THE literature on freemasonry does not offer straightforward explanations. Is it benign or bent on subverting government? Is it a community of knowledge or of the occult? Such questions are not new.

Freemasons, known popularly for their white aprons, arcane symbols and secret handshake, are members of the world's oldest fraternal organization. Despite its longevity, Freemasonry (sometimes known ...

Centuries before Jimmy Choo shoes and Louis Vuitton luggage, Freemasons were the fashionistas of their times, wearing bejeweled sashes and aprons adorned with esoteric symbols dating back to King ...