Genesis of Freemasonry

In “The Genesis of Freemasonry” Dr. David Harrison of the University of Liverpool examines the origins of “the Craft.” He does this in a systematic, scholarly way, using logic, fact, evidence, and historical perspective to reveal the multi-layered story of the birth of the Masonic movement in Seventeenth Century England. As an American Masonic writer, I found his method fascinating. Too often, from a U.S. perspective, we simply accept June 24, 1717 as the birthday of Freemasonry in London. From there, we move on to the planting of Masonic lodges in the original Thirteen Colonies. Next, we concentrate on the growth and development of American Freemasonry and move onward to the story of Freemasonry in the United States to the present day. Harrison’s in-depth exploration of Freemasonry’s start is important for many reasons. First, the reason for many Masonic customs and practices has—up to now—been lost in the “mists of time.” This book uncovers the origins of many symbols, rites, and ceremonies that lodges use and enact to this day. There is an old saying: “as the twig is bent, so grows the tree.” This book examines how the Masonic culture was affected by numerous small bends in that small branch. Second, it is a matter of faith that politics has no place in The Modern Lodge. “The Genesis of Freemasonry” demonstrates that politics and societal trends—had massive effects on the origins and growth of the Masonic movement. Lastly, most Freemasons will tell you that their rituals and customs have remained the same “since Time Immemorial.” Harrison demonstrates conclusively that this is simply not the case. Rituals were rewritten, altered, expanded, and changed continuously in the Eighteenth Century, sometimes for political reasons. Harrison’s work grew out of his doctoral dissertation which is both an advantage and a disadvantage. On the one hand, it is not a blaring, controversial, conspiracy-mongering work. Readers interested in such rubbish would be advised to consult any number of other books. They can easily be found if one googles terms such as “Freemason Conspiracy, Knights Templar, National Treasure, Da Vinci Code, etc.” Such readers will probably not be interested in this book. On the other hand, “The Genesis of Freemasonry” is a well-written, sober, fact-based, thorough examination of one of the most influential groups of the last three hundred years. The serious casual reader should be attracted to this story. David Harrison proves that not only is Fact often stranger than Fiction, it is more interesting as well. I recommend this book highly. It deserves 6 stars. This is a great book.

The Genesis of Freemasonry by Dr. David Harrison is one of the few new books about Freemasonry that should be required reading for every Mason. This book follows in the footsteps of researchers Douglas Knoop, Harry Carr, and Bernard E. Jones, and adds to our understanding of the origins of Freemasonry. The book is actually Dr. Harrison's doctoral thesis for the University of Liverpool, where he is a sessional lecturer.The book covers the period of 1640 to roughly 1814 and the creation of the United Grand Lodge of England. It's divided into three parts: The Ritual of Freemasonry, The Architecture of Freemasonry, and The Politics of Freemasonry. There is little, if any, speculation on the part of Harrison to be found in the book. It's a well-documented account of early Freemasonry in England. Where many academic historians find fault with the sometimes subjective and overly romanticized views of Knoop, Carr and Jones, they will be pleased with the refreshing level of objectivity found in The Genesis of Freemasonry. Harrison reveals the humble origins of Freemasonry in the coffee houses and pubs of London, and follows it through to its ascendance to greatness.Many modern era Freemasons may be shocked to learn that the fraternity suffered many problems in its early days, and that the founders didn't meet in beautiful Masonic temples. The Freemasonry we know today is the result of the dedication of a few men who recognized its potential to change the world.The Genesis of Freemasonry is one of the few Masonic books that I recommend to anyone interested in learning more about the fraternity.

Well Ladies and Gentlemen, this book by David Harrison opens a whole new meaning to the word Freemasonry. You hear so much about this subject and it is hard to rule out fact from fiction, but believe me, once you read this book, the subject becomes more clear. If the Mason's is of interest to you, I would recommend this book, it is a must get for any collection. A really good read from start to finish. David really knows what he is talking about and it does show through his understanding of the subject.

I think this will appeal more to members of a Freemason's lodge than the general public as there is a lot of detail. However, it is clearly written and not too long. The author has obviously spent a long time researching for the content and even a well-read mason will find something fresh. I liked the fact that each chapter stood on its own rather than one continuing narrative. The colour photos were a nice bonus, usually this type of book has only black and white illustrations.

Excellent and enjoyable to read.Blows away many myths and gives a simple, clear history of the subject in an easily digestible format.Incredibly interesting and engaging and I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.