A Brief History of Freemasonry

Freemasonry is one of the world’s oldest fraternal organisations, with roots going back hundreds of years. While its exact origins are not fully known, modern Freemasonry began to take shape in the early 1700s.

In 1717, four London lodges came together to form the world’s first Grand Lodge — the Premier Grand Lodge of England. This marked the start of Freemasonry as a more organised and widely recognised society.

Freemasonry developed from the traditions and tools of medieval stonemasons. Over time, its ceremonies and symbols evolved into a way of teaching moral values, self-discipline and respect for others.

In 1813, two rival English Grand Lodges joined together to form the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) — which continues to oversee Freemasonry in England and Wales today.

Since then, Freemasonry has grown into a worldwide organisation with millions of members. It is based on shared values of integrity, friendship, charity and fairness — values that remain just as relevant today.

Our Place in That History

Ashley Hill Lodge No. 7861 was founded in 1963 and is proud to be part of this long tradition. As a Craft Lodge under the United Grand Lodge of England, we carry forward centuries of history while remaining open and welcoming to men of today.