About Humane Lodge No. 21
A Brief History of Humane Lodge
Humane Lodge No. 21 was founded in Rochester, NH, through the dedication of Jeremiah H. Woodman. On October 25, 1809, he petitioned the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire during a meeting at Andrew Lovejoy’s home in Sanbornton. The Grand Lodge approved a provisional lodge, allowing meetings to begin on January 4, 1810. On October 24, 1810, at the Quarterly Communication in Portsmouth, the lodge received formal recognition. It was officially chartered as Humane Lodge No. 21 on July 24, 1811.
Many notable citizens have been members, contributing to a legacy of meaningful and charitable work. Celebrating over 215 years, Humane Lodge No. 21 continues to thrive in Rochester today.
Where Humane Lodge is Located
Since 1911, Humane Lodge No. 21 has been located at 31 Hanson Street, Rochester, NH, at the corner of Central Avenue and Hanson Street. The Masonic Temple houses the lodge on its upper floor.
On the first floor, the Seacoast Learning Center, supported by the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite Freemasonry, helps children with dyslexia learn to read. The center also partners with local school districts to train teachers in supporting dyslexic students, helping to foster educational excellence in the region.
Membership in Freemasonry & Humane Lodge
Freemasonry consists of three progressive degrees: Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason. Here’s how you can join a lodge and progress through these degrees:
- Application: Submit a petition to join a lodge. A committee will review your application and meet with you to assess your character.
- Lodge Vote: If the committee finds you suitable, the lodge members vote on your petition.
- Entered Apprentice Degree: Once approved, you’ll receive your Entered Apprentice degree, the first step in Freemasonry.
- Learning and Proficiency: After the Entered Apprentice degree, you’ll study a lesson and recite it to demonstrate proficiency. This determines if you advance to the Fellow Craft degree.
- Fellow Craft Degree: Upon passing, you’ll receive the Fellow Craft degree and learn another lesson, which you must recite before advancing to the Master Mason degree.
- Master Mason Degree: After completing the Fellow Craft lesson, you’ll receive the Master Mason degree. As a Master Mason, you can hold lodge offices, vote in official lodge business, and freely travel to any recognized lodges across the world.
This structured process fosters personal growth and commitment to Masonic principles.
Who is Qualified to Join the Freemasons?
To join the Freemasons, a man must:
- Be of good character
- Believe in one God
- Be recommended by someone in the Fraternity
