John Boswell (freemason) facts for kids
John Boswell, the 4th Laird of Auchinleck (born around 1532, died 1609), was a Scottish gentleman. Some historians believe he was the first person recorded to be a "non-operative" Freemason. This means he joined the group even though he wasn't a stone worker or builder, which was how Freemasonry originally started.
Who Was John Boswell?
John Boswell was the son of David Boswell and Janet Hamilton. In 1562, he married Christian Dalzell. Important people like Thomas McCalzean and Gavin Hamilton signed his marriage contract. John Boswell also had a son, who was also named John Boswell. This son later married Christian Stewart, who was the sister of James Stewart, Earl of Arran.
His Connection to Freemasonry
John Boswell's name and signature are found in the records of a meeting of the Lodge of Edinburgh. This meeting happened at Holyrood on June 8, 1600. Many historians who study Freemasonry believe this is the earliest clear record of someone who was not a stone worker (a "non-operative" or "accepted" Mason) attending a Masonic meeting.
However, not everyone agrees. It's not completely clear why John Boswell was at this meeting. It wasn't a regular meeting of the lodge. Instead, it was a special meeting to hold a trial for the lodge's leader, 'Jhone Broune'.
It's possible that John Boswell was there as a member, or even an honorary member, of the lodge. But it's also possible he was there for another reason, like helping with the trial. He might have been there to speak for either side. There is no record that he officially joined the lodge at that time or any other time. The meeting on June 8, 1600, is the only time John Boswell's name appears connected to the Masonic group.
