Fredericksburg Lodge No. 4: A Masonic Institution Since 1752
Share
Fredericksburg Lodge No. 4: A Masonic Institution Since 1752
Founded in 1752, Fredericksburg Lodge No. 4 is one of the oldest continuously operating Masonic lodges in the United States. Located in Fredericksburg, Virginia, the Lodge has served as a center of fraternal fellowship, civic leadership, and historical continuity for more than two and a half centuries.
Fredericksburg Lodge No. 4 traces its origins to a Scottish charter in the mid-eighteenth century. Through the American Revolution, the early Republic, the Civil War, and into the modern era, the Lodge has remained an active and enduring Masonic institution.
A Lodge Rooted in Early American History
Among its most historically recognized members was Brother George Washington. His association with Fredericksburg Lodge No. 4 reflects the broader influence of Freemasonry during the founding period of the United States.
The Lodge’s archival materials, cemetery, and preserved artifacts offer tangible connections to generations of Masons who shaped the civic and moral fabric of Fredericksburg, Virginia.
Throughout its history, Fredericksburg Lodge No. 4 has maintained its commitment to the principles of Freemasonry — integrity, brotherhood, charity, and respect for tradition.
The 1816 Lodge Building
The current Lodge building, constructed in 1816, stands as one of the oldest Masonic buildings still in regular use in America. Its continued operation reflects not only structural durability but sustained member stewardship.
Preserving this historic 1816 Lodge building requires careful planning, responsible maintenance, and long-term institutional commitment. As both a working Lodge and a historical landmark, the building represents living heritage rather than static history.
Read more about the historic 1816 Lodge building in our detailed preservation article.
Continuing the Work of Preservation
Fredericksburg Lodge No. 4 continues its mission through active membership, charitable engagement, and the responsible preservation of its historical assets.
Sustaining a Masonic institution of this age requires thoughtful stewardship and participation from successive generations. The Lodge remains committed to maintaining both its traditions and its physical structures for the future.
Learn More
To read the complete historical record of Fredericksburg Lodge No. 4, including early charters and archival documentation, visit the official Lodge history page: