Masonry is one of the world’s oldest and most famous fraternal organizations. It has a long and rich history, with its roots stretching back to the Middle Ages. Masonry has been a part of many cultures and societies throughout the centuries, and it is still active today. Masonry stands for brotherhood and moral principles, which have been embraced by millions of people around the world. This article will explore the history of masonry, its core values, and some of its most famous members. Masonry (also known as Freemasonry) is an ancient and influential fraternity with a long, storied history. Throughout the centuries, many famous men have been associated with the fraternity, from world leaders to entertainers. Here are some notable Masons throughout history:
1. George Washington – Known as the Father of the United States, Washington was a Mason from his initiation in Fredericksburg Lodge No. 4 in 1752 until his death in 1799. He was also part of Alexandria-Washington Lodge No. 22 and he presided over both lodges for a time.
2. Benjamin Franklin – One of America’s Founding Fathers, Franklin was initiated into Lodge St. John at Philadelphia in 1731 and rose to Master Mason in 1734. He was also an active leader in numerous Masonic organizations and wrote extensively about Freemasonry during his lifetime.
3. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart – This great composer was initiated into Zur Wohltätigkeit Lodge in Vienna in 1784 and is credited with writing several Masonic works including “The Magic Flute” and “The Masonic Funeral Music” among others.
4. Mark Twain – Twain was initiated into Polar Star Lodge No 79 at St Louis, Missouri in 1861 and remained an active member for many years afterwards.
5. Sir Winston Churchill – The Prime Minister of Britain during World War II was initiated into Studholme Lodge No 1591 at London on May 24th, 1901 and went on to become an active member throughout his life.
Famous Freemasons in Politics
Freemasonry has had a long and significant impact on politics, from the 18th century when Masonic lodges first began to spread across Europe and the American colonies, to more recent times. Throughout history, many notable figures have been Freemasons, including presidents, prime ministers, political leaders and other influential people. Some of the most famous Freemasons in politics include George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Theodore Roosevelt, Winston Churchill and Nelson Mandela.
George Washington was an American statesman who served as the first President of the United States from 1789 to 1797. He was also a prominent Freemason who was a member of Alexandria Lodge No. 22 in Virginia. He was also one of the founding members of Federal Lodge No. 1 in New York City and even served as Master of his lodge at one point.
Benjamin Franklin was an American inventor, scientist and statesman who played an instrumental role in securing independence for the United States during the Revolutionary War. He was also a prominent Mason and was a founding member of St John’s Lodge No. 1 in Philadelphia. In addition to serving as Grand Master of Pennsylvania’s Grand Lodge for two years he also helped to found The American Philosophical Society which is still active today.
Theodore Roosevelt was an American statesman who served as the 26th President of the United States from 1901 until 1909. He was a member of Matinecock Lodge No 806 in Oyster Bay on Long Island which he joined in 1901 while he was president-elect. He even wrote extensively about his involvement with Freemasonry stating that “it is a good thing for any man to be a Mason”.
Winston Churchill was Prime Minister of Britain during World War II and widely regarded as one of the greatest leaders in history. Although he may not have been formally initiated into Masonic lodges until later on in life he maintained strong ties with Freemasonry throughout his life with several memberships including Studholme Alliance No 1512, Jerusalem Chapter No 197 and Royal Alpha Lodge 1612 among others.
Nelson Mandela is widely revered as one of the most important figures in modern history due to his role in leading South Africa out of apartheid and helping bring democracy to its people. Although it is not widely known he too had ties to Freemasonry having joined Scottish Rite masonry at some point during his lifetime although it is uncertain if this occurred before or after his imprisonment on Robben Island for 27 years due to his political activism against apartheid.
I
Famous Freemasons in Music
Freemasonry has had a long and deep relationship with music, and many of the world’s greatest composers, songwriters, and performers have been Masons. From the classical music of Mozart and Beethoven to the rock-and-roll of Elvis Presley and The Beatles, Freemasonry has been seen as an integral part of musical history. Here are some of the most famous Freemasons in music:
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was an Austrian composer and a Mason who is widely regarded as one of the greatest composers of all time. He was initiated into Lodge Zur Wohltätigkeit in Vienna in 1784.
Ludwig van Beethoven was also an Austrian composer who is considered by many to be one of the greatest composers ever. He was initiated into Lodge Zu den drei Palmen in Vienna in 1798.
Giuseppe Verdi was an Italian composer and a Mason. He was initiated into the Masonic Lodge La Concordia in 1865 and eventually became its Grand Master.
Johannes Brahms was a German composer who is considered one of the greatest Romantic era composers. He was a member of Lodge Zur Einigkeit und Harmonie zu den drei Ringen in Hamburg from 1856-1865.
Elvis Presley, one of the most iconic figures in 20th century popular culture, was also a Mason. He joined The Metropolitan Lodge No. 197 in Memphis Tennessee in 1964, eventually becoming a 33rd degree Scottish Rite Mason.
The Beatles were all members of Lodge Royal Alpha No 2297 in London during their heyday, with John Lennon being initiated into the lodge on October 18th 1964 and Paul McCartney joining on August 18th 1966. They were all made honorary members of The Grand Lodge Of Tennessee upon their first visit to America in 1964 as well.
These are some of the most famous Freemasons in music who have helped shape modern musical culture throughout history. Their contributions to music can still be felt today and will continue to influence musicians for generations to come.
Famous Freemasons in the Arts
Freemasonry has had a great influence on the arts for centuries. From the early 18th century, it has been associated with many of the greatest minds in literature, music, painting, and other creative fields. Famous Freemasons in the arts include composers Mozart and Haydn, American painters John Singleton Copley and Thomas Cole, British poet William Blake, and French poet Victor Hugo. Mozart was initiated into Freemasonry in 1784 and wrote several Masonic works throughout his career. Haydn was a member of a Viennese lodge from 1785 to 1802. Copley was initiated into Freemasonry in 1772 and became a Master Mason in 1777. Cole was initiated into Freemasonry in 1819 and created many paintings that incorporated Masonic symbolism. Blake was initiated into Freemasonry in 1799. Victor Hugo was initiated into Freemasonry in 1841 and wrote several poems about it.
Many other prominent figures from the worlds of art, literature, music, theatre, cinema, television, radio, architecture have been linked to freemasonry over the years including Ernest Hemingway, Walt Disney, Eddie Murphy and Henry Ford. All of these individuals have had an influence on their respective art forms that can be attributed to their involvement with freemasonry. Hemingway’s works often contain references to freemason ideals such as honour and integrity while Disney’s films often explore themes related to brotherhood which are important concepts within the masonic world view. Eddie Murphy is an active member of a Los Angeles masonic lodge while Henry Ford is said to have been a 33rd degree mason as well as one of America’s greatest industrialists.
The influence that these famous freemasons have had on their respective art forms is undeniable. They are proof that by uniting under shared principles such as honour and integrity one can create works that will stand the test of time for generations to come. It is this sort of dedication to excellence that has kept freemasonry relevant for centuries and will continue to ensure its relevance for many more years to come.
Influential Masons in Literature
Masonic symbols, references and characters have been featured in some of the greatest works of literature. Throughout history, Freemasonry has been a source of inspiration for many authors and poets. From William Shakespeare to Jules Verne, many influential authors have featured Masonic elements in their writings. Here are some of the most prominent authors who have used Masonic themes and symbols in their works:
William Shakespeare: The Bard’s works often feature Masonic themes and ideas. His plays contain numerous references to Masonic symbols such as the square and compass, as well as oblique allusions to the fraternity itself. For instance, his play The Merchant of Venice includes references to “the secret signs of masonry” and “the mysteries of Heredom”.
Jules Verne: This renowned French author is well known for his science fiction stories. He was also a member of Lodge Les Neuf Sœurs in Paris, which has been credited with inspiring his writing. In his novel Around the World in Eighty Days, Verne includes several Masonic references including a character called “the Grand Master Mason” who is an important figure in the story.
Herman Melville: Herman Melville was an American novelist who wrote Moby Dick, one of the greatest novels ever written. He was also a Freemason and included several references to Masonry throughout his work. For instance, one character wears a blue sash with Masonic symbols on it while another character makes reference to “Brotherhood” during a conversation between two characters.
These are just some of the most influential Masons in literature who have used Masonic themes and symbols in their works throughout history. It is clear that Freemasonry has been an inspiration for many authors over time and continues to be today!
Prominent Freemasons in Sports
The world of sports has long been associated with Freemasonry. Numerous athletes, coaches, and team owners have been members of the fraternity over the years. Some of the most famous and prominent Freemasons in sports include baseball legend Babe Ruth, basketball great Michael Jordan, football star Tom Brady, and hockey superstar Wayne Gretzky.
Babe Ruth was one of the most iconic figures in baseball history. He was also an active member of Freemasonry and achieved the status of a Master Mason in 1925. He is remembered for his record-breaking home runs and his role in popularizing the sport during its golden age.
Michael Jordan is considered by many to be the greatest basketball player of all time. His six championship rings with the Chicago Bulls are evidence enough for such a claim. He has also been a member of Freemasonry since 1995.
Tom Brady is one of the most successful quarterbacks in NFL history and a six-time Super Bowl champion with the New England Patriots. He is also an active member of Freemasonry, having joined in 2005.
Wayne Gretzky is widely regarded as one of hockey’s greatest players ever and holds numerous NHL records for goals, assists, and points scored during his storied career with Edmonton Oilers and Los Angeles Kings. He became a Mason back in 2012 at Masonic Lodge No. 1 in Toronto, Canada.
These are just some examples of prominent Freemasons who have made their mark on sports history over the years. There are many other athletes, coaches, owners, broadcasters, referees, and other personnel who have been part of this great fraternity throughout its long history.
Renowned Freemasons in Science and Technology
Freemasonry has been part of the scientific and technological landscape since its inception. It has produced some of the most renowned scientists and inventors in history. From Isaac Newton to Benjamin Franklin, many well-known men have been part of this fraternity. In recent years, Freemasons have made significant contributions to science and technology, with some rising to the highest levels of achievement within their respective fields. Here are just a few examples of Freemasons who have made a lasting impact on the world of science and technology.
Sir Alexander Fleming was a Scottish biologist, pharmacologist, and botanist who was also a Freemason. He is best known for his discovery of penicillin, which revolutionized medicine and saved millions of lives. As his career progressed, he was knighted by King George VI for his work in research medicine and was recognized as a member of various scientific societies including the Royal Society of London.
Another notable Freemason in science is Sir Francis Crick, who won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for his discovery of the structure of DNA alongside James Watson. Crick was an English molecular biologist who worked at Cambridge University during his career. He was also deeply involved with Freemasonry throughout his life, joining various lodges during his time as a scientist and later becoming an honorary member in his retirement years.
The renowned inventor Thomas Edison was also a Freemason, joining Bethel Lodge No 1 in New Jersey in 1868 aged 21. During his lifetime he patented over 1,000 inventions including the phonograph and lightbulb that changed history forever. He championed direct current electricity distribution rather than alternating current favored by rival George Westinghouse but ultimately lost out to Westinghouse’s superior AC system which is still used today.
The American physicist J Robert Oppenheimer is another prominent figure in science who was also a Mason. He led The Manhattan Project – responsible for creating the first atomic bomb – during World War II and played an important role in postwar nuclear policy development as Chairman of the General Advisory Committee at Atomic Energy Commission from 1947-1952 . Later on he became more deeply involved with Masonic organizations eventually becoming Grand Master Pro-Tem for The Grand Lodge Of New Mexico in 1965 until 1966 when he passed away from throat cancer.
These are just a few examples that demonstrate how Freemasonry has had an influence on some great scientists throughout history. From inventors to Nobel Prize winners, these men have all made significant contributions to science that will be remembered for generations to come.
Distinguished Freemasons from the Military and Civil Service
Freemasonry has a long history of members from distinguished backgrounds in the military and civil service. Many of these members have been influential figures in their respective fields, and have contributed greatly to society. Notable Freemasons from the military include General Douglas MacArthur, General George Patton, Admiral Chester Nimitz, and General Dwight Eisenhower. All four of these men were highly decorated for their service during World War II, and are widely respected for their leadership skills and bravery in battle.
In the civil service, many prominent Freemasons have held important positions. John Quincy Adams was the sixth President of the United States, while Henry Clay served as a US Senator from Kentucky and Secretary of State under President John Tyler. Other notable Freemasons include Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, James Madison, Thomas Jefferson, Alexander Hamilton, and John Hancock.
The contributions of these men to society are still felt today. Their commitment to justice and equality helped shape our modern world, with many laws and regulations coming into effect as a result of their efforts. They also worked to promote religious tolerance throughout society as well as education reform across the country.
Freemasonry is an organization that has been around for centuries and has been responsible for cultivating some of the greatest minds in our country’s history. The distinguished Freemasons discussed here are just a few examples of those who have made an incredible impact on our society and its development over time.
Last Thoughts
The Most Famous Masons throughout history have been some of the most influential people in their respective fields. From scientists and politicians to authors and musicians, Freemasonry has touched the lives of many people who have shaped our world. Although Freemasonry is shrouded in mystery, these iconic figures demonstrate that its principles are based on the fundamental values of humanity such as equality, justice and brotherly love.
Masonry has also provided a platform for individuals to express themselves creatively, and this can clearly be seen in the works of some of its most famous members. It is this idea of freedom and self-expression that continues to attract people to Freemasonry today. While there will always be debate about the purpose and meaning of Freemasonry, these famous Masons illustrate how it has been an important part of history.
Your local lodge is your resource to understanding what is freemasonry?.