Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free & Accepted Masons of North Dakota

Overview and History

The Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free & Accepted Masons of North Dakota is a nonprofit organization that serves as the governing body for Freemasonry in North Dakota. It follows the Anglo-American tradition of Freemasonry prevalent in the United States. The organization is dedicated to promoting the principles of brotherly love, relief, and truth among its members.

Early Masonic History in the Region

Masonry in what is now North Dakota began with Meriwether Lewis, a Mason who arrived in the region as part of the Lewis and Clark expedition. The first Masonic lodge in the broader Dakota Territory was established in 1862 in Fort Randall, though its dispensation was not renewed. Significant Masonic activity resumed in the 1870s, with lodges chartered by the Grand Lodges of Iowa and Minnesota, including the Shiloh Lodge No. 105 at Fargo and the Bismarck Lodge.

As the region's population grew and the Dakota Territory prepared for statehood, the need for a separate Grand Lodge for North Dakota became apparent. On June 12, 1889, representatives of 20 lodges in northern Dakota met at Mitchell, South Dakota, resolving to organize a Grand Lodge for North Dakota. This led to the formal establishment of the Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free & Accepted Masons of North Dakota on June 13, 1889, with its first meeting held at this time.

Masonic Principles and Activities

The Grand Lodge of North Dakota is part of the international fraternity of Freemasonry, which is the oldest and largest fraternal organization worldwide. It emphasizes personal development through adherence to Masonic tenets and the exploration of allegory and symbolism. Masonic activities include regular meetings at local lodges for business, social events, charitable works, and ceremonial activities, such as conferring degrees.

Associated Masonic Bodies

In addition to the Grand Lodge, North Dakota is home to various other Masonic organizations and appendant bodies. These include the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, the York Rite, and the Order of the Eastern Star. Each of these bodies offers additional opportunities for Masonic education and involvement.

EIN and Tax Status

The Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free & Accepted Masons of North Dakota operates as a nonprofit organization, registered with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service under the Employer Identification Number (EIN) 237585084.