Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of Texas

The Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of Texas, officially known as the Grand Lodge of Texas, is a nonprofit organization and the largest governing body of Freemasonry in Texas. This fraternal group is dedicated to promoting personal growth and community service among its members.

Founding and History

Freemasonry in Texas dates back to the early 19th century when Stephen F. Austin attempted to establish a lodge in 1828, but this effort was thwarted by the Mexican government, which banned Freemasonry later that year due to political concerns[1]. In March 1835, a group of Master Masons, including Anson Jones, met under an oak tree near Brazoria and resolved to petition the Grand Lodge of Louisiana for a dispensation to form a lodge in Texas[2][3].

The first Masonic lodge in Texas, Holland Lodge No. 36 (now Holland Lodge No. 1), was established as a result of this petition. It received its charter on January 27, 1836[1][3]. Two additional Texas lodges, Milam Lodge No. 40 and McFarland Lodge No. 41, were formed with the help of the Grand Lodge of Louisiana in 1837[2][3]. These three lodges contributed to the founding of the Grand Lodge of the Republic of Texas, with Anson Jones serving as its first Grand Master[2][3].

Transformation into the Grand Lodge of Texas

Following Texas's transition from a republic to a state, the Grand Lodge of the Republic of Texas became the Grand Lodge of Texas[2]. The Grand Lodge's functions and operations continued to grow, relocating from Houston to Waco in 1903[2].

Mission and Activities

The Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of Texas are committed to personal development and community service. The organization focuses on taking good men and helping them become better by fostering ethical conduct, charity, and mutual aid among its members, without discrimination[3][4].

Texas Masons support various community programs, including initiatives to help the elderly, educational programs for children, such as Fantastic Teeth and Take Time to Read, and scholarships for deserving students[2]. Additionally, they contribute significantly to healthcare institutions like the Scottish Rite and Shrine hospitals[2].

Structure and Requirements

Membership in Freemasonry is restricted to men who believe in a supreme being and an afterlife[3]. The fraternity follows a three-degree system: Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason[3]. These degrees involve symbolic teachings and ritual practices that encourage personal growth and moral character.

To become a Mason, an individual must approach a lodge member for a petition to join. There are initial fees for the conferral of degrees and annual dues for membership[3]. Freemasonry emphasizes self-improvement and the brotherly support of its members without proselytizing[3].

Legacy

The Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of Texas continue to play a significant role in the state's social fabric through their charitable activities and fraternal support. Despite changes over the years, the organization remains committed to its core values and contributions to Texas communities.

References

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