Freemasonry, often referred to as the ‘Craft’ or the ‘Mystic Tie’, is an international fraternal organisation that dates back to the 16th century. It is an organisation that is steeped in mystery and intrigue and has been the source of much speculation and debate over the centuries. Famous Freemasons have included some of the most influential figures in history, including Founding Fathers of the United States, kings and queens, presidents, political leaders, scientists, inventors, authors, musicians and artists. Famous Freemasons have been involved in almost every facet of society throughout history and continue to be a significant part of cultures around the world today.
Freemasonry is a fraternal organization that has attracted many famous members over the centuries. Such illustrious figures include kings, presidents, statesmen, military leaders, artists, authors and more. Throughout history there have been many famous Freemasons including George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Mark Twain and Winston Churchill. Other notable Freemasons include the Duke of Wellington, author Rudyard Kipling and even former US president Harry S Truman.
Who was the First Freemason?
The answer to this question is a bit of a mystery, as the history of Freemasonry is often shrouded in secrecy. While there is no definitive answer as to who the first Freemason was, there are some theories about its origins and who may have been involved.
One popular theory is that the first Freemasons were medieval stonemasons, who built castles and cathedrals in Europe during the 12th and 13th centuries. These skilled laborers formed fraternities or “lodges” in order to protect their trade secrets and pass on their knowledge to other masons. It’s thought that these lodges eventually evolved into what we now know as Masonic lodges.
Another theory suggests that Freemasonry originated from ancient religious orders such as the Knights Templar or even Egyptian mystery schools. Supporters of this theory point to similarities between Masonic symbols and rituals with those of various ancient cultures, suggesting a possible connection between them.
Therefore, some historians believe that Freemasonry began as a political organization, formed by powerful individuals with a shared ideology and agenda. This theory suggests that Freemasonry was used by these individuals to further their political goals by forming secret societies with powerful members who could influence governments and public opinion.
No matter which theory is true, it’s clear that Freemasonry has had an important role in history and continues to have an impact on our lives today. From its mysterious origins to its modern-day influence, it’s clear that Freemasonry has had a major impact on society throughout the centuries.
Famous Freemasons Today
Freemasonry is an ancient and popular fraternity whose members are committed to upholding high moral and ethical standards. Freemasonry has become known for its charitable and philanthropic works, as well as its close-knit camaraderie. Today, there are many famous Freemasons from all walks of life, including actors, politicians, musicians, athletes, and entrepreneurs.
John Wayne
John Wayne was an iconic American actor who starred in some of Hollywood’s most famous films. He was a member of the Fraternity of Freemasons for over fifty years and served as the Grand Master of California in 1970.
Will Smith
Will Smith is one of Hollywood’s biggest stars and has been a Freemason since 2007. Smith is an active member of the fraternity and is often seen at Masonic events throughout the United States. He also frequently wears Masonic rings on his fingers.
Prince Hall
Prince Hall was an African American abolitionist who founded what is known today as Prince Hall Masonry in 1775. Prince Hall Masonry is a branch of Freemasonry specifically for African Americans that has grown exponentially throughout the United States since its inception.
John Elway
John Elway is a former professional football player who played for the Denver Broncos for 16 seasons. He was initiated into Freemasonry in 1998 and has been a member ever since. As a Mason, Elway serves as a role model to other members both inside and outside the lodge room.
Billy Graham was an evangelist who preached to millions around the world about Christianity during his lifetime. Graham was initiated into Freemasonry in 1952 and served as chaplain for several lodges throughout his career. He is remembered for his commitment to spreading God’s word while maintaining high moral values that exemplify those of Freemasonry.
Notable Freemasons in the Arts and Sciences
Freemasonry is a fraternal organisation which has existed for centuries and has had an impact on many aspects of life. Many notable figures from the arts and sciences have been Freemasons, and have contributed to the advancement of their respective fields. Here are some of the most famous Freemasons from these disciplines:
• Sir Isaac Newton was an English mathematician, physicist, astronomer, theologian, and author who is widely recognised as one of the most influential scientists of all time. He was initiated into Freemasonry in 1705.
• Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is one of the world’s most renowned composers and musicians. He was a Mason in Vienna from 1785 until his death in 1791.
• Robert Burns was a Scottish poet and lyricist. He was initiated into St David’s Lodge in Tarbolton on 4 July 1781.
• Benjamin Franklin was an American polymath who made significant contributions to science, politics, literature, philosophy, economics, and diplomacy. He began his Masonic career at St John’s Lodge No 3 in Philadelphia in June 1731.
• Henry Ford was an American industrialist who revolutionised the automotive industry. He joined Palestine Lodge No 357 in Detroit in 1894.
• William Shakespeare is widely regarded as one of the greatest writers of all time. While there is no definitive proof that he was a Mason, there are numerous theories that point to his membership of a Masonic lodge.
These are just a few examples of famous Freemasons who have made significant contributions to their respective fields. The influence of Freemasonry on these great minds cannot be overstated, and it is clear that it played an important role in their success.
Notable Freemasons in Politics and Government
Freemasonry has had a rich history of involvement in politics and government, with many influential members over the centuries. Many of these high-profile political players have been Freemasons, leaving an indelible mark on the world. Here are some of the most notable Freemasons in politics and government:
• George Washington: The first President of the United States was a Freemason, as were thirteen other U.S. presidents. Washington was initiated into a Virginia lodge in 1752.
• John Hancock: The first signer of the Declaration of Independence also held Masonic membership, having been initiated into St. Andrew’s Lodge in Boston in 1760.
• Benjamin Franklin: This Founding Father was also a Mason, having been initiated in 1731 at St. John’s Lodge No. 1 in Philadelphia. He is widely credited with creating the basis for modern Freemasonry by developing its structure and rituals during his lifetime.
• Winston Churchill: The Prime Minister of Great Britain during World War II was a Freemason, having been initiated into Studholme Lodge No 1591 in London in 1901 at age 26.
• Giuseppe Garibaldi: This Italian revolutionary was an influential figure in Italian unification, and he was also an active Mason from 1844 until his death in 1882 – even being named Grand Master by King Victor Emmanuel II after Italy’s unification.
• Simon Bolivar: This South American independence leader is known as “The Liberator” for his role in freeing much of Latin America from Spanish rule, and he too was an active Mason throughout his life – joining two lodges during his time as President of Gran Columbia from 1819-1830.
These are just some of the many influential figures who have been or are still members of Freemasonry – many more can be found throughout history, both past and present!
Notable Freemasons in Business and Industry
Freemasonry is a centuries-old institution that has helped to shape history. Its well-known members have included some of the most influential people in world business and industry. Here are some of the most notable Freemasons who have made an impact on the world of business:
• Alexander Hamilton – Founding father and first Secretary of the Treasury, Hamilton was one of America’s earliest financial minds. He was also a prominent Freemason.
• John Jacob Astor – The first millionaire in America, John Jacob Astor was a fur trader and real estate investor. He was also a prominent member of the Masonic Lodge.
• Andrew Carnegie – Industrialist, philanthropist, and founder of Carnegie Steel Company, Andrew Carnegie was an influential figure in American industry. He was also a prominent Mason.
• Henry Ford – Automotive pioneer and founder of Ford Motor Company, Henry Ford was one of America’s greatest industrialists. He was also a member of the Masonic Lodge for many years.
• J.P Morgan – Financier and founder of J.P Morgan & Co., J.P Morgan is one of America’s most successful financiers ever. He too held membership in the Masonic Lodge for several years.
For centuries, Freemasonry has been associated with influential figures in business and industry around the world. These men have used their influence to shape history and make an impact on society at large.
Notable Freemasons in the Military
Freemasonry has a long and illustrious history of involvement in the military. From George Washington to Dwight Eisenhower, many of the most influential figures in American military history were members of Masonic orders. Here are some of the most notable Freemasons who served in various branches of the military:
• George Washington: The first President of the United States was also a member of Alexandria Lodge No. 22 in Virginia. As commander-in-chief, he led the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War and is widely considered one of America’s greatest military leaders.
• Andrew Jackson: Known for his victory over British forces at New Orleans during the War of 1812, Jackson was also an active Freemason. He served as Grand Master of Tennessee’s Grand Lodge and was a member of Harmony Lodge No. 1.
• Ulysses S. Grant: Another Union general during the Civil War, Grant became a Freemason after taking office as President in 1869. He was initiated into Lexington Lodge No. 19 and later became Grand Master of Illinois’ Grand Lodge.
• Dwight Eisenhower: The 34th President was also an Army general who commanded Allied forces during World War II. He was a member of Abilene Lodge No. 166 in Kansas and served as Grand Master from 1940 to 1941.
• Audie Murphy: This legendary World War II hero received nearly every major award for valor during his service with the U.S. Army infantry and rose to become one of its highest-decorated soldiers ever. After returning from war, he joined Texas’ Lone Star Lodge No. 948.
Famous Freemasons in Sports and Athletics
Freemasonry is a fraternal organization that has been around for centuries and has a long history of members from different walks of life. Many famous sports and athletics figures are Freemasons, including some of the most iconic names in the world. Here are some of the most famous Freemasons in sports and athletics:
• Joe DiMaggio: This legendary baseball player was a member of San Francisco Lodge No. 3. He is known for his 56-game hitting streak, which still stands as one of the longest streaks ever recorded.
• Arnold Palmer: This golfing legend joined Acacia Lodge No. 616 in Latrobe, Pennsylvania in 1959. He was one of the most successful golfers ever, winning seven major championships during his career.
• Muhammad Ali: The boxing icon was a member of Valley Lodge No. 962 in Louisville, Kentucky and was also a Shriner. He is considered to be one of the greatest boxers ever and was known for his showmanship both inside and outside the ring.
• Jack Nicklaus: The Golden Bear was a member of Scioto Lodge No. 6 in Columbus, Ohio before joining Acacia Lodge No 536 in North Palm Beach, Florida later on in his life. He won 18 major championships during his career and is widely regarded as one of the greatest golfers ever to play the game.
• Babe Ruth: This legendary baseball player belonged to several lodges throughout his life, including Stansbury Lodge No 721 in Baltimore Maryland and Jerusalem Lodge No 44 F&AM in Boston Massachusetts. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest players to ever take the field and set numerous records during his career that still stand today.
These are just a few examples of famous Freemasons who have had successful careers in sports and athletics over the years. They all share a common bond through their membership with this ancient fraternal organization and their successes serve as an inspiration to those who follow them today.
Final Words On Who Are The Famous Freemasons
Freemasonry is one of the oldest and most well-known fraternal organizations in the world. It is a society that promotes spiritual growth, moral character, and philanthropy. Famous Freemasons have had a profound impact on history and culture. They have included political leaders, artists, musicians, scientists, inventors, and business leaders.
In modern times, the Freemasons continue to be a source of inspiration and leadership in many areas of life. They are committed to making a positive difference in their local communities as well as around the world. By providing education and helping those in need, they are helping to create a better future for all.
It is clear that Freemasonry has had an enormous influence on the world for centuries. Its members continue to strive for excellence in every aspect of life and make an impact that will be felt for generations to come.
The famous Freemasons that have come before us serve as an example of what we can achieve when we strive for greatness in all areas of life. Through their dedication and commitment to service they have left behind a legacy that will continue to inspire us all for years to come.