“Many have joined the Masonic Institution this seems to have been a Stepping Stone or Preparation for something else, the true Origin of Masonry. — Joseph Fielding¹

The Nauvoo Masonic Lodge was established after Illinois Grand Master Abraham Jonas granted permission on October 15, 1841. The first meeting took place in Hyrum Smith’s office in December 1841, with installation ceremonies held in March 1842. Before the Masonic Hall was built, the lodge met in various locations, including the upper floor of Joseph Smith’s red brick store and Henry Miller's home.² The Nauvoo Masonic Lodge was part of the broader Freemasonry tradition, where members acted out stories about the construction of Solomon’s temple, symbolizing the building of a solid foundation and the gradual acquisition of light and knowledge.³

1. Parley P. Pratt correspondence, 1842-1855, Heber C. Kimball letter, Nauvoo, to Parley P. Pratt, Church History Catalog

2. Nauvoo Illinois Masonic Hall - Joseph Smith Papers

3. Saints Chapter 37, We Will Prove Them