Duluth Masonic Center facts for kids
The Duluth Masonic Center is an old and important building in Duluth, Minnesota, USA. It was built in 1905. This building is the main place where a group called Freemasonry meets in Duluth.
In 2015, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This means it's a special building recognized by the USA for its history and art. It was listed as the Duluth Masonic Temple. The building was chosen because it has been a very important meeting place for a major community group in Duluth for a long time. It also has cool Egyptian-style art and 80 hand-painted stage backdrops. These backdrops are still used today and are the largest collection like this in Minnesota. They are found in the building's Scottish Rite auditorium.
Quick facts for kids Duluth Masonic Center |
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Duluth Masonic Temple
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Duluth Masonic Center viewed from the north
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 Location in Duluth
Location in Minnesota
Location in the United States
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| Location | 4 W. 2nd Street, Duluth, Minnesota |
| Area | Less than one acre |
| Built | 1905 |
| Built by | George Lounsberry |
| Architect | John J. Wangenstein |
| Architectural style | Beaux-Arts |
| MPS | Duluth's Central Business District, MPS |
| NRHP reference No. | 15000215 |
| Added to NRHP | May 11, 2015 |
Contents
What is the Duluth Masonic Center?
The Duluth Masonic Center is a large, historic building. It was designed by architect John J. Wangenstein. The building shows off a style called Beaux-Arts architecture. This style was popular around the time it was built.
Why was it built?
The building was made to be a home for the Freemasons in Duluth. Freemasonry is one of the oldest and largest social groups in the world. Members often meet in special buildings called Masonic Temples.
What is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry is a fraternal organization. This means it's a group of people, mostly men, who join together for friendship and to help each other. They also do good things for their communities. They have traditions and ceremonies that teach moral lessons.
The Scottish Rite Auditorium
One special part of the Duluth Masonic Center is its Scottish Rite auditorium. The Scottish Rite is a part of Freemasonry. This auditorium is famous for its unique stage backdrops.
Hand-Painted Backdrops
The auditorium has 80 hand-painted stage backdrops. These are large paintings used behind actors on a stage. They help create different scenes. These backdrops are very old but can still be used. They are the biggest collection of working stage backdrops like this in Minnesota.
Egyptian-Style Frieze
The auditorium also features an Egyptian-style frieze. A frieze is a long, narrow band of art or decoration. This one has designs inspired by ancient Egypt. It adds to the building's artistic importance.
A Historic Landmark
The Duluth Masonic Center is more than just a meeting place. It is a significant part of Duluth's history. Its listing on the National Register of Historic Places shows its importance.
What is the National Register of Historic Places?
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the nation's historic places. It includes buildings, sites, and objects that are important in American history. When a building is on this list, it means it's special and worth protecting.
Why is it important to Duluth?
The building has been a key spot for a major community group for a long time. It shows the history of social life and art in Duluth. It stands as a symbol of the city's past and its community spirit.
