Intro Among the many systems that shaped early Continental Freemasonry, few generated as much fascination — or controversy — as...Read More
Introduction Every organization has a beginning, but Freemasonry’s earliest roots are older than written lodge minutes and far older than...Read More
Union Lodge Nº 3’s Civil War Hero and Youngest Grand Master in Michigan History Brethren, Every lodge has a few...Read More
Honoring a Monument of Craftsmanship, History, and Masonic Legacy In the heart of Detroit stands a building unlike any other...Read More
A First-Time Visitor’s Guide to Union of Strict Observance Lodge Nº 3 Walking into a Masonic lodge for the first...Read More
A Milestone Worthy of Reflection, Celebration, and Renewed Purpose In 1851, when the earliest records of Union of Strict Observance...Read More
Why Union Lodge Nº 3 Still Matters in a World That Seems to Forget Community We live in an age...Read More
A Reflection on Heritage, Architecture, and the Brotherhood That Built It When most people see the Detroit Masonic Temple for...Read More
A Reflection on Brotherhood, Character, and the Work We Do Together Detroit is a city like no other—built by craftsmen,...Read More
The Legacy of Union of Strict Observance Lodge Nº 3 A Heritage Nearly Two Centuries in the Making Every Masonic...Read More
Welcome
Welcome to Union of Strict Observance Lodge Nº 3
A Detroit Tradition Since 1851
Welcome to the online home of Union of Strict Observance Lodge Nº 3, one of the oldest continuously operating Masonic lodges in the City of Detroit. For nearly 175 years, good men from every walk of life have gathered under our banner to strengthen character, build brotherhood, and serve the community we call home.
We meet within the historic Detroit Masonic Temple, the largest Masonic building in the world — a place where tradition lives, history breathes, and the lessons of Freemasonry continue to shape new generations of men.
Whether you are a Brother seeking information, a visitor curious about the fraternity, or a good man interested in becoming a Mason, we welcome you.
Who We Are
Union Lodge Nº 3 is a diverse, active, and welcoming lodge. Our members come from all backgrounds — veterans, craftsmen, professionals, students, retirees — united by shared values:
Integrity
Personal growth
Brotherhood
Charity
Service to others
We are proud of our history, but even more proud of the men who carry that history forward today.
What We Believe
Freemasonry teaches a simple but profound philosophy:
that every good man can become a better man through discipline, reflection, and brotherly support.
We believe in:
Strengthening moral character
Supporting one another through life’s challenges
Serving our community
Preserving tradition while embracing the future
Walking together as Brothers on a path of improvement
Freemasonry is not a religion, a political group, or a secret society.
It is a fraternity — a place where good men come together to grow.
What You’ll Find Here
As you explore our website, you’ll find:
• Information About Freemasonry
Clear, honest explanations of who we are, what we do, and what we stand for.
• Our Lodge History
A look at our origins in 1851 and our long connection to the Detroit Masonic Temple.
• How to Become a Freemason
A step-by-step guide for good men interested in petitioning the Craft.
• Blog & Updates
Articles, announcements, historical features, and lodge news.
• Contact Information
A direct line to our Secretary for questions, visits, and inquiries.
A Message to Visitors and Seekers
If you are curious about Freemasonry, we invite you to explore, ask questions, and learn at your own pace. Many of our greatest Brothers began with the same simple questions:
“What is Freemasonry?”
“What do Masons do?”
“Could this be right for me?”
If these questions resonate with you, we encourage you to reach out. There is no pressure, no obligation — simply a chance to meet good men and discover whether the path of Freemasonry speaks to you.
A Message to Our Brothers
Welcome home, Brother.
Whether you are near or far, active or returning after time away, you are always welcome at our lodge. Our history belongs to you, and so does our future.
Visit often. Stay engaged. Renew old friendships and build new ones.
Thank You for Visiting
We appreciate your interest in Union of Strict Observance Lodge Nº 3.
May your time here be informative, meaningful, and — if you are seeking a deeper path — the beginning of something important.
If you ever have questions or wish to arrange a visit, we invite you to contact us directly.
Welcome… may brotherly love prevail, and every moral and social virtue cement us.