Freemasonry in Scotland

[2] This direct connection can be traced from the oldest Masonic written records in the world, which are the property of the Grand Lodge of Scotland in Edinburgh.

It doubtless existed prior to these dates, which gives a fair assumption that it played a part in the addition to, Dunfermline Palace (1540).

Interesting notes bearing on its antiquity are contained in a booklet issued in connection with the opening, of their new hall in Priory Lane (a Lodgeroom in excellent taste) which was consecrated by the P.G.M., the Earl of Elgin and Kincardine, on 17 December 1920, The hall is at present in use for national purposes making it difficult to gain access to old records.

[11] It was not until 1813 that the "Antients" and "Moderns" agreed on an Act of Union and formed the United Grand Lodge of England.

By their absence from the initial discussions to which these lodges had been invited, 79% did not support the creation of a new, centralised Masonic system as already existed in England and Wales and in Ireland.

[12] Lodges under the Scottish Masonic Constitution are sovereign bodies in their own right, with a considerable degree of control of their own affairs.

[12] The various rituals in current use adhere to this principle, but the scope for variation and elaboration is considerable, with numerous interesting additions.

However, a smaller number Freemasons in Scotland subsequently apply to join the Holy Royal Arch and take their Mark degree in that body.

The Excellent Master degree does not exist in England, and English Royal Arch Masons are not permitted to attend these workings in Scotland.

[15] There are several other orders open only to freemasons, of which the Knights Templar and Red Cross of Constantine are particularly popular in Scotland.

Membership of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite and the Royal Order of Scotland are sought after but tightly-controlled and by invitation only.

The Order of the Eastern Star, is a fraternal organisation for women who are related to a Freemason which also requires Masonic office bearers.

The current Grand Master Mason is Brother William Ramsay McGhee, a former Police Chief Superintendent, who was first installed in November 2018.