Freemasons are part of an ancient tradition with rituals and symbols all their own. As a Mason, you can earn degrees, join esoteric and social organizations, and become privy to the language and abbreviations specific to Freemasonry.

Freemasons are generally a pretty social bunch who want more and more people to enjoy their fraternity. The mid-1800s saw the addition of more groups joining the extended Masonic family, including groups for female relatives of Masons, as well as their children. 

Called appendant bodies, some of these groups developed to confer more involved Masonic-style degrees. Some were started solely as social clubs for Masons. Others satisfied a desire for military-style drill teams marching in parades. Still others were created to allow wives and children to take part in the lodge experience. The following list lays out the groups for adults affiliated with Freemasonry.