The Potentate’s Guard was formed on October 18, 1950 by Jack Norman, who conceived the idea of a Shrine Unit of Arabic guards after a trip to Damascus. Making the Arabic idea even more realistic, Mr. Norman purchased authentic outfits for the Unit.
The Charter Members of the Potentate’s Guard included many notable persons:
| Ralph D. Alexander | B. J. (Jack) Boyd | Beverly C. Briley |
| H. Stokes Cagle | Walter D. Clark | B. C. Clouse |
| Maxie C. Collier | K. Harlan Dodson | Solomon Goldstein |
| R. A. (Gus) Griffin | C. E. Harlan | Porter F. Harlan |
| Coleman Hayes | Victor H. Link | W. Frierson Manning |
| H. W. McMenaway | Frank E. Neal | Hilry H. Shaffer |
| J. Tinsley Smith | Spencer (Jack) Waddell | James J. White |
| J. Kellis Winters |
The Potentate’s Guard served as symbolic “guards” of the Potentate of Al Menah Temple during ceremonies, parades, and other activities. In addition, the Unit maintained the Potentate’s Float and transported it to locations throughout Middle Tennessee and to numerous sites across the country to attend Imperial Shrine sessions. Prior to the use of a float in parades, the Potentate’s Guard would walk beside convertibles that the Potentate and his Divan were riding.
With the occurrence of the events of 9/11, the Potentate’s Guard elected to not wear the Arabic uniforms and now have a dress uniform that is worn to events.
The Potentate’s Guard is rich in the history of Al Menah Shriners and its members have contributed unselfishly to Al Menah, its activities, and the annual Shrine Paper Sale.
Large Float – SESA 2003
Big Float at Night – Nashville Christmas Parade 2005