Prince Hall Freemasonry, also known as Prince Hall Masonry, is a historically Black branch of Freemasonry that began in the 1700s. The organization was founded by Prince Hall, a Black man from Bridgetown, Barbados, West Indies, who worked as a leatherworker in Boston.

On March 6, 1775, Prince Hall and 14 other Black men were initiated into Lodge #441 of the Irish Registry attached to the 38th British Foot Infantry at Castle William Island in Boston Harbor, Massachusetts. This marked the first time that Black men were made Masons in America. The formation of African Lodge No.1, as it was called, marked the beginning of Prince Hall Freemasonry.

Prince Hall Freemasonry is a separate and distinct organization from regular Freemasonry, and it is the world’s largest and oldest Black Masonic fraternity. The organization is named after Prince Hall, who was a staunch proponent of equal treatment and education for blacks, and the abolition of slavery and the slave trade. He and his fellow Masons sought to provide a sense of community and brotherhood for Black men who were otherwise excluded from other Masonic organizations.

The structure of Prince Hall Freemasonry is based on the traditional degrees of Freemasonry, with a total of three degrees: the Entered Apprentice, the Fellowcraft, and Master Mason. The organization also has a structured hierarchy, with different levels of leadership and responsibilities. The organization’s focus is on the principles of brotherhood, charity, and truth, and its members are committed to promoting these values in their communities.

Prince Hall Freemasonry has played a significant role in the struggle for racial and social justice. Members of the organization have been active in the Civil Rights Movement and have fought for equal rights and fair treatment for Black people and continue to be an important part of the Black community who are committed to the betterment of society as a whole.

In conclusion, Prince Hall Freemasonry is a historically significant and unique organization that was founded by Prince Hall and 14 other men of color on March 6, 1775, in Boston Harbor. The organization, which is separate and distinct from regular Freemasonry, has played a significant role in the struggle for racial and social justice and continues to be an important part of the Black community.

Sources:
https://www.princehall.org/prince-hall-freemasonry/
https://freemason.org/prince-hall-masonry/
https://www.blackpast.org/african-american-history/prince-hall-masons-1784/
https://www.1723constitutions.com/north-america/prince-hall-freemasonry/
https://www.searchablemuseum.com/prince-hall-masons/

To join Prince Hall Freemasonry, the applicant must be a man of good moral character and be at least 21 years of age, and have a belief in a Supreme Being. They generally must also be a resident of the jurisdiction where he is applying to join for a certain period of time. Additionally, the applicant must be recommended by current members of the organization.

It is important to note that the specific prerequisites for entry may vary between different Prince Hall Grand Lodges or jurisdictions. There are currently more than 500,000 members worldwide.

For more information or if you would like to join, please visit the following URLs:
– https://www.princehall.org/
– https://freemason.org/prince-hall-masonry/
– https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/aia/part2/2p37.html
– https://www.ilprincehall.com/
– https://www.facebook.com/freemasonpha/
– https://scottishritenmj.org/blog/prince-hall-freemasonry
– https://www.mwphglia.org/history/
– https://princehallny.org/who-are-we/
– https://mwphglsc.com/
– https://mwphglva.org/
– https://mpls19.org/our-masonic-community/mn-prince-hall/
– https://www.mwphglcal.org/
– https://mwphgltn.org/
– https://mwphglofal.org/about-us/

Or, go to the MASONIC LODGE LIST and select the appropriate lodge in your jurisdiction.