The basic organization of Freemasonry. What is Freemasonry? ; The birth of the Masonic fraternity ; The beginnings of American Freemasonry ; African American Freemasonry ; Masonic regularity -- The Eastern Star, the York Rite, and the Scottish Rite. Women and Freemasonry ; The York Rite ; The Scottish Rite -- Building higher, having fun, and doing more. Even more Masonic organizations ; Masonic "fun" and youth groups ; Masonic philanthropies -- Masonic myths and misunderstandings. Albert Pike : Sovereign Pontiff of Masonic mythology ; Searching for hidden Masonic symbols ; Masonry in plain sight in Washington ; Masonic mythology : Knights Templar and Egypt ; Religious concerns about Freemasonry -- A field guide to Masonic symbols and jewelry. Masonic symbols ; Masonic regalia -- Appendixes. Masonic rituals ; Famous Freemasons ; Freemasonry in books, plays, and movies

Recent novels and films about the ancient society of Freemasons have increased interest and raised a lot of misconceptions about this mysterious fraternity. This guide gives you everything you need to know, from its beginnings to how it is organized and operates today