Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library

The Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library tells the story of Freemasonry and fraternalism in the context of American history. Unique in the nation, the Museum aims to be the “historical society” of American Freemasonry by collecting, preserving, interpreting and celebrating the history of fraternalism. We pay special attention to the history of the Scottish Rite and strive to serve the Masonic community. Located in historic Lexington, Massachusetts, outside of Boston, the Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library is open to the public.

Description of the Masonic Collection

The Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library collects material and artifacts related to the history of American Freemasonry and fraternalism from the 1700s to the present. We also collect decorative arts, artifacts, photographs, and fine art connected to American history. The Van Gorden-Williams Library & Archives is one of the premiere repositories in the United States for the study of Freemasonry and fraternalism. Our collection helps us explore the story of Freemasonry and fraternalism in the United States and interpret themes of patriotism, fraternalism, inclusion, and personal and civic virtues.

Size of the Collection

The Van Gorden-Williams Library & Archives has one of the world’s most comprehensive collections on the subject of American Freemasonry and fraternalism comprising over 65,000 books, nearly 1,000 serial titles, and over 2,140 linear feet of archival materials. The Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library’s object collection numbers over 27,000. The museum is also the caretaker of over 10,000 items on loan from the Grand Lodge of Masons in Massachusetts.