Manly P. Hall 
The Lost Keys of Freemasonry 

First published in 1923, “The Lost Keys of Freemasonry” or “The Legend of Hiram Abiff, ” by Manly P. Hall is an illuminating and informative explanation of Freemasonry symbolism and ritual. Hall was born in 1901 in Ontario, Canada and moved to California in 1919 and was immediately drawn into studying Christian mysticism, esoteric arts, world religions, and Greek philosophers. He began publishing numerous books on Freemasonry and mysticism in the 1920’s though he himself did not become a Mason until 1954. Hall achieved fame with the publication of his book “The Secret Teachings of All Ages” in 1928 and became a celebrated author, lecturer, astrologer, and mystic. In “The Lost Keys of Freemasonry, ” one of his first works, Hall delves deeply into the complex symbolism of the ancient order and explains the degrees in the fascinating and secretive organization. Hall examines the various symbols and their deeper mystical meanings and its connection to ancient traditions and spiritual beliefs. This guide, a fascinating insight into this ancient order, is helpful to new and experienced Freemasons alike.