What Are Shriners? The Hidden History And Modern Impact Of The Men In The Red Fezzes
You have likely seen them in local parades, driving miniature cars or wearing distinctive red felt hats known as fezzes. Perhaps you have noticed their logo—a scimitar and crescent—on large buildings in your city. But beneath the surface of these public displays, many people are left asking: what are shriners, and what exactly do they do in the modern world?For over a century, this organization has been a staple of American and international social fabric. While they are often associated with fraternal brotherhood and elaborate ceremonies, their real-world impact is felt most deeply through a massive network of pediatric specialty hospitals. To understand the Shriners is to look at a unique blend of 19th-century tradition and cutting-edge 21st-century philanthropy.In this deep dive, we will explore the origins of the organization, their deep-rooted connection to Freemasonry, and why they remain one of the most recognized yet misunderstood fraternal groups in existence today. Beyond the Red Hat: Understanding the Mystery of Shriners InternationalTo answer the question what are shriners, one must first understand that they are a fraternity based on the principles of fellowship, charity, and brotherly love. Officially known as Shriners International, the group was established in 1872. It was designed as a "playground for Masons," a place where members of the Masonic order could meet for fun and social engagement after completing their formal degrees.The organization is famous for its Middle Eastern-inspired imagery, which was adopted during its founding in New York City. The founders—Billy Florence, an actor, and Walter Fleming, a physician—wanted to create a group that was less solemn than traditional Freemasonry. They chose an "Oriental" theme (popular in the late 1800s) to provide a colorful backdrop for their meetings and rituals.Today, there are nearly 200 Shrine Chapters (often called Temples or Shrine Centers) across several countries, including the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Germany. While the costumes and parades are what the public sees, the internal structure is built on a foundation of mutual support and community service. The Freemasonry Connection: Is Every Shriner a Mason?A common point of confusion for those researching what are shriners is the relationship between this group and the Freemasons. To put it simply: All Shriners are Freemasons, but not all Freemasons are Shriners.Historically, the requirements to join were very strict. A man had to reach the 32nd Degree of the Scottish Rite or be a Knight Templar in the York Rite to even be considered for the Shrine. This meant that Shriners represented the "pinnacle" of the Masonic social ladder.In recent decades, these requirements have been relaxed. Today, any man who has achieved the status of a Master Mason (the third degree of Freemasonry) is eligible to petition to become a Shriner. This connection ensures that every member has already committed themselves to the moral and ethical teachings of the Masonic fraternity before they enter the "Shrine world." The Global Mission: Why Shriners Hospitals for Children Changed Healthcare ForeverWhile the fraternity started as a social club, its purpose shifted dramatically in the early 1920s. During the polio epidemic, the organization realized it had the resources and the membership to tackle a major social crisis. This led to the establishment of the first Shriners Hospital for Children in Shreveport, Louisiana, in 1922.When people ask what are shriners, the most impactful answer is that they are the primary benefactors of a healthcare system that provides specialized care to children regardless of a family’s ability to pay. This is what the fraternity refers to as "The World’s Greatest Philanthropy."The hospital system currently operates over 20 locations across North America. They specialize in several key areas:Orthopedic Care: Treating scoliosis, limb deficiencies, and brittle bone disease.Burn Treatment: Providing world-class acute care and rehabilitation for severe burns.Spinal Cord Injury: Helping children regain independence after life-altering accidents.Cleft Lip and Palate: Performing complex surgeries to improve quality of life.The fact that this multi-billion dollar healthcare network is funded largely through member dues, endowments, and public donations is a testament to the organization's organizational power. Symbols and Traditions: Why Do Shriners Wear a Fez?One cannot discuss what are shriners without mentioning the Fez. This red, cylindrical hat with a black tassel is the most recognizable symbol of the fraternity. It was adopted in the late 1800s as part of the organization's theme and is worn at official functions, parades, and meetings.Each Fez is personalized. It typically features the name of the member’s Shrine Center and may include ornate gold embroidery or jewels indicating the member's rank or specific "unit" within the temple. For a Shriner, the hat is a symbol of pride and dedication to the group’s charitable mission.The emblem on the Fez—the Scimitar and Crescent—also carries specific symbolic meaning within the fraternity:The Scimitar represents the backbone of the fraternity and its members.The Sphinx represents the governing body of the Shrine.The Five-Pointed Star represents the thousands of children helped by their philanthropy every year.
How to Become a Shriner: Membership Requirements and Modern CommunityIn the digital age, the process of becoming a member has become more transparent. For those looking into what are shriners because they are interested in joining, the path follows a specific sequence.First, a man must be at least 18 years old and believe in a Supreme Being. Second, he must complete the three degrees of Freemasonry at a local lodge. Once he is a Master Mason in good standing, he can petition his local Shrine Center for membership.Modern Shriners are focusing heavily on family involvement. While the fraternity itself is for men, many events include wives, children, and the extended community. There are also related organizations for women, such as the Ladies' Oriental Shrine of North America and the Daughters of the Nile, which support the same charitable goals.The organization is currently seeking to attract a younger generation of members who are looking for a sense of belonging and a way to give back to society in a tangible, measurable way. Common Myths and Misconceptions About ShrinersBecause of their private meetings and unique regalia, many myths surround the question of what are shriners. Some believe they are a "secret society" with political agendas, or that they are a religious sect.In reality, Shriners are very open about their goals. They are a social and philanthropic organization, not a religious one. While they require a belief in a higher power, they do not care which religion a member practices; you will find Shriners who are Christians, Jews, Muslims, and more, all sitting together in the same meeting.Another misconception is that the hospitals are only for the children of members. This is entirely false. Any child under the age of 18 with a medical condition that falls within the Shriners’ scope of care is eligible for treatment, regardless of their family’s relationship to the fraternity. Staying Informed and Getting InvolvedWhether you are interested in the historical mystery of fraternal organizations or you are looking for a way to support pediatric healthcare, understanding what are shriners is the first step. The organization represents a bridge between the traditions of the past and the medical needs of the future.As the world becomes more digital and disconnected, groups like the Shriners provide a rare physical space for community building. By maintaining their "fun" public persona while managing a serious global medical mission, they continue to be one of the most effective non-profit entities in existence.If you see a parade or pass by a Shrine Center, remember that the "men in the red hats" are more than just a social club—they are a global support network dedicated to changing the lives of children, one surgery and one smile at a time. ConclusionFrom their humble beginnings in a New York restaurant to the halls of some of the world's most advanced hospitals, the Shriners have maintained a consistent identity of service through brotherhood. While the costumes and parades catch the eye, the true heart of the organization lies in the thousands of lives saved and improved through their charitable work.Learning about what are shriners reveals a group that values tradition but isn't afraid to evolve. They remain a vital part of the landscape of North American philanthropy, proving that a group of friends with a shared vision can truly change the world for the better. Keep an eye out for their next event, and you'll see a legacy that has been over 150 years in the making.
