The History of Freemasonry: Its Antiquities, Symbols, Constitutions, Customs, etc.
By Robert Freke Gould, Barrister-at-Law
First Edition, Caxton Publishing Company, London, c. 1883–1887
Complete in Five Volumes
Description:
This is a magnificent complete first-edition set of The History of Freemasonry by Robert Freke Gould, one of the most respected Masonic historians of the nineteenth century. Gould’s monumental work traces the Craft from its earliest operative beginnings through the formation of the Grand Lodges of England, Scotland, and Ireland, and into the global spread of Freemasonry across Europe, America, and the colonies. Derived from official lodge records and contemporary documents, this five-volume series remains a cornerstone of serious Masonic scholarship.
Each volume is bound in striking royal-blue cloth with elaborate gilt decoration featuring the Masonic square and compasses, pillars, and geometric motifs. The gilt page edges and meticulous ornamentation make this one of the most beautiful Masonic sets ever produced. Inside are hundreds of engravings, facsimiles, and fold-outs illustrating lodges, charters, jewels, and early manuscripts.
Condition:
Very good for its age. Bright gilt on spines and covers; minimal rubbing at head and tail of spines and corners. Gilt page edges remain brilliant. Text blocks are tight and clean with only light age toning. A handsome and display-worthy set—rare to find complete and in such exceptional state.
Details:
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Author: Robert Freke Gould (1836 – 1915)
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Title: The History of Freemasonry: Its Antiquities, Symbols, Constitutions, Customs, etc.
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Volumes: Five (complete)
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Publisher: The Caxton Publishing Company, London
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Publication Date: circa 1883 – 1887
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Binding: Original royal-blue cloth with elaborate gilt decoration and all-edges gilt
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Size: Approx. 10 × 7 inches each
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Illustrations: Hundreds of engravings, diagrams, and facsimiles
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Condition: Very Good + (light shelf wear only)
Significance:
Gould was a founding member of the Quatuor Coronati Lodge No. 2076, the premier research lodge of Freemasonry. His meticulous documentation and critical approach set a new scholarly standard for Masonic historiography. No serious Masonic library is complete without this set—both for its research value and its stunning presentation.
