Enduring Legacy

Dedicated in 1909, the Masonic Temple at 525 North Illinois Street in Indianapolis has an impressive exterior and an interior that rates as a hidden gem, beginning with the marble-clad lobby and sweeping central staircase.

The eight-story building features double-height spaces housing the primary ritual and communal functions of the temple, including a 600-seat auditorium on the first floor with original finishes and fixtures, not to mention fine acoustics.

Double-height rooms on the upper floors include six lodge halls, each decorated with a different Greco-Roman architectural order – ancient classic styles – and equipped with its own pipe organ. Several of the halls will be open for the event, along with the exotic Egyptian room – a windowless replica of a Pharaoh’s tomb on the seventh floor. Rich in symbolism, these ceremonial spaces have an air of gravitas and intriguing mystery. You can also visit the Masonic Library and Museum of Indiana, along with ballrooms and banquet halls that have hosted exclusive soirées.

The Egyptian Room at the Indianapolis Masonic Temple.

Although the Freemasons are perhaps most commonly known for secret rites, the group is primarily a charitable organization supporting many notable causes. The Indianapolis Masonic Temple represents the enduring presence of a fraternal order that has contributed much to Indiana’s heritage.

Our December Holiday Open House takes place 5-7 p.m. and is open to members of Indiana Landmarks. The event is free, but we’d appreciate RSVPs at www.eventbrite.com. Not a member? We’d love to have you join us at the event, so become a member now.

We thank the generous sponsors underwriting this year’s Holiday Open House: Newel level donors include Ambrose Property Group; ARSEE Engineers; AXIA Urban; Browning Day Mullins Dierdorf, Architects; Buckingham Companies; J. Solotken & Company; Katz, Sapper & Miller; Jim and Marjorie Kienle; Old National Bank; and R.E. Dimond and Associates. Cornerstone level donors include arcDESIGN; Conrad Schmitt Studios, Inc.; Mark Dollase; Historic Preservation & Heritage Consulting LLC; Hitchcock Design Group; Kuhl & Grant LLP; Plews, Shadley, Racher & Braun, LLP; and Reverie Estates. Special thanks to the Freemasons of Indiana for opening their landmark building for the event.