1732-1799 (George Washington ) is undoubtedly the best known American Mason, Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790) can be a close second. The National Museum collection Heritage (USA) includes a series of objects depicting Franklin, who recognize their Masonic membership.
This print, opening the Lodge in Franklin, was published by Kurz and Allison Chicago and dates for 1896 . The partnership, which lasted from 1880 until at least 1899, has produced a wide variety of decorative prints, including a series depicting the battles of the Revolutionary War.
Benjamin Franklin became a Mason, when he was initiated into St. John's Lodge in Philadelphia in 1731 . His involvement with the Brotherhood expanded over the next fifty years, during which he held several leadership positions. He served as Grand Master of Pennsylvania in 1734 and Provincial Grand Master of Pennsylvania in 1749. While in Paris during the American Revolution, Franklin became a member of the Lodge of Nine Sisters (La Loge des Neuf Soeurs), serving as its Worshipful Master 1779-1781.
this publication, Franklin wears a Masonic apron and a master jewel around his neck. He is in a resting in the room, surrounded by a number of Masonic symbols. Presumably this feature to print the Masons from across the country and was considered appropriate as a decoration in the store and at home.
This publication is portrayed in the Treasures section of the search site that includes information on about 100 objects from our collection.
source: Franklin opening the Lodge, 1896, Kurz and Allison (a partnership from 1880 to 1899), Chicago, Illinois, National Heritage Museum, Acquisitions Special Fund, 81.56. Photograph by David Bohl .
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