Update on the Tun®
I want to express heartfelt gratitude to the many brethren, lodges and Masonic organizations that have already stepped forward with generous support for The Tun Legacy Foundation, Inc. (TTLF). The enthusiasm surrounding the effort to reestablish the birthplace of Pennsylvania Freemasonry and preserve its historic legacy has been inspiring. Those contributions demonstrate that Pennsylvania Masons still understand the importance of honoring our roots while investing in the future.
The Tun® represents far more than a historic site or a quaint Marine bar; it will be a place where the profits from every drink poured, every meal served and every keepsake purchased will be donated to support Masonic Charities or wounded veterans, fund scholarships or care for hospitalized children, or help educate the surviving child of a veteran who gave their life in service to our country. It will be a place that, through the experience of its service, food and ambiance, will teach fascinating American history and remind every patron of the civic principles that formed the basis for our great country.
The project to reconstruct The Tun® is progressing nicely. We have purchased the land at 19 S. 2nd Street, which is currently a parking lot leased to Parkway Corporation. The building design and construction contract awards are 100% complete. Zoning has been approved, building permits are received and the project is (shovel) ready to start construction.
TTLF has raised over $11 million of the estimated $27 million required to fully complete the project. As additional fundraising milestones are achieved, the foundation looks forward to moving into the construction phase of the project. TTLF needs support from individuals and corporations who are dedicated to reconstructing this historic structure and supporting its historical and civic education and charitable endeavors. As a reminder, The Tun Legacy Foundation, Inc., is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and any donations to the organization are tax deductible to the extent allowed by IRS rules.
Among the fundraising activities is The Tun® Alley Brick Paver Program.
The foundation has launched a brick paver fundraising campaign to support the rebuild. Nearly 3,000 engraved brick pavers will be laid in Tun Alley at the future site of The Tun®. The cost of each brick is $500. I am sending this announcement so that every member and Masonic lodge is aware of the opportunity to purchase a custom brick to honor your lodge at The Tun® site. More information about The Tun® Alley Brick Paver Program is located at thetun.org/ways-to-contribute-pennsylvania-freemasons or by contacting Ret. Col. Ken Hopper at samuel.nicholas@thetun.org. At the site, you can support the project by purchasing an individual brick paver or one in honor of a family member or friend. Funds raised from the purchase of all brick pavers will directly support the rebuild and ensure a permanent legacy at the site of The Tun®.
