The Freemasons are an international fraternal order dedicated to charity and fellowship.  The Marblehead Lodge, originally known as St. John’s Lodge was chartered in 1760, and is the 3rd oldest Masonic Lodge in the Massachusetts.  The organization’s name was changed to Philanthropic Lodge in 1797 when Paul Revere was the Grand Master of Masons in Massachusetts.  Since the 18th-century, the Masons have assembled at various locations throughout Marblehead.

“America's Revolution was led by people from many backgrounds. But it is notable that both nationally and locally, many Revolutionary War leaders were Masons,” said Pam Peterson, Museum Director.  “This year, Marblehead's Masonic Lodge celebrates its 250th anniversary, and MMHS celebrates the early Marbleheaders among them who contributed to our nation's freedom.”

The exhibition runs
through mid-June, 2010