Decades of Tradition: Freemasonry

The United States is rich with traditions. One of those traditions is even older than the Founding Father’s – Freemasonry. Freemasons are a fraternal order that has been around for quite a long time before the birth of the United States, and it only made sense to align a newborn nation with one of the oldest and most sacred groups. From its birth in London to its move across the big pond, Masonry quite literally helped build this country. The Founding Father’s found a lot of similarities between the teaching of the Freemasons and their early republican values – it only made sense to join the two and build a strong, healthy nation. Our American culture is so diverse and steeped in so many various heritages, Freemasonry being one of the founding subcultures. Let’s explore the early beginning of Freemasonry and the United States, as well as the modern day Masons.

The Birth of a Fraternal Movement 

The story begins in 18th century London, where Freemasonry was born as an early fraternal movement. To really understand the Masons, let’s look at what defines a fraternal society. A fraternal society is an organized society of men brought together in an environment of companionship and brotherhood. This society is dedicated to the growth of its members in the areas of intellect, environment, and physicality. From their organized birth, the Masons were committed to creating good citizens, forging real friendships, speaking out against cultural and social divides, and supporting charity. The Freemasons made huge impacts in the social awareness of slavery and the freedom of all of America’s peoples. It’s no wonder the Founding Father’s felt at home to call themselves Freemasons as well.

America’s history is rich with famous, well-known Freemasons. Right up until the Revolution, there was a strong assemblage of Masons in America. This tight-knit brotherhood included men like Paul Revere, who was a skilled silversmith, Freemason, and integral part of the Revolution in the United States. The Masons were also extremely accepting and supportive of African Americans in a time that was not so tolerant. There were many famous African American Freemasons, like Prince Hall, who contributed to America’s Revolution. Some other famous Freemasons were George Washington, John Hancock, Benjamin Franklin, and countless others through history. Joining the Freemasons gave members a sense of support and a way to make an impact in politics at the time; both aspects shaped the values of the country we love today.

 

Modern Day Masons 

By 1820, the Freemasons have established themselves as an important part of the United State’s early history. The Masons have literally laid the foundation of the country in building some of the most important political buildings, such as meeting halls, government buildings, and churches. Most everyone was familiar with the famous compass, pyramid, eye, and other Freemason imagery, as this was often found on furniture, textiles, and jewelry everywhere – regardless of the person’s involvement with the Freemasons. Even the seal of the United States of America contains Masonic imagery - the pyramid and eye appear on the dollar bill. The dress of the Freemasons was also quite well known, the iconic aprons and trowels. With how recognizable Freemasonry symbols had become, the Masons began to set themselves apart with special markers, like Masonic Jewelry.

Freemasons continue the tradition of sporting Masonic jewelry in modern days. With so many various fraternal orders, Masonic jewelry is one sure way for Freemasons to set themselves apart from other orders in the area. This is also a fantastic way to show pride in their respective Orders. Masonic jewelry can tell people about the order the man belongs to, as well as his status and involvement in the brotherhood. Here at JewelBasket, we are committed to bringing everyone beautiful, quality pieces of jewelry. This is no different when it comes to our selection of Freemason jewelry. We really have something for every man. Whether he’s looking for a ring, watch, tie clip, or cufflink set, our selection of items cannot be matches. As always, our Masonic jewelry is made from the same top quality gold, silver, and gemstones as all of our other jewelry. If you’re looking for a gift for a Freemason, we have custom options to truly represent who they are as a man and a Mason. Our country is rich with the history of the Freemasons; let us help you honor that heritage at JewelBasket.