Prince Hall Freemasonry is the oldest, continually active fraternal organization within the State of Illinois. The fraternity is designed to make good men better through service to mankind. Our service is shown in many communities across the State of Illinois. We look forward to serving our communities today so they may have better tomorrows. A timeline of our history is below.
Since inception, the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons, State of Illinois has actively participated in the causes of social activism and community improvement. This is documented by efforts before, during and after the formation of the Grand Lodge of Illinois:
- The bulk of the founding members of the Grand Lodge of Illinois were abolitionists during Slavery.
- PGM John Jones fought to remove the Illinois Black Codes and to gain passage of the 13th, 14th and 15th Amendments to the United States Constitution. He became the first black elected official in Illinois in 1871 as Cook County Commissioner.
- The brethren of the City of Chicago and Aurora contributed to relief during the Chicago Fire of 1871. This led to the formation of Keystone Lodge #15 in the City of Aurora in 1874.
- Many brethren served their country during the Spanish American War in 1898 and World War One. Many of the officers of the Eighth Illinois Regiment were Prince Hall Masons.
- The Order of the Bees for Boys and Girls was formed as the first youth initiative in 1922. The Order of the Junior Craftsmen was the second initiative formed in 1938 to focus on the development of young men. PGM Henry G. Fort partnered with the National Urban League in the 1950s and 60s to provide job training for the youths. The Order remains in existence to this date.
- The Grand Lodge offered relief during the Great Depression and service during World War Two and successive wars and conflicts endured by the country.
The Grand Lodge continues to offer relief and service to distressed citizens and to our country through service and educational donations. The current efforts were clearly sourced by the labors of the past. By the grace of God, these efforts will continue well into the future.
Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge
Free & Accepted Masons
State of Illinois and Its Jurisdiction