The Lambskin Apron
The white lambskin apron is the badge of a Mason and an emblem of innocence, presented in the first degree.
Also called: white leather apron · badge of a Mason
What it means
The monitors call it more ancient than the Golden Fleece or the Roman Eagle and more honorable than the Star and Garter, and the lesson attached to it is purity of life and conduct. It is presented to the candidate in the first degree, and in many jurisdictions it is the apron a Mason is buried with.
In practice the apron a Lodge hands out is often cloth or plain white leather, and many Masons later buy a better lambskin for themselves. Patterns, borders, and what may be embroidered on a Master Mason's apron vary by Grand Lodge, so check with your Lodge before ordering anything decorated.
Pennsylvania Masons in particular should ask before buying: Pennsylvania aprons follow the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania's own customs.
In context: The Masonic Apron Guide to Types, Degrees, and What to Buy
Frequently asked questions
What does the Lambskin Apron mean in Freemasonry?
The white lambskin apron is the badge of a Mason and an emblem of innocence, presented in the first degree.
Who can wear the Lambskin Apron?
Worn in Lodge by Masons, in the manner their Grand Lodge prescribes. A plain white lambskin is the Mason's own; decorated and officer aprons are tied to rank or office, so a gift buyer should confirm which one the recipient is entitled to.
Sources
Drawn from the published monitors and from what the bodies concerned publish about themselves. Nothing here comes from, or goes beyond, any obligated material.
- Thomas Smith Webb, The Freemason's Monitor; or, Illustrations of Masonry (1797)
- William Preston, Illustrations of Masonry (1772)
- Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania