WHAT'S  IN  A  NAME?

Origins of Brand Names

 Throughout the early centuries, most products were sold without "brand names". Producers and middlemen sold their goods directly out of barrels, bins, and cases, without any supplier identification. The earliest signs of identifying goods were a result of the efforts of medieval guilds, such as the Masons. Craftsmen put trademarks on their products to protect themselves and their customers against inferior quality.

 After the Civil War, with the growth of national firms and advertising media, giving a product a "brand name" became an important aspect in the selling of the product. Some of the earliest brand promoters in the United States were the patent-medicine makers. Some of the early "brand names" still survive today, such as Borden's Condensed Milk, Quaker Oaks, and Ivory Soap.

 The choice of a name was, and still is, a critical decision because the name affects the customer's image and attitude toward the product or institution, and, thus, affects purchase decisions. An institution name could very well be a major factor in making it successful and enduring. Marketers consider a variety of issues when selecting a "brand name". The name should be easy to say, spell, and recall. It should allude to the product's uses, benefits, or special characteristics in a positive way. Negative or offensive references should be avoided.

Origins of The Home for Aged Masons

 The Home was established in 1907, in Arlington, Texas. A new century had begun, and Masons, like the rest of society, were involved in the growth of the industrial age. We know that during this period of time, Americans had not dreamed of what lay ahead for future generations. They had no way of knowing that subsidy programs enacted by our federal and state governments, with names like Social Security Aid to Dependent Children, Disability Insurance, Workers' Compensation, etc., would become part of our society. So when the Texas Royal Arch Masons established a benevolent "home", the name "Home for Aged Masons" was most appropriate. The "home" included a farm with livestock, a hospital, and other amenities needed for the times.

So, What's in a Name?

EVERYTHING! Does the name "Home for Aged Masons" really describe a facility that is prepared to enter a new millennium? NO! That is why the "Home for Aged Masons" is now named the TEXAS MASONIC RETIREMENT CENTER.

Times have changed, names have changed in our society and at TMRC. We are an aging population with increased wealth, particularly among the "baby boomers". This has allowed us to retire earlier than our forefathers. Many of us, still in good health, are choosing to live in retirement communities because of the comfort, security, and quality of life that is offered there.

A New Name, A New Millennium

Have you visited the Texas Masonic Retirement Center lately? Covering 100 acres, TMRC exists with a mixture of the old and the new. The stepping stones of tradition have led us into the new millennium where we will continue to "change with the times". Neither the hospital nor the farm exist today, but new cottages and duplexes will replace them. Over 170 residents representing varying ages, physical limitations, and backgrounds reside at TMRC.

The "home" no longer only serves the original need for which it was established. It has continued to evolve and progress to meet the increasing demands of a changing society and fraternity. TMRC has evolved from a "home" to a Masonic family retirement community which meets the needs of our more independent lifestyles.

Thus, a new name, a new lifestyle, a new millennium are now emerging from the campus of TMRC. We extend to you an invitation to visit the Texas Masonic Retirement Center located at 1501 W. Division Street, Arlington, Texas 76012.