Moderns and Antients

[Tamrin]

Ancients and Moderns:
Differences and Similarities

[Excerpts - Paper by Barnes A. Sharitt, Jr., mn-masons.org, November 12, 2001, Linked Above]

The purpose of this paper is compare the Ancients and Moderns so that their impact upon Freemasonry today can be identified. The differences between the Ancients and Moderns are rooted in the middle of the eighteenth century as the Grand Lodge began to make its presence felt and as the customs of the country began to change. While this paper does not go into detail either on the root of the differences or the history of the two Grand Lodges, enough of the differences between them are described so that the reader can gain an appreciation of the impact upon Masonry, as it is known today in the United States.

In summary the dispute between the Ancients and Moderns has shaped both our understanding of Masonry, and the way in which it is practiced. It was a process of democratization, of formulation, and of definition of what constitutes Freemasonry. We are stronger because of it, and have become more homogenous by it. In the ensuing years, we have learned to stress its universality and its common bonds. By continuing to do so and to modify what we do, we shall survive and adapt to a changing society.

Arms of the United Grand Lodge of England

(Union of Moderns & Antients this day 1813)