Hi!
I am a young man, early twenties, and I am very interested in becoming a mason. I am in college, I believe in hard work, and I believe in the various masonic character principals.

However, I am curious as to how my appearence would be viewed by most masons if I were to try to join. I am what you might call a “hippie”...long hair, beard, offbeat (but not extreme) dress....and I want to know if there has been any sort of history between masons and hippies, whether good or bad.

I would hope that an organization such as the Freemasons would look deeper to moral fiber and not focus on the surface, and from what I have seen, I expect that they do. Any words of wisdom?

I am delighted to meet you. I can assure you, that Masonry is concerned with the “inner man”. Outer distractions, such as tatoos, and body piercings, are of no interest to your fitness to be a Mason. Furthermore, clothing, hair length, and facial hair, are a matter of complete indifference.

The requirements to petition our Craft, are clearly posted on the various Grand Lodge websites. Basically, they are:

Male
Mature of age (18 some states, 21 most states)
Belief in God (No one particular creed or religion specified. Only an avowed atheist cannot petition)
Good moral character (Generally, felons are prohibited from Masonry, but even these are considered on a case-by-case status.)
Some states have a residency requirement, Georgia requires the applicant to be resident in Georgia for three years. California requires one year.

If you feel that Masonry is right for you (you will never be asked to join), you must contact the lodge in your city of residence, and ask for a petition. (We will be glad to help you find a lodge)

Some lodges have a dress code for their meetings. French lodges generally require coat and tie.  There is a lodge in Louisville KY, which requires all members to wear a tuxedo or dark suit. Rural, country lodges often permit members to wear bib overalls, or other work clothes.

There are lodges which meet on weekday mornings, for retired men and shift workers. These “daylight” lodges are generally very casual, and members wear jeans.