Signaling modern speculative Freemasonry, the first Grand Lodge was chartered in 1717. Constituent Symbolic Blue Lodges throughout the world were soon established. The first Lodge in the Colonies was chartered in Boston in 1733. The Grand Lodge of Nebraska was constituted in 1857. Freemasonry is not a religion, nor does it require a religious affiliation.
Members worship in congregations of their choice.
They exemplify mankind's universal experience and inculcate an admired moral and ethical value system. Freemasonry is a fraternity of men who are proud to be known as Masons. Since its inception, the world has known of speculative Freemasonry and its work. Freemasonry keeps confidential its modes of recognition, opening and closing ceremonies, and ceremonies for conferring the Degrees of Masonry, which extend from historic tradition. Thousands of works discussing Masonic history, traditions, craft, and proceedings are widely available to the public.