Did you know 14% of U.S. Presidents were Freemasons? This fact is just the start of a world of celebrity freemasons. You’ll find royalty and rock stars in this secret group.
Freemasonry has drawn in many famous people. Presidents, movie stars, and sports heroes have joined. This group has changed our world in big ways.
We’ll explore the links between power, fame, and Freemasonry. You’ll see your favorite stars in a new light.
Key Takeaways
- 14% of U.S. Presidents were members of the Freemasons
- Freemasonry attracts members from diverse fields, including politics, entertainment, and sports
- Notable Freemasons include Benjamin Franklin, John Wayne, and Winston Churchill
- The brotherhood includes 36 United States Supreme Court Justices
- Famous musicians like Ludwig Von Beethoven and Nat King Cole were Freemasons
- Astronauts Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong were part of the fraternity
- The Masonic membership spans various countries and professions
The Hidden World of Celebrity Freemasons
Freemasonry has been around since the late 16th century. It has a rich history and many famous members. These members come from all walks of life.
Also see: How To Join Freemasons – Secret Coded Answer: ASK12B1
Understanding Freemasonry’s Appeal to Famous Figures
Freemasonry attracts famous people because of its traditions, charity, and networking. It has about 1.3 million members in the U.S. This makes it a special place for influential people to help others.
The Historical Significance of Masonic Membership
Masonic membership has greatly influenced society. Its members are known for their charity work. For example, the Shriners, a part of Freemasonry, run 22 children’s hospitals. They also give $2 million to charity every day.
How Celebrities Shaped Modern Freemasonry
Celebrity Freemasons have used their fame and wealth to make a difference. They have kept Freemasonry relevant today. Despite fewer members, their efforts are still felt.
| Year | U.S. Freemason Membership | Daily Charitable Donations |
|---|---|---|
| 1959 | 4 million | Data not available |
| 2023 | 1.3 million | $2 million |
The influence of masonic celebrities goes beyond the lodge. They have shaped society and culture. Their work has kept Freemasonry a force for good in the world.
Presidential Freemasons Who Changed History
The Oval Office has had many famous freemasons. Since 1789, 15 out of 45 U.S. presidents were Freemasons. They changed America and kept Masonic traditions alive.
George Washington, the first president, joined Freemasonry in 1752. His leadership showed the way for others. The White House’s cornerstone was laid in 1792 with Masons leading the ceremony.
| Era | Notable Freemason Presidents | Masonic Contributions |
|---|---|---|
| Founding Era | James Monroe, Andrew Jackson | Started Masonic traditions in government |
| Civil War Era | James Buchanan, James A. Garfield | Used Masonic ideas during hard times |
| 20th Century | Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Harry S. Truman | Applied Masonic values to big changes |
Freemasonry’s impact in the White House went beyond one president. In 1830, President Andrew Jackson joined Federal Lodge 1. He was honored, along with his cabinet members. This shows how Masonic brotherhood and politics mixed.
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Gerald R. Ford, president from 1974 to 1977, was the last Freemason president. His time ended an era of Masonic leaders. Today, people still find these presidents interesting.
Hollywood Stars in the Masonic Brotherhood
The world of hollywood freemasons is very interesting. Many famous stars were part of this secret group. They helped shape both the entertainment world and Freemasonry.
Golden Age Icons: Clark Gable and John Wayne
Clark Gable starred in “Gone with the Wind” and was a Freemason. He worked for many years, inspiring many actors. John Wayne, another big star, was also a Freemason. These stars showed how Freemasonry and Hollywood often mixed.
Comedy Legends: Richard Pryor and Don Rickles
Richard Pryor was a groundbreaking comedian. He used his tough childhood to make people laugh. Don Rickles, known as “Mr. Warmth,” was famous for his jokes. Both were Freemasons, showing the group’s wide range.
The Impact of Freemasonry on Entertainment
Freemasonry’s effect on Hollywood is clear. In the 1960s, California’s Masonic numbers soared. Today, over 60,000 people are members in California. Hollywood has seven Grand Lodges, adding beauty to the city.
| Year | Event | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 1903 | Hollywood Lodge No. 335 founded | Started Freemasonry in Hollywood |
| 1921 | Hollywood Masonic Temple built | Became a key place for Masons in entertainment |
| 1930s | Great Depression | Masons faced money problems |
| 1980 | Lodge moved to Van Nuys | Shown changes in the group |
| 2003 | Jimmy Kimmel Live! starts | Old Masonic Temple became a new place for fun |
The legacy of hollywood freemasons still affects the entertainment world. It shows that Freemasonry and celebrities are still connected today.
Revolutionary Founding Fathers as Freemasons
The freemason founding fathers were key in shaping America. They fought for freedom and helped start a new nation. George Washington was a big name in this group.
Washington joined Freemasonry in 1752 in Virginia. He became a Master Mason in 1753. He showed his love for Masonry by taking part in ceremonies and laying the U.S. Capitol cornerstone in 1793.
Benjamin Franklin was also a big freemason. He helped the early American government a lot. He published Masonic books in 1733, spreading Masonic ideas.
“Freemasonry has tenets peculiar to itself. They serve as testimonials of character and qualifications, which are only conferred after due course of instruction and examination. These are of no small value; they speak a universal language, and act as a passport to the attentions and support of the initiated in all parts of the world.” – Benjamin Franklin
John Hancock and Paul Revere were also Masons. They fought for freedom and the right to gather peacefully. These ideas helped shape the United States.
| Founding Father | Masonic Lodge | Notable Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| George Washington | Fredericksburg Lodge | First U.S. President |
| Benjamin Franklin | St. John’s Lodge, Philadelphia | Diplomat, Scientist, Author |
| John Hancock | Merchants Lodge No. 277, Quebec | First Signer of Declaration of Independence |
| Paul Revere | St. Andrew’s Lodge, Boston | Patriot, Silversmith |
Notable Athletes and Sports Figures in Freemasonry
The sports world has many freemason athletes. They shine in basketball and baseball. Let’s look at some famous players who followed Masonic values.
Basketball Legends: Shaquille O’Neal and Scottie Pippen
Shaquille O’Neal and Scottie Pippen are basketball stars. They are also Masons. O’Neal is big and bold, while Pippen is great at defense. Both value Masonic teachings of brotherhood and self-improvement.
Baseball Heroes: Ty Cobb and Rogers Hornsby
Early baseball had Ty Cobb and Rogers Hornsby, both Masons. Cobb was very competitive. Hornsby was a great hitter. They worked hard in baseball and in Masonry.
Sports Pioneers: Arnold Palmer and James Naismith
Arnold Palmer and James Naismith are also notable. Palmer was a golf star. Naismith invented basketball. Both found Masonry’s values important.
These athletes show Freemasonry’s big role in sports. They come from many sports, showing Masonic values are universal. This diversity shows Masonry’s appeal in sports.
Musical Maestros Who Were Freemasons
Music has many freemason musicians and masonic composers. They made music that lasts forever. They also joined Masonic groups, mixing their music with brotherhood.
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was a famous masonic composer. He wrote music for Masonic events, like “The Mason’s Joy” cantata. His operas showed Enlightenment values, which Masons believe in.
Ludwig van Beethoven might have been a Freemason, but it’s not sure. His music sometimes had Masonic themes. Vienna’s Masonic scene during his time might have inspired his music, even if he wasn’t a member.
“Music is the mediator between the spiritual and the sensual life.” – Ludwig van Beethoven
Other famous freemason musicians are Franz Liszt, Jean Sibelius, and Irving Berlin. They made music while being part of Masonic groups. This shows how art and brotherhood can mix together.
| Composer | Masonic Contribution | Musical Legacy |
|---|---|---|
| Mozart | Wrote Masonic-themed music | Operas, symphonies, concertos |
| Beethoven | Suspected Masonic influences | Symphonies, piano sonatas |
| Sibelius | Active Freemason | Symphonic poems, violin concerto |
| Berlin | Masonic member | Popular songs, Broadway tunes |
Military Leaders and Their Masonic Connections
Freemasonry and military service are closely linked. Many freemason military leaders have made history. They show leadership and brotherhood.
From World War II heroes to famous generals, they are all about courage and dedication.
World War II Heroes
General James Harold “Jimmy” Doolittle is a big name from World War II. He became a Master Mason in 1918. In 1942, he led the Doolittle Raid.
This bold mission had 16 B-25 bombers hit Tokyo and other Japanese cities. It boosted American morale when it was needed most.
Distinguished Generals and Admirals
Doolittle did more than just lead the Doolittle Raid. He got his first doctorate in aeronautical engineering from MIT in 1923. He also set a world speed record for land planes in 1932.
His mix of military skill and academic success shows what freemason military leaders are like.
Medal of Honor Recipients
For the Doolittle Raid, President Franklin D. Roosevelt gave Doolittle the Medal of Honor. This award is for the highest bravery in battle. It’s a trait many masonic war heroes share.
Doolittle’s career kept growing. In 1951, he became a civilian special assistant to the Air Force chief of staff.
| Achievement | Year |
|---|---|
| Raised as Master Mason | 1918 |
| First U.S. Doctorate in Aeronautical Engineering | 1923 |
| World Speed Record for Land Planes | 1932 |
| Led Doolittle Raid | 1942 |
| Appointed Air Force Special Assistant | 1951 |
Business Titans and Innovators in the Brotherhood
Freemasonry has many business leaders and innovators. They have made big changes in different areas. These changes have shaped our world today.
Henry Ford changed cars for everyone. He made cars affordable. Walter P. Chrysler also made big changes in cars. Both used Masonic values in their work.
J.C. Penney was a leader in retail. He focused on fair prices and good service. His work showed how Masonic values help in business.
Freemasonry also drew scientists and doctors. Sir Alexander Fleming found penicillin. His work saved many lives and changed medicine.
Edwin L. Drake was a key figure in oil. He used Masonic values to keep going, even when it was hard. His work helped start the oil industry as we know it today.
“Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.” – Steve Jobs
These leaders show Masonic values can lead to success. They inspire others to keep innovating and leading, inside and outside Freemasonry.
Conclusion
Celebrity membership in freemasonry has left a lasting mark on history. Famous leaders like George Washington and Harry S. Truman joined. They helped shape nations.
The arts and sciences also benefited from freemasonry. Mark Twain and Isaac Newton were members. They made big contributions to their fields.
Freemasonry is big, with lodges in over 100 countries. It has about six million members worldwide. In England and Wales, there are 6,300 lodges for different interests.
In 2015, freemasonry raised £33 million for charity. This shows its commitment to helping others.
But freemasonry faces challenges. In England and Wales, membership has dropped by 150,000 in 20 years. Only 2% of members are under 30.
Yet, freemasonry’s appeal remains strong. It values brotherhood and learning. This attracts people from all backgrounds.
Celebrities in freemasonry have greatly influenced both the group and society. From leaders to entertainers, their impact is still felt. This shows the lasting legacy of freemasonry.
FAQ
Who are some of the most famous celebrity Freemasons?
Famous Freemasons include U.S. Presidents like George Washington and Franklin D. Roosevelt. Hollywood stars like Clark Gable and John Wayne are also members. Sports legends like Shaquille O’Neal and Arnold Palmer join the list. Benjamin Franklin, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and Henry Ford are also Freemasons.
How many U.S. Presidents were Freemasons?
At least 14 U.S. Presidents were Freemasons. George Washington and Andrew Jackson are examples. Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Harry S. Truman, and Gerald R. Ford also belonged. Their Masonic values influenced their leadership.
Were any Founding Fathers of the United States Freemasons?
Yes, many Founding Fathers were Freemasons. Benjamin Franklin, John Hancock, and Paul Revere were among them. Their Masonic values helped shape the new nation.
Which Hollywood celebrities were members of the Masonic brotherhood?
Hollywood stars like Clark Gable and John Wayne were Freemasons. Richard Pryor and Don Rickles also belonged. They balanced their careers with Masonic activities.
Are there any famous athletes who were Freemasons?
Yes, many famous athletes were Freemasons. Shaquille O’Neal and Scottie Pippen are examples. Ty Cobb, Rogers Hornsby, and Arnold Palmer were also members. James Naismith, the basketball inventor, was a Freemason.
Were any famous musicians or composers Freemasons?
Yes, many famous musicians and composers were Freemasons. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Ludwig van Beethoven were members. Franz Liszt, Jean Sibelius, and Irving Berlin also belonged. Their music was influenced by Masonic values.
Which military leaders were known to be Freemasons?
Many military leaders were Freemasons. World War II heroes like Audie Murphy and General Douglas MacArthur were members. General John J. Pershing, General George C. Marshall, and Admiral Richard E. Byrd were also Freemasons. Many Medal of Honor winners were members too.
Were there any famous business leaders or innovators who were Freemasons?
Yes, many business leaders and innovators were Freemasons. Henry Ford, Walter P. Chrysler, and J.C. Penney were members. Sir Alexander Fleming, who discovered penicillin, and Edwin L. Drake, an oil pioneer, were also Freemasons.
How has Freemasonry influenced celebrity culture?
Freemasonry has shaped celebrity culture by offering a sense of brotherhood. It has influenced politics, entertainment, sports, and business. Celebrities’ involvement in Freemasonry has made a big impact.
Are there any modern celebrities who are Freemasons?
Yes, some modern celebrities are Freemasons. Shaquille O’Neal is a well-known example. But many current members keep their affiliation private.
