The discovery of Masonic emblems in the foundation steps to the pedestal of the Egyptian obelisk at Alexandria known as Cleopatra's Needle, is accepted by many as strong evidence that Freemasonry existed at least a century before Christ. This great shaft is now in Central Park, New York City where it was erected in 1880, after transportation in the hold of a vessel especially constructed for the purpose. The stones and implements showing the Masonic signs and emblems were placed in the same positions in which they were found in Egypt, when the obelisk was erected in America.
From,"The Story Of Freemasonry" By W.G. Sibley 1904