Our History

In July of 2023, the two oldest Lodges in Topeka Merged to become a single body of Masons. The storied histories of both Lodges are celebrated in our name, Orient-Topeka. 

Chartered in 1859, Topeka Lodge No. 17 predates the statehood of Kansas by two years with Orient Lodge No. 51 chartering just eight years later. In coming years both would experience massive growth, becoming the largest lodges in the State. The names of our prominent membership are captured around the city of Topeka, with our members contributing much to the development of the City over the years. Six Past Grand Masters were elevated by the craft from these Lodges, each leaving an indelible mark on the Fraternity within the State.

In 2023, under the leadership of Right Worshipful Wayne Drake and Worshipful Ken Keller, the Lodges agreed to a merger to strengthen each other, and forge a future that neither could achieve separately. By the order of M:.W:. Robert D. McClarty, R:.W:. A.J. Pence oversaw the merger of the Lodges, and installed R:.W:. Wayne Drake as the first Master of the new Lodge.

We celebrate the history of both Lodges, and continue to forge a future that seeks more light.