Rooted in Tradition

Since Freemasonry’s early days in England, the apron has been a part of the group’s distinctive symbols and rituals. Aprons evoke the symbolic association of Freemasonry with working stonemasons, craftsmen who wore aprons to protect their clothing from wear and dust. Decorated aprons may have emerged as a way for non-working, or symbolic, Freemasons to distinguish themselves from working, also called operative, stonemasons and/or other artisans.

Rooted in tradition, but also a product of their time and place, Masonic aprons show the influence of the larger society and culture as well as trends within Freemasonry. Apron shape, size, decoration and method of manufacture reflect the era in which aprons were made. Apron designs have a close relationship with fashion and decorative arts. The aprons and other objects gathered here explore these ideas and help tell the story of the history, symbolism and workmanship behind Masonic aprons. Most importantly, they shine a light on the people who made and wore them.