Some things just go together naturally. Take, for example, the state motto of Maine (“Dirigo”) and Freemasonry. “Dirigo” is a Latin word meaning “I lead.” And being an honorable leader—someone who steps up for your family and community—is a core part of being a Mason.
So how did Maine and Freemasonry first come together? Where were the first Masonic lodges in Maine, and who were some of the great early members of the brotherhood here? Let’s take a moment to explore this.
The Grand Lodge of Maine is Born
As you’ll remember from your history classes, Maine was part of Massachusetts until 1820. In that year, as part of The Missouri Compromise, Maine entered the Union as the 23rd state. Shortly thereafter, “The Grand Lodge of Maine”—explicitly named that—was born. But the roots of Freemasonry in Maine actually predated that by decades. The first Lodge in Maine (then Massachusetts) was chartered in 1762 in Portland. Other Lodges were soon formed in Machias in 1778, in Wiscasset in 1792, in Castine in 1794, and in Hallowell in 1796. In fact, by the time “The Grand Lodge of Maine” was founded shortly after Maine statehood, there were 31 Lodges across the state. By 1870, there were 154 Lodges and more than 14,000 members.
Early Freemason Leaders in Maine
During the 18th and early 19th centuries, there were many great Mainer Masons, but three are especially noteworthy. The first was William King (1768–1852), who was not only the first Governor of Maine but also its first Grand Master in 1820. Prior to serving as Governor, King had been a tireless advocate for Maine statehood.
The second great early Maine Mason of note is Simon Greenleaf (1783–1853), who became known as “The Father of Maine Masonry.” Thanks to Greenleaf, the Grand Lodge was founded. He served under William King as Deputy Grand Master and later Grand Master, while also helping to establish Harvard University’s School of Law, where he served as a distinguished professor for many years. The Grand Lodge of Maine’s second highest award for “Unusual Contribution to Masonry,” is named in Greenleaf’s honor.
Congressman, House Speaker, Grand Master
Finally, there is Maine Congressman and Maine Speaker of the House, Josiah Hayden Drummond (1827–1902), who served as the 21st Grand Master from 1860–1862. During his time as Chairman of the Committee on Foreign Correspondence from 1865 to 1902, Drummond’s writing became known “most potent in shaping the policy of Masonry throughout the world.” Today, The Josiah Hayden Drummond Award—the highest Masonic award given by the Grand Lodge of Maine for “Outstanding Proficiency in the Knowledge of Freemasonry and Distinguished Service”—pays tribute to Drummond’s exemplary leadership in the brotherhood.
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