Aztlan Masonic Lodge Invites Public for Open House

Arizona's oldest Masonic lodge celebrates history and community service

Mar. 16, 2026 at 8:21pm

Aztlan Lodge, the first Masonic lodge established in Arizona in 1864, is hosting a public open house on March 21, 2026 to showcase its rich history and enduring values. The event will allow the Prescott community to explore the lodge's past, present initiatives, and future endeavors.

Why it matters

Masonry has played a significant role in shaping Arizona's history, with notable figures like governors and astronauts emerging from the state's Masonic tradition. The open house provides a rare opportunity for the public to engage with the lodge and learn about Freemasonry's continued relevance in the modern world.

The details

Aztlan Lodge was founded in 1864 by 11 dedicated Masons, shortly after John Noble Goodwin was appointed as the first governor of the Arizona Territory by Abraham Lincoln. The lodge initially met in the Governor's House, which now resides on the grounds of the Sharlot Hall Museum in Prescott. In 1911, the lodge moved to its original temple on Cortez Street, and later to its current location on Willow Creek Road, allowing it to expand its impact and continue its mission.

  • Aztlan Lodge was founded in 1864.
  • The first Masonic meeting in Prescott took place in 1864.
  • Aztlan Lodge moved to its original temple on Cortez Street in 1911.
  • Aztlan Lodge moved to its current location on Willow Creek Road at a later date.
  • The Masonic Open House Day will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026.

The players

John Noble Goodwin

The first governor of the Arizona Territory, appointed by Abraham Lincoln, who presided over the first Masonic meeting in Prescott in 1864.

Col. Donn F. Eisele

An Apollo astronaut with Arizona connections who was a Mason.

Col. James Benson 'Jim' Irwin

An Apollo astronaut with Arizona connections who was a Mason.

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What’s next

The Masonic Open House Day will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026 from 10 AM to 3 PM at Aztlan Masonic Lodge, 1028 Willow Creek Rd, Prescott.

The takeaway

The Aztlan Masonic Lodge open house provides a unique opportunity for the Prescott community to connect with the rich history and enduring values of Freemasonry in Arizona, and to explore the lodge's ongoing initiatives and future endeavors.