Freemasonry and the American Revolution in New York

New York played an undeniably critical role in the American Revolution. From multiple decisive battles to Westchester County serving as the front line for the majority of the war, the Empire State was a crucible of conflict. Within this intense historical backdrop, a fascinating and often overlooked aspect is the significant involvement of Freemasons – on both sides of the fight.

As a fraternity, Freemasonry famously took no official stand on the American Revolution, allowing its members the freedom to follow their consciences. This led to a unique situation where Brothers found themselves on opposing sides, embodying the profound complexities of loyalty during wartime. Thanks to the meticulous research of RW Gary Heinmiller, we now have an invaluable record of hundreds of Masonic Brothers, their ranks, units, and lodge affiliations, who participated in this pivotal conflict.

Many of the lodges these Revolutionary-era Masons belonged to are, remarkably, still in existence today, standing as enduring testaments to over 250 years of history. Special attention is due to lodges such as Holland Lodge No. 8, Independent Royal Arch No. 2, St George’s, St John’s No. 1, St Patrick’s Lodge No. 4, and Mount Vernon Lodge No. 3 (known as Union Lodge during the Revolution). These venerable institutions, along with others like Solomon’s Lodge No. 1 in Poughkeepsie, saw their members go off to fight for what they believed was the “Glorious Cause.”

While luminaries like George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and the Marquis de Lafayette are widely recognized for their Masonic ties and contributions to the Revolution, countless other Brothers played equally vital, though lesser-known, roles. Figures such as MW Mordecai Gist, W John Glover, and Henry Knox deserve significant recognition for their service. Just like the great State of New York, these Brothers’ contributions are ripe for deeper exploration. We encourage all Brothers to delve into their stories, and to remember the fidelity to Masonic obligation even among Loyalist Brothers like Joseph Brant.

 

No discussion of Freemasonry in Revolutionary New York would be complete without acknowledging the profound and poignant events of the Battle of Oriskany. Here, Brothers from Saint Patrick’s Lodge No. 4 found themselves fighting against each other, a stark reminder of the war’s personal cost. Tragically, General Nicholas Herkimer, a Brother in arms, gave his life on that battlefield.

The America 250 celebration is a unique opportunity to illuminate the story of Freemasonry’s profound importance to our Founding Fathers – not just the famous few, but the many lesser-known heroes who fought right here in our own state. Thanks to the research of RW Gary Heinmiller and the work of RW Samuel Lloyd Kinsey, the Grand Lodge of New York has produced an “American 250 Festive Board” script for our Lodges to use at dinners this year.

As we reflect on our rich history, let us particularly call attention to the enduring principles of Brotherhood, Citizenship, and Fellowship that continue to resonate within Freemasonry and Masons today.