Welcome to Mt. Zion Lodge No. 15 F. & A.M.
A proud legacy since 1925, empowering brotherhood, scholarship, and community service.
The Legacy of Prince Hall Freemasonry
Prince Hall Freemasonry in Massachusetts began on March 6, 1775, when Prince Hall and 14 other men of color were initiated into Lodge #441 of the Irish Registry. This historic event marked the first time Black men were made masons in America. Despite the departure of the British Foot Infantry, who left Boston with their lodge, Prince Hall and his associates were granted a permit to meet and conduct ceremonies. On July 3, 1776, African Lodge was formally organized with Prince Hall as the worshipful master. The lodge’s influence grew, leading to a charter from the Grand Lodge of England in 1784, establishing African Lodge #459. Over time, Prince Hall’s leadership expanded Freemasonry to Philadelphia and Rhode Island, culminating in the formation of the African Grand Lodge in 1808. In 1847, in honor of Prince Hall, the name was changed to Prince Hall Grand Lodge. Today, the legacy continues with thousands of lodges tracing their roots to this pioneering institution.
Core Values and Principles
Brotherhood
Integrity
Community Service
Education and Mentorship
Leadership Development
Charity
Respect
Empowerment
Civic Engagement
Youth Support
Lifelong Learning
History of Mt. Zion Lodge, No 15, F & A. M.
In early 1923, a group of men with a genuine interest in Masonry formed the Golden Opportunity Club #2. This group consisted of 99 members who were initiated into the Craft in October 1923. On December 1, 1924, after becoming proficient in the principles of Masonry, the club received its charter from the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, F. & A.M., under the leadership of Grandmaster Most Worshipful Bro. Isaac L. Roberts.
As a result, Mt. Zion Lodge was officially recognized as Mount Zion U.D. of Boston. The first officers elected to serve in their new roles were Brother Charles A. Murray as Worshipful Master, Brother William A. Johnson as Senior Warden, and Brother George R. Price as Junior Warden.
The membership of Mount Zion Lodge No. 15, F. & A.M., has included distinguished individuals from a wide range of diverse professions since the lodge received its charter. We are extremely grateful to have had a Congressional Medal of Honor recipient among our members. R.W. William M. Bennett served in the military and was recognized for his exemplary service while assigned to the Tuskegee Airmen. He received his Medal of Honor in 2007 from Deval Patrick, the first African American Governor of Massachusetts.
Mount Zion Lodge No. 15, F. & A.M., is dedicated to helping middle school students in our communities recognize and honor their African American heroes through our annual essay writing contest. Additionally, we provide scholarships to high school seniors who have been accepted into college or are in their first year of vocational training.
Since the establishment of our first administration, Mount Zion Lodge No. 15, F. & A.M., has consistently worked to uphold and exemplify the tenets and principles of Prince Hall Masonry. This commitment continues under the leadership of Worshipful Master Frantz Pamphile.
Compiled by R.W. Bro. Victor O. Young & R.W. Bro. Julian Turner
