Freemasonry

In studying Mormonism, I have come across Freemasonry several times.  Having very little idea what it might encompass, I bought (through e-bay) the History of Knoxville Scottish Rite Bodies (published 1981, so far talks about temple in Knoxville, even describing the interior), the Masonic Bible, three masonic handbooks and introduction to freemasonry. 

The secret society can be seen in many different ways.  Some say it is not a religion, while others say it is, as one must believe in God to be a member.  It is claimed that it is open to all, but the documents (most likely including the ones that I have) are not welcome to the public.  The Masonic Bible may speak of the founding fathers, and their affiliation with freemasonry.  I know it has a list of previous presidents who have become masons.  So many assumptions have been made about the freemason, in different directions by different people.  I'll just read and figure out what their theology/beliefs/rules (whatever) might be.