Warren G. Harding Lodge No 260
Free & Accepted Masons of Washington
Named in honor for the 29th President of the United States, 1921-1923
Washington Masonic Services
Our mission is to assist Masons and others in need, focusing on aging in place and securing resources for basic essentials; investing in youth and education, boosting their ability to achieve their greatest potential; and preserving and curating Masonic heritage, illuminating Masonry’s impact in Washington’s past, present and future.
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Washington Masonic Services is a religiously inclusive, apolitical, 501(c)3 non-profit organization.
What is Freemasonry in Washington?
Freemasonry has existed throughout the world for centuries and is the oldest Fraternal Order in the world. It is a Brotherhood of like-minded men of good moral character and who desire to better themselves and their community. The Grand Lodge of Washington was formed in 1858 when Washington was still part of the Oregon Territory, long before Washington became a State. The first Washington Legislature met in the Masonic Hall in Olympia, WA. The first duly elected Governor of Washington was a Mason as was the first State Auditor.
When did Freemasonry come to Poulsbo?
Poulsbo lodge’s beginnings originate in Port Gamble. In 1920, members of Franklin Lodge No. 5 living in or near Poulsbo began considering a new lodge closer to home. They formed the Poulsbo Masonic Club and rented a portion of the third floor of the Eliason Building in downtown Poulsbo for their meetings. A petition to apply to the Grand Lodge of Washington for a charter was filed two days after President Harding’s death on August 2, 1923. The original name requested for the Lodge was “Golden Fleece” but it was rejected since another group of Masons in Washington was also considering the name. Golden Fleece was crossed out on the petition, and since President Harding had just died his name was substituted. The Lodge became official when it was chartered by the Grand Lodge of Washington on June 11, 1924.
Source: "The History of Warren G. Harding Lodge No. 260, Celebrating 75 Years of Masonry 1924-1999, Poulsbo, Washington."