Calvin E. Taylor

        As you may know, Calvin Taylor was a Master Trooper in the North Carolina Highway Patrol, a Mason and a man dedicated to his family and the betterment of his community. Calvin was killed in the line of duty on October 3, 2001.  One of the things Calvin noticed during his daily duties at the scene of many accidents was the need to have toys on hand to comfort the younger victims involved.  This need was felt by all Emergency Response Personnel, as well as by the Emergency Room staffs, of the area hospitals. In answer to this need, Calvin, who was also a Master Mason, got together with some fellow troopers and members of his Lodge and began the Toy Ride to start addressing this need in our area. Sadly, Calvin did not get to participate in the actual Ride of 2001, as it was held on the day of his funeral.

''Vision without action is merely a dream. Action without vision just passes the time. Vision with action can change the world."

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        The Masons of Western North Carolina, in cooperation with the NC Highway Patrol, other local Law Enforcement and Emergency Services, announce the annual Calvin E. Taylor Memorial Masonic Toy Ride for Kid’s.  The ride occurs on the September 13, 2008 Click Here For Ride Details) to Honor the memory of Master Trooper Calvin E. Taylor and all other members of law enforcement of North Carolina killed in the line of duty. This event will take place at the Stomping Grounds in Maggie Valley, NC.

Masonic Home for Children at Oxford

To assist families in need by providing a safe, home-like setting for children until they are reunited with family or achieve independence.

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          Since our inception, our ride has taken on added meaning.  Every fallen officer since the time of Calvin’s death will be remembered during this year’s, and all future rides.  Hospitals and Emergency Response Personnel in Haywood, Jackson and Swain counties receive the smaller stuffed animals donated by the 40^th District Masonic Lodges and the participants of the ride for children involved in emergency situations.  Larger toys collected are distributed to Christian Ministries in the above mentioned counties to be given to needy children.

        The Masonic Lodges of Western North Carolina, in cooperation with the North Carolina Highway Patrol and other local Law Enforcement Agencies, are proud to host this event, and would like to ask for your support. The monetary contributions will be given to the Masonic Home for Children at Oxford, NC. The Calvin E. Taylor Scholarship Fund also benefits from these contributions. Other contributions are utilized for the day of the ride: food, drinks and dessert are provided for 700 to 1000 participants free of charge

         Contributions, either items donated or monetary gifts, are greatly appreciated.  Individual or business contributions of $100 or more become Official Sponsors, and will be included in all flyers, signs and on the Calvin E. Taylor Official Sponsors on this website in recognition of their support.