Most Worshipful Illustrious Renford P. Brown Grand Lodge

Florida Brotherhood

Our History

There are two documents noting the history of the State of Florida and our beginning. According to 25th Anniversary Historical Account and the Beacon Light, an account documenting the history of International Free and Accepted Modern Masons, Inc.’s developed by Illustrious William K. Kirksey records the following as how the State of Florida came into existence within the organization:

It was in the month of August 1950, when IFAMM was rapidly experiencing growth in membership throughout the country, that the State of Florida was organized. Under the direction of Rev. Rufus Beacham, Supreme Recruit Deputy at that time, Lodges and Chapters were organized in various sections of the state. In its beginning, Florida was governed by a Joint Council of Masons and Eastern Star, with Brother Thomas Nelson officiating as the President of the Joint Council from 1953 through 1954. In 1955, various Lodges and Chapters in the city of Tampa came together for the purpose of setting up a Grand Lodge and Grand Chapter for the State of Florida. The late Bishop R.F. Coleman was elected Grand Master of the newly formed Saint James Grand Lodge and Sister Mable Gordon was elected Grand Matron for the newly formed Mary McCleoud Bethune Grand Chapter.

The Father Lodge for the State of Florida is Pride of West Tampa #1 and the Mother Chapter is Evening Light Chapter #2. The State of Florida continues to experience monumental growth in membership and presence throughout the organization’s leadership structure. The State of Florida is rated as the top state in International Free and Accepted Modern Masons, Inc. and Order of the Eastern Star and has had many Masons and Stars serve in key leadership roles.

Masons of Florida have much to be proud of based on the tremendous progress accomplished through harmony and cooperation of officers and members inthe state. In 2011, Florida is not only outstanding when it comes to adult membership, but also has a growing Youth Department whereby youth and young adults learn lessons that assist them in their growth and development. Many of the great leaders of IFAMM came from and continue to evolve from the State of Florida.

Since its founding in 1950, the State of Florida has had 10 Grand Masters, with Illustrious Alex “Rico” Dixon, 33° serving as the current Most Worshipful Grand Master. Below is the historical list of all Florida Most Worshipful Grand Masters:

Brother Rufus L. Coleman
Brother Willie Weaver
Brother Jasper Carswell
Brother Thomas Montgomery
Brother Bobby Williams
Illustrious Woodrow Wilson, 33º
Illustrious Renford P. Brown, 33º
Illustrious Bobbie J. Meeks, 33º
Illustrious Robert L. Stevens, 33º
Illustrious Alex “Rico” Dixon, 33º

Leadership • Brotherhood • Direction

We pride ourselves in building a brotherhood that is strong, relies on one another, takes care of our widows and orphans and give back to the communities in which we live, work and play.

Grand Lodge Officers

We rely on our Grand Lodge Officers to ensure that those Lodge Officers holding the same title/position are assisted in understanding their duties and responsibilities.

Florida Masonic Districts

We have a total of 17 Florida Masonic Districts, with a District Grand Master to assist them in their growth, development, ritualistic education as well as provide support.

Become a Mason

If you are interested in joining our Fraternal Order, please complete this FORM and someone will contact you to know the way forward. We make good men better.

Most Worshipful Grand Master & Deputies

It is our responsibility to ensure the Grand Lodge and its members are provided a vision and it be carried forward by each of us and the entire Florida Brotherhood. We are proud to serve!