Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of Texas

The Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of Texas, more commonly known as the Grand Lodge of Texas, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, is a prominent Freemasonic organization in Texas. It is one of the largest governing bodies of Freemasonry in the world.

Background

The organization descends from the Ancient Grand Lodge of England, which was founded on June 17, 1751. The Grand Lodge of Texas itself was established during the Republic of Texas era. On April 16, 1838, the "Grand Lodge of the Republic of Texas, A.F. & A.M." was formally created, with its first Grand Master and other grand officers installed by Sam Houston on May 11, 1838[1][2].

Early Masonry in Texas

Masonry's early history in Texas involved Stephen F. Austin, who called meetings in 1828 to form a lodge. However, due to Mexican government restrictions on Freemasonry, these early efforts were unsuccessful. The first Masonic lodge in Texas, Holland Lodge No. 36, was established under a dispensation from the Grand Lodge of Louisiana in 1835. This was followed by the formation of Milam Lodge No. 40 and McFarland Lodge No. 41 in 1837, which eventually led to the establishment of the Grand Lodge of Texas[2][3].

Freemasonry Principles

Freemasonry is a fraternity that aims to help its members become better men through moral guidance and community service. It has three primary degrees: Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason. Membership requires a belief in a supreme being and an afterlife, but it does not seek to reform those with problematic pasts[3].

Community Activities

The Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of Texas are involved in various charitable activities, including supporting education and healthcare. Members participate in initiatives such as Fantastic Teeth and Take Time to Read, public school support, and annual scholarships. They also contribute to children's hospitals through Scottish Rite and Shrine affiliations[2].

Current Status

As of 2019, the Grand Lodge of Texas reported having approximately 69,099 members. The organization remains committed to its Masonic traditions and community engagement. Despite a slight decline in numbers since the post-World War II era, Texas Masonry remains a significant fraternal presence in the state[1][2].