Masonic Library and Museum Speaker Series

A Past Master of Melita Lodge No. 295, Philadelphia, Lee is an associate with The Masonic Library and Museum of PA. His presentation will highlight the work of Pennsylvania Freemason Frederick Gutekunst, the noted Civil War photographer and “Dean of American Photographers,” who was commissioned by the Grand Lodge to photograph the newly opened Masonic Temple.

Minott’s presentation is on the Freemasonry and the American Revolution. A brief overview of the Freemasons who contributed so much towards achieving the independence of the United States, such as: John Paul Jones (naval victories); Baron Von Steuben (drilling the Continental Army at Valley Forge); and Benjamin Franklin (securing vital French aid).

This presentation will connect the links between the Masons and Apollo 11, touching on key aspects of this alleged conspiracy theory.

Get an inside look at the items in the Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania Archives - which are not all located in the archives themselves!

“From Taverns to Temples” is an illustrated presentation on each of the different locations in Philadelphia used for meetings of the Grand Lodge from its inception in 1731 until the present. The paintings and photos show what was once there and what is there now, narrated with other historical and Masonic information.

This presentation will examine the Anti-Masonic movement from the 1800s to the present.

During his numerous cultural trips to France and England, Benjamin Franklin found inspiration in literary circles that eventually led him to found the Leather Apron Club in 1727 to exchange rare books brought back from various travels. The club was intended to promote discussion and the cross-cultural exchange of ideas about architecture and other topics, a main tenet of [...]

This illustrated presentation will show off many of the non-Masonic artifacts in the Library and Museum collection, several of which are of national and international interest, highlighting their importance and how they came to be here. Attend Virtually Attend Live Brother Mike Comfort Brother Mike Comfort, PM, Melita Lodge No. 295, Philadelphia [...]

The Twin Pillars of Polarity Within Freemasonry The two pillars of Boaz and Jachin that stood at the entrance to King Solomon's Temple are commonplace in Masonic ritual, as well as Masonic buildings and artwork. Their symbolism goes much deeper than just mere aesthetics or architectural necessity. This presentation will delve into some lesser known possibilities about the pillars, [...]

The History of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania A brief overview of the history of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania from its roots in England and Scotland to its independence from the English Ancient Grand Lodge in 1786. Topics will include Benjamin Franklin and the Moderns, and Ancient Lodge No. 2. Attend Virtually Attend Live [...]