Free & Accepted Masons of Vermont Most Worshipful

The Free & Accepted Masons of Vermont Most Worshipful, commonly known as the Grand Lodge of Vermont, is a statewide organization of Freemasons in Vermont. It oversees the activities of local Masonic lodges throughout the state, promoting fellowship, charity, and personal development among its members.

History

Freemasonry in Vermont dates back to the late 18th century. The first Masonic lodge in Vermont was chartered by the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts in 1781 for Freemasons in Cornish, New Hampshire, but initially met in Charlestown, New Hampshire[2][3]. By 1788, this lodge relocated to Springfield and was renamed Faithful Lodge. Vermont's second lodge, North Star Lodge, was chartered at Manchester in 1785 by the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts[2][3].

In 1791, Vermont became a state and an open Masonic territory, allowing Grand Lodges from neighboring jurisdictions like Massachusetts, Connecticut, and the Provincial Grand Lodge of Canada (Ontario) to warrant lodges within the state[2][3]. This led to the formation of Dorchester Lodge at Vergennes, Temple Lodge at Bennington, and Union Lodge at Middlebury[2][3].

In 1794, Freemasons from North Star, Dorchester, Temple, and other lodges convened in Manchester to draft a constitution for an independent Grand Lodge. This effort culminated on October 15, 1794, when the Grand Lodge of Vermont was officially established at Rutland[4]. Noah Smith was installed as the first Grand Master and Nathaniel Brush as the first Grand Secretary[2][3].

The Antimasonic Period

The early 19th century saw a significant challenge to Freemasonry in Vermont with the rise of the Antimasonic Party. This political movement, which emerged in response to controversies such as the Morgan Affair, led to a significant decline in Masonic membership and lodge activity. By the late 1830s, all but one lodge had ceased operations[1][2]. However, under the leadership of Grand Master Nathan B. Haswell and Deputy Grand Master Philip Tucker, the Grand Lodge of Vermont continued to meet informally, maintaining the institution until it could be formally reconstituted in 1846[1][3].

Revival and Growth

Following the reconstitution in 1846, Freemasonry in Vermont experienced a resurgence. New charters were issued to surviving lodges in 1849, and by the mid-19th century, the number of lodges began to grow significantly[2][3]. By the time the Civil War began in 1861, there were 57 active lodges, increasing to 100 by 1873[2].

Today, the Grand Lodge of Vermont continues to thrive, with over 89 lodges across the state and a membership dedicated to community service and philanthropy[4]. The organization remains committed to its core principles of brotherly love, relief, and truth, contributing to charitable causes and supporting local initiatives.

Activities and Mission

The Grand Lodge of Vermont, through its constituent lodges, engages in various charitable and educational activities. These efforts include supporting children at risk, offering scholarships, and participating in local community projects. The organization also promotes cultural and historical preservation, particularly in relation to Masonic history and tradition. The mission of the Grand Lodge is to foster personal development among its members while contributing positively to the communities of Vermont.

Governance and Structure

The Grand Lodge of Vermont operates under a hierarchical structure typical of Masonic organizations. It is governed by elected officers, including a Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, and other Grand Lodge officers who oversee the activities of subordinate lodges throughout the state. The Grand Lodge also hosts annual meetings and communications where important decisions are made regarding the direction and policies of the fraternity.