The 1723 Constitutions of the Free-Masons: A photographic facsimile by The United Grand Lodge of England

Three Hundred Years Ago… 

In the year 1723 a book was published that laid out the principles and aims of English Freemasonry. Ideas that included social equality, religious tolerance, self-improvement, reward and advancement for merit, charity and goodwill to all. These ideas were radical and challenging in a time characterised by religious conflict and when birth and wealth determined success and often even survival. 

This fascinating and beautiful book also provided a framework for Freemasonry, a rulebook that would be emulated by many other secular clubs and societies in Britain and around the world. Masonic practices introduced in the 1723 Constitutions include the election of officers subject to democratic accountability, with one member wielding one vote; majority rule; orations by elected officials; national governance; and written constitutions.

Introduced by a beautiful symbolic frontispiece, this work was not just practical, but also inspirational, containing a traditional history of Freemasonry and many Masonic songs. Rich with Masonic insight and symbolism, there is as much to be found in this work for modern Freemasons as there was the day it was published.

This special edition contains high quality photographs of one of the first edition copies of the Constitutions of the Free-Masons, printed in London in 1723. 

The cover border and central design have been carefully reproduced from the original copies in the archives of the Museum of Freemasonry held at the United Grand Lodge of England.

• Foreword by the Metropolitan Grand Master Sir Michael Snyder

• Complete photographic facsimile of the original copy owned by the Duke of Richmond, who was elected Grand Master in 1724.

• Translation of James Anderson’s handwritten inscription/dedication in Latin.

• An insightful historical introduction by Librarian Martin Cherry of the Museum of Freemasonry, London

• Gold embossed cover reminiscent of the original

• Beautiful endpapers

• Limited Edition - only 1,000 copies

     Hardback: 142 pages