Grand Lodge wishes to convey to Blue Lodge members.

The format for the Eureka Challenge was inspired by the account of Pythagoras noted in our Masonic traditions, which reads: The forty-seventh problem of Euclid was an invention of our ancient friend and brother, the great Pythagoras, who, in his travels through Asia, Africa and Europe, was initiated into several orders of priesthood, and is said to have been raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason. This wise philosopher enriched his mind abundantly in a general knowledge of things, more especially in geometry, or Masonry. On this subject he drew out many problems and theorems; and among the most distinguished he erected this, which, in the joy of his heart, he exclaimed Eureka! signifying, in the Grecian language, I have found it; and upon the discovery of which he is said to have sacrificed a hecatomb. It teaches Masons to be general lovers of the arts and sciences.

Past Winners and Current Tournament Info and Scores

EUREKA CHALLENGE 2009 STATE CHAMPIONSHIP AWARDED AT GRAND LODGE
2010 questions include content from Masonic Service Association's Short Talk Bulletins

The five lodges which posted perfect 100-point scores and the fastest times in their areas squared off in the third round of the Eureka Challenge, now conducted in Area Champion lodges during August and September in order to enhance participation and reduce travel expenses.

Burnside Lodge No. 683 of the Western Area earned the State Champion ranking with a time of 3:44. Although the lodge has less than 50 members, the brethren worked together to develop an effective strategy for quickly and accurately answering questions while applying their knowledge of Grand Lodge history.

"We applaud the five Area Champions for their competitive spirit and teamwork," said Grand Master Richard L. Swaney. “I encourage every lodge to participate in this excellent program which next year will feature a tremendous amount of interesting and educational information about the Masonic fraternity.”

Questions and answers for the 2010 Eureka Challenge will be taken primarily from the Short Talk Bulletins–pamphlets which have been published by the Masonic Service Association since 1923. Supplemental content may also be included from historical articles prepared by the Masonic Education Committee and Illinois Lodge of Research. Questions will be phrased in such a way that it will not be necessary for a lodge to have reviewed the more than 1,000 Short Talk Bulletins in advance. Questions for each round will be based on selected themes which will be announced later.

Going forward, the Grand Secretary’s Office will coordinate the Eureka Challenge including assembly and mailing of materials. First round 2010 materials will be automatically mailed to lodges which participated in 2009; other lodges wishing to receive materials should request them. A lodge must return its completed first round materials postmarked no later than March 31, 2010 to be eligible to advance to the second round.

Download the latest scores below:

   - 2009 Round Three Results for all lodges

   - 2009 Round Two Results for all lodges (Categorized by Area)

   - 2009 Round One Results for all lodges (Categorized by Area)

   - 2008 Round Two Results for all lodges (Categorized by Area)

   - 2008 Round One Results for all lodges (Categorized by Area)

   - Eureka Results 2004 - 2007

   - Eureka Winners Photos - all