Born in Blood by John J. Robinson

Born in Blood is another one of those books that are very enjoyable for its entertainment value. In this book John J. Robinson attempts to link the origins of Freemasonry back to the Knights Templar who make their re-appearance in history during the English Civil War. Similar to The Hiram Key in that it uses the little known facts on the origins of Freemasonry, fuses them with the historical facts of the era and produces a linear account relating the two. However, Robinson’s historical accuracy may be a bit more verifiable considering the availability of medieval history compared to biblical history in that he was originally a medieval historian. Incidentally, whenever someone attempts to write a history of Freemasonry, the further back in history you go the more speculation you will receive.
The problem with this book, like The Hiram Key and a few others is its speculative nature. Sometimes these books get too speculative as to lose credibility. But the counter to the argument against the Templar Myth is that it cannot be disproved. The same goes with the other ideas on exactly when, where and how the fraternity of Freemasons originated.

This book does give the reader an interesting history on what may have been or might have happened. Robinson’s writing and investigative findings are a bit cleaner than Knight and Lomas’, so it reads more like an historical account. Even though Robinson wasn’t a Freemason until the last days of his life, he was still a fervent supporter of the fraternity. This lack of Masonic credentials has come into play when critiquing his book as it should, but if you approach this book as strictly a speculative view of Masonic history then you will find enjoyment in this interesting account of the Freemasons before modern history.

Review by John A. Nichols