"When Shriners International was first founded in 1872, the organization built on the principles that guided Freemasonry, while adding an element of fun and, ultimately, philanthropy, that set Shriners International apart. The two organizations are also structured similarly:

• Shriners have temples; Masons have a Blue Lodge or Craft Lodge
• Members of the Masonic lodges are required to learn about their fraternity and earn a series of Masonic degrees.
• When a member has completed the third and final degree he becomes a Master Mason and is then eligible to become a Shriner.
• Additional courses of Masonic study are available – these are known as the Scottish Rite and the York Rite."