I recently found out that my great-grandfather was a Mason, and was pretty well connected in the organization (Boston area)late 19th and early 20th century. My grandfather did not belong because he converted to Catholicism circa 1920… As such my dad is not a member. What if anything does this mean to me?

thanks

Wonderer-

Thank you very much for your question.  Your patience while waiting for a reply is appreciated.

From the standpoint of joining the Freemasons, the fact your great-grandfather was a member is irrelevant.  Whether or not your grandfather or father were members is also irrelevant.  Although it is nice to have a family connection to the Fraternity, each man who petitions a lodge for membership is judged as an individual on the basis of his character.  There is not “legacy” system in Freemasonry.

There is one, small benefit that you might have the option of pursuing, which would be to consider petitioning the lodge your great-grandfather was a member of.  We can help you find that information.  Although it won’t help you become a member, if you are accepted by the lodge for membership, you will have the privilege of carrying on a family tradition.

I hope this helps answer your question.  If there’s something else we can help you with, please let me know.
-Robert