News

All the latest Masonic news from the Grand Lodge of California.

Explaining the ranks of Masonry, from entered apprentice to Master Mason to 33rd degree Mason.

Masonic Ranks

The craft lodges where Masons begin their journey through Freemasonry have three ranks, or degrees. Once they’ve completed those, they’re able to pursue further degrees through “appendant” Masonic bodies that offer even more ranks beyond that. What does it all add up to? Is there a system to putting Masonic ranks in order—and if so, what’s at the top?

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Frontispiece of James Anderson's 1723 Constitutions of Freemasonry. Learn more about other Masonic bodies and organizations, including the Scottish Rite, York Rite, Knights Templar, and the Shrine.

Other Masonic Bodies

Freemasonry has inspired a number of offshoot Masonic groups that can offer a unique extension of the member experience. From the playful personality of the Shriners to the expanded degree lessons of the Knights Templar and York Rite and Scottish Rite, here’s an introduction to Masonic appendant bodies and affiliated organizations.

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Prince Hall Masons pose in this archival photo. Prince Hall Masonry (also called Prince Hall Freemasonry) is a centuries-old Black fraternal order that today partners with the Masons of California.

Prince Hall Masonry

Prince Hall Masonry is a historically Black branch of Freemasonry that began in the 1700s. Learn about the organization’s revolutionary history, and the important role it plays for Black Freemasons and the Masonic family today.

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George Washington Freemason, famous freemasons, famous masons

Famous Freemasons

Freemasons come from all backgrounds, all belief systems, and all walks of life. So it’s no surprise that the list of famous Freemasons is very long—and varied. It includes everyone from actors and celebrities to artists and politicians. Let’s meet a few.

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