Ancient Free Masons of South Carolina

The Ancient Free Masons of South Carolina are part of the broader fraternity of Freemasonry in the United States and specifically within the state of South Carolina. The history of Freemasonry in South Carolina dates back to 1735, when Lord Weymouth, the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of England, issued a warrant establishing the office of Provincial Grand Master for the colony[1][2].

Early History

The first Masonic lodge in South Carolina, Solomon's Lodge Number One, was organized in Charleston in 1736 by John Hammerton, who was appointed as the first Provincial Grand Master of the colony[1][4]. Hammerton played a pivotal role in the establishment and early development of Freemasonry in South Carolina.

Later Developments

Following the Revolutionary War, Freemasonry in South Carolina experienced a period of disunity, with the formation of a second Grand Lodge, the Grand Lodge of Ancient York Masons, in 1783. This led to a lengthy rivalry between the two Grand Lodges, until they finally merged in 1817 to form the Grand Lodge of Ancient Freemasons of South Carolina[1][3]. This unified Grand Lodge oversees the activities of Masonic lodges across the state.

Prominent Figures and Contributions

Prominent figures in South Carolina's Masonic history include Henry Laurens, Henry Middleton, Francis Marion, and William Richardson Davie. In the 19th century, notable Masons included writers like William Gilmore Simms and Albert Gallatin Mackey, as well as political figures such as governors John Lyde Wilson and David Johnson[1]. The 20th century saw contributions from Masons like Strom Thurmond and James F. Byrnes.

Rituals and Rites

The Scottish Rite, a significant component of modern Freemasonry, traces its origins in South Carolina to the early 19th century, with the establishment of the Supreme Council of the Thirty-Third Degree in Charleston in 1801[1][5]. This council is considered the mother council of the Scottish Rite worldwide. The York Rite also has deep roots in South Carolina, although its early history in the state is less well-documented[1].

Current Status

Today, the Ancient Free Masons of South Carolina operate under the auspices of the Grand Lodge of Ancient Freemasons of South Carolina, maintaining a rich tradition of fraternal and community service. Despite fluctuations in membership over the years, Freemasonry remains an integral part of the state's cultural and historical fabric.

References

This article draws from historical references compiled by Albert G. Mackey and others, detailing the development of Freemasonry in South Carolina[4]. For more detailed historical accounts, see the works of Mackey and other Masonic historians.