What is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry (excerpt from Wikipedia), sometimes spelled Free-Masonry or simply Masonry from 'freestone mason', includes various fraternal organisations that trace their origins to the local guilds of stonemasons that, from the end of the 14th century, regulated the qualifications of stonemasons and their interaction with authorities and clients. Freemasonry is the oldest fraternity in the world and among the oldest continued organizations in history.
Modern Freemasonry broadly consists of two main recognition groups: Regular Freemasonry, which insists that a “volume of sacred law”, such as the Bible, the Quran, or other religious scripture be open in a working lodge, that every member professes belief in a Supreme Being, that no women be admitted, and that the discussion of religion and politics do not take place within the lodge; and Continental Freemasonry, which consists of the jurisdictions that have removed some, or all, of these restrictions.
The basic, local organizational unit of Freemasonry is the Lodge. These private Lodges are usually supervised at the regional level (usually coterminous with a state, province, or national border) by a Grand Lodge. There is no international, worldwide Grand Lodge that supervises all of Freemasonry; each Grand Lodge is independent, and they do not necessarily recognize each other as being legitimate. Lodges are found around the world and on all populated continents.
Famous Canadian Freemasons
Sir John A. MacDonald (1815–1891)
Canada’s first prime minister, Macdonald played a key role in the creation of the Canadian Confederation. His leadership helped unite the provinces into one nation, and he worked to expand Canada westward. As a Freemason, his commitment to public service and community helped lay the foundation for modern Canada
John Molson (1763–1836)
Founder of the Molson Brewery, one of Canada’s oldest companies, Molson was a visionary businessman. He invested in transportation, helping build steamboats and railways. His Freemasonry affiliation reflected his dedication to innovation and community, inspiring entrepreneurs across Canada.
Donald Smith, Lord Strathcona (1820–1914)
Lord Strathcona was instrumental in financing the Canadian Pacific Railway, linking Canada’s coasts. His philanthropy supported education and public welfare. His Masonic values of service and commitment to the common good were evident in his national contributions.
Timothy Eaton (1834–1907)
Founder of Eaton’s, one of Canada’s largest retail stores, Timothy Eaton revolutionized shopping with mail-order catalogs and the idea of customer satisfaction. His Freemason involvement underscored his belief in community-building and ethical business practices.
Andrew Paull (1892–1959)
A leader in the Indigenous community, Paull advocated for the rights of Indigenous peoples. As a Freemason, he used his platform to raise awareness and promote social justice. His work in education and community engagement continues to inspire many.
Joseph Howe (1804–1873)
Howe was a journalist, politician, and champion of free speech. His work led to reforms in Nova Scotia, particularly in the areas of government transparency and civil rights. His Freemasonry involvement reflected his commitment to justice and democratic ideals.
James Naismith (1861–1939)
Inventor of basketball, Naismith was a teacher and coach who revolutionized sports. His Freemason values of discipline, education, and leadership helped shape both his professional and personal life, inspiring others to follow his example in sports and service.
Lord Stanley of Preston (1841–1908)
Lord Stanley was the Governor General of Canada from 1888 to 1893, but he is perhaps best known for establishing the Stanley Cup, which became one of the most prestigious trophies in professional sports. As a Freemason, Stanley was deeply involved in philanthropy and community service. His decision to donate the Cup in 1892 reflected his belief in sportsmanship, competition, and camaraderie. The Stanley Cup continues to inspire athletes and fans, making Lord Stanley’s legacy a symbol of excellence and dedication in Canadian and global hockey.
Other Famous Freemasons...
Freemasonry's influence extends beyond Canada,with renowned members worldwide. Notable examples include Robert Burns, Scotland's national poet, and Winston Churchill. The following is a representative list of some internationally well known Masons.
Robert Burns (1759–1796)
Robert Burns, Scotland's national poet, is famous for his works like "Auld Lang Syne" and "Address to a Haggis." Burns was an active Freemason, and his Masonic involvement deeply influenced his poetry, which often celebrated themes of fraternity, equality, and the shared human experience. His poems and songs resonate with the values of brotherhood and charity, making him an enduring symbol of Freemasonry’s ideals. Burns' legacy as a poet and his commitment to the Masonic principles continue to inspire Freemasons and admirers worldwide.
Audie Murphy
The most decorated soldier of WW2.
Herman Munster
Frederick Hubbard Gwynne was an American actor, artist and author.
George Washington
American political leader, military general, statesman, and Founding Father, who served as the first president of the United States from 1789 to 1797
Benjamin Franklin
Benjamin Franklin FRS FRSA FRSE (January 17, 1706 [O.S. January 6, 1706] – April 17, 1790) was an American polymath who was active as a writer, scientist, inventor, statesman, diplomat, printer, publisher and political philosopher. Among the leading intellectuals of his time, Franklin was one of the Founding Fathers of the United States and the first United States Postmaster General.
Shaquile O’Neil
The best Basketball player, even if he couldn’t basket from the freethrow line.
Winston Churchill
Sir Winston Leonard Spencer Churchill, was a British statesman who served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1940 to 1945, during the Second World War, and again from 1951 to 1955.