EUREKA CHALLENGE

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 2010 ROUND TWO RESULTS IN

Five area champion lodges each posted perfect 100-point scores and the fastest times in their areas, and will square off in the third round of the Eureka Challenge: Tinley Park No. 810 (NE; 6:05), Wenona No. 344 (N; 7:10), Fraternal No. 58 (E; 4:25), Edward Dobbins No. 164 (S; 3:45), and Burnside No. 683 (W; 5:09). Average second round score was 90 and average time was 9:01. A total of 64 of the 70 districts in the state had lodges advance to the second round.

To enhance participation and reduce travel expenses, the third round is conducted in the area champion lodges under the same rules governing the first and second rounds, with visitors from other lodges free to observe the competition or participate at the discretion of the Master. Questions in 2010 were based on the Short Talk Bulletins, published by the Masonic Service Association since 1923 and sent to each subscribing Illinois lodge. Third round questions are based on: Literature, Philosophy, Religion and Symbols.

Area champions must return completed materials postmarked no later than September 30, 2010, to allow for scoring prior to the meeting of Grand Lodge. Area and State Champion certificates and the Pythagoras Traveling Trophy will be presented in Springfield at the awards ceremony the morning of Saturday, October 9, 2010. E-Mail inquiries to: eurekachallenge@msn.com

Download the latest scores below:

   - 2010 Round Two Results for all lodges

   - 2010 Round One Results for all lodges

   - 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