Franklin Opening the Lodge
Title
Franklin Opening the Lodge
Description
This print celebrates Benjamin Franklin’s commitment to Freemasonry. Franklin (1706–1790) became a Freemason in Philadelphia in 1731. He served as Grand Master of Pennsylvania three years later and as Provincial Grand Master of Pennsylvania in 1749. In this print, created a century after his death, Franklin wears a Masonic apron and a Master’s jewel, or badge of office, round his neck. In issuing this image, the publishers sought to appeal to Masons who wished to celebrate their connection with an organization with deep roots in American history.
For more on this object please visit the online collection record here.
For more on this object please visit the online collection record here.
Identifier
Special Acquisitions Fund, 81.56
Creator
Kurz & Allison, Chicago, Illinois
Date
1896
Collection
Citation
Kurz & Allison, Chicago, Illinois, “Franklin Opening the Lodge,” Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library Online Exhibitions, accessed April 26, 2024, https://srmmlonlineexhibitions.omeka.net/items/show/1124.