The Masonic Key: The Influence of Freemasonry on Public Perceptions of Archaeology

The Masonic Key: The Influence of Freemasonry on Public Perceptions of Archaeology

The first presentation in the AIA/SunWatch 2018 Lecture Series: Science vs Pseudoscience presented by Dr. David S. Anderson, Adjunct Professor of Anthropological Sciences at Radford University.

The late 19th and early 20th century saw the rediscovery of ancient ruins, monuments, and temples around the world, including the cities of the Maya in Central America, the Harrapans in India, and the Inka in Peru. This explosion in discoveries occurred just as the profession of archaeology was coming into being, and archaeologists could not meet the demands of popular interest in these new ruins. As such many travelers and speculative thinkers sought to fill the gap and offer their impressions of the ruins. Some of these early authors had ties to the fraternal order of Freemasons and cast their writings in the legendary voice favored by many members of their Order. Masonic texts had long suggested that the Order’s traditions had originated among the mystery cults of ancient Greece and Egypt, but with the plethora of new ruins some Masonic authors sought to extend the Order’s origins further back in time. These texts created counter narratives to those produced by archaeologists, thereby creating the impressions of hidden histories and conspiracies to hide humanity’s true history. This talk will explore how these narratives echo through modern conspiracy theories and impact the ways in which the public perceives archaeology today.

Thanks to the Archaeological Institute of America and the generosity of an anonymous donor, admission to the 2018 Science vs Pseudoscience presentation series is free and open to the public. Regular admission fees apply for guests who wish to visit the museum and village before or after each presentation. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Pastries will be provided; guests are welcome to bring a beverage.

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Sunwatch Indian Village

The Masonic Key: The Influence of Freemasonry on Public Perceptions of Archaeology is taking place at Sunwatch Indian Village, which is located at 2301 West River Road in Dayton. Sunwatch Indian Village - SunWatch is a 13th century American Indian village located along the Great Miami River in Dayton, OH. Archaeological excavations from 1971-1988 revealed a planned, stockaded Fort Ancient period settlement with astronomical alignments.