Free & Accepted Masons of Nebraska

Overview

The Free & Accepted Masons of Nebraska is a nonprofit organization that encompasses various Masonic lodges across the state. Freemasonry itself has a long history in Nebraska, dating back to the early days of the Nebraska Territory.

History of Freemasonry in Nebraska

Freemasonry arrived in Nebraska Territory with the first pioneers in the 1850s. The first Masonic meeting in Nebraska took place on April 3, 1855, at Peter Sarpy’s trading post in Bellevue, marking the establishment of Bellevue Lodge. This lodge was later chartered as Nebraska Lodge #184 by the Grand Lodge of Illinois on October 3, 1855[1][2].

In May 1855, the Grand Lodge of Missouri granted permission for the formation of a lodge in Nebraska City, which became Giddings Lodge #156 in 1856. A lodge in Omaha, Capitol Lodge #101, was chartered by the Grand Lodge of Iowa in June 1857[1][2]. These three lodges—Nebraska Lodge #1, Western Star Lodge #2, and Capitol Lodge #3—combined to form the Grand Lodge of Nebraska in September 1857[3].

Notable Developments

The Grand Lodge of Nebraska was formally established on September 23, 1857, and is headquartered in Lincoln[3]. Notable Freemasons from Nebraska include Robert C. Jordan, the first Grand Master of Nebraska; George W. Lininger; William Jennings Bryan; William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody; and John J. Pershing[3].

Expansion and Growth

Over the years, Masonry spread across Nebraska with the establishment of various lodges. Lincoln Lodge #19 and Lancaster Lodge #54 were chartered in 1868 and 1874, respectively[1].

The Scottish Rite introduced its degrees in Nebraska in 1867, with Lt. Grand Commander Azariah T.C. Pierson conferring these degrees on the first group of Masons[1][2].

Prince Hall Masonry in Nebraska

Prince Hall Masonry, the African American branch of Freemasonry, has a significant presence in Nebraska, with its first Nebraska lodge forming in 1875 and the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Nebraska being established in 1919[4][5].

Current Activities

Today, the organization continues to promote the principles of Masonic brotherhood and service to the community. The Grand Lodge of Nebraska works alongside the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Nebraska, fostering unity and fraternal recognition between the two bodies since 1990[3][4].

Mission and Values

The mission of the Free & Accepted Masons of Nebraska revolves around community service, personal development, and the dissemination of Masonic values such as brotherly love, relief, and truth. The organization encourages active participation from its members and supports various charitable activities throughout the state.

Conclusion

The Free & Accepted Masons of Nebraska play a vital role in maintaining Masonic traditions while contributing to the state's social fabric. The organization's history reflects the broader narrative of Freemasonry in the United States, emphasizing mutual aid and moral growth.