The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons of Florida
Biscayne Bay Lodge No. 124 is proud to be part of The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons of Florida, which governs and unites Masonic Lodges across the state. Established as the first Masonic lodge in South Florida, Biscayne Bay Lodge has played a significant role in spreading Freemasonry’s values in the region. As a chartered lodge under the Grand Lodge of Florida, it upholds the principles, traditions, and obligations that define Freemasonry in our state.
Official Website of the Grand Lodge of Florida
Timeline of the Grand Lodge of Florida
March 15, 1768
First Documented Lodge in Florida
The Grand Lodge of Scotland issued a charter for Grant’s East Florida Lodge No. 143 in Saint Augustine. A Provincial Grand Lodge was also established, with Governor James Grant as Provincial Grand Master.May 3, 1771
Expansion to West Florida
The Grand Lodge of Scotland chartered Saint Andrew’s Lodge No. 1 in Pensacola. Ten years later, Masonry was suppressed by the Spanish Government, forcing members to seek refuge in Charleston, South Carolina.1783
Suppression of Masonry in Florida
The Spanish Government and Dominican Priesthood outlawed Freemasonry, seeking to erase its influence. Yet, the spirit of the Craft endured, carried in the hearts of Masons who safeguarded their traditions even in exile.December 19, 1825
Masonry Returns to Florida
The Grand Lodge of Alabama chartered Jackson Lodge No. 23 in Tallahassee, rekindling the Masonic Light in Florida.1826-1829
New Lodges Established
The Grand Lodge of Georgia expanded the reach of Masonry, chartering Washington Lodge No. 1 in Quincy (1826) and Harmony Lodge No. 2 in Marianna (1829), fortifying the foundation upon which the Grand Lodge would soon stand.July 1830
Formation of the Grand Lodge of Florida
Three Lodges—Jackson, Washington, and Harmony—came together in unity, forming the Grand Lodge of the Territory of Florida. John Pope Duval was elected the first Grand Master, entrusted with shaping the destiny of Florida Masonry.1870
Grand Lodge Headquarters Moves to Jacksonville
After 40 years of growth, the Grand Lodge found its permanent home in Jacksonville, marking the beginning of a new era of stability and progress.Present Day
Masonic Growth in Florida
Through perseverance and dedication, over 544 Lodges have been chartered in Florida. Today, 296 active Lodges and nearly 49,000 Masons continue the Great Work.
The Eternal Labor of the Craft
Masonry in Florida was never merely a collection of Lodges; it has always been a movement—an unyielding force that shapes men and builds civilizations. From the earliest days, Brethren have faced trials that sought to extinguish the Light, yet the Light prevailed, carried forward by those who understood their duty not just to themselves, but to all mankind.
History is not merely a record of events—it is a mirror that reflects who we are. The challenges faced by our predecessors were not so different from those we encounter today, for every generation is tested in its own way. Yet, the Fraternity endures, because those who truly understand its teachings know that the greatest work is not done in the quarries of stone, but within the mind and soul of the Mason himself.
The mind is shaped by what it repeatedly experiences, and so we must constantly engage in the work of self-improvement, reinforcing in ourselves the virtues that define us. The lessons of Masonry are not abstract—they are the tools with which we refine our thoughts, shape our actions, and construct a legacy that will stand long after we have passed to the Celestial Lodge Above.
As the operative Mason lays brick upon brick with purpose and precision, so too must we build our character and actions with intent, understanding that what we construct today will guide those who follow. The tools are in our hands, the designs upon the trestle board are clear, and the labor is ours to undertake.
Let us then continue, firm in our resolve, steady in our purpose, and unwavering in our commitment. The Light of Masonry has never faded—it simply awaits those who will bear it forward.
History is not merely a record of events—it is a mirror that reflects who we are. The challenges faced by our predecessors were not so different from those we encounter today, for every generation is tested in its own way. Yet, the Fraternity endures, because those who truly understand its teachings know that the greatest work is not done in the quarries of stone, but within the mind and soul of the Mason himself.
The mind is shaped by what it repeatedly experiences, and so we must constantly engage in the work of self-improvement, reinforcing in ourselves the virtues that define us. The lessons of Masonry are not abstract—they are the tools with which we refine our thoughts, shape our actions, and construct a legacy that will stand long after we have passed to the Celestial Lodge Above.
As the operative Mason lays brick upon brick with purpose and precision, so too must we build our character and actions with intent, understanding that what we construct today will guide those who follow. The tools are in our hands, the designs upon the trestle board are clear, and the labor is ours to undertake.
Let us then continue, firm in our resolve, steady in our purpose, and unwavering in our commitment. The Light of Masonry has never faded—it simply awaits those who will bear it forward.