07/27/2026
Remembering Brother Sam Houston
March 2, 1793 – July 26, 1863
Today, the Brethren of Smithfield Masonic Lodge No. 182, F. & A.M. pause to remember Brother Sam Houston, who laid down his working tools and entered the Celestial Lodge Above on July 26, 1863.
Brother Sam Houston was one of the most remarkable men in American history a soldier, statesman, military commander, the first and third President of the Republic of Texas, United States Senator, Governor of Tennessee, Governor of Texas, and above all, a devoted Freemason whose life was guided by the timeless principles of our Craft.
His Masonic journey began at Cumberland Lodge No. 8 in Nashville, Tennessee, where he received the degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry:
• Initiated an Entered Apprentice: April 19, 1817
• Passed to the Degree of Fellow Craft: June 20, 1817
• Raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason: July 22, 1817
Brother Houston quickly became an active member of the Fraternity. He later served as Junior Warden of Cumberland Lodge No. 8 and, by 1824, attended the Grand Lodge of Tennessee as a Past Master, earning the respect and confidence of his Brethren through his character and leadership.
Freemasonry remained a constant throughout Brother Houston’s extraordinary life. Whether serving his country in uniform, leading men into battle, or guiding a young republic through its earliest days, he exemplified the Masonic virtues of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth.
Following the Texas Revolution and the Republic’s independence, Brother Houston played a pivotal role in establishing organized Freemasonry in Texas. On December 20, 1837, while serving as President of the Republic of Texas, he presided over the convention in Houston where delegates from Holland Lodge No. 36, Milam Lodge No. 40, and McFarland Lodge No. 41 united to form the Grand Lodge of the Republic of Texas. Although Brother Anson Jones was elected as the first Grand Master, Brother Houston’s leadership, vision, and unwavering support were instrumental in laying the foundation for what would become one of the largest and most respected Grand Lodges in the world.
Beyond his Masonic service, Brother Houston’s legacy is forever etched into history. He commanded the Texian Army to victory at the Battle of San Jacinto on April 21, 1836, securing Texas’ independence in a battle lasting just eighteen minutes. He later became the first President of the Republic of Texas, served again as its third President, represented Texas in the United States Senate, and was elected Governor of Texas. Even in times of great political division, he remained steadfast in his convictions, choosing principle over popularity.
His life serves as a lasting reminder that true leadership is rooted not in power or position, but in honor, humility, integrity, and faithful service to God, country, community, and our fellow man.
As Freemasons, we remember Brother Sam Houston not only for the offices he held or the victories he achieved, but for the example he set as a man who endeavored to live according to the teachings of the Craft. May his life continue to inspire us to improve ourselves in Masonry, strengthen our Lodges, serve our communities with compassion, and leave behind a legacy worthy of remembrance.
“A man’s true monument is not carved in stone, but built through his character and service.”
“So mote it be.”
