The Builders

This is a general survey of Masonic origins, history and philosophy. It was at one time given to every new Mason in Iowa, probably a better choice than , which is almost three times as long and much more difficult reading. This is a scholarly but approachable treatment of Masonry and will be enlightening both to practicing Freemasons and a general audience.

Newton is a rationalist and deflates claims of an ancient origin for Masonry per se; rather he illuminates the historical precedents of the group. He starts with ancient Egypt, not because he believes that the Egyptians had functioning Masonic lodges, but because that is where monumental architecture began. He covers the ancient mystery religions, and the true origin of Masonry in organizations of medieval stone-masons. After a period of decline, a London meeting held in 1717 at the Goose and Gridiron Alehouse united the remaining four Lodges of England, and started modern Freemasonry. The two-tier organization proliferated into three, and then multiple degrees, during the 18th and 19th centuries, eventually resulting in modern Freemasonry.

Masonry, which had started as an underground association of building trade workers, evolved into a fraternal group which included both members of the English royal family and American revolutionaries. Despite his rational stance, Newton is rhapsodic about the progressive influence of the Masonic movement and philosophy, both for individuals seeking 'the lost word', and for society as a whole. Newton claims that the world has benefited greatly because of the Masonic ideals of liberty, fraternity and equality. The Builders tells the Masonic side of this story.

Title Page
The Anteroom
Table of Contents

Part I—Prophecy

Chapter I. The Foundations
Chapter II. The Working Tools
Chapter III. The Drama of Faith
Chapter IV. The Secret Doctrine
Chapter V. The Collegia

Part II—History

Chapter I. Free-masons
Chapter II. Fellowcrafts
Chapter III. Accepted Masons
Chapter IV. Grand Lodge of England
Chapter V. Universal Masonry

Part III—Interpretation

Chapter I. What is Masonry
Chapter II. The Masonic Philosophy
Chapter III. The Spirit of Masonry
Bibliography