Each year since the formation of the Grand Lodge of Arizona in 1882, the proceedings from our Annual Communication are published.  Those proceedings contain a rich history of stories and events that have formed and shaped masonry in the 48th State.  As the Grand Lodge of Arizona approaches it's 150th anniversary, we thought it be a good time to start sharing that history.  Masonry in the 48th State is where we explore that Rich history and share it with you.

Masonry in the 48th State

In the late 1800's, frontier Freemasonry was alive and well in Arizona.  In 1897, Masons from around the State were travelling to Southern Arizona for the annual Communication.  The territory was rough, the roads were unimproved and outlaws were abundant.  On Tuesday, November 9th 1897, The Grand Lodge of Arizona commenced their sixteenth annual communication in the town of Bisbee......Underground.

Episode 1: Bisbee Grand Communication

In 1916, citizens were demanding that the old Yavapai County Courthouse on the Prescott Square be torn down because it was ugly and unsafe.  The County Court Supervisors accepted a bid to build the courthouse, and on October 19th, 1916 The Grand Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons of Arizona laid the Cornerstone of the new Courthouse.  Frank O. Smith, Superior Court Judge of Yavapai County, gave an Oration about the importance of the event.  

Episode 2: Yavapai County Courthouse

The George Roskruge & S. Barry Casey Masonic Memorial Library & Museum is the Official Library of the Grand Lodge of Arizona Free and Accepted Masons.  Our goal is to preserve the rich history of Arizona Freemasonry and Educate the public about the role Freemasonry has played in Arizona's past and continues to play in the present.

Masonry in the 48th State

Arizona Masonic Library & Museum