Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of North Carolina

The Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of North Carolina, commonly known as the Grand Lodge of North Carolina, is a prominent fraternal organization in North Carolina. It was formally established on December 12, 1787, in Tarboro, North Carolina, through a convention of Masonic lodges[2][5].

History

The history of Freemasonry in North Carolina dates back to before 1735, with several lodges operating in the region prior to the Revolutionary War. One of the earliest lodges, Saint John's Lodge of Wilmington, was chartered in 1755 and remains the oldest continuously operating Masonic lodge in North Carolina[3].

The Grand Lodge itself traces its lineage to the Provincial Grand Lodge of North Carolina, which was under the jurisdiction of the Premier Grand Lodge of England since January 14, 1771[2]. Over the years, it has grown to become the largest fraternal organization in North Carolina, with more than 350 active lodges across the state[2][5].

Organization and Operations

The Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of North Carolina is headed by a Grand Master and supports numerous charitable initiatives throughout North Carolina. These include scholarships, disaster relief, and the operation of facilities such as the Masonic Home for Children in Oxford and the Masonic and Eastern Star Home in Greensboro[3].

Current Status

As of the latest records, the Grand Lodge continues to play a significant role in North Carolina's charitable landscape, promoting values of brotherhood, relief, and truth among its members. It also maintains co-territorial jurisdiction and encourages visitation with its Prince Hall counterpart, The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of North Carolina[2].

Facilities

The Grand Lodge's executive offices are located in Raleigh, housed in a building designed by Leslie Boney Sr. This structure contains a significant masonic library and museum, showcasing the history of Freemasonry in North Carolina[2].