Shriners International is a fraternal organization. Its full name is the Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine. Shriners support 22 hospitals in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. These hospitals provide free specialized medical treatment for disabled and burned children until they reach age 18. The Shriners organization was founded in 1872 by Walter M. Fleming and William J. Florence—two Americans who belonged to a fraternal organization called Masonry. The Shriners admit men who hold Master Mason degrees. See also Masonry .
