Illinois Freemasonry

The first Grand Lodge of Masons of Illinois was formed by a small group of Lodges in 1822 and flourished for several years before ceasing operations in 1827, a period that coincided with the short-lived anti-Masonic national political movement.  However, by 1839, Freemasonry was on the rebound and Illinois’ current Grand Lodge was formed in 1840.

Today, the Masonic Fraternity under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Illinois is comprised of more than 500 Lodges and 70,000 Masons—men of character from every walk of life all working together to build a better world! (Quoted from Illinois' Grand Lodge website at www.ilmason.org)

Requirements to become a Freemason in Illinois

Membership in Freemasonry is open to men of every race, religion, culture, and income level. The basic requirements are as follows:

  • Be age 18 or older
  • Be an Illinois resident for at least six months (unless specially waived)
  • Be able to read and write English
  • Be of good moral and social character; and
  • Believe in a Supreme Deity (necessary to take certain oaths, otherwise no obligation would be binding upon you)

How can I join Freemasonry?

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Freemasonry does not publicly advertise for membership. This does not mean that Freemasons do not want new members, quite the contrary. 

Historically, men would come to a Freemason of their own "free will and accord", but some never knew they had to ask first. As a result of this, many men wonder why they have never been asked to join Freemasonry. This has resulted in several creative ways to suggest someone ask a Mason to join the fraternity. One way is the message "2B1 ASK1" commonly seen on bumper stickers. Explained, this message is "To be one, ask one", meaning to become a Mason, ask a Mason. Any Mason will be more than willing to talk to you and answer questions you have, or direct you to someone who can answer your questions.

Alternatively, it has been allowed for an Illinois Mason to inform a good man that he knows that should he wish to join he is welcome to do so under a program called "Invitation to Petition". Under this program, a Mason may propose you for membership in a Lodge and have your name balloted upon, and then inform you of this action.


Contact us

Should you believe you do not know a Mason, and are interested in joining, please use any of the information on our Contact Us page to reach Mount Vernon Lodge Number 31.