Our History
In 1873, a group of Toronto Freemasons gathered to discuss the formation of a new lodge. With dispensation from the Most Worshipful, the Grand Master William Mercer Wilson, Doric Lodge at Toronto was formed.
Doric Lodge at Toronto was granted dispensation on April 11, 1873. The following images are scans from the 1874 Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of AF&AM Canada.
The Board of General Purposes recommending that the warrant for Doric Lodge at Toronto be granted.
The Toronto District DDGM report.
The first mention of No. 316. The Grand Lodge of Canada Annual Communication of 1874 was attended by 31 members of Doric Lodge 316*.
What is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry or Masonry refers to fraternal organisations that trace their origins to the local guilds of stonemasons that, from the end of the 14th century, regulated the qualifications of stonemasons and their interaction with authorities and clients. Modern Freemasonry broadly consists of two main recognition groups: Regular Freemasonry, which insists that a volume of scripture be open in a working lodge, that every member professes belief in a Supreme Being, that no women be admitted, and that the discussion of religion and politics do not take place within the lodge; and Continental Freemasonry, which consists of the jurisdictions that have removed some, or all, of these restrictions.
How can I join?
All Masonic activities are put on hold due to the pandemic. Under normal circumstances, we meet at 6:30 PM on the 3rd Wednesdays of each month except in July and August. If you wish to apply for membership, please contact us.