Freemason news stories on Newser

Dig Finds Washington's Home (No Cherry Tree)

Nick McMaster — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 18:20:41 CDT

Archaeologists have found the childhood home of George Washington, the New York Times reports—and despite the popular legend, there's no cherry tree anywhere on the premises. Researchers describe the founding father's Virginia digs as “a very nice gentry house” sporting eight rooms—not the simple cottage pictured in popular...

Modern-Day Masons: 'Chic'?

Kevin Spak — Sat, 17 May 2008 14:27:55 CDT

The masons are back. After decades of dwindling membership, the world’s most open secret society is enjoying a renaissance—mostly because it’s become less secretive. Freemasons are forbidden from seeking new members, but their rules say nothing about websites: Thanks to Internet publicity, more men are signing up, and they’re...

Italy Acquits Five in "God's Banker" Murder

Dustin Lushing — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 21:17:20 CDT

A judge in Rome exonerated five suspects on trial for the 1982 murder of Roberto Calvi, citing a lack of evidence. Calvi—known as "God's banker" for his closeness to the Vatican— was found hanged under Blackfriars Bridge in London in a presumed suicide. Newly discovered forensic evidence led authorities...