WHO WERE THE FREE MASONS

Freemasonry is the world's oldest and largest Fraternity. While its traditions look back to earliest history, Masonry in its current form appeared when its public events were noticed by the residents of London, England in 1717. Although Masonry - particularly in its earliest days - had some elements of secrecy, the first 'exposure' of the supposedly highly-secret Masonic ritual actually appeared in 1696! Since that time, there have been tens of thousands of books published about this 'secret organization'. And for over three hundred years, despite the good works done by its members, Freemasonry has continually suffered the slings and arrows of those who seek to use it's quiet nature against it.

What did the Free masons stand for
Freemasonry's singular purpose is to make good men better and its bonds of friendship, compassion and brotherly love have survived even the most divisive political, military and religious conflicts through the centuries. Freemasonry is neither a forum nor a place of worship. It is not a religion nor does it teach a religious philosophy. For nearly three hundred years it has attracted men of high moral character who support the tenets of temperance, fortitude, prudence and justice.


We're often asked, "What do Freemasons believe?" The answer is quite simple: essentially the same things that teachers, bus drivers, Rotarians, or anyone else believes. There is no 'requirement' that all Masons believe certain things except insofar as good behavior dictates.

Why were the Freemasons created
There are many theories on this subject, way too many to list here. Suffice to say the bonds of brotherhood have been adopted by society since the dawn of time. There have been many organizations throughout time that have had similar constructs. When you get into it, out Fraternity was organized out of the guilds of stone masons who built the cathedrals and castles, etc of Europe over the last millenium.

How do you get in?
You ask. Then if found worthy, you enter.

Are they skilled fighters?
As a group Freemason are not fighters...seriously? They are a fraternity of men who desire more knowledge and to better themselves, to become better men, husbands, fathers, neighbors and citizens. Although individually they could be as many are active and retired military, policemen, firemen, boxers. As well as plumbers, bakers, electricians, banker, doctors lawyers, etc. You get the point...

Whats the Symbols mean?!!?!
Without a common frame of reference it would be difficult to explain the meaning of the symbols. In effect they are among the working tools of a Freemason and have certain analogous explanations. But one would have to join to find out.

This answer is as short as possible considering how many questions you asked in one post.