Lodge Spotlight: Portland No. 366 — Oak Hill, Ohio
Tucked in the heart of Jackson County in the small village of Oak Hill, Ohio, Portland Lodge No. 366 represents one of the quieter gems on the Moonlight Journey. Far from the interstate corridors, Oak Hill retains the character of a Southern Ohio village that time has treated gently — and Portland Lodge No. 366 has been a part of that community fabric for generations.
Jackson County and Its Masonic Heritage
Jackson County, Ohio sits in the foothills of the Appalachian Plateau, a region of forested ridges, small farming communities, and deep-rooted traditions. Freemasonry has been present in Jackson County since the early 19th century, and Portland Lodge No. 366 stands as one of its enduring institutions.
The lodge was chartered in the 1800s and has met continuously in Oak Hill, serving brothers from throughout the surrounding county. Its longevity is a testament to the dedication of its members across multiple generations.
The Moonlight Tradition in Oak Hill
Like all 12 lodges on the Moonlight Journey, Portland No. 366 schedules its regular communications by the lunar calendar. The full moon meeting tradition here carries particular meaning — Oak Hill's rural setting, surrounded by wooded hills and farmland, evokes exactly the kind of landscape that made moonlight travel a necessity for the lodge's founding brothers.
On a clear night, visiting Portland Lodge No. 366 under a full moon is one of the most atmospherically authentic experiences on the entire Moonlight Journey.
Visiting Portland No. 366
Oak Hill is located along US-35 in Jackson County, approximately 90 minutes south of Columbus and 45 minutes east of Chillicothe. The drive itself is part of the experience — the route passes through some of Ohio's most scenic rural landscapes.
As always, contact the lodge ahead of your visit to confirm meeting times and announce your attendance. Brothers at Portland No. 366 are known for their warm welcome to traveling Masons and Moonlight Journey participants.
Combining Your Visit
Oak Hill's proximity to other Southern Ohio moonlight lodges makes it a natural stop on a multi-lodge trip. Consider pairing your visit with nearby lodges in Gallia, Vinton, or Hocking counties to make the most of your time in the region.