Who are The Shriners?

Shriners, or Shrine Masons, belong to the Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine for North America (A.A.O.N.M.S.).  The Shrine is an international fraternity of approximately 500,000 members who belong to Shrine Centres throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, and The Republic of Panama. Founded in New York City in 1872, the organization is composed solely of 32nd degree Scottish Rite Masons or Knights Templar York Rite Masons.

The Shrine is best-known for its colorful parades, its distinctive red fez, and its official philanthropy, Shriners Hospitals for Children, which is often called "the heart and soul of the Shrine."

 Updated: March 19, 2003