During the year of 2025, the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Maryland will observe 200 years of practicing Masonry in the State of Maryland.  However, we must acknowledge the origins of Black masonry and our illustrious founder Prince Hall, who is rightfully recognized as the father of Black masonry in the United States.  It was through his efforts and those of 14 other free Black men in Boston, MA, on March 6, 1775, forming Africna Lodge No. 459, making it possible for Black men to receive the rites, lights and benefits of Ancient Craft Masonry.  For two hundred years, the most honorable art of Freemasonry has been practiced by African-American men in the state of Maryland.  The foundation stone for this institution was laid on February 2, 1825, through a warrant from the First African Independent Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons, for and in the Jurisdiction of North America of Pennsylvania.  African Friendship Lodge No. 6, (later renumbered and renamed Friendship Lodge No 1) was warranted in the City of Baltimore, giving birth to the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge Free & Accepted Masons of Maryland and Its Jurisdiction, Inc.   Grand Lodge records note that Brother James Deaver was the first Worshipful Master.  Brother Jacob Waters was the first Senior Warden, and Brother Samuel G. Matthews was the lodge’s first Junior Warden.

Subsequently, St. James Lodge and Enterprise Lodge was established by the same authority, although the correct dates and numbers on the Pen­nsylvania Grand Lodge roster are unknown. We have long thought that the First Colored Grand Lodge, A.F. & F.M. of the State of Maryland, was established in 1845, with the assistance of Pennsylvania.  This is incorrect.  In fact, the First Colored Grand Lodge, A.F. & A.M. of the State of Maryland, was established on March 4, 1848.  Furthermore, we have long recorded in our history that Rev. James A. Handy was the first Grand Master of the First Colored Grand Lodge.  There is no record that the Reverend James A. Handy, was elected as the first Grand Master.  Records do indicate that James Johnson served as Grand Master in 1849-1850, and is more likely than not, the first Grand Master for the M.W. Frist Colored Grand Lodge of Maryland.

With Friendship Lodge No. 1 as the foundation stone for this Jurisdiction, we now have over 77 constituent lodges that constitute the Maryland Jurisdiction.  Prince Hall Freemasonry has a deep and rich history that we must rediscover/reclaim as an homage of the courage of our forefathers of African Lodge No. 459.  We, in this day, are heirs to that legacy.  This is our history to reclaim and proclaim.  Please join us throughout the year to celebrate this milestone.   This page will contain events, and information celebrating 200 years of Prince Hall masonry in Maryland as we Honor Our Past, Embrace Our Present, and Face Our Future!