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for From the Archives

A new pilot program aims to archive the records of California’s extinct Masonic lodges.

At Logos No. 861 in San Francisco, handmade, lovingly crafted material culture is part of the very fabric of the lodge.

The forget-me-not is a Masonic symbol of brotherhood, sacrifice, and remembrance.

The archived papers of California’s Masonic leaders yield important historical insight into the growth and development of the fraternity.

A new exhibition explains the groundbreaking illustrations in a 300-year-old manuscript.

During WWI, the Masonic Ambulance Corps was a grassroots effort by Masonic volunteers who were passionate to serve their country.

A new exhibition by the Grand Lodge of California puts past master’s jewels under the spotlight.

An archival Masonic baseball jersey reveals a colorful American history of Freemasonry, lodges, and baseball.

More than a symbol of fraternal devotion, the Masonic apron embodies the wearer’s presentation of himself – to his lodge and to the world.

A concert promoter, musical impressario, and California Freemason reflects on a very full life in concerts and shows.

Longtime Grand Secretary lived the Masonic life—to the very end.

Check out this 19th century Masonic French antique plate, where east is north and south is west and north is, well, missing! It’s one of the many curiosities housed in the archive of the Grand Lodge, imbued with secret meaning and mystery.

In celebration of Independence Day, Grand Lodge of California head archivist Joe Evans shares a blue transferware cup plate dated between 1818 and 1836 that suggests Lady Justice a Freemason.

Yes, they’re gold and silver Masonic flasks. No, they’re not for booze!

There’s a lot of history wrapped up in one little flag from an obscure Brazilian Masonic lodge. Learn more about it—and other artifacts housed in the Grand Lodge archives—as part of our series on Masonic curios.

How one Freemason became a pioneer winemaker for the wine industry and a charter member of Sonoma County’s early Masonic lodge.

A network of Masons assured a young orphan’s future.

A new exhibition remembers when the Knights Templar came to town.

This miniature, golden metal altar—found in the Henry W. Coil Library and Museum of Freemasonry—is undeniably cool. As for what, precisely, it’s for? That’s less clear.

Pour a draught with these antique Masonic drinking vessels.

A historian probes the enduring appeal of Masonic secrets.

During the Sacramento Cholera Outbreak of 1850, Masons took the reins of a public health emergency.

A woodworking hobbyist turns his sights on the Masonic lodge

A new bronze sculpture of Grand Master Charles A. Adams cements his legacy.

Celebrating the illustrious history—and glittering future—of Masonry in California’s Gold Country.

How do you tell a life story, set new goals, and define your legacy—all on a single lapel pin?

Reviewing the 40-year-old Masonic-inspired board game “BUILD.” Can Freemasonry stand up to the Monopoly treatment?

Masonic wall charts and floor cloths were once banned as too revealing. Now, they’re central parts of modern lodges.

A stunning new exhibition explores the symbolism behind hand-crafted Masonic folk art.

Masonic wall charts and floor cloths were once banned as too revealing. Now, they’re central parts of modern lodges.

Lodges accumulate a mountain of records over the years, in the form of papers, books, artifacts, and photos. The sheer volume can get overwhelming.

Use these guidelines and tools to get rid of the clutter, and to take proper care of your lodge’s important records.

The archives of the Henry Wilson Coil Library and Museum of Freemasonry in San Francisco contain more than 100 years’ worth of significant Masonic artifacts.