The actual origins of Freemasonry are clouded in the  mists of antiquity, it is widely agreed that Masonry dates back to the late fourteenth century and flourished during the middle ages when guilds of Masons traveled throughout Europe  building the great  gothic cathedrals. Apprentices were taken in and taught the craft by Master Masons who pass on the secrets of the trade. As building declined, the guild began to accept members who were not actually stone Masons. From these roots evolved Masonry, as we know it.   

Ritual, that is, the initiation of candidates conducted within each lodge has been the same work that's been done for hundreds and hundreds of years. Every Mason, on earth has been led through the same triditions and instructed in the same mysteries and secrets of Freemasonry. But, make no mistake freemasonry is not a secret organization. If it were, our buildings would not be easily identifiable and our members would not wear rings  and  other jewelry with the familiar square & Compasses emblems.