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 STATE CHAMPIONSHIP AWARED
2011 questions on masonic leadership, officer duties and responsibilities

The five Area Champion lodges squared off in the third round of the 2010 Eureka Challenge, with Edward Dobbins Lodge No. 164 of the Southern Area earning the State Championship with a record-fast time of 2:15.

The third round is now conducted in Area Champion lodges during August and September to enhance participation and reduce travel expenses, under the same rules governing the first and second rounds. Questions this year were taken from the Short Talk Bulletins published by the Masonic Service Association since 1923.

The results for the five Area Champions were as follows:

“All five Area Champions should be applauded for their competitive spirit and teamwork,” said Grand Master Richard L. Swaney.  “I encourage every lodge to participate in this outstanding program which next year will feature challenging questions about the duties and responsibilities of masonic leadership roles for brethren serving in the Grand Lodge, Blue Lodges and on key committees.”

In 2011, first round questions will be based on the duties and responsibilities of Elected and Appointed Lodge Officers, including relevant sections in the current Grand Lodge Book of Constitutions & By-Laws, of which every lodge is required to have a copy.  The second round will be on the Duties of Committee Appointees and Representatives, and the third round will be on the Duties of Elected and Appointed Grand Lodge Officers.

First round materials will be automatically mailed to all lodges which participated in 2010; other lodges wishing to receive materials should request them through the Grand Secretary’s office no later than Dec. 31, 2010.

A lodge must return its completed first round materials postmarked no later than March 31, 2011 to be eligible to advance to the second round and qualify for one of the secondary requirements in the Grand Master’s Award of Excellence program. 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