Our second session of “Afternoon Insights” with well-known local journalist C. Ron Allen took place at a local dining venue within walking distance of the West Settlers historic district and the Spady Museum. Surrounded by the lively sounds of Delray Beach, Spady Museum staff and associates gathered to hear C. Ron’s insights on the history and significance of the Black Masonry, which due to public perception and the glamorization of Hollywood productions, is often shrouded in mystery and misconceptions.
C. Ron has incredible professional and personal experience, having worked at the Sun-Sentinel newspaper for 24 years as a reporter, on top of serving 30 years in the US Navy. Continuing the groundwork set by the West Settlers pioneers, many of whom were connected to the Masonry, C. Ron serves as a living bridge, illuminating the importance of community support and the role of Masonry in creating positive change and empowerment.
What we learned about the African American Monsonary in the United States:
The African American Monsonary was founded in 1775 due to the rejection and exclusion of people of African descent from White Masonic Lodges. A Black man, Prince Hall led the effort to petition for an official charter in London. He and his associates faced challenges in obtaining charters for Black Masons. After eight years of petitioning the Grand Lodge in London, Black men were finally granted charter permission, which gave them the right to establish new members and Masonic lodges in the United States. According to C. Ron, the first black Masonic lodge in the United States was located on Blue Hill Avenue in Boston, MA. It became African Lodge No. 459 after it received its official charter in 1784.
Connections to Delray Beach and its mission
The Delray Beach Lodge #275, was established in 1899 by African Americans in the community and has close ties to the early settlers from the West Settlers historic district. C. Ron explains that the purpose of Black Masonry in communities today includes community service, education, and addressing community needs. In 1989, the Delray Beach Lodge expanded its services to mentor young people in the community. Black Masonry is not a secret organization but is based on biblical terms and principles. Its criteria for membership include good moral character, belief in God, and a background check or vetting to ensure no criminal records. Similar to fraternities and sororities–such as the Divine Nine, C. Ron explained there are various degrees and levels of learning within Masonry, categorized as the first, second, and third degrees.
The establishment of African American Masonic lodges dates back 240 years, predating the end of slavery in the United States. They were formed due to the rejection of Black men from White Masonic lodges in colonial America. Early establishment of African American Masonic lodges allowed Black men to form fraternal connections, which became an integral part of the community’s foundation–fostering leadership, serving community needs, engaging in civil rights activism and advancing social well-being.