05/31/2026
Happy Birthday to Brother Jack Dempsey, who held the title of World Heavyweight Champion from 1919 to 1926 and exemplified the core values of the fraternity throughout his life. Noted for his aggressive "crouch" style and formidable punching power, he rose from humble beginnings in Colorado and Utah. After achieving international recognition, he joined Freemasonry, becoming a member of Kenwood Lodge No. 800 in Chicago, alongside other prominent figures of the era. His Masonic affiliation is frequently celebrated by the fraternity for demonstrating the upright conduct, sportsmanship, and philanthropy that he embodied during and after his boxing career. Other Notable Masonic Boxers Dempsey is not the only boxing legend to have walked the path of Freemasonry. Several other renowned fighters also became Brothers in the fraternity: Sugar Ray Robinson: Widely regarded as one of the greatest pound-for-pound boxers in history, he was a member of Joppa Lodge No. 55 in New York. Barney Ross: A lightweight and light welterweight champion, he was also a Mason who belonged to the lodge system. Personal Legacy & Philanthropy Following his boxing career and his service in the United States Coast Guard Reserve during World War II, Dempsey became deeply involved in philanthropy. True to his Masonic obligations, he frequently supported causes for down-and-out athletes—including helping his former rival Joe Louis get back on his feet when the heavyweight fell upon hard times. Well done brother!