Royal Order of Scotland

Origins and History

The Royal Order of Scotland is the oldest Masonic order after the Craft, with its origins dating back to around 1740 in London. It was later reintroduced in Edinburgh in 1767, where the Grand Lodge of the Royal Order remains to this day. From Edinburgh, it oversees 81 Provincial Grand Lodges located in many parts of the world.

The Order has long maintained that the King of the Scots is its hereditary Grand Master, giving it a unique and historic connection to the Scottish crown.

Structure and Degrees

The Royal Order of Scotland consists of two distinct degrees:

• The Heredom of Kilwinning – Conferred in a Provincial Grand Chapter.
• Knighthood of the Rosy Cross – Conferred in a Provincial Grand Lodge.

The ritual for both degrees has remained unchanged for more than 260 years. It is notable for being delivered almost entirely in rhyming catechism, making it one of the most distinctive and memorable rituals in Freemasonry.

Membership and Requirements

Membership in the Royal Order of Scotland is highly prized and strictly by invitation. It is a Christian Masonic order, and prospective members must be Master Masons of at least five years standing.

Because admission is by recommendation only, the order maintains a close-knit character, with members often selected for their dedication, service, and standing within the Craft.

Legacy and Purpose

The Royal Order preserves an ancient ritual tradition while reinforcing the Christian principles of chivalry, faith, and moral conduct. Its ceremonies, steeped in history and symbolism, offer members a rare and meaningful connection to the early traditions of speculative Freemasonry.

From its historic base in Edinburgh, the Order continues to unite Masons around the world through its unchanged ritual and its enduring values.