About Us

University Lodge No. 51 is a lodge of Freemasons in the City of Philadelphia that meets at the historic Philadelphia Masonic Temple right next to City Hall and Arch Street Methodist Church.  True to our roots, we attract a fair number of university students and alumni from the various schools in the area; however, the Lodge is made up of a diverse group of men ranging from eighteen to eighty-five years old and coming from all walks of life.

So what is Freemasonry?

Masonic author Bro∴ Paul Weathers states that, Freemasonry is dedicated to the Brotherhood of Man under the Fatherhood of God.  It uses the tools and implements of ancient architectural craftsmen symbolically in a system of instruction designed to build character and moral values in its members.  Its singular purpose is to ‘make good men better.’  Its bonds of friendship, compassion, and brotherly love have survived even the most divisive political, military, and religious conflicts through the centuries.  Freemasonry is a fraternity which encourages its members to practice the faith of their personal acceptance.  Masonry teaches that each person, through self-improvement and helping others, has an obligation to make a difference for good in the world.

To learn more about Freemasonry, please click HERE to see a video of the R∴ W∴ Bro∴ Benjamin Franklin (as portrayed by actor Richard Easton) explaining the meaning of the Craft.  Those men interested in becoming a Freemason should first read the page about Freemasonry on this website.  The link is in the above menu.

Are you all ready a Freemason?  We extend you a fraternal welcome to visit University Lodge No. 51.  Please join us for dinner before attending our next Stated Meeting in Ionic Hall on the Second Monday of every month, excluding July, August, and December (elections); or please join us for dinner before attending one of our Extra Meetings for Degree Work, which usually (but not always) fall on the Third Thursday of the month, excluding July, August, and December.  Following our meetings many of the brethren usually go for drinks at one of the local bars.  R. S. V. P.  The Lodge Steward may be reached at: [email protected]   As well, please bring your Grand Lodge Certificate and prepare to be examined.  It is usually best to have your Grand Lodge Secretary contact ours well ahead of time.