Canadian Prime Ministers Who Were Freemasons
Several of Canada's most influential Prime Ministers were members of the Masonic fraternity, shaping the nation's history through the values of brotherhood, integrity, and service.
Freemasonry has played a quiet but significant role in Canadian political history. Several of the nation's Prime Ministers were initiated into the fraternity, carrying its values of moral uprightness, charitable service, and brotherly love into the highest offices of the land. Their membership in the Craft was not incidental — it reflected a shared commitment to the principles that have guided Freemasonry for centuries.
Sir John A. Macdonald
Prime Minister 1867–1873, 1878–1891
Canada's first Prime Minister was initiated into Freemasonry in 1844 and served as the Grand Representative for the United Grand Lodge of England. His Masonic values of brotherhood and integrity were reflected throughout his political career.
Sir John Abbott
Prime Minister 1891–1892
Sir John Abbott served as Canada's third Prime Minister. A distinguished lawyer and politician, he was a member of the Masonic fraternity and upheld its principles of service and moral conduct.
Sir Mackenzie Bowell
Prime Minister 1894–1896
Sir Mackenzie Bowell was a prominent Freemason who served as Canada's fifth Prime Minister. His commitment to the fraternal values of Freemasonry guided his public service.
Sir Robert Borden
Prime Minister 1911–1920
Sir Robert Borden led Canada through the First World War and was a dedicated Freemason. His leadership during one of Canada's most challenging periods exemplified the Masonic ideals of duty and honour.
Richard Bennett
Prime Minister 1930–1935
Richard Bennett served as Prime Minister during the Great Depression. As a Freemason, he drew on the fraternity's values of charity and brotherhood in his efforts to address the economic hardships of the era.
John Diefenbaker
Prime Minister 1957–1963
John Diefenbaker was a passionate defender of civil liberties and a proud Freemason. His tenure saw the introduction of the Canadian Bill of Rights, reflecting the Masonic commitment to justice and equality.
“What we do for ourselves dies with us, what we do for others remains and is immortal.”
— Albert Pike