Freemasonry is an ancient and prestigious fraternal order that has been in existence for centuries. It is comprised of members who come from all walks of life and all parts of the world. Over the years, many famous individuals have been associated with Freemasonry, including political leaders, military personnel, authors, inventors, actors, musicians, and more. In this article, we’ll look at some of the most famous Freemasons in history and explore their contributions to the fraternity.
Freemasonry is a fraternal organisation that has been around for centuries, and many notable people have been members throughout its history. Some of the most famous Freemasons include George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, John Jacob Astor, and Winston Churchill. Other well-known Freemasons include writers Mark Twain and Rudyard Kipling, inventors Thomas Edison and Alexander Graham Bell, and U.S. presidents such as Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Harry S. Truman, Gerald Ford, and Lyndon B. Johnson. Many other prominent figures throughout history have also been Freemasons including explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, composer Ludwig van Beethoven, philosopher Voltaire, sports figures Babe Ruth and Jack Nicklaus, musicians Elvis Presley and Duke Ellington, Nobel Prize winners Ernest Hemingway and Albert Einstein, among others.
Famous Freemasons of the 19th Century
During the 19th century, many influential figures in history were also Freemasons. This secret society was a popular choice for many of the well-known and powerful people of the time, who could benefit from the strength of its network. Here are some of the most famous Freemasons of the 19th century:
• George Washington: The first president of the United States was a well-known Freemason. He was initiated into the society in 1752 and rose to become its Grand Master in 1788. He remained a member until his death in 1799.
• Robert Burns: The Scottish poet and lyricist was a proud member of Lodge St. David No. 174 in Tarbolton, Scotland. He wrote several poems about Masonry and was passionate about its values and principles.
• John Jacob Astor: The German-born American businessman and millionaire was a founding member of Holland Lodge No 8 in New York City. He used his wealth to help build several Masonic lodges all over America, including one on Wall Street that still stands today.
• Benjamin Franklin: The American polymath and one of the Founding Fathers of the United States was an active Freemason for much of his life. He even served as Grand Master of Pennsylvania’s Lodge from 1734 to 1735.
• William Makepeace Thackeray: The English novelist and satirist was initiated into Royal Somerset House & Inverness Lodge No 4 at age 23, becoming part of an exclusive society at a young age.
• Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: The famous Austrian composer is known to have been initiated into Masonry in Vienna in 1785 at age 28 – an event which is said to have inspired some of his most famous works such as “The Magic Flute” opera.
These are just some examples from a long list – there are countless other influential figures who were members or affiliates with Masonry during this period in history. Many were attracted by Masonry’s ideals such as brotherhood, morality, charity, education, fairness and justice – values that still remain important today!
Famous Freemasons of the 20th Century
Freemasonry is a fraternal organization that has existed for centuries and is still popular today. Throughout history, there have been many noteworthy Freemasons, some of whom made their mark on the world in the 20th century. Here are some of the most famous Freemasons of that time:
- Winston Churchill: One of the most influential figures of the 20th century, Churchill was a British Prime Minister who led his country through World War II. He was initiated into Freemasonry in 1901 at Studholme Lodge No. 1591.
- Harry Houdini: The Hungarian-American magician and escape artist was one of the most famous entertainers in history. He was a member of St. Cecile Lodge No. 568 in New York City.
- John Wayne: A legendary American actor, John Wayne starred in more than 100 films including classics like True Grit and The Searchers. He was initiated into Masonic Lodge No. 560 in Tucson, Arizona.
- Walter Cronkite: An iconic American journalist and news anchor, Cronkite reported on some of the biggest events of the 20th century including World War II and the Apollo 11 moon landing. He was initiated into Masonry at Keystone Lodge No. 243 in Texas.
- Sammy Davis Jr.: An entertainer who achieved fame as a singer, dancer, actor and comedian, Sammy Davis Jr. was an influential figure in American culture throughout his career. He joined Theodore Roosevelt Lodge No. 468 in California.
- Buzz Aldrin: The Apollo 11 astronaut became one of the first two humans to walk on the moon in 1969 and later became a Mason at Clear Lake Lodge No. 1417 in Texas.
These are just a few examples of famous Freemasons from last century – there are certainly many more to be discovered!
Famous Freemasons in Politics
Freemasonry has long had an influence in the world of politics, with many famous politicians having been members of the fraternal organization. These men have wielded great power and influence, often shaping the landscape of politics as we know it. Here are some of the most prominent Freemasons in politics:
• George Washington was a Founding Father of the United States and its first President. He was made a Mason in 1752 and became Master of his lodge in 1788. He was deeply invested in Freemasonry and remained active until his death in 1799.
• Benjamin Franklin was one of the most influential Founding Fathers of the United States and a renowned scientist and inventor. He was initiated into Masonry in 1731, eventually rising to become Grand Master of Pennsylvania.
• John Hancock was a signer of the Declaration of Independence and Governor of Massachusetts. He joined Freemasonry in 1760 and quickly rose through its ranks, eventually becoming Grand Master.
• Andrew Jackson was an American politician who served as President from 1829-1837. He became a Mason in 1822 and rose to become Grand Master.
• James Garfield was an American politician who served as President from 1881-1881. He joined Freemasonry at age 23, eventually becoming Grand Master for the state of Ohio.
• Theodore Roosevelt was an American politician who served as President from 1901-1909. He joined Freemasonry at age 36 and eventually rose to become Deputy Grand Master.
These are just some of the many famous politicians who have been members of Freemasonry over the centuries. While their influence on politics may have varied, they all shared one thing: their commitment to Freemasonry’s values, which continue to shape our world today.
Famous Freemasons in Entertainment
Freemasonry, the world’s oldest and largest fraternity, has had many famous members throughout its history. From actors to musicians to politicians, some of the most influential people in history have been Freemasons. Here is a look at some well-known Freemasons who have made an impact in the entertainment industry:
• John Wayne: One of the most iconic Hollywood stars of all time, John Wayne was a member of Burbank Lodge No. 542 in California. He was active in Freemasonry for many years before his death in 1979.
• Gene Autry: The “Singing Cowboy” was a member of Hollywood Lodge No. 355 and was even honored with a 75th anniversary medal by the Grand Lodge of California.
• Orson Welles: The legendary director and actor was a 33rd degree Scottish Rite Mason and an honorary member of San Antonio Lodge No. 437 in Texas.
• Elvis Presley: One of the most influential musicians of all time, Elvis Presley was a 33rd degree Scottish Rite Mason and a member of Memphis Lodge No. 650.
• Frank Sinatra: The Chairman of the Board was a 33rd degree Scottish Rite Mason and belonged to both Joppa Lodge No. 55 in New Jersey and Beverly Hills Lodge No. 528 in California.
• Harry Houdini: The great escape artist and magician was a member of St. Cecile Lodge No. 568 in New York City.
• Mark Twain: The iconic American author was famously one of the few famous people to be initiated into Freemasonry while traveling abroad – he became a member while visiting Bermuda in 1901.
• Walt Disney: One of America’s greatest innovators, Walt Disney was raised to master Mason at Keystone Lodge No. 241 in Chicago during World War I.
These are just some examples among many others who have used their fame to spread awareness about this ancient fraternity throughout the world!
Famous Freemasons in Business and Finance
Freemasonry has been a part of business and finance since the 1700s. Throughout history, Freemasons have gone on to become some of the most successful people in their fields. From bankers to entrepreneurs, here are some of the most famous Freemasons in business and finance:
• J. Pierpont Morgan – J. Pierpont Morgan was a banker and financier who built a financial empire that lasted until his death in 1913. He was an active Freemason and served as Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of New York.
• Andrew Carnegie – Andrew Carnegie was one of the wealthiest men in America during the late 19th century. He was a steel magnate and philanthropist who also served as Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania from 1898 to 1901.
• John D. Rockefeller – John D. Rockefeller was one of the richest men in history who founded Standard Oil Company. He was an active member of several Masonic lodges throughout his life, including those in New York, Ohio, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and Illinois.
• Alexander Hamilton – Alexander Hamilton was a Founding Father who served as Secretary of Treasury under President George Washington. He was also an active Freemason and served as Grand Master for the Grand Lodge of New York from 1795 to 1797.
• John Jacob Astor – John Jacob Astor was one of America’s first millionaires who made his fortune through trading fur pelts and real estate speculation. He joined a Masonic lodge in New York City in 1811 and actively participated until his death in 1848.
These men are just some examples of how Freemasonry has been linked to business success for centuries. By joining a Masonic lodge, members can learn valuable lessons about leadership, organization, communication, and teamwork that can help them achieve their goals both professionally and personally.
Famous Freemasons in Science and Technology
The Freemasons have had a significant impact on many professions, including science and technology. Here are some of the most outstanding personalities who have been part of this secret society:
• Albert Einstein: One of the greatest minds to ever grace science, Albert Einstein was a Freemason. He joined the fraternity in 1933 and was an active member for the rest of his life.
• Isaac Newton: Another great scientist, Isaac Newton, was also a Freemason. He joined the fraternity in 1705 and his membership in it has helped him to further his scientific research.
• Thomas Edison: The famous inventor Thomas Edison was also a Freemason. He joined the fraternity when he was only 22 years old, and his work has been instrumental in the development of modern technology.
• Alexander Graham Bell: The inventor of the telephone, Alexander Graham Bell, was also a member of the Freemasons. He joined the fraternity in 1874 and his membership helped him to further his invention which changed communication forever.
• Nikola Tesla: The famous electrical engineer Nikola Tesla was also a Freemason. He joined the fraternity at age 22 and continued to be an active member for many years afterwards. His inventions revolutionized electricity production and use across the world.
These are just a few of the many famous scientists and inventors who have been part of this secret society over time. Their work has had an immense impact on science and technology, resulting in many modern-day inventions that we take for granted today.
Famous Freemasons in Sports
Masonry has been around for centuries and has a strong presence in the sports world. Among the most notable Freemasons who have made their mark in sports are:
• John Elway, one of the best quarterbacks of all time, who was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2004. He is an active member of the Masonic fraternity.
• Steve Young, a former NFL quarterback and seven-time Pro Bowler, is also a Freemason. He won MVP honors in 1992 and 1994.
• Michael Jordan, arguably the greatest basketball player ever, is known to be a member of the Masonic fraternity. He won six NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls.
• Magic Johnson, another NBA legend and five-time champion with the Los Angeles Lakers, is also a Mason. Johnson was named one of Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in 2009.
• Muhammad Ali was known for his boxing prowess as well as his social activism and philanthropy. He was an active member of the Masonic fraternity throughout his career.
• Arnold Palmer was an iconic golfer who won seven major championships during his career. He was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1974 and was also an active Mason.
These are just a few examples of some of the most famous Freemasons in sports. There are many other athletes from different sports who are members of this ancient fraternity. It’s no wonder why so many athletes choose to join this unique organization – it provides them with a support network that can help them succeed both on and off the field.
In Reflection on List Of Famous Freemasons
Famous Freemasons have been an integral part of history for centuries. From great political and social figures to innovators, musicians, and actors, the list of famous Freemasons is almost endless. It is clear that Freemasonry has had a significant impact on the world and society in general.
By joining a Masonic lodge, one can learn many valuable lessons from the rituals and teachings of the fraternity. Through this experience, members can become better citizens and leaders in their communities. The connections made in Masonry often form a bond between members that lasts a lifetime.
The contributions made by famous Freemasons are still felt today in many different areas of life. They have left a positive mark on society and are a reminder of how important it is to strive for greatness and to never give up no matter what we face. We can learn much from these men and use their examples as inspiration for our own lives.
Masonry has also been an effective means of creating networking opportunities for people from all walks of life. By connecting with like-minded individuals, members can share experiences and advice that helps them navigate various situations in life more easily.
It is evident that there are many valuable lessons to be learned from studying the lives of famous Freemasons. Their stories offer insight into their struggles, successes, and values which can help us grow as individuals and build stronger relationships with those around us.
In reflection, the list of famous Freemasons is long indeed, but each one has had an immense impact on history that still resonates today. Whether it be through their leadership or humanitarian efforts, they have all left behind legacies that will continue to influence future generations for years to come.