More About Us

An Affinity Lodge

Most Masonic lodges don’t declare a particular ‘affinity’ or additional characteristic that is common among their members, aside from being men of good character who come together for the betterment of themselves and their community.

In addition to being Masons, all members of Terrapin Lodge are also a part of the University of Maryland (UMD) community — students, alumni, faculty, staff, family, etc. We continue the history of Freemasonry at UMD and incorporate the culture of our alma mater into our regular meetings and activities. Our shared connection to UMD further cements our fraternal bonds and experiences. As a lodge with ties to academia, our members wear traditional academic attire in addition to our Masonic regalia.

Beltsville Masonic Center

Currently we hold our meetings in the Beltsville Masonic Center, Beltsville, MD, as space on the university campus is not yet available.
University of Maryland has a history with freemasonry and underscores the ties we have to our alma mater. All men of similar connection to UM or its affiliated organizations are invited to join the oldest and most distinquished fraternity in the world.

Academic Attire

Given our academic affinity, Terrapin lodge takes our lodge attire a step further than most lodges. In addition to the Masonic regalia of aprons and officer jewels, Master Masons (full members) of our lodge wear ‘subfusc’ attire – dark suit, white shirt, and ties – as well as academic robes and hoods. Our jewel collars are of gold satin, representing one of the university's colors.