Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of North Carolina

The Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of North Carolina, commonly known as the Grand Lodge of North Carolina, is a fraternal organization that has been active in the state since the 18th century. Formed on December 12, 1787, it is the oldest and largest fraternal organization in North Carolina, evolving from the Provincial Grand Lodge of North Carolina, which was under the jurisdiction of the Premier Grand Lodge of England since January 14, 1771[1][5].

History

Freemasonry in North Carolina has roots dating back to the early 18th century. Although there are tales of lodges in coastal towns, the oldest documented lodge is Saint John's Lodge, No. 213, in Wilmington, noted on the roster of the Premier Grand Lodge of England as early as June 1754[1]. Additionally, a lodge was established in New Bern, with references to it appearing in a sermon delivered at Christ's Church in 1755[1]. Saint John's Lodge of Wilmington, chartered in 1755, is the oldest Masonic lodge in continuous use in North Carolina[4].

Activities and Mission

Freemasonry in North Carolina, as reflected by the Grand Lodge, emphasizes friendship, morality, and brotherly love, bringing together men from diverse backgrounds. The organization aims to enhance its members' roles as husbands, fathers, and citizens through these principles. It also supports charitable causes, such as the Masonic Home for Children at Oxford and WhiteStone: A Masonic and Eastern Star Community at Greensboro[2]. The organization publishes its official magazine, The Mason, which serves as a platform for communication among its members.

Archives and Contributions

The Grand Lodge contributes significantly to historical records, with extensive archives including minute books, ledgers, account books, and other documents that detail the activities of both active and extinct lodges within the state[3][5]. These collections are valuable for understanding the role and history of Freemasonry in North Carolina.

Status as a Non-Profit

The Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of North Carolina operates as a non-profit organization, focusing on charitable works and community development while maintaining its fraternal identity. However, specific financial details, such as current projects or budgets, are not publicly detailed here.

References

1. Grand Lodge of North Carolina - Wikipedia
2. North Carolina Freemasons
3. The Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of North Carolina
4. Freemasons | NCpedia
5. Freemasons. Grand Lodge of North Carolina Records, circa 1790

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grand_Lodge_of_North_Carolina [2] https://www.ncfreemasons.org [3] https://www.digitalnc.org/institutions/the-grand-lodge-of-the-ancient-free-and-accepted-masons-of-north-carolina/ [4] https://www.ncpedia.org/freemasons [5] https://finding-aids.lib.unc.edu/catalog/05309