Est. 1837 · Grand Lodge of Texas
From the Republic of Texas to the present day, Freemasonry has been woven into the civic, cultural, and charitable fabric of the Lone Star State.
Start Here
Begin with our plain-language introduction — what Freemasonry is, what it is not, and what brings men to the fraternity.
What Is Freemasonry?Learn the official process for petitioning a Texas lodge, what to expect, and how to take the first step.
Become a MasonExplore Masonry's role in the Republic of Texas, the founding of the Grand Lodge, and its legacy through the centuries.
Texas Masonic HistoryFind lodges, explore appendant bodies, access research resources, and discover Masonic events across Texas.
Find a LodgeWhat Texas Freemasonry Stands For
Fraternity
With lodges in communities large and small across the Lone Star State, Freemasonry brings men together across lines of profession, background, and belief — united by shared values and a commitment to each other's growth.
Learn MoreHistory
Freemasons were present at the founding of the Texas Republic, signed the Declaration of Independence, and shaped the civic institutions of the state. Texas Masonic history is Texas history.
Explore the TimelineEducation
From lodge degree work to the scholarly publications of the Texas Lodge of Research, Freemasonry encourages its members toward continued moral, philosophical, and historical study throughout their lives.
Masonic EducationService
Texas Masons support the Masonic Children and Family Services of Texas, which provides care for children, families, widows, and senior Masons. Giving back is central to the Masonic way of life.
Masonic CharityEst. 1837
1820s
Before Texas independence, Freemasonry arrived with Anglo-American colonists. Stephen F. Austin and many early Texas colonists were Masons. Some historians trace Masonic activity in Texas to as early as the 1820s under Mexican rule, though formal lodge organization was not possible until later.
1835–1836
A disproportionate number of men who signed the Texas Declaration of Independence and led the Texas Revolution were Freemasons, including Sam Houston. Masonic bonds of brotherhood were credited by some historians with contributing to unity among the revolutionary leaders.
1837
On December 20, 1837, the Grand Lodge of the Republic of Texas was formed in Houston, with Holland Lodge No. 1 among the founding lodges. This made Texas one of the few places in the world to establish a Grand Lodge as an independent republic. The first Grand Master was John Holland.
1837
Holland Lodge No. 1, chartered in Houston, is one of the oldest Masonic lodges in Texas. Named in honor of John Henry Holland, a prominent early Texas Mason, it remains active today and serves as a living link to the Masonic heritage of the Texas Republic era.
Beyond the Blue Lodge
Chapter, Council, and Commandery — the three bodies of Texas York Rite Masonry.
Additional degrees from the 4th through the 32nd, with active Valley bodies across Texas.
A related organization open to Master Masons and their eligible female relatives.
A Masonic-sponsored youth organization building leadership in young men aged 12–21.
Masonic Philanthropy in Texas
Texas Masons have a long tradition of charitable giving and community service. The Masonic Children and Family Services of Texas provides care and support for children, families, widows, and senior Masons — a mission that extends across the entire state.
From the Texas Masonic Retirement Center to family support programs, Masonic philanthropy in Texas reflects the fraternity's core commitment to relieving distress and caring for those in need.
Masonic Charity in Texas1837
Year Grand Lodge Founded
900+
Chartered Lodges in Texas
MCFS
Statewide Masonic Philanthropy
188+
Years of Fraternal Service
News & Media
The Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Texas brings together lodge delegates from across the state for business, elections, and fraternal fellowship.
The Texas Masonic Retirement Center continues to provide quality care and community for senior Masons and their families across the Lone Star State.
The York Rite bodies of Texas — Grand Chapter, Grand Council, and Grand Commandery — hold their annual Grand Sessions each spring, drawing delegates and officers from across the state.
The Texas Lodge of Research publishes scholarly work on Masonic history, symbolism, and philosophy. Their annual transactions are available to subscribers and researchers.
Masonry Near You
With lodges in communities across the Lone Star State, Freemasonry is likely closer than you think. Search by city or region to find a lodge near you.