Frequently Asked Questions - Freemasonry & Society

• Why don't you have women members?
• Is Freemasonry an international Order?
• What is the relationship between Freemasonry groups like the Orange Order, Odd Fellows and Buffaloes?

Why don't you have women members?

Traditionally, Freemasonry under the United Grand Lodge of England has been restricted to men. The early stonemasons were all male, and when Freemasonry was organising, the position of women in society was different from today. If women wish to join reemasonry, there are two separate Grand Lodges in England restricted to women only.

Is Freemasonry an international Order?

Only in the sense that Freemasonry exists throughout the free world. Each Grand Lodge is sovereign and independent, and whilst following the same basic principles, may have differing ways of passing them on. There is no international governing body for Freemasonry.

What is the relationship between Freemasonry groups like the Orange Order, Odd Fellows and Buffaloes?

None. There are numerous fraternal orders and Friendly Societies whose rituals, regalia and organisation are similar in some respects to Freemasonry's. They have no formal or informal connections with Freemasonry.