Last updated 1 year ago
The Freemason Grand Lodge of Massachusetts has celebrated fraternity in Boston since the 19th century. Explore the architecture of this magnificent structure to learn more about our nation’s history.
- Exterior Features: The breathtaking exterior of the Grand Lodge in Boston evokes Freemasonry’s stoneworker past. Clean columns are adorned with traditional Masonic emblems. A set of eye-catching mosaic murals represent the key principals of Freemasonry. These beautiful art pieces were created by the Smalti Glass Mosaic Company in Italy. The imported glass was installed by architect and mason Worshipful Master Dr. Arland A. Dirlam. This 1967 renovation installed a visual montage of Masonic values on the building’s western wall. The use of sun symbols represents the Masonic dedication to wisdom and spiritual understanding, while the depiction of working tools reflects the dutiful labors of mankind.
- Interior Design: The grand lodge lobby features plush furniture, intricate chandeliers, and an immaculate mix of wood and marble. The Samuel Crocker Lawrence library centers on a stunning wooden relief over a mosaic fireplace. This room also features a number of hand-carved wooden columns. The Ionic, Corinthian, and Gothic Halls pay eponymous tribute to their architectural namesakes. Each hall features countless architectural features that defined each era.
- Lodge History: The first Grand Lodge of Massachusetts building was purchased in 1859. A fire eradicated the lodge in 1864. This flame paved the way for the gorgeous Gothic replacement erected in 1867. Another fire consumed the second Grand Lodge of Massachusetts in 1896. The third and current incarnation of the Grand Lodge was built in the same location. Construction of the modern Grand Lodge of Massachusetts was completed in 1899. The Grand Lodge continues to celebrate centuries of American history with a comprehensive museum of literature and artifacts.
Freemason members have included our Founding Fathers and famous professional athletes. Learn how you can be included in our ranks of fellowship by contacting Massachusetts Freemasonry at (857) 233-0563.
Last updated 1 year ago
The Masons of Massachusetts represent fraternity and charity at its best. This video from Grand Master M.W. Jefferey Hodgdon explains the basics of what it means to be a Mason.
Mr. Hodgdon begins by describing the organization and its principals. Viewers learn more about the history of the Masons, their most celebrated members, and benefits of joining the fraternity. Mr. Hodgdon also touches on the inclusivity of Freemasonry.
Men can experience true fellowship and brotherhood with the Freemasons. A dedication to justice and courtesy calls those ready to serve their community as Masons. Call (857) 233-0563 for more information about Massachusetts Freemasonry membership and our history.
Last updated 1 year ago
The Fraternal Order of Freemasons is well known for its generosity and grace. Review our recent philanthropic efforts to learn more about the Freemason culture of giving.
- Principals of Giving: Giving back to the community is an integral component of the Mason mission. Each member of the Freemason fraternity is encouraged to serve his community on a regular basis. Mason author William Preston describes the charitable duty of fellow Masons in Illustrations of Masonry. Preston expands on the Masonic responsibilities “to soothe the unhappy, to sympathize with their misfortunes, to compassionate their miseries, and to restore peace in their troubled minds…” These principals are put into practice by local Mason lodges in every state.
- Local Contributions: The Freemasons spent 2011 assisting American communities nationwide. June 23 marked a life-changing donation by Ohio Freemasons. Grand Master James M. Williamson presented the Ohio Special Olympics with a donation of $140,000. The organization has donated over $2 million to the Ohio Special Olympics in the past two decades. The Oklahoma Masonic Charity Foundation demonstrated its commitment to its senior community with a $750,000 donation to the Association of Area Agencies on Aging. Massachusetts Mason members from the Danvers Masonic Temple helped underprivileged kids enjoy a truly unforgettable Christmas.
- Worldwide Service: The world-renowned Freemason fraternity originated in the United Kingdom. Freemason generosity extends to international communities as well. The Freemasons’ Grand Charity has donated over $200 million in grants to charitable organizations worldwide since the 1980s. These international grants focus on medical research, airborne medical resources, youth programs, and natural disaster relief. Funds raised by the Freemasons’ Grand Charity are also used to support Freemason families experiencing financial hardship.
Prospective philanthropists can join the Massachusetts Freemasonry for more opportunities to give back. Men interested in developing fellowship and giving back to their communities should contact our offices at (857) 233-0563.
Last updated 1 year ago
Freemason Lodge Rooms are typically beautiful rooms modeled after King Solomon’s Temple as described in the bible. But, there is more to the room than simple, historic elegance. The strong tradition of Freemasonry is exemplified within each Lodge Room.
- The Lodge Room is always set lengthwise from West to East with the presiding officer, or Worshipful Master, sitting in the East. The Worshipful Master sits in the East because it is a metaphor for spreading knowledge as the Sun does light each day when it rises.
- The Senior Warden sits in the West along with the Junior Deacon and Inside Sentinel. The Senior Warden helps the Worshipful Master with the opening and closing of the lodge as the Sun does when it sets in the West.
- The Junior Warden sits in the South, where the Sun would be at its highest point in the day. The Junior Warden represents the Sun at noon, so it is he that calls the craft in from labor to refreshment and back to labor once the break has finished.
- The North side of the Lodge Room is taught to be a place of darkness for Masons. Though brethren will occupy the North side of the room to view proceedings, no one of rank is to reside on the northern end of the lodge.
- Outside of the room is the Tyler station, where a Mason is positioned to keep away potential eavesdroppers.
- The secretary and treasurer sit on either side of the Worshipful Master, but directly to his left sits the Chaplain who conducts all prayers for the lodge.
- The focal point of every Lodge meeting is the altar. It is where a new brother takes his vows and becomes a Freemason. Upon the altar rests the Holy Bible, a square, and a compass. These three things represent Freemason philosophy.
If you’re interested in learning more about Freemasonry then visit the website for The Grand Lodge of Masons in Massachusetts. Or, if you’re in the area, call (857) 233-0563.
