how being a Mason saved a Wilkerson

William's #1, Mason died in Amarillo, Texas. He was married and had one daughter.

He is listed in Masonic records as a member in 1858, 1859, 1865, 1866, and in 1867.
His membership in the Masons saved his life during the Civil War. He was a prisoner and was scheduled to be executed--with two others--by U.S. soldiers. The three faced the firing squad. Mason, in desperation, made the distress sign (used only by Masons) and the Commanding Officer said "Take the man out." It was done and the other two were then shot.