Free & Accepted Masons of Washington

The Free & Accepted Masons of Washington, also known as the Grand Lodge of Washington, is a nonprofit fraternal organization that has been an integral part of Washington state since its early days. This institution is one of the oldest fraternal orders in the world, known for its focus on moral character and community service.

History

Freemasonry in Washington was established when the territory was still part of the Oregon Territory. The first four lodges in the region were chartered in Olympia (1853), Steilacoom (1854), Grand Mound (1857), and Washington (1858). These lodges came together to form the Grand Lodge of Washington on December 8, 1858, nearly three decades before Washington became a state[1][4].

Organizational Structure

The Grand Lodge of Washington is comprised of over 150 lodges across the state. It is led by the Grand Master, who oversees its operations and activities. As of recent data, the Grand Lodge has a membership of more than 12,000 brothers and is dedicated to philanthropic efforts[1][4].

Philanthropic Activities

The organization is deeply involved in numerous charitable initiatives, including educational scholarships, improving reading programs, disaster relief, and research funding. Local lodges often support community events, sports, and civic activities, making them integral members of their neighborhoods[1].

Notable Members

Historically, many prominent individuals have been part of the Grand Lodge of Washington. These include Senator Henry M. Jackson and Elisha P. Ferry, the first duly elected Governor of Washington. Freemasonry in the state has a legacy of attracting men of high moral character and diverse backgrounds[1][4].

Prince Hall Masonry in Washington

Another significant presence in Washington is the Prince Hall Masons, who have been active in the state since at least 1870. They have faced historical challenges but were officially recognized as legitimate by the Grand Lodge of Washington in 1990, marking a significant milestone in Masonic relations[3].

[1] https://gwmemorial.org/blogs/gl-of-the-month/grand-lodge-of-washington [2] http://www.masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Washington [3] https://www.mwphglwa.org/history [4] https://freemason-wa.org/our-history/ [5] https://www.mountvernon.org/library/digitalhistory/digital-encyclopedia/article/freemasonry