Free & Accepted Masons of New Hampshire

The Free & Accepted Masons of New Hampshire, officially known as the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of New Hampshire, is a prominent fraternal organization in the United States. It is the 10th oldest Grand Lodge formed in the original colonies and the 14th worldwide[1].

History

Formation

The Grand Lodge of New Hampshire was formed on July 8, 1789, when five Freemasons met at the William Pitt Tavern in Portsmouth[1]. This meeting was crucial for establishing the Grand Lodge in the state. Key figures at this meeting included Brothers Hall Jackson, Joseph Bass, Nathaniel Folsom, and Nathaniel Adams from St. John's Lodge in Portsmouth, and Brother Alpheus Moore from Rising Sun Lodge in Keene[1]. Initially, John Sullivan was elected as the Grand Master, but since he had not yet served as a Master of a lodge, a requirement for the position, he was subsequently elected and installed as Worshipful Master of St. John's Lodge on April 8, 1790, before becoming the first Grand Master of New Hampshire[1].

Early Development

Upon its formation, the Grand Lodge faced the challenge of establishing its jurisdictional authority over other lodges in New Hampshire. This process took several years and was crucial for the development of Freemasonry in the state[1]. At the time of its organization, there were only three lodges in New Hampshire: St. John's, St. Patrick's, and Rising Sun Lodge[2].

Historical Lodges

• St. John's Lodge: One of the oldest Masonic lodges in the United States, chartered in 1736. It played a significant role in American history, with many of its members participating in the American Revolution[3].
• Rising Sun Lodge: Originally chartered in 1784 by the Massachusetts Grand Lodge, it later affiliated with the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire in 1792[2].

Modern Activities

As of 2019, the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire oversaw 58 Regular Lodges and 4 Special Lodges, with approximately 5,088 registered Freemasons in its jurisdiction[1]. The organization continues to foster community and philanthropic activities, maintaining a strong presence in New Hampshire.

Notable Members and Contributions

The organization has had several notable members throughout its history, including prominent figures in politics, military, and civic life. For example, John Sullivan, the first Grand Master, was a key figure in the American Revolution and held various political positions[5]. The lodge has also been involved in military history, such as during the American Civil War, where members of the 5th New Hampshire Infantry Regiment formed an army lodge, reflecting the broader influence of Freemasonry in military units[4].

Cultural Impact

Freemasonry in New Hampshire, like elsewhere, emphasizes brotherly love, relief, and truth, contributing to local community development and social welfare. The tradition of lodge meetings and ceremonies continues to nurture camaraderie and shared values among its members.