Famous Freemasons
Famous Freemasons: Notable Members of the Brotherhood
Freemasonry, the world's oldest and largest fraternal organization, has counted many influential figures among its members. From U.S. presidents and world leaders to artists, athletes, and entertainers, these Famous Freemasons have embraced the principles of brotherhood, charity, and truth.
Modern Famous Freemasons
These contemporary figures have publicly acknowledged their Masonic ties:
- Shaquille O’Neal – NBA legend and sports analyst
- Brad Paisley – Country music star and active Freemason
- John Elway – NFL Hall of Famer and lifelong member
- Arnold Palmer – Golfing icon and 33° Scottish Rite Mason
- NYC Mayor Eric Adams – Recently initiated in 2024
- Steve Wozniak - the co-founder of Apple
- Michael Richards - Well-known American actor and comedian.
U.S. Presidents & Founding Fathers
Freemasonry played a key role in early American history, with 14 U.S. Presidents counted among its members:
- George Washington – First U.S. President
- Benjamin Franklin – Statesman, inventor, and diplomat
- Theodore Roosevelt – 26th U.S. President
- Franklin D. Roosevelt – 32nd U.S. President
- Harry S. Truman – 33rd U.S. President & Past Grand Master of Missouri
- Gerald Ford – 38th U.S. President
- John Hancock – First signer of the Declaration of Independence
- Paul Revere – Patriot and silversmith
World Leaders & Historical Figures
Freemasonry has extended far beyond the U.S., shaping global history:
- Winston Churchill – British Prime Minister during WWII
- King Edward VII – British monarch and Grand Master of the UGLE
- Buzz Aldrin – Astronaut and second man on the moon
- Neil Armstrong – First man on the moon
Entertainment & Music Legends
Many artists, writers, and musicians found camaraderie in Freemasonry:
- John Wayne – Hollywood legend; member of Lodge 56 in Tuscon
- Clark Gable – Acclaimed actor
- Richard Pryor & Don Rickles – Comedy icons
- Oscar Wilde – Playwright and poet
- Irving Berlin – Composer and songwriter
- Nat King Cole – Renowned musician
- Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart – Classical composer
- Mark Twain – Celebrated author
Sports Icons
Freemasonry has welcomed some of the greatest athletes in history:
- Ty Cobb & Rogers Hornsby – Baseball legends
- Shaquille O’Neal & Scottie Pippen – Basketball stars
- Arnold Palmer – Golfing great
- James Naismith – Inventor of basketball
Famous Prince Hall Freemasons
Prince Hall Freemasonry, founded by Prince Hall in the late 18th century, has had a profound impact on the African American community and the broader Masonic tradition. Many influential figures have been members, continuing the legacy of leadership, service, and excellence.
- Andrew Young – Civil rights leader, diplomat, and former mayor of Atlanta
- William "Count" Basie – Jazz pianist and bandleader
- Henry Blair – Inventor
- Nat King Cole – Legendary musician
- Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington – Jazz composer and pianist
- Medgar Evers – Civil rights activist
- Alex Haley – Author of "Roots"
- Rev. Jesse Jackson – Civil rights activist and minister
- Jack Johnson – First African American world heavyweight boxing champion
- Thurgood Marshall – Supreme Court Justice
- Richard Pryor – Comedian and actor
- Charles Rangel – U.S. Congressman
- Sugar Ray Robinson – Boxing legend
- Booker T. Washington – Educator and founder of Tuskegee Institute
- David Paterson – Former Governor of New York
A Legacy of Leadership & Influence
Beyond the well-known names listed above, countless scientists, artists, entertainers, and business leaders have been part of the Masonic brotherhood. Famous Freemasons have had a lasting impact on society, upholding principles of integrity, service, and unity.