In the “New World” Masonry thrived and flourished during the 18th Century. The “Pub” being the gathering place of convenience of the time and the same remaining close to the historic heart of the Freemason, today. In those ancient times, members of the Lodge joined afterwards to break bread and meet newest candidates. In modern times our lodges now meet in formal Lodge Buildings. Masons worldwide cherish the history of the Pub in masonic life.
Ronald Doucette - Forum Moderator

Green Dragon Tavern was a public house used as a tavern and meeting place located on Union Street in Boston’s North End in Massachusetts.

Purchased in 1764 by the Lodge of St. Andrews of Freemasons for its 1st floor meeting rooms, the basement tavern was used by several secret groups and became known by historians as the “Headquarters of the Revolution”.  The Boston Tea Party was planned there and Paul Revere was sent from there to Lexington on his famous ride.

The current Green Dragon Tavern is located on 11 Marshall Street in Boston’s North End, and is a great pub, while being a point on the historic Masonic Trail. Oh, the pints are great. Masonic visitors to Boston are certain to enjoy this spot.
Ronald Doucette - Forum Moderator

Here’s a great one: Fraunce Tavern, in Lower Manhattan, near Wall Street, at 54 Pearl Street. NY, NY. This 1763 Tavern run by Samuel Fraunce, who became a close personal friend of General George Washington, hosted many early meetings of those now known to be patriots and Masons.
Sons of the Revolution and Fraunce Tavern Museum include more than 200 replicas of Revolutionary War flags, more than 50 valued paintings of the era, an extensive selection of weapons and equipment of the period, a substantial collection of 18th century furniture and furnishings, and personal effects of George Washington and his compatriots.
The food here is superb. Try the Planters’ Punch!
Ronald Doucette - Forum Moderator

In the Shadow of Bunker Hill:
The Warren Tavern is the most historic watering hole in Boston. This oldest tavern in Massachusetts was visited by many famous individuals.
The Warren Tavern was first erected in 1780 in Charlestown, MA. It was also one of the first buildings raised after Charlestown was sacked by the British
George Washington stopped here for refreshments and conversation. Paul Revere considered it one of his favorite watering holes, George Washington’s funeral speech was given here. The tavern is located on the cozy streets of Charlestown. It is both a staple for Charlestown residents as well as an exciting location for visitors who want drink and dine in one of the most historic taverns in the United States. The food is great and the best time to visit is on a snowy night in January when the “Townies and the Yuppies” converge. Little or no parking except at the Johnny’s Food Mart lot. A must take in event!
Ronald Doucette - Forum Moderator

My apologies gentlemen, for dusting off an older thread here; but it has recently become relevant again.  There has been serious conversation recently in my district about reviving the older tradition of holding meetings at “public houses” (in private back rooms of course.)

One suggestion was that a delegation might visit another lodge that has already resurrected this custom, to see an example of how it works in practice and learn from an existing group.  Are there any such lodges, or even occasional such meetings, in MA?

Thanks for any insights.

Tun Tavern, Philidelphia, Pennsylvania.
Tun Tavern was the original home of the Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania prior to its temporarily moving to Independence Hall for a brief period of time. Tun Tavern also happens to be the birthplace of the United States Marine Corps.
Also if you are in Philadelphia go to North Broad Street and visit the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. Some, along with myself although I am partial as a Pennsylvania Freemason, would argue that it is the crown jewel of Freemasonry and the finest Masonic Temple in the world. It too is of particular historical interest considering the fact that you will find within the library of the Temple both George Washington’s Masonic Apron and Benjamin Franklin’s sash. It is also the home of Liber B which is a list of Freemasons in Pennsylvania around the mid to late 1700s and is considered one of the oldest Masonic documents relating to American Freemasonry.