No one knows. Freemasonry was not created at a given moment, or even in a single day, month or year. It is a growth whose roots extend in many directions, often beyond historical record. It is believed to have evolved, possible by way of the Egyptian Mysteries, down to modern times through various organizations.

The first known printed mention of Masonry is in a poem, now known as the Halliwell Manuscript or Regius Poem, written about 1390 A.D. We also know that many Masonic symbols came from groups or organizations of medieval times.

Modern or Speculative Freemasonry, as we know it today, evolved from the premier Grand Lodge of the world, which was organized in London in 1717.

Untold volumes have been written concerning this question of Masonic origin, and much has found its way into print that is pure fancy and with no basis of fact. The earnest Masonic student is therefore cautioned against placing credence in anything that purports to establish a definite place, date, or even a specific era, as the beginning of Freemasonry.

The Fraternity as an Operative Craft is old—very old. Beyond that fact we cannot go with assurance; but its honorable record of noble and distinctive service to mankind for centuries—longer by far than any fraternal Order now extant—is beyond dispute and may be a source of infinite pride to every Craftsman.

Why are Masons said to be “Free and Accepted”?

Masons are “Free and Accepted” for reasons to be found in the early history of Freemasonry, which you are encouraged to study with diligence.

Our early forbearers were skilled artisans—so skilled, in fact, that their work was essential to the welfare of Church and State, and the progress of their day. Although the lives and labors of most workmen were encircled by restrictions of many kinds, these expert craftsmen were exempt from the heavy hand of autocratic power—”free” to pursue their labors and live their lives in a manner consistent with their skills. They were “free” from many things which made burdensome the lives of common workmen.

In a social sense, too, they were “free” men—not bound, not in captivity; and it has long been an established custom that only men who are “free born and of lawful age” can become members of our Fraternity.

The word “accepted” also carries a special meaning. During the late years of operative Masonry, education or “learning” was difficult to get. Association with learned men was almost impossible outside the Church. Thus many thoughtful men sought membership among the Freemasons of their day—not with the idea of practicing Operative Masonry, but to partake of the learning to be had from such an association. A place was made for these men by taking them into the Craft as “accepted” Masons—members who also desired to receive something from the Lodge, but distinguished from the operative Freemasons by the title “accepted.” They were Speculative Masons.

As the operative Craft waned, the number of “accepted” or speculative members grew in proportion until finally, early in the 18th Century, the Fraternity became wholly speculative.

We recently had the pleasure of welcoming several Brethren from Hebron Lodge #575 F. & A.M. in Mercer, Pennsylvania to Niles McKinley Lodge. Arrangements for ongoing visitations between our two lodges are being made.

Is Freemasonry a secret society?

Freemasonry is not a secret society; rather it is a society with secrets.

A secret society, among other things, meets in a secret place, unknown to the general public; its membership is secret and nothing is publicly known concerning its aims; principles and organization.

Masonic Lodges usually occupy a prominent location in the community and their Temples customarily are identified by a display of one or more well known Masonic emblems. Anyone may see who enters or leaves a Masonic Temple; and most members of the Craft wear Masonic insignia somewhere on their person where all may see that they hold membership in the Fraternity.

Masonic principles, ideals, philosophy and purposes may be known to any one who desires to make inquiry, or to read about them in the multitude of books available to any man, woman or child—and they are often discussed in public notices. The organization of the various Masonic bodies also is a matter of common knowledge. Its leaders, and usually the great majority of its membership, are known and respected by all who endorse men of high purpose.

The only secrets of Freemasonry are its methods of recognition—to protect it against intruders and imposters—and its system of symbolic instruction. However, this does not mean that the internal affairs of a lodge may be discussed promiscuously by its members outside of the Temple, particularly in the presence of non-Masons. In those matters which affect the business of his Lodge—and that means all business—silence and circumspection are strictly enjoined on all Masons. The internal affairs of a lodge are private and should be so treated by every member—just as he would treat private affairs of his own family.

What subjects are barred from discussion in a Masonic Temple?

First, it is well to constantly bear in mind that Masons, when meeting as such, are always on a common level. There is no distinction of worldly position, class, race or creed. Every Mason is entitled to his own thoughts and beliefs, according to the dictates of his own conscience—as long as he believes in one Supreme Being and conforms to the laws and usages of the Fraternity. King, prince and potentate—or the President—in a Masonic Lodge, meets with other men on a common footing and without social distinction; for here each stands before his Creator as a man, nothing more and nothing less!

Freemasonry seeks to unite men—not separate them. Therefore any subject is barred from discussion in a Masonic Temple which might create friction or contention between men who are otherwise favorably disposed toward each other. This applies with particular force to discussion concerning any specific religion, and also to politics.

This does not mean that there can be no differences of opinion, or arguments or debate, about legitimate Lodge business or other matters which affect the Lodge’s welfare. Such discussion is wholesome and progressive, as long as it is confined to good taste and a genuine tolerance for the opinions of others. In all legitimate debates, however, it is maxim that peace and harmony must prevail. Therefore, when the Lodge has “spoken,” either by a secret ballot or a show of hands, from that instant on the decision of the Lodge must be accepted by all, even those who may have voted “nay”—except in cases where legal appeal is permitted.

Is Freemasonry a religion?

No—definitely not!—although it is deeply religious in many of its aspects. While affiliation with a church or synagogue is not a prerequisite for membership, a large majority of Masons do belong to the church of their choice.

The Fraternity never has been a part of any organized religion. It has no religious dogma, and seeks only to unify men of every sect, creed and opinion within its ranks.

Since Freemasonry is not a religion, no Mason can conscientiously substitute his belief in and loyalty to the Fraternity for the church of his choice. If he attends no church, that is strictly his own affair; but if he thinks or says that “Masonry is his religion,” he knows neither the character of religion nor of Masonry.

Why can’t an atheist become a Freemason?

An atheist denies the existence of a Supreme Being. This is directly contrary to a fundamental Landmark of Freemasonry, and also to a primary requisite for admission to the Fraternity.

The Code of the Grand Lodge of Ohio, Sec. 25.01 states that a petitioner for the three degrees of a Lodge shall: . . . “3. be able to respond of his own accord, at his reception into the Lodge, that, in times of difficulties and danger, he trusts in God. If the candidate does not respond, he shall be conducted from the Lodge.” Belief in one God is required of every initiate, but his conception of the Supreme Being is left to his own interpretation. Freemasonry is not concerned with theological distinctions. This is the basis of our universality.

Do Freemasons meddle in politics?

No! - not as Freemasons—for to do so in the name of the Fraternity, or as a member thereof, not only would be contrary to our rules and regulations but also would nullify one of Freemasonry's basic objectives—to unite men of every country, sect and opinion.

However, as a citizen of his country, state and nation, every Mason is urged to perform his civic duties through all possible channels of expression. He is not barred from participation in politics as a citizen—only as a Mason. Many prominent politicians and statesmen of the present and past are and have been members and staunch supporters of our ancient Craft.

Why have Freemasons been persecuted in totalitarian countries?

Communism, Fascism, and all so-called subversive “isms” breed and thrive on darkness and ignorance. Freemasons say, above all else, “Let there be Light!” The dictator, as such, must have control of every phase of the lives of his people, else he can not be a “dictator.” Freemasons believe inherently in freedom and democracy. Therefore they can do naught but oppose a dictatorship—and dictators will tolerate no opposition, as history has amply proved. Thus Freemasonry and Communism, Fascism, etc., cannot exist.

The Grand Lodge of Ohio states in its Code, Sec. 11.04, “Any Mason who is a member of, or espouses the cause of a Communistic or other organization advocating the overthrow of the government of the United States by force or other illegal means, shall, upon Masonic trial and conviction thereof, be expelled.”

“Such membership, allegiance, or espousal, shall be disqualification for initiation in or affiliation with a Lodge of Master Masons.”

Masonry abhors Communism as being repugnant to its conception of the dignity of the individual personality, destructive of the basic human rights which are the Divine heritage of all men, and hostile to the fundamental Masonic tenet of faith in God.

What constitutes Masonic Charity?

The very form of a Lodge, as you have learned, is limited only by the vastness of the universe. Masonic Charity should be equally extensive and this refers to Charity in its broadest sense. Therefore, one of the basic tenets of a Mason’s profession is Relief.

What does and does not constitute Masonic Charity is explained in detail on pages 12 and 13 of the candidate’s instruction booklet, The Entered Apprentice Degree.

The Masonic Home at Springfield, Ohio, maintained and supported by the Craft of this State, represents the great heart of Ohio’s Masonry. A Brother should lose no time in becoming acquainted with this magnificent, living example of Masonic benevolence. He is urged to study carefully page 15 of his booklet, The Master Mason Degree, and to visit the Ohio Masonic Home at the earliest opportunity.

But our Masonic Home is by no means the end of Masonic Charity. True, it is one very important means to an end—for here, as Masons, we collectively extend Masonic benevolence on a scale which far surpasses our abilities as separate individuals or Lodges. The Masonic Home is thus an outstanding example of what can be accomplished when many thousands of individuals each contribute a modest sum (the per capita fee and individual donations) to create a very substantial fund which is impartially administered for a common cause.

Yet, payment of the Home per capita does not absolve a Mason or a Lodge from the further practice of Masonic Charity wherever and whenever it may be needed, within the terms of our obligations—for every Mason has solemnly promised to “aid and assist all worthy, distressed Master Masons, their widows and orphans” when they apply to him within the broad meaning of the obligation he has taken—and this applies equally to Lodges, of course. This responsibility never ceases, and it is not restricted within tangible boundaries. Thus Masonic Charity actually is, or should be, as boundless as the universe.

The Mason who understands this fully and practices Charity in its broadest sense in his daily life—thereby discharging his Masonic obligation—soon discovers why Charity has been called “the greatest of these;” and his reward is that inward peace which surpasses all understanding.

What are the qualifications of a petitioner for Masonry?

Masonic lodges in Ohio are prohibited from initiating any candidate:

Who is not able to respond of his own accord a declaration of his belief in a Deity.

Who is under 19 years of age.

Who is not able to read and write the English language.

In addition, the Code of the Grand Lodge of Ohio prohibits membership to anyone who refuses to conform to any part of the authorized ceremonies; who has not had an actual legal residence in the Jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Ohio for at least one year. (Provisions are made for armed service personnel); who is a member of, pledges allegiance to, or espouses the cause of a Communistic or other organization advocating the overthrow of the government of the United States.

Why are Masons prohibited to solicit petitioners for membership?

Every act a Mason performs, as a Mason or in the name of Masonry and throughout his entire Masonic life, is the result of his own “free will and accord.” Never is he told that he shall or shall not do anything, except as it may be implied in the Ritual or in the rules and regulations of the Fraternity, which apply to all for the common good. Coercion is a word unknown in the parlance of Freemasonry.

It follows, therefore, that even a man’s first approach to our portals must be upon the same basis—a voluntary act, unbiased by solicitation from any member. Thus he is prompted in his desire to be a Mason only by a favorable opinion of the Institution, and is unbiased by friends and not influenced by mercenary or unworthy motives. He is a “free” man, performing a “free” act; and when finally he becomes a Mason he will find that this freedom of thought and action is one of his most cherished privileges.

The Fraternity flourishes and prospers and spreads its teachings through voluntary acts and the mode of life exemplified by its members—and without argument or coercion. Thus, every Mason, by the example of his personal life and by the acts performed of his own “free will and accord,” becomes a silent but active Masonic ambassador to the world at large. Thus, and only thus, can we attract desirable men to apply for membership.

Some confusion results in the word solicitation. Chapter 34 (b) of the Code of the Grand Lodge of Ohio addresses this concern: . . . “however there is no objection to selectively identifying a man whom you believe would make a good Mason and explain that you would be proud to sponsor him for membership in a symbolic lodge. After the procedure for obtaining membership in a Masonic Lodge is explained, the potential candidate should be left to make his own decision and come of his own free will.”

What is symbolism? Why is it so important to Freemasonry?

Symbolism is the use and interpretation of symbols or emblems. Literally, a symbol is a comparison. The word symbol is derived from two Greek words meaning to throw together, to place side by side. Thus, "a symbol is a visible representation of some object or thing, real or imagined, employed to convey a certain idea."

We have no other way to express ideas than by the use of symbols. Words themselves are only symbols. When we say a man is "lion-hearted," we use symbolism. In ordinary usage, however, by symbol we mean an object which stands for an idea. The Flag is a symbol of our Country; the Cross is a symbol of Christianity; the Square is a Masonic symbol of Virtue.

Extending this conception further, ceremonies and actions may also be symbolic. The military salute is a symbol of obedience and discipline. A hearty handclasp may symbolize several ideas, friendship, faith, sympathy. Kneeling for prayer is a symbol of humility, submission, obedience - reverence.

A great Masonic scholar once said that "the symbolism of Masonry is the soul of Masonry." This becomes apparent when we realize that it is not enough merely to state ideas; they must be driven home with emphasis which not only will impress but also will be retained by the candidate's mind. So these ideas, garnered from the wisdom of the ages, are represented by symbols.

"Freemasonry is rehearsed to the candidate by the rendition of ritual, imparted to his mind by story and impressed upon the memory by symbols. By drama, story and symbol, the eye, the ear and the recollection continually enrich the mind and quicken the conscience of the thinking members of the Craft."

What is the significance of the term "Blue Lodge?"

Although the organization which confers the degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft and Master Mason commonly is called the "Blue Lodge," its correct name is "Symbolic Lodge."

How, when or why the term "Blue Lodge" originated is not known, but there have been many attempted explanations for this substitute name. One is stated by a prominent author as follows:

"The three degrees of Symbolic Masonry are clothed in or ornamented with blue, whence they are commonly known as Blue Lodge Masonry. Blue is the color of truth or fidelity; and it is a remarkable fact that the Brethren have ever remained true to the blue degrees. Under the reign of William III in England blue was adopted as the favorite color of the Craft."

"This durable and beautiful color was adopted as the peculiar characteristics of an Institution which has stood the test of ages, which is as much distinguished by the durability of its materials or principles, as by the beauty of its superstructure. It is an emblem of universal friendship and benevolence and instructs us that, in the mind of a Mason, those virtues should be expansive as the blue arch of heaven itself."

Is there any "rough stuff" or "horse play" in any of the Symbolic degrees?

None whatsoever, at any place or any time in our ceremonies. The Ritual of Freemasonry is serious in all its aspects - from first to last. There is no place for foolishness or "horse play" of any kind.

Anything contrary to the above which is told to a candidate, jokingly or otherwise, is false - and it desecrates the honorable purposes of our ancient Craft. The candidate need have no apprehension whatsoever as to the manner of his reception or his treatment in each of the degrees. From the very first he is among friends who will soon be his Brothers.

What about those "high" Masonic degrees? A man I know has gone as "high" as a Mason can go. What about it?

This question concerns a major false impression which prevails today, not only among non-Masons but also among too many members of the Craft. It is highly desirable that every Mason should understand the matter clearly, and particularly at the beginning of his Masonic career.

When you are finally made a Master Mason, you will be as "high" in Masonic stature as any Mason can go. There is no one in all of Masonry - no matter how many degrees he may have had, or how many honors may have come to him - who is "higher" than a Master Mason. This soon will be obvious to you as you learn that all Master Masons meet, under all circumstances, upon a common level.

After receiving the Master Mason degree it is possible to learn more about Masonry in one of two ways or both: (1) by diligent study, or (2) by taking other degrees which will advance your knowledge. These degrees properly may be called advanced degrees, but in no sense are they "higher."

The transition here is much the same as advancing from grade school to high school and thence to college - learning more and more about Masonry each step of the way. But in this process you gain no "higher" stature as a Mason - for the Master Mason degree is the summit of our ancient and honorable Craft.