History

History

In the Middle Ages, the terms "mason" and "freemason" were used interchangeably. They were stonemasons who built castles and cathedrals in England and Scotland. Because of the inherent danger of their work, many stonemasons formed local organizations, called lodges, to take care of sick and injured members as well as the widows and orphans of those who were killed on the job. The masons also used Lodges as places to meet, receive their pay, plan their work, train new apprentices, and socialize.

In 1717, the first Grand Lodge was established in London. Within the next two decades, English Freemasonry spread throughout Europe and eventually made its way to the American colonies. The first lodge organized on American soil appeared in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania around 1730. By 1733 a Provincial Grand Lodge was organized in Boston, Massachusetts. George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, John Hancock, and other founding fathers were among the first Masons in America. Of the 39 men who signed the U.S. Constitution, 13 were Masons.

Our Masonic Mission

Masonry is the world's first and largest fraternal organization. It is a body of knowledge and a system of ethics based on the belief that each man has a responsibility to improve himself while being devoted to his family, faith, country, and fraternity.

As Masons, we lead by example, give back to our communities, and support numerous Masonic philanthropies. We invest in children, our neighborhoods, and our future.

• Ethics
  Our lives are based on honor and integrity, and we believe that honesty, compassion, trust, and knowledge are important.

• Tolerance
  The fraternity values religious, ethnic, cultural, social, and educational differences.  We respect the opinions of others and strive to improve and develop as human beings. 
  
  

• Philanthropy
  We make a difference in our communities through charitable giving, community service, and voluntarism. Brothers demonstrate successful and harmonious living by their actions in their family, in their community and at work. 

• Family
  We strive to be better spouses, parents, and family members and are committed to protecting the well being of members and their families, especially when they are in need. 

• Freedom
  Masons value the liberties outlined in the U.S. Constitution and continually promote freedom of speech and expression, freedom to worship a Supreme Being in an individual way, and other important liberties. We believe it is our duty to vote in public elections and to exercise all of our liberties within due and proper bounds.

• Personal growth
  Our continuous pursuit of knowledge, ethics, spirituality, and leadership brings more meaning to our lives.