Freemasons greet each other by handshakes at an event at Earls Court in London to mark the 275th anniversary of the formation of the Premier Grand Lodge. .Freemasonry, which traces its modern origins back to the sixteenth century is based on principles of fraternity and secrecy. Members are sworn to keep silent on their activities and make themselves known to other Freemason's by way of signal (often a handshake).