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History

Helping those in need is a legacy of Masonic Home and School of Texas. For more than one hundred years, we have provided food, accommodations, medical care, and many other services to those in need. This benevolence is a direct result of the generosity of Texas Masons.

In 1899, the Masonic Widows and Orphans Home opened its doors in southeast Fort Worth. Two orphaned brothers, Emanuel and Lee Ravey, showed up early to apply for admission. Dr. Frank Rainey, the institution’s first superintendent and a man of immense compassion, did not have the heart to turn the needy boys away. Instead, he graciously invited them to stay with him and his wife. The little group lived in a tent on the grounds until the new building was completed.

In the early days, the campus was a self-sufficient community with its own artesian wells for water, a power plant for steam heat and electricity, and a cattle and dairy farm. Youngsters were offered a classroom education, but also were trained in farm operations.

In addition to helping children, the facility also provided living accommodations for the widows of Texas Masons.
In 1910, the widows were moved to Texas Masonic Retirement Center and the institution’s name was changed from The Masonic Widows and Orphans Home to Masonic Orphans Home. In 1913, Masonic Orphans Home was declared an independent school district then referred to as Masonic Home and School of Texas (MHS).

Just as family farms once plowed with draft horses now feature air-conditioned super tractors, the needs of the children and widows dependent on MHS changed over he decades. The last graduate of MHS crossed the stage in 2005, and the residential facility and independent school district closed their doors. For over one hundred years, this incredible spirit of goodwill and concern for children characterized the Masonic Home and School. The spirit of providing for those in need remains strong.

In 2007, Masonic Home and School of Texas began a new chapter to continue the 120-year legacy. Our programs provides innovative and cost effective solutions for hundreds of qualified children and widows annually. Masonic Home and School of Texas provides information, referral, and financial support for qualified children or widows of Texas Master Masons residing in Texas. Masonic affiliation is given priority.

Our services include but are not limited to:

  • Information and referral services for Texas children, widows, and families
  • Food, clothing, transportation, and family services
  • Medical, dental, and prescription services
  • Tutoring, career counseling, and educational scholarships
  • Counseling and psychological services
  • Living accommodations, meals and activities at the Texas Masonic Retirement Center for qualified widows of Texas Master Masons