THE HISTORY
OF MASONRY

"From Whence We Came"

By: Dr. Michael Brantley

Presented April 8, 2006

Dr. Brantley is the Grand Historian for the Grand Lodge of North Carolina. He is very well versed in the documented history of Masonry. He may be contacted through the Grand Lodge by e-mail Michael W. Brantley, Grand Historian if you have questions or would like to arrange for him to speak at your lodge.

HOW? WHEN? WHERE? These are questions often asked regarding the History of Masonry.

When we speak of history, we need to keep in mind that this means the "DOCUMENTED" information that can be found to prove an event. History doesn't mean supposition or legend handed down from generation to generation. Therefore, some of the ideas we are taught as Masons are not true history. They are simply legends that have been created and passed on. There is no documentation to prove the events.

The first known document of Freemasonry dates from 1390 and is titled "THE REGIUS POEM", also known as "THE HALLIWELL MANUSCRIPT". This document was written in "middle english" and has been translated to modern english for you. To read the document, click on this link THE REGIUS POEM (PDF file).

The Guild of Freemasonry was developed from the need for the many children of the Lords and Ladies to have a way to "earn" a living. The owner of the Guild (the shop or trade) was called the Master. He taught the "trade" to young men (the entered apprentice), who remained apprenticed for seven (7) years. When they were determined to be proficient in their craft, they could then be paid and were called "fellows of the craft".

In the 17th Century a change from Operative to Speculative Masonry occured. This change took place due to a decline in the membership of the guilds. From this change, spawned modern Masonry.

To learn more detail, please contact W.B. Brantley