Free & Accepted Masons of Ohio

The Free & Accepted Masons of Ohio, governed by the Grand Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons of Ohio, is a part of the broader freemasonry tradition in the United States. Freemasonry itself has a long history, dating back to centuries-old European roots. In Ohio, the fraternity is older than the state itself, with the first Masonic lodge established in 1790 in Marietta[2][4].

History

The history of Freemasonry in Ohio began on January 10, 1789, with a notable Masonic event – the burial of Judge James Mitchell Varnum with Masonic honors. This ceremony involved Indian Chiefs, who showed interest in Masonic solemnities, suggesting a potential awareness of Masonic symbolism among them[1]. By 1808, there were six Masonic lodges operating in Ohio under charters from various Eastern states, including Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Kentucky. These lodges united at a convention in Chillicothe from January 4–8, 1808, to form the Grand Lodge of Ohio[4].

General Rufus Putnam, the "Father of the Northwest Territory," was elected as the first Grand Master of Ohio. This marked the beginning of a formal Masonic governing body in the state[2][4].

Influence and Membership

Today, Ohio is home to one of the largest Masonic memberships in the United States, with over 64,000 members and more than 430 lodges[4]. The Grand Lodge of Ohio operates under the Anglo-American tradition, common in U.S. Freemasonry[4].

Prince Hall Freemasonry in Ohio

In addition to the mainstream Grand Lodge, Ohio also hosts the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Ohio, which was established in 1849. It is one of the oldest Grand Lodges of its heritage and serves African American Masons. Initially, there were racial barriers within Freemasonry in Ohio, but recognition and fraternal agreements were achieved in the late 20th century. On October 20, 1995, the Grand Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons of Ohio granted recognition to the Prince Hall Grand Lodge, acknowledging both as legitimate proponents of Freemasonry in the state[3][4].

Mission and Activities

Freemasonry in Ohio, like elsewhere, focuses on brotherly love, relief, and truth. Masons engage in various charitable and community-building activities, contributing to the social fabric of their communities. The lodges also provide a supporting fraternal environment for their members.

Organization

The Grand Lodge of Ohio oversees and regulates all mainstream Masonic lodges within the state, promoting unity and adherence to Masonic principles among its members. It also works to preserve Masonic history and promote educational and cultural understanding of the fraternity's contributions to society[5].