The Stephen J. Ponzillo, Jr. Memorial Library & Museum of the Grand
Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Maryland (Maryland’s Masonic Museum)
Almost from the founding of the Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Maryland in 1787, collecting and preserving history has been an integral role in Maryland Masonry. By 1830 members had amassed one of the first collections of items associated with heroes of the American Revolution and Maryland history,
establishing what would become the museum collection. The collection includes paintings, sculpture, photographs, folk art, and decorative arts from the colonial period to today, offering an unparalleled record of American history and achievements. Highlights of the collection include the desk upon which
George Washington (1732-1799) submitted his resignation address as Commander-in-Chief in 1783 in the Old Senate Chamber of the Maryland State
House as well as an extensive collection of items that belonged to Baltimore philanthropist and Maryland State Treasurer, Thomas J. Shryock (1851-1918).
Also of note is a paper knife originally made for Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826) attributed to the Monticello Joinery. The museum also boasts one of the most extensive and comprehensive collections of Masonic and other fraternal regalia in North America from around the globe dating back to the 18th century.