Why Colonial

Most Masonic lodges don’t declare a particular ‘affinity’ or additional characteristic that is common among their members, aside from being men of good character who come together for the betterment of themselves and their community. In addition to being Masons, all members of Colonial are also a part of The George Washington University (GW) community — students, alumni, faculty, staff, etc.

We continue the long history of Freemasonry at GW and incorporate the culture of our alma mater into our regular meetings and activities. Our shared connection to GW further cements our fraternal bonds and experiences. As a lodge with ties to academia, our members wear traditional academic attire in addition to our Masonic regalia.

We hold our meetings in the historic House of the Temple, the headquarters of the Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry (Southern Jurisdiction). The building is an architectural wonder, designed by John Russell Pope, who would go on to design the National Archives and Jefferson Memorial. Our meetings are held in the Temple Room, a vast vaulted chamber, featured in Dan Brown’s “The Lost Symbol”.

Given our academic affinity, Colonial lodge takes our lodge attire a step further than most lodges. In addition to the Masonic regalia of aprons and officer jewels, Master Masons (full members) of our lodge wear ‘subfusc’ attire – dark suit, white shirt, and white bow ties – as well as academic robes and hoods.