"A Legacy Rooted in Light and Labor"

 

The founding of Triangle Lodge No. 293 is a testament to the enduring principles of Freemasonry—Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. The Lodge began its labor under a dispensation warrant on November 1, 1945, guided by a shared vision among twenty-one devoted Brothers who sought to extend the light of Freemasonry into a growing region between Washington, D.C. and Fredericksburg, Virginia. Their belief in the Grand Architect of the Universe and the teachings of the Craft gave shape to a new Lodge that would become a cornerstone of Masonic fellowship in Northern Virginia.

 

These founding Brothers were men of foresight and conviction, understanding the transformative value that a Masonic lodge could bring to a developing community. Among them were names that now hold a revered place in our history: French R. Bates (First Worshipful Master), Fred D. Tuell Sr., Chancellor Johnson, Robert L. Bates, Oliver Johnson, and James W. Hawkins, to name a few. Their work culminated in the formal chartering of Triangle Lodge No. 293 on October 27, 1946, during the 71st Annual Communication of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Virginia. With this charter, the Lodge was fully empowered to perform the work of the Craft and began its official journey of service.

 

"Origins, Location, and Masonic Vision"

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The earliest meetings of Triangle Lodge were held in , a location emblematic of the humble but determined beginnings of many Masonic lodges. As membership grew and the Lodge sought a permanent home, a small parcel of land was purchased in May 1948 in anticipation of future needs. In 1956, Triangle Lodge moved into its current building, which was then owned by the General Construction Laborers Local 801.

 

Through the diligent leadership and steady stewardship of its members, the Lodge purchased this property in 1972 with the support of District Deputy Grand Master John Doles of the 31st Masonic District. The physical structure of the Lodge continued to evolve with the acquisition of adjacent properties in 1987 and 1990, culminating in a more functional edifice that better reflected the growing scope and dignity of the Lodge’s mission.

 

"Leadership and Distinguished Service"

 

The first Worshipful Master of Triangle Lodge was French R. Bates, who led the Lodge from its dispensation through its early years of chartered activity. He was joined by Fred D. Tuell Sr. as Senior Warden and Chancellor Johnson as Junior Warden, establishing the principal officers of the Lodge’s foundational leadership. Their legacy of leadership has been preserved by a long and honorable list of Worshipful Masters who have kept the light of Triangle Lodge burning for nearly eight decades.

Among the many accolades and accomplishments that distinguish Triangle Lodge is its recognition as “Lodge of the Year” at both the 121st and 136th Grand Communications. Additionally, its Masters—Thomas Martin and Thomas J. Jennings Jr.—were each honored as “Master of the Year” for their outstanding leadership.  Triangle Lodge has also produced influential Grand Lodge officers, including Worshipful Past Master Leonard C. Johnson, who in 2011 became the first member of Triangle to serve as District Deputy Grand Master of the 31st Masonic District. His tenure was marked by numerous distinctions, including being named District Deputy of the Year for a large district in both 2012 and 2013. Worshipful Past Master Leonard C. Johnson is also distinguished by becoming the first Triangle Lodge Past Master to be elected to serve as a Right Worshipful Grand Director. 

Equally notable are the appointments of WPM Benjamin F. Harrison, Jr. and WPM Rufus Jackson Jr. to key Grand Lodge positions, serving respectively as Right Worshipful Senior and Junior Grand Stewards under Most Worshipful Grand Master Larry D. Christian. Most recently we are represented at the Grand Lodge by Right Worshipful Grand Director Earnest L. Prather. These appointments reflect the Lodge’s broader impact and its reputation for cultivating Masonic excellence beyond the local level.

 

"Charity, Community, and the Living Tenets of the Craft"

Triangle Lodge No. 293 has always practiced the tenets of Masonry not only within its walls but also throughout the wider community. Whether through structured partnerships or boots-on-the-ground service, Triangle has consistently demonstrated Masonic Relief in action. The Lodge has partnered with the ACTS Homeless Shelter in Dumfries and the Salvation Army of Northern Virginia, providing food, labor, and financial support to the less fortunate.

Over the years, the Lodge has distributed more than 300 Thanksgiving baskets, contributed generously to the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots Program, and actively supported Wounded Warriors through visits to service members at Fort Belvoir. Triangle has also raised over $6,000 through the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Drive and played a significant role in organizing the Dale City Fourth of July Parade, an event that highlights the Lodge's presence and pride in the community.

 

"A Light That Endures"

Triangle Lodge No. 293 remains a vibrant and respected Lodge within the Jurisdiction of Virginia. Its legacy is built upon the shoulders of men who answered the call of Masonry with courage, commitment, and clarity of purpose. From the early meetings in Occoquan to the acquisition and expansion of its current Temple, Triangle has continuously evolved—physically, spiritually, and fraternally.

The Lodge’s impact is not measured by buildings alone, but by the character of the men it produces and the service it renders. With over seventy Worshipful Masters having served since its inception—the Lodge continues to be a source of leadership, enlightenment, and inspiration for the Masonic family and the community at large.

As Triangle Lodge advances deeper into the 21st century, its members continue the sacred work laid down by the founding Brethren—spreading light, uplifting humanity, and faithfully laboring in the quarry of Freemasonry.

 

 

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