12/07/2025
Solomon Saturday!
Are you modern or ancient?
Believe it or not, that was the question that split Freemasonry down the middle in the 18th century! It was our very own rivalry: the Moderns vs. the Antients.
It all kicked off when the two groups developed different ideas about how our ceremonies should be conducted. The Moderns made some updates to the original traditions which sparked outrage from a new group, the Antients, who believed these were too important to be changed. They felt so strongly about preserving the old ways that they started their own Grand Lodge!
For over 60 years they debated the proper way to do... well, almost everything!
Eventually, they buried the hatchet and united in 1813. It turns out the Antients had won on many points, leading to some of the meaningful ceremonies we cherish today, including our impressive Installation of a new Worshipful Master.
So, while we are "modern-day" Freemasons, our character was very much shaped by the "ancients"!
For the full story of this grand union, we've reconciled all the details for you here: https://solomon.ugle.org.uk/mod/resource/view.php?id=3608
United Grand Lodge of England Order of Women Freemasons The Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons