Prince Hall (c. 1735/38 – December 4, 1807) was a pioneering Black abolitionist, civic leader, and founder of the first Black Masonic organization in America, now known as Prince Hall Freemasonry.
Early Life & Freedom
- Origins: Believed to have been born in Barbados, Prince Hall arrived in Boston around 1765.
- Freedom: He was manumitted in 1770 and quickly established himself as a skilled leatherworker and respected member of Boston’s free Black community.
Revolutionary Patriot & Abolitionist
- Hall encouraged Black enlistment in the Continental Army and was a vocal opponent of slavery, petitioning Massachusetts for abolition in 1777.
- His advocacy helped lay the moral groundwork for the state’s eventual abolition of slavery in 1783.
Founder of Prince Hall Freemasonry
- In 1775, Hall and 14 other free Black men were initiated into Freemasonry by a British military lodge.
- They later established African Lodge No. 459 under a charter from the Grand Lodge of England in 1784.
- Hall became Grand Master and led the growth of a powerful fraternal tradition that continues today as Prince Hall Freemasonry.
Community Advocate
- Hall fought for education for Black children, hosted schools in his own home, and supported back-to-Africa movements.
- He used Freemasonry as a platform to uplift Black communities socially, morally, and politically.
Death & Legacy
- Hall died in 1807 and was buried in Boston’s Copp’s Hill Burying Ground.
- Today, over 300,000 members of Prince Hall-affiliated lodges carry forward his legacy of leadership, integrity, and service.
Keep Prince Hall’s Legacy Alive
Are you inspired by Prince Hall’s example of courage, leadership, and community service?
Would you like to be part of a historic and respected brotherhood that continues his mission?
Contact St. Matthew Lodge #670 in Miami to learn how you can support or join Prince Hall Freemasonry.
Together, we can preserve a legacy that empowers generations.