Photos from a feature about the history of Prince Hall Freemasonry, the oldest African American fraternal organization in the United States, published in American Heritage Magazine.
Members of Prince Hall Lodges from throughout New York State gather at Bethany Baptist Church in Bed Stuy, Brooklyn to commemorate Prince Hall Day on September 8th, 2019. The event marks the annual celebration held in honor of their eponymous founder, an 18th century abolitionist.
Grand Master Walter C. King, the elected head of the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of New York waves a modified American flag as he rides down Adam Clayton Powell Boulevard in Harlem during the 50th Anniversary of the African American Day Parade on September 15, 2019.
Members of the Knights of Pythagoras, marching in the 50th Anniversary of the African American Day Parade on September 15, 2019. The organization, which operated under the supervision of Prince Hall Freemasonry, is open to boys aged 9 to 20.
Volunteers at the Prince Hall Grand Lodge in Harlem share hugs while serving Thanksgiving dinner. As part of their charity work, the Prince Hall Freemasons from the Grand Lodge offer a free meal and organize a coat drive each year for members of their community.