Library & Museum
The Allen E. Roberts Masonic Library, Inc. is operated as a program of the Grand Lodge, A.F. & A.M., of Virginia Library, Museum & Historical Foundation. The mission of the library and museum is to preserve, collect and restore the Masonic records and artifacts of Virginia and Masonic history in general and to disperse correct Masonic information. The museum contains Masonic artifacts representing Virginia Masonic history – portraits, Masonic regalia, anniversary commemorative items of Grand Lodge and local Lodges, furniture, glassware, porcelain, stoneware, aprons, etc. The library has approximately 8,000 volumes of Masonic works representing Virginia Masonic history, U.S. and overseas Masonic history, Masonic history in general and histories of local Virginia Lodges.
Overview
The Grand Lodge Library, Museum & Historical Foundation has a 501(c)(3) tax exempt status enabling it to receive tax deductible donations, its sole source of financial support. Its purpose is to encourage gifts, both monetary and in-kind, to support the Allen E. Roberts Masonic Library, Inc. and to provide for the historical preservation of Masonic artifacts in such a manner as to educate the public on the purpose of our Fraternity. All donations are welcomed.
For more information on the Grand Lodge Masonic Library and Museum of Virginia or for research requests email library@grandlodgeofvirginia.org
Research
To help with genealogical research, the library can provide Masonic membership information about Masons in Virginia. Masonic records do not contain biographical details beyond name of Lodge, degree dates, years in Lodge and death date. Only members from 1974 to present are on the computer. Members who died before 1974 are recorded in card files or Lodge returns. Allow ten business days or more before expecting a reply for pre-1974 members.
To inquire about Masonic membership send:
- Full name of subject to be researched
- Birth date and place of birth
- Death date and place of death
- City and county of residence in Virginia during life span
- Occupation if known (Methodist ministers, train engineers, men in military service move around frequently)
It is recommended that a mailing address accompany an e-mail request in case there are photo copies of records to send and should there be an incompatibility problem with software programs.
Operating Hours
Monday, Wednesday, Friday 9:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M. Closed from 12:30 P.M. – 1:30 P.M. for lunch, and Holidays and Weekends. (Allow 40 minutes for touring the library and museum.)
