Laurence Dermott, a pivotal figure in 18th-century Freemasonry, rose from obscurity to become Grand Secretary of the Ancient Grand Lodge in 1752. ​Dermott, alongside other influential Masonic figures like James Anderson and William Preston, played a crucial role in shaping Masonic history during its period of organization and growth. Known for his dedication to the Ancient Grand Lodge and his promotion of the Royal Arch ceremonies, Dermott was both admired for his intellectual achievements and criticized for his polemical style. His work, "Ahiman Rezon," served as a foundational text for the Ancient Grand Lodge, rivaling Anderson's "Constitutions" and influencing Masonic practices in various regions. ​ Dermott's legacy is marked by his unwavering commitment to Freemasonry, despite his contentious approach toward the Moderns. ​