Universal Lodge #1

Universal Lodge #1 Meetings: 2nd Monday every month @ 7:30 PM Universal Lodge No. 1 of Alexandria marked the introduction of Prince Hall masonry into the State of Virginia.

In 1845, 17 years before the Emancipation Proclamation, Universal Lodge No. 1 in Alexandria became the first lodge to be organized by black men in the state of Virginia. It was necessary for the original members of this lodge to travel to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania for initiation because the "free" status of the Negro did not satisfy the requirement of the Masonic Landmarks; that a man be "free bo

rn. This concept prevailed until President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, effective January 1, 1863. Prior to the Emancipation Proclamation, Black men who were regarded as free, were initiated into Masonry only by leaving the State of Virginia. These men returned and subsequently organized lodges. The earliest recorded lodge, Universal No. 1 was organized in 1845 in Alexandria.

Today, Universal Lodge No. 1 pauses to honor and remember the brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces who ...
05/25/2026

Today, Universal Lodge No. 1 pauses to honor and remember the brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation.

Their courage, selflessness, and unwavering dedication to duty secured the freedoms we enjoy each day. We stand in gratitude for those who never returned home and lift up their families in prayer and remembrance.

As we gather with loved ones this Memorial Day, let us never forget the true meaning of this sacred occasion.

“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” — John 15:13

May we always honor their legacy through service, unity, and love for one another.

05/13/2026
Today we celebrate a true pillar of our Craft!Our esteemed Past Master, Lawrence P. “Robbie” Robinson, has been blessed ...
04/05/2026

Today we celebrate a true pillar of our Craft!

Our esteemed Past Master, Lawrence P. “Robbie” Robinson, has been blessed to reach the incredible age of 96 years young on April 4, 2026.

If you saw him today, you wouldn’t believe it his spirit, strength, and presence are a testament to a life well-lived and richly blessed by the Grand Architect of the Universe.

As Masons, we are taught to honor those who came before us, and Past Master Robinson represents the very best of our principles wisdom, endurance, faith, and unwavering dedication to the Craft.

“The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness.” — Proverbs 16:31

Let’s all take a moment to celebrate and uplift this living legend. Happy Birthday, Past Master Robinson! May God continue to bless you with peace, strength, and many more years. 💙

Universal Lodge No. 1 proudly celebrates Autism Awareness Month 💙This month is about more than awareness it’s about acce...
04/02/2026

Universal Lodge No. 1 proudly celebrates Autism Awareness Month 💙

This month is about more than awareness it’s about acceptance, understanding, and love. Autism touches countless families, and each story is unique, powerful, and deserving of support.

As a lodge rooted in brotherhood, charity, and service, we are committed to uplifting our community and standing with those navigating life on the spectrum.

Let us all take time this month to:
🔹 Educate ourselves
🔹 Support families
🔹 Celebrate the beauty of different minds

Together, we can make a difference one act of kindness, one conversation, one moment at a time.

Think Blue, Think Different.

✨ SOLD OUT – THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! ✨On behalf of Universal Lodge No. 1, Acacia Lodge No. 32, and Esther Chapter No...
02/12/2026

✨ SOLD OUT – THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! ✨

On behalf of Universal Lodge No. 1, Acacia Lodge No. 32, and Esther Chapter No. 23, we extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who supported our Annual Joint Banquet.

Because of YOU — your ticket purchases, souvenir journal ads, encouragement, and continued commitment — this event is officially SOLD OUT!

We are looking ooking forward to an unforgettable evening of fellowship, celebration, and honoring excellence.

Thank you for always showing up and showing out.

Anchored in Brotherhood.
Built on Service.
Driven by Charity.

✨ Start Super Bowl Sunday Right! ✨Join us tomorrow as we celebrate Universal Lodge No. 1’s 181st Church Anniversary Serv...
02/07/2026

✨ Start Super Bowl Sunday Right! ✨

Join us tomorrow as we celebrate Universal Lodge No. 1’s 181st Church Anniversary Service before the big game!

📅 Sunday, February 8, 2026
📍 Shiloh Baptist Church – Worship Center
1401 Jamieson Ave., Alexandria, VA
🕘 Line up: 9:45 AM
🕙 Service begins: 10:00 AM sharp

Kick off your Super Bowl Sunday in worship and fellowship with the Brothers, then get ready for the game! 🏈

United in Service. United in Faith.

🔷 Black History Month Spotlight  - Prince Hall – Founder of Prince Hall MasonryWhen doors were closed, he built his own....
02/02/2026

🔷 Black History Month Spotlight - Prince Hall – Founder of Prince Hall Masonry

When doors were closed, he built his own.
Because of his courage, we have a place to meet, lead, and serve today.

Let’s honor his legacy by showing up and doing the work.

🚨 ANNUAL JOINT BANQUET – TICKETS SELLING FAST! 🚨Greetings Sisters, Brothers, Family, and Friends,Universal Lodge No. 1, ...
01/13/2026

🚨 ANNUAL JOINT BANQUET – TICKETS SELLING FAST! 🚨

Greetings Sisters, Brothers, Family, and Friends,

Universal Lodge No. 1, Acacia Lodge No. 32, and Esther Chapter No. 23 invite you to attend our Annual Joint Banquet on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the Hotel Belvoir Springfield.

We will proudly honor five distinguished leaders whose service and dedication have made a lasting impact:

• WPM R. Teddy Johnson (UL #1)
• WPM James A. Hunter, Sr. (UL #1)
• WPM Julius “Doc” Moultrie (AL #32)
• WPM Vincent Brooks (AL #32)
• PWM Deborah Nelson (EC #23)

📅 Saturday, February 21, 2026
🕕 6:00–7:00 PM | Social Hour
🕖 7:00 PM | Banquet
👔 Semi-Formal Attire
🎟 Ticket Donation: $100

📍 Hotel Belvoir Springfield
6550 Loisdale Rd, Springfield, VA

🏨 Hotel Rooms: $109/night
📞 1-800-774-1500 | Group Code 909

🚨 IMPORTANT: Tickets are selling quickly and will sell out. Once capacity is reached, ticket sales will close.

🎫 Purchase tickets & souvenir journal ads using the QR code or link on the flyer.

Please share and support as we honor our leaders and celebrate an evening of excellence, unity, and fellowship.

Address

112 E Oxford Avenue
Alexandria, VA
22301

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm
Saturday 8am - 5pm
Sunday 7am - 5pm

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Universal Lodge #1 posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The University

Send a message to Universal Lodge #1:

Share