Freemasonry Began as a Guild of Stonemasons

Origins in Medieval Lodges (12th Century → 1717 London)

Freemasonry was born from the stonemasons’ guilds of the Middle Ages, and in 1717 the first Grand Lodge was established in London. The origins of those guilds go back even further: by the 12th century (the 1100s), craftsmen’s associations dedicated to building cathedrals and monasteries are thought to have already existed. Stonemasons at the time were teams of craftsmen who undertook large-scale works such as cathedrals and castles. Accordingly, worksites had huts and shelters for the masons, which were called “lodges.” A lodge was not merely a place to rest; it was also a place to transmit techniques and uphold discipline.

From Operative to Speculative Masonry

As time went on and demand for large-scale stone-built architecture declined, the lodges began to admit people other than masons—scholars, nobles, and urban citizens. From there, they shifted from “operative masons,” who actually carved stone, to “speculative masons,” who engaged with ideas and symbolism. By the time the Grand Lodge was established in 1717, Freemasonry had already become a fraternal organization beyond a craft association.

Symbols, Tools, and Ritual Stone

That said, the true nature of Freemasonry remains shrouded in mystery. Even among Britons, many say they do not really know what Freemasons actually do. However, the compasses and squares used as symbols clearly derive from the tools of working stonemasons. Stone is also used in certain Masonic rituals. In this sense, it can be seen as evidence that Freemasonry inherits the spirit and traditions of the stonemasons.

Japanese Stonemasonry: Independent Lineage

By contrast, Japanese stonemasonry developed from the building of stone ramparts that formed the foundations of castles during the Warring States period. In the Edo period the techniques were refined and expanded to structures and objects such as temples and gardens, stone lanterns and stone towers.

Freemasonry in Japan & Public Perception

There are multiple Masonic lodges in Japan as well, and YouTubers sometimes treat Freemasonry as an urban legend, with members even appearing on their shows. The stonemasons I do business with say they have no connection with Freemasonry.

Modern Stonemasons in the UK & Japan

Similarly to Japanese stonemasons, we consider that modern stonemasons in the UK likewise have no connection with Freemasonry. Japanese stonemasons have walked their own path—not as part of a secret society, but through dedication to skill, beauty, and craftsmanship. Modern British stonemasons, too, have walked their own path—defined by craft, integrity, and the stewardship of heritage, rather than any secretive affiliation.

Author’s Note

This time, I wrote the article from a different perspective than usual.
Even from my standpoint as someone who sells Japanese stone products worldwide, it is fascinating that the stonemasons’ guild evolved into Freemasonry and became a global organization.
I do not know their true purpose, but my purpose is simple: to bring Japanese stone to the world.

Representative 12th-Century Stone Architecture in England

Below is a respectful, non-exhaustive list of 12th-century English stone architecture associated with the work of operative stonemasons—an essential backdrop to the origins of Freemasonry and medieval cathedral construction. (Dates indicate key 12th-century phases.)

• Canterbury Cathedral (choir rebuilt 1174–1184) — Early Gothic rebuilding after the 1174 fire, led by William of Sens and William the Englishman.
• Wells Cathedral (begun c.1175) — A landmark of early English Gothic, with major late-12th-century campaigns.
• Southwell Minster (largely 12th-century Norman/Romanesque) — Much of the present church dates from the early 1100s.
• Peterborough Cathedral (rebuilding from 1118; major works by late 12th c.) — Great Norman nave and central tower following the 1116 fire.
• Durham Cathedral (1093–1133; later 12th-century additions) — Masterwork of Norman Romanesque; the Galilee Chapel dates to the 1170s–1180s.
• Rochester Castle, Keep (c.1127) — One of England’s finest Norman keeps, commissioned under royal authority.
• Dover Castle, Great Tower (1180s) — Major 12th-century royal fortress works under Henry II.
• Rievaulx Abbey (founded 1132) — Influential Cistercian abbey flourishing through the 12th century.
• Fountains Abbey (founded 1132) — Vast Cistercian complex; key 12th-century monastic stonework survives.
• Kirkstall Abbey (founded 1152) — Well-preserved 12th-century Cistercian abbey near Leeds.