Grand Lodge of the Month - Michigan

Masonry started in Michigan in 1764 when a lodge was chartered in Detroit. This lodge was the first lodge established west of the Allegheny Mountains. By 1772 there were at least three Lodges meeting in the Detroit area; Lodge No. 1 and two Irish Military Lodges, warranted to Masons of the 10th Regiment, then stationed at Detroit. Zion Lodge #1 was formed in 1794 and continues to work to this day. Zion also has an important part in the history of another Michigan institution; the University of Michigan which was assisted in its formation by Zion Lodge and its members.

Today there are 340 Lodges in Michigan in both the lower and upper peninsulas. These lodges hold a membership of over 45,000 Masons. The history of Michigan is very easily traced by the development of Masonic Lodges. As the state was settled and established from the East to the West, so to the craft moved from East to West. However, lodges along the St. Joseph River in southwestern Michigan are also among the oldest in the state. This river was an important trading route during the formative years of the state and was settled earlier than the interior portion.

Michigan is extremely proud of its history and the men who have made it so. Governors, such as Lewis Cass, G. Mennon Williams and President Gerald R. Ford have knelt at the altars of Michigan Masonic Lodges. Captains of Industry, Olds, Ford, Chrysler and far too many others to list here have been among our members.

The history of Michigan is written in the history of our Masonic Lodges. From the experiences of the past, we build a brighter future, not only for the Masonic Fraternity but indeed for all of the citizens of "the pleasant peninsula", Michigan.