Inside the Masons
The fraternal order has long been the target of conspiracy theories and hoaxes. Here's the real story.
From that pinnacle, the order has slowly lost more than half its members. To more and more Americans who spend their leisure in private pursuits--including heavy TV viewing--the monthly meetings and volunteer commitments of fraternal life seem too much. But in recent years, says Morris, the rate of decline has stabilized. Historian Moore suggests a reason: "A lot of men are joining at retirement age." With the rapid graying of the U.S. population, the lodges may begin to fill with people who have more spare time than most working Americans do. And who knows? Those aging boomers might even figure out how to bring younger Americans back into the craft.
In 1882, England's Puck magazine depicted the Masons as apron-clad buffoons.
Masons raise a glass to their lips, drink a toast, then slam the heavy-bottomed vessel down to mimic the sound of cannons.
Every Freemason has an apron--a stylized contemporary version of the stonemason's utilitarian garb.
The Order of Odd Fellows, like the Freemasons, is a fraternal society whose members are committed to good works.
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Reader Comments
Masonry in General
All masonic lodges are governed by a grand lodges. There is a Grand Lodge in every state of the Union. I urge all of you to contact your grand lodge, with any questions you may have. Many lodges host a public information night. They have a short program and then welcome questions from the community. Research Scottish Rite Masons and York Rite Masons, you will be amazed at what you find out. Learn all you can. Good Luck
To: V. Beckerle of AL
If you were a Rainbow and you are familiar with the Eastern Star, then you know very well that Freemasonry is a male, fraternal organization.
There are ways for women to be involved with Masonic organizations (such as the ES), but you cannot receive the three degrees of Freemasonry.
Please spare us the sexist argument. There have always been male and female exclusive organizations. This is nothing wrong with men and women forming organizations where they are able to socialize and form fellowship with members of their own gender.
On Becoming a Mason
I sincerely would like to become a Mason. I have several family members, all deceased now, who were Masons & Shriners. I have inquired about membership of a man I know who is a Mason. He said I could not be a member. Is that because I am a woman? My gender is a circumstance of my birth. My desire to become a Free Mason is a consequence of my education, and experience in life. As a young girl, I was a Rainbow. My Mom was an E.S. I would truly like to become a Mason and work beside fellow Masons in the tradition of the organization. Is there a place for me in the organization?
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