Founding the Lodge – 1881

King Solomon Lodge No. 5, F&AM (Free and Accepted Masons), was established in the rugged Arizona Territory in the mining boomtown of Tombstone on October 11, 1881, under a dispensation from the Grand Lodge of F&AM of California. Its formal charter was later issued by the newly formed Grand Lodge of Arizona in 1882, making King Solomon Lodge one of the first Masonic lodges chartered in the state.

The lodge was named after the biblical King Solomon, whose temple remains a central symbol in Masonic tradition. It was founded by a group of pioneering Masons—merchants, miners, and lawmen—who sought to bring fraternal order, ethical ideals, and mutual support to a town better known for its saloons and shootouts.

A Lodge Born Amid Gunfire

Just days before the lodge was officially chartered, the infamous Gunfight at the O.K. Corral occurred on October 26, 1881. Interestingly, several of the participants—including Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday—were known to be Masonic affiliates or had ties to Masonic principles, although there is no confirmed record of them being members of King Solomon No. 5 itself.

Despite the town’s lawlessness, the Masons of Tombstone worked diligently to uphold the lodge’s values of brotherly love, relief, and truth.

The Golden Age: 1880s–1910s

Schieffelin Hall, the large white building, in 1908 from the roof of the county courthouse

During its early decades, King Solomon Lodge served as a vital stabilizing force in Tombstone’s often chaotic civic life. Masons helped to found schools, promote lawful governance, and support widows and orphans left behind by the dangerous mining profession.

The lodge hall—constructed at Freemason Street and 4th Street—was among the most elegant and substantial buildings in town. It hosted regular stated meetings, Masonic degree work, and community events.

Despite devastating fires in 1881 and 1882 that nearly destroyed downtown Tombstone, the Masons quickly regrouped, helping to rebuild both the physical structure and moral backbone of the town.

Surviving Decline: 1920s–1950s

As the silver mines dried up and Tombstone’s population dwindled, many institutions closed their doors. But King Solomon Lodge No. 5 endured. Membership declined during the Great Depression and World War II, yet the lodge remained active, holding meetings and engaging in community service.

In 1955, the lodge building underwent renovations to maintain its historical character while updating its structure. By this time, it had become a cornerstone of local heritage and Freemasonry in Arizona.

Preservation and Recognition: 1960s–1990s

Dick Parrish photo was published about 1966 as a Plastichrome postcard by Petley Studios of Phoenix. At that time visitors could see the “Amazing Tombstone Historama” (yellow-bordered sign) in the auditorium, an animated diorama illustrating the town’s history with narration by Vincent Price.

During the second half of the 20th century, King Solomon Lodge began focusing not just on Masonic ritual and charity, but also on preserving Masonic and territorial history.

In 1961, the building was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places as part of Tombstone’s historic district. Masons from across the state recognized the lodge as one of Arizona’s oldest continuously operating lodges.

The building’s architecture—with original wood floors, high ceilings, and hand-hewn beams—became a symbol of Freemasonry’s enduring presence in the American West.

A Living Lodge: 2000–Present

Today, King Solomon Territorial Lodge No. 5 continues to operate as an active Masonic lodge under the Grand Lodge of Arizona. With over 140 years of unbroken service, it remains a vital institution in Tombstone and a pilgrimage site for Freemasons and history enthusiasts alike.

The lodge is open to the public for historic tours and events during Helldorado Days, Wyatt Earp Days, and other civic celebrations. Its members engage in traditional degree work, charitable efforts, and educational outreach.

The lodge also actively preserves Masonic history, displaying artifacts, regalia, and records from the 19th and 20th centuries within its historic hall.

Honoring the Past, Building the Future

King Solomon Lodge No. 5 stands as a testament to the enduring values of Freemasonry—charity, integrity, brotherhood—amid the wild backdrop of Arizona’s frontier. Its legacy spans generations, from frontier lawmen to modern-day Masons.

Whether you are a history lover, a Mason, or simply a visitor to Tombstone, this historic lodge offers a glimpse into the civilizing power of fraternity in a once-lawless town.

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