Hi, for the past 3 years I have found an interest in the Mysteries. Something about the interconnectedness of the universe has always intrigued me. At every turn I have been lead back to Freemasonry, whether it be authors I have read or historical figures of inspiration. I am Native American and do believe in a supreme being. I don’t think my particular beliefs fall into mainstream religions such as Christianity, Islamic etc… I was wondering if that affects my petition? Secondly I don’t know if I know any Masons, is asking rude? If I can’t find one should I go to the local lodge? And if I do go to the lodge, how does that lead to sponsorship, wouldn’t it be hard for someone to vouch for someone they didn’t know? And finally I was wondering if you knew any history of Native Americans and Freemasonry, has there been any members? I hope I am not asking too many questions at once. It’s just that I am nervous about the application process. With my studies and particular interests I know it is something I want to do. Thanks for your time.

Those are some great questions about Freemasonry. I was in the same situation a few years ago. I was really interested in Freemasonry but there where no members of my family I could ask to sponsor. I live in Massachusetts and our recruiting practices have changed in the past few years. I contacted the Grand Lodge in Boston and from there I found a lodge near my college and then contacted them. I was given a sponsor when I applied at the lodge. This process may or may not be the same, it depends on the state and the lodge.

Your belief in a supreme being does not have to fall into the major religions. That is actually why we ask that you believe in a supreme being, that belief is what ever you want it to be. Freemasonry is open to all faiths and beliefs because, in a Masonic lodge we are all equal. I personally am not sure about the history of Native American membership in Freemasonry but as a college Mason in Massachusetts I will look into that. I have to believe in my heart as a Mason that we have had in the past Native American brothers. I will contact my Grand Lodge and see if I can find any historical records.

Contact the Grand Lodge in your state and they will be able to provide further information including membership procedures. Good luck and remember there is not such thing as too many questions. If you have any further questions, this forum can help in anyway or you can also contact any members on this site myself included through our profile email link. I hope this has helped in many ways. Good luck with everything and if I find out any history about Native Americans in Freemasonry, I will get back to you immediately.

Fraternally,

Jacob Descheneaux

Orion-

Thank you for your posting and interest in Freemasonry. You can learn more about Freemasonry in California by visiting their website, http://www.freemason.org. Do not hesitate to contact them; I know they will welcome your inquiry.

Native Americans are absolutely welcome in Freemasonry. One of our principles is that we are not concerned with the country, religion, race, background, education, or opinion of the men who are interested in joining.
-Robert

Orion,

I have found some history regarding Native Americans and Freemasonry and of all places in my own book collection. It turns out during the French and Indian War, the British brought over Freemasonry and many Native Americans noticed on the battle field the various signs and symbols from Masons during battle. According to history, when a Mason was about to be put to death, he would give a sign or gesture to the chief and he would immediately be released and treated very well. However, to this day, it is unknown how the Native Americans came to learn these Masonic secrets.

Also, there was a famous Native American Mason known as Mohawk Joseph Brant (Thayendanegea) who was a member of the Iroquois Society and a Freemason during the American Revolution. It turns out through history that there were many exchanges between Masons and Native American tribes. However, only recently has this subject been investigated and researched and I feel it begs to be investigated further. There is a very good chance that there is a long history between Native Americans and Freemasons. To what extent that relationship is unknown at this time. This is very fascinating subject and I will continue to research it further.

I hope this post helps. Good luck with all your endeavors. If I find out anymore information I will post.

Fraternally,

Jacob P. Descheneaux

-jpatsfan- Thank you very much on you inquiry into the history of Native Americans and Freemasonry. I found it very enlightening and respect the effort gone into investigating this. After research I have found out that some of the founders of the nation (Most Masons) worked with and based ideas from the League of Iroquoi, and their format of a constitution. A a nation of states/provinces overseen and governed by a Federal power. Thank You for your information. I appreciate new found knowledge. This part of history makes this journey very engaging. I will be inquiring into a local lodge within the next month or two. Once again thank you.