Capital Investment Plan for the Masonic Temple

Between 1865 and 1873, Pennsylvania Masons designed and constructed the magnificent Masonic Temple in Philadelphia. One hundred and fifty years later, it remains the preeminent Masonic structure in the world. A National Historic Landmark, our Masonic Temple is a living, architectural representation of the values, ideals and culture of Freemasonry.

“To have been a Member of the Fraternity which has … erected the New Masonic Temple … is to be identified with one of the greatest works ever carried on by Masons in any part of the world, or in any age of its history …”

– From the report of the Building Committee upon completion of the Masonic Temple.

At the then-staggering cost of $1.6 million, the Masonic Temple was erected with the steady, annual financial support of Pennsylvania Masons from across the Commonwealth. On several occasions, with the ability to fund the next phase of construction in question, the Committee on Finance recommended an abrupt termination of the project. However, industrious Pennsylvania Masons refused to abandon their work. They pressed forward, despite the daunting financial risks, stepping up time and time again to raise the funds necessary to ensure the successful completion of the Masonic Temple.

In addition to financial concerns, significant challenges were encountered on the construction site. Yet, our determined predecessors confidently and methodically continued the work, sustained by the conviction that future generations would preserve, maintain and improve the Temple for years to come.

“May the New Masonic Temple long stand as a monument of the strength, stability, prosperity and energy of the Fraternity in Pennsylvania; and that enriched, from time to time as opportunity and resources may allow, with decorative adornments and works of art, it may become more beautiful and attractive from year to year; and as a center and home for the association of the Fraternity to cluster about with cheering memories of pleasure and profit had within its walls.”

 

– From the report of the Building Committee upon completion of the Masonic Temple.

For 35 years following the dedication of the Masonic Temple, Pennsylvania Masons carefully planned its interior and commissioned skilled artisans to enhance its richly ornamented spaces, transforming the entire Masonic Temple, from foundation stone to turret, into a functional and enduring work of art.

For more than 150 years, we have been good stewards of the Masonic Temple. We have kept the building and its mechanical apparatus in good condition and repair, and we continue to use the Masonic Temple for the Masonic purposes for which it was dedicated. We have shunned the fads that caused other institutions with ornate buildings to paint over their murals and frescos and have preserved the artistic and symbolic significance of the Masonic Temple.

At great sacrifice, our predecessors gave us the remarkable gift of the Masonic Temple and entrusted us with the responsibility of caring for it and passing it to our successors. Today, Pennsylvania Masons must embrace the responsibilities we assume “as links in that chain made of life, for eternity.”

In 2024, the Masonic Library and Museum contracted experienced historical architects and engineers to conduct a rigorous inspection of the Masonic Temple and all of its systems and to assist in the development of a capital investment plan.

Completed in 2025, the plan details capital investments of $40 million over the next 10 years.

Work has commenced on several high priority projects, such as fortifying the trusses that support a portion of the vaulted entrance way roofing system, replacing the elevators, securing elements of the façade and improving fire suppression systems.

The maintenance and preservation of the Masonic Temple is not fully endowed, and we depend on contributions to offset a portion of the cost to properly care for our magnificent home. It is time for Pennsylvania Masons to once again come together to support our Masonic Temple and honor the Fraternal covenant of trust that brought the Masonic Temple to life so many years ago.

“Within this Temple, our successors will assemble to work the same work we have performed as our fathers before us have done in their day and generation.”

– Brother Richard Vaux, R.W. Grand Master

For an in-depth explanation of the vision, courage and perseverance of Grand Lodge in constructing “The New Masonic Temple: From Concept to Dedication,” visit the Masonic Temple’s YouTube channel.