As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, the air is filled with reflection. We look back at 1776 not just as a date on a calendar, but as the moment a nation was born with powerful ideals such Liberty and Justice for all.

For RI Freemasons, this milestone carries a personal resonance. History shows us that the Great Architect of the Universe used many "living stones"—many of them Masons—to build the framework of American democracy. George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and John Hancock exemplified the tenets of the Craft and imprinted them in the Declaration of Independence.

To honor this important milestone, the Masonic Grand Lodge of Rhode Island is proud to announce a program of commemorative events, dedicated to celebrating 250 years of American independence.

The celebration kicks off with the Founding of Semiquincentennial Lodge No. 250.

Semiquincentennial Lodge No. 250 is unique. It is a commemorative lodge, designed to exist specifically for this anniversary year.

At 11 AM, an Occasional Grand Lodge will open at the Grand Lodge on Taunton Ave. in East Providence to receive the petition for the lodge’s charter. A commemorative book will be opened for any Freemason in attendance, Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft and Master Mason, who wishes to be recorded as a Charter Member of this lodge,

• May 18, 2026: The charter will be officially presented at the Grand Lodge Annual Communication.
• May 2027: After a year of celebration and education, the lodge will be officially closed at the following Annual Communication.

As R:. W:. Deputy Grand Master Gilbert J. Fontes, Jr. eloquently put it: “The tenets of Freemasonry—freedom, equality, justice, and courage—are the same principles that define our nation. This lodge is the embodiment of those values, reflecting on the past while building hope for the future.”

But there’s more...

The founding of Lodge No. 250 is the heartbeat of a yearlong calendar of events coordinated in partnership with the Rhode Island 250th Commission. To mark this cooperation, everyone at the May 2 meeting will receive a special commemorative pin featuring the official Rhode Island 250th logo.

But the "Semiquincentennial Observance" doesn't stop there. Mark your calendars for these upcoming highlights:

• Collegivm Lvminosvm: Trinity Term Communication (May 22, 2026, 6pm): An evening with renowned historian Robert Geake who will present on Brigadier General James Mitchell Varnum, Rhode Islander, Freemason and Revolutionary War Hero at the Scottish Rite Cathedral in Cranston.
• Colonial Freemasonry Deep Dive (Sept 30, 2026): Join Dr. Samuel Biagetti at the Scottish Rite Cathedral in Cranston for a presentation on the role of Masons in colonial Rhode Island.
• Colonial Era Table Lodge (Nov 14, 2026): Experience a traditional feast and toasts as our ancestors did, hosted by St. Johns Lodge No. 1 (P) at the Scottish Rite.
• The Liberty Tree: Keep an eye out for details on a commemorative Liberty Tree planting—a living tribute to the roots of our freedom.

Be a part of History

This 250th anniversary of our country is a reminder that the work of a Freemason is never finished. We are the stewards of a legacy that began centuries ago.

Whether you are a new Entered Apprentice or a 50-year veteran of the Craft, we invite you to stand with us as we celebrate the universality of our brotherhood and the light of American liberty.

Stay Connected:

For updates, reservation links, and further event details, keep a close watch on the RI Freemason, our social media channels, and the official Grand Lodge website.