National Mason Day is celebrated on June 17 every year. We take this time to appreciate all the people out there called Mason. The name comes from the masonry trade, a cornerstone of modern human civilization. Many societies, including the English, which had an industrial boom in the middle of the 18th century that sped up the expansion of towns and cities, highly valued the role of builders. Mason was the second most popular boy’s name in the U.S. in 2011, and an estimated 15,000 Americans share it.
History of National Mason Day
Mason is an English male name meaning “one who works with stone.” In England, it was once common practice to take one’s surname from their profession. People called masons worked in construction as bricklayers and builders, and the name got passed down through generations, retained even when the bearers no longer practiced masonry as a trade. But the name wasn’t exclusive to England. Other English-speaking countries like America soon followed suit.
George Mason, one of America’s founding fathers, is best known for being the father of the Bill of Rights. Mason served in the House of Delegates during the American Revolutionary War, where he used his knowledge and experience of the law to help the revolutionary cause. Mason called for the immediate end of the slave trade and various other legal reforms despite being a planter. Sadly, he died before seeing all his hard work come to fruition. After fading into obscurity following his demise, Mason received the recognition he deserved in the 20th and 21st centuries as one of America’s founding fathers, whose writings influenced modern U.S. laws and policies.
General Mason Mathews Patrick was a mercurial figure and headed the predecessor of the U.S. Air Force during World War One. Patrick attended West Point Military Academy at 18, distinguishing himself as an excellent scholar and cadet, albeit with a sordid reputation for foul language, tobacco use, and general misconduct. He was a decorated officer and brilliant engineer who saw action in France during the First World War. Mason is also credited with laying the foundation for U.S. military air power and transport capabilities before the formation of the U.S. Air Force.
National Mason Day timeline
English portrait painter Mason Chamberlin co-founds the Royal Academy of Arts.
Mason Patrick becomes the first chief of the U.S. Army Air Corps.
Mason Williams performs his iconic “Classical Gas” instrumental, backed up by members of the Wrecking Crew.
Mason Durell Betha {Mase} releases ‘Welcome Back,’ his first song since taking a break from making music in 1999.
National Mason Day FAQs
Is Mason a boy or girl name?
Mason is a traditionally masculine name.
Is Mason a mighty name?
Because of its ties to the masonry trade, Mason is a mighty name.
Is Mason an Irish first name?
Mason is a name of English origin, after the occupation of masonry.
National Mason Day Activities
Get a stone carving
‘Mason’ means “artisan who works in stone.” Shop around for stone carvings, sculptures, and figurines. They’ll add a touch of elegant beauty to your space.
Make something with your hands
Up for a bit of D.I.Y. fun? Celebrate National Mason Day by building or designing something unique. It doesn’t have to be fancy. Tap into your artisanal side.
Get a bracelet
Stone bracelets are a tasteful fashion statement. Some even come with semi-precious gems. Consider a customized stone name bracelet.
5 Interesting Facts About Famous Masons
The first in America
Physician Mason Andrews was the first to deliver an invitro baby in America.
Studio to the pulpit
Mase is the second rapper to become an ordained minister after MC Hammer.
A perfect fit
Guitarist Mason Williams chose music over construction, but his name is surprisingly fitting because his father was a tile-setter.
Etched in time
General Patrick appeared on the cover of “Time” Magazine on July 9, 1923.
The founding father
Mason was one of three delegates who refused to sign the Constitution of the United States and wrote the Virginia Declaration of Rights, which was the basis of the United States Bill of Rights.
Why We Love National Mason Day
It’s a solid name
Mason is a firm name. It’s unyielding and uncompromising, just like the natural and artificial stones that masons work with.
It has a deeper meaning
Mason is a name with real meaning and history behind it. It’s a callback to a time when a person’s profession was their identity and way of life.
It’s on the rise in popularity
Mason was ranked the second most popular boy’s name in 2011. It’s made a slow but steady return as a good choice for a masculine name.
National Mason Day dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2024 | June 17 | Monday |
2025 | June 17 | Tuesday |
2026 | June 17 | Wednesday |
2027 | June 17 | Thursday |
2028 | June 17 | Saturday |