Master Mason Apron, 1760-1780 Probably Massachusetts Gift of Dr. Phillip James Jones, 83.45

The form of Masonic aprons derives from the protective aprons, often leather, worn by stonemasons and other craftsmen. This apron is an unusual survival from the late 1700s. As was the case at the time, Masonic aprons were long, approximating the shape of the workmen’s aprons they were based on. Along with other symbols, this apron features a depiction of King Solomon’s Temple. The story of that structure’s construction forms the basis for the first three degrees in Freemasonry.