1826 - Michigan's Grand Lodge is Born
While the earliest documented Lodge west of the Allegheny Mountains was established in Detroit on April 27th, 1764, it wasn't until June 24th, 1826 that a Grand Lodge for the Territory of Michigan was also established in Detroit. Lewis Cass, the first Governor of Michigan, was named the Most Worshipful Grand Master for the Grand Lodge's very first year. On August 8th, 1827, the Grand Lodge was invited to lay the Cornerstone of St. Paul's Church in Detroit.
1890 - Michigan Masonic Home is Established
The Michigan Masonic Home (dba Masonic Pathways) was founded in 1890 in East Grand Rapids "for the purpose of providing a home for aged masons, mason's widows, and orphans. The facility was first dedicated on March 29th, 1912, and was originally located in Grand Rapids, but after it was destroyed by a fire on February 16, 1910, it was relocated to Alma in the former Alma Sanitarium building of Alma's Ammi Wright, and first opened to residents in 1911.
1926 - World's Largest Masonic Temple is Developed in Detroit
The first move towards a suitable home for the Masonic Order in Detroit was made in 1891, as Freemasonry was rapidly growing at this time. The following year saw the formation of the Masonic Temple Association of Detroit and 150 feet of property on Lafayette Boulevard was purchased. It was on Thanksgiving day in 1920 that the sod was first turned. With many more months of planning and labor ahead, the Craft was at work on this undertaking of worldwide interest. Even George Washington's own working tools from his Virginia Lodge were employed. On September 18th, 1922, the cornerstone of the Masonic Temple of Detroit was placed into position and on Thanksgiving Day in 1926, the final ceremony took place and the Temple was officially opened to the public.
1997 - Prince Hall Recognition
The Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Michigan and the Grand Lodge of Michigan formed a mutual recognition on March 28th, 1997, where a formal resolution was signed. This was signed by Donald J. Van Kirk (Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Michigan), and Carl W. Saunders (Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Michigan). The formal signing ceremony for the Mutual Recognition was celebrated at the "Unity Celebration Gala" in 2025. The black tie gala and celebration of brotherly love and mutual recognition was held in the Crystal Ballroom at the Detroit Masonic Temple.
Michigan Masonry Today
With over 200 years of history under it's belt, Michigan Masonry continues to thrive as a vibrant and enduring fraternity. Guided by the principles of brotherhood, integrity, and service, today’s Michigan Masons are dedicated to strengthening their communities and supporting charitable causes across the state. With a legacy built on tradition and a vision for the future, Michigan Masonry remains a source of fellowship, leadership, and positive impact for generations to come.