Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of North Dakota

The Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of North Dakota, officially known as the Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free & Accepted Masons of North Dakota, is a nonprofit organization that serves as the governing body for the largest group of Masonic lodges in North Dakota. This organization follows the Anglo-American tradition of Freemasonry, which is common in the United States.

History

Masonic activities in what is now North Dakota began early in the history of the region. Meriwether Lewis, a well-known Mason and member of Saint Louis Lodge No. 111 of Missouri, was among the first Masons to visit the area. However, organized Masonry arrived in the Dakota Territory in the mid-19th century.

In 1862, a dispensation was granted by the Grand Lodge of Iowa to establish Dakota Lodge at Fort Randall. Although it is unclear if this lodge ever operated, it marked the beginning of Masonic presence in the Dakota Territory. By 1875, the Grand Lodge of Iowa had chartered several lodges in what would become South Dakota. Meanwhile, the Grand Lodge of Minnesota chartered lodges in the northern part of the territory.

The Yellowstone Lodge No. 88, chartered by the Grand Lodge of Minnesota, was the first Masonic lodge established in what is now North Dakota, operating from January 1871 to June 1874 at Fort Buford. This lodge occupied the first Masonic hall in the region.

Formation of the Grand Lodge of North Dakota

As Dakota Territory was preparing to be divided into North and South Dakota, Masonic lodges in the northern part of the territory sought to establish their own Grand Lodge. In June 1889, the Grand Lodge of Dakota permitted the northern lodges to withdraw and form the Grand Lodge of North Dakota. This was facilitated by a unanimous agreement at the 15th annual session of the Grand Lodge of Dakota.

On June 12, 1889, representatives from the northern lodges convened and resolved to establish a Grand Lodge for North Dakota. A constitution and bylaws were adopted, and officers were elected. The next day, the Grand Lodge of North Dakota was officially opened for the first time.

Activities and Philosophy

The Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of North Dakota focus on promoting Masonic principles of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. These principles are taught through symbolic degrees and rituals that aim to improve members' character and community involvement. The organization emphasizes charity, fraternity, and personal growth, reflecting the broader values of Freemasonry worldwide.

In North Dakota, Freemasonry is part of a larger network of Masonic organizations and appendant bodies, including the Scottish Rite and the York Rite. The Order of the Eastern Star, another appendant body, is also active in the state, offering membership to both men and women who meet specific criteria.

Legal Status

As a nonprofit organization, the Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of North Dakota are exempt from income tax under the IRS code. Their operations are guided by their constitution and bylaws, ensuring that activities remain aligned with their mission and charitable goals.