National organized Freemasonry began in 1717 with the founding of the Grand Lodge—an association of Masonic lodges—in England. However, Freemason societies have existed for much longer. The most popular theory is that Freemasonry emerged out of the stonemasonry guilds of the Middle Ages.

Who started the Free Masons?

The first American Mason lodge was established in Philadelphia in 1730, and future revolutionary leader Benjamin Franklin was a founding member. There is no central Masonic authority, and Freemasons are governed locally by the order's many customs and rites.

What is the purpose of Freemasons?

Q: What is the purpose of Freemasons? The purpose of Freemasonry is to improve morality, build character, and provide a course of self-improvement. They want to make better men out of good men.