Prince Hall Freemasonry is a branch of North American Freemasonry for African Americans founded by Prince Hall on September 29, 1784. There are two main branches of Prince Hall Freemasonry: the independent State Prince Hall Grand Lodges, most of which are recognized by State grand lodges, and those under the jurisdiction of the National Grand Lodge. Prince Hall Freemasonry is the oldest and largest predominantly African-American fraternity in the United States.
Illustration from a Prince Hall Masonic convention in 1920
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, Atlanta, GA: Prince Hall Masonic Temple (Atlanta, Georgia)
Prince Hall Masonic Temple (Los Angeles, California)
Prince Hall Masonic Temple (Madison, WI)
Prince Hall was an American abolitionist and leader in the free black community in Boston. He founded Prince Hall Freemasonry and lobbied for education rights for African American children. He was also active in the back-to-Africa movement.
Illustration of Prince Hall wearing an African Lodge sash
"Petition of a Number of Blacks" reprinted in The American Museum Magazine, 1788
"Petition of a Number of Blacks" reprinted in The American Museum Magazine, 1788
Prince Hall Monument in Copp's Hill Burying Ground
