Plan Your Visit
A Brother's Welcome
Every lodge on the Island keeps its own customs, but the welcome is the same everywhere: arrive early, come as you are, card in hand. Here is what to know before you knock.
Five Steps to a Good Night
Pick your night
Check the calendar and pick your night — every organization on the Island meets on a steady rhythm, and there is a door open most evenings.
Write ahead
Write or call the lodge secretary before you travel. It lets them expect you — and it is the surest way to confirm the meeting stands.
Arrive early
Plan to arrive thirty minutes early. Time to park, sign in, and be received properly beats rushing in after the opening.
Present yourself
Bring your dues card and be prepared for a warm examination. Tell the Tyler you are a visiting Brother and he will see to the rest.
Stay for the table
Stay for the table afterward. Supper, stories, and introductions are the part of the night you will remember.
Dress
What to Wear
Business dress
A dark suit and tie is the customary attire for stated meetings and dinners across the Island's lodges and appendant bodies.
White gloves
Some bodies work in white gloves; bring a pair and follow the Worshipful Master's lead for the evening.
Your apron
Registered Brothers are welcome to wear their own lodge apron. Visitors without one are furnished an apron for the evening.
Credentials
Credentials & Recognition
Bring your current dues card from a lodge recognized by the Grand Lodge of Texas. The card, a firm handshake, and a willingness to be examined are the traveling Brother's credentials — the examination is a courtesy of long standing, and the Brethren who conduct it are on your side.
Amity Lodge No. 4 works under the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Texas. To sit in that lodge, a visitor should hold recognition from his own grand jurisdiction — when in doubt, write to the secretary before you travel and settle the question in advance.
If you are not yet a member but are curious about the Craft, the welcome is just as warm. Ask any lodge for information on becoming a member, or write through the Register and we will point you to the right door.
A Few Courtesies
Sign the register
On arrival, present yourself to the Tyler and sign as a visiting Brother — it is how you are announced and welcomed.
Take a seat
Seats near the East are often reserved; when unsure, ask a Steward and you will be shown a good place.
Stay for the table
The meal before the meeting is half the night's fellowship. Come hungry, and expect to be introduced around.
Write Ahead
Contact Before You Travel
A short note to the secretary of the lodge you plan to visit is always appreciated — it lets them expect you, seat you well, and prepare a proper welcome. Find every organization's address, phone, and email in the Register.
Harmony Lodge #6
Blue Lodge · A.F. & A.M.
1st & 3rd Monday · Meal 6:30p · Meeting 7:00p
Tucker Lodge #297
Blue Lodge · A.F. & A.M.
1st & 3rd Wednesday · Meal 6:30p · Meeting 7:00p
Amity Lodge #4
Blue Lodge · Prince Hall of Texas
1st & 3rd Tuesday · Meal 6:30p · Meeting 7:00p
Galveston Scottish Rite
Scottish Rite · Southern Jurisdiction
2nd Friday · Doors & Fellowship 4:30p · Executive Meetings 5:00p · Dinner 6:30p · Stated Meeting 7:00p
San Felipe de Austin Commandery № 1
York Rite · Knights Templar
2nd Wednesday · Dinner 6:30p
El Mina Shriners
A.A.O.N.M.S. · Shrinedom
3rd Tuesday · Meal 6:30p · Meeting 7:00p