Masonic Temple

Lincoln freemasons built this striking example of Art Deco architecture in 1935. Three-stories tall, the Masonic Temple is sheathed in limestone and features recessed windows; a decorative, carved band around the whole building depicting the Masonic star; repeating Masonic compasses along the top; and a main entrance with a classical pediment, Masonic stars, and a stone relief of a sketch by illustrator and muralist, Elizabeth Dolan, that depicts three figures representing youth, manhood, and old age. The building is also significant for its role in the community. Other organizations are allowed to host events here and the Masons participate in a variety of educational and community outreach programs.

The freemasons built the temple, which is also called a lodge, to house three local lodges of the Ancient Free and Accepted Mason and the York Rite Masons. Local firm Meginnis & Schaumberg designed it. Dolan (c.1884-1948) was well known by the time the temple was built. Her work included painting a mural in the Law Library of the nearby State Capitol. In addition to the carved relief of her sketch above the main entrance, she painted murals inside the building in the meeting room. They portray Biblical subjects, including John the Baptist and Solomon, and subjects of the Knights of the Round Table, including Sir Galahad. The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2005.

Belair, Sawyer. "Masonic Temple houses history, beliefs of Lincoln Freemasons." The Daily Nebraskan. November 18, 2021. https://www.dailynebraskan.com/culture/masonic-temple-houses-history-beliefs-of-lincoln-freemasons/article_c5485c18-481f-11ec-9a7a-53c09393dd6e.html.

Gaspers, David A. & Zimmer, E.F. "Masonic Temple." National Park Service - National Register of Historic Places Nomination Form. August 5, 2005. https://npgallery.nps.gov/NRHP/GetAsset/NRHP/05000792_text.