Rooted in Tradition, United in Brotherhood.
Odenton Masonic Lodge No. 209 A.F.&A.M.
Established May 12, 1908
For over a century, Odenton Masonic Lodge No. 209 has been a cornerstone of fraternity, moral development, and service in the Odenton, Maryland community. Chartered on May 12, 1908, by the Grand Lodge of Maryland and signed by then-Grand Master Thomas J. Shryock, the lodge has faithfully upheld the timeless tenets of Freemasonry—Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth.
Our lodge was founded by a diverse group of Masons from nearby lodges—men of varied faiths, trades, and backgrounds—who shared a commitment to the principles of Freemasonry. From schoolteachers and carpenters to storekeepers and physicians, these Brothers worked side by side, constructing both a temple and a legacy.
By 1912, Odenton Lodge had completed its first home, a building constructed with labor and donations from its members. That temple would go on to host countless meetings, degrees, and moments of fellowship—especially with servicemen stationed at nearby Fort Meade. During World War I, the lodge saw an extraordinary influx of military candidates, holding meetings three times weekly and raising hundreds of Masons, many as courtesies for jurisdictions across the country.
Odenton Lodge became known not only for its hospitality but for its inclusive spirit. Generals and privates alike sat together “on the level,” exemplifying the essence of Masonic equality. Grand Master Shryock once advised, “Feed them,” referring to our visiting military Brothers, and that tradition of generous refreshment and warm fellowship continues to this day.
Over the decades, the lodge has grown, persevered through world wars and economic downturns, and remained a beacon for Masons far from home. Our history includes service from dedicated secretaries like J. Irving Waters, who recorded our early years, and James H. Conboy, whose stewardship spanned decades. Both men helped preserve the lodge's story and spirit.
Today, while our numbers remain intentionally modest, our commitment to Masonic ideals is unwavering. We continue to welcome good men into the Craft, host fellowship events, participate in community service, and strengthen bonds with our sister lodges in the long-standing GOATS tradition with Glen Burnie, Annapolis, and Sincerity Lodges.
Odenton Lodge is also closely tied to local heritage. Our original building now houses the Odenton Heritage Society Museum, a tribute to both our Masonic legacy and the community we’ve helped shape.
We are proud of our past, active in the present, and dedicated to the future of Freemasonry in Odenton and beyond.