There from the beginning… here for tomorrow.
Most everyone likes to say they were “there from the beginning”, or “I knew them when”. Well, the Freemasons can say just that about the Tun.
Originally built in 1693 as a gathering place and brewery, The Tun later became the most popular and fashionable pub and eatery in Philadelphia drawing the most influential people through its doors. The Tun was “the” meeting place for the free exchange of ideas and creation of plans, making it a perfect spot for Freemasons to meet.
In fact, the Tun is considered the Birthplace of Pennsylvania Freemasonry, as the earliest minute book of any Masonic lodge on the North American continent is that for Tun Lodge No. 3 (of the Moderns) in Philadelphia. Brother Ben Franklin, the third Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, held Lodge meetings in the Tun as early as 1730 and this Lodge was host to several Masonic milestones in the 18th Century. And in 1775, a celebratory dinner for Brother George Washington was held there when he was appointed commander of the Continental Army by the Second Continental Congress.
Freemasons are by their nature patriots, and the legacy of the Tun and its connection to our Masonic Founding Fathers is a source of immense pride for Pennsylvania Freemasons.
Now, you have the opportunity to show that pride by supporting The Tun Legacy Foundation in its noble mission: to rebuild the Tun, as a living tribute to this historical landmark and its vital role in the birth of American Freemasonry. Once built and operating as a gathering place and restaurant, a percentage of profits from operations as determined from The Tun Legacy Foundation’s Board of Directors will be donated to Masonic charities. In effect, your financial support for this worthy project now will allow future donations from the Tun’s profits to support Masonic charities in perpetuity.
The Tun re-opens in Philadelphia in 2025! What do you want your legacy to be?
As a generous Freemason, your contribution not only gets you some unique swag available only to the benefactors literally helping us “build history”, but also regular updates on the reconstruction progress. But this unique opportunity is for a limited time. Once built, this opportunity for you to leave a legacy of your own at The Tun™ disappears.
Carpe Diem! Let’s DO this!
Coming soon – find out how to make history!