Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of Texas Grand

The Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of Texas, also known as the Grand Lodge of Texas, is a prominent Masonic organization in the state of Texas. It is part of the largest governing body of Freemasonry in Texas, adhering to the Ancient tradition that originated from the Ancient Grand Lodge of England.

History

The roots of Freemasonry in Texas date back to the early 19th century. One of the first attempts to establish a Masonic presence was made by Stephen F. Austin in 1828, when he and other Masons petitioned the Grand York Lodge of Mexico for a charter. However, this attempt was unsuccessful due to political tensions and the Mexican government's ban on Freemasonry later that year[5].

Formation of Early Lodges

A successful effort to establish Freemasonry in Texas occurred in March 1835, when a group of five Master Masons, including Anson Jones and Asa Brigham, met under a Masonic oak near Brazoria. They petitioned the Grand Lodge of Louisiana for a charter, leading to the formation of Holland Lodge No. 36. This lodge initially met in Brazoria but later relocated to Houston in 1837 due to disruptions caused by the Texas Revolution[3][4].

Two additional lodges, Milam Lodge No. 40 in Nacogdoches and McFarland Lodge No. 41 in San Augustine, were established with charters from the Grand Lodge of Louisiana. These three lodges played a crucial role in the formation of the Grand Lodge of the Republic of Texas[1][2].

Establishment of the Grand Lodge

On December 20, 1837, representatives from Holland, Milam, and McFarland Lodges convened in Houston under the presidency of Sam Houston. This meeting resulted in the resolution to form the Grand Lodge of the Republic of Texas, with Anson Jones elected as its first Grand Master[1][3].

The formal establishment of the Grand Lodge occurred on April 16, 1838, in Houston, marking the beginning of a structured Masonic organization in Texas. It was initially known as the Grand Lodge of the Republic of Texas and later became the Grand Lodge of Texas after Texas joined the United States in 1845[1][5].

Activities and Influence

Throughout its history, the Grand Lodge of Texas has played a significant role in both Masonic and civic affairs. Freemasons in Texas, including many prominent figures such as Sam Houston and Anson Jones, have held influential positions in government and society, contributing to the development of the state[2][4].

The organization supports various charitable initiatives within communities across Texas. These efforts include educational programs and health care support through affiliations with entities like the Scottish Rite and Shrine hospitals[3].

Legacy

Today, the Grand Lodge of Texas is one of the largest Masonic bodies in the world, reflecting the enduring impact of Freemasonry on the state's cultural and historical landscape. It continues to uphold the traditions of Freemasonry while adapting to the needs of modern society.