Masonic Block (Reading, Massachusetts) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Masonic Block
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Masonic Block
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 Location in Massachusetts
Location in the United States
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| Location | 600–622 Main Street, Reading, Massachusetts |
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| Architectural style | Late 19th And 20th Century Revivals |
| MPS | Reading MRA |
| NRHP reference No. | 84002746 |
| Added to NRHP | September 19, 1984 |
The Masonic Block is a really old and cool building in Reading, Massachusetts. People also call it the M.F. Charles Building. It's made of brick and has three floors. This building looks special because it's designed in a style called Renaissance Revival. It was built way back in 1894 by a group called the Reading Masonic Temple Corporation. The Masons, a special club, used to meet on the top floor. This important building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. This means it's officially recognized as a historic landmark.
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What is the Masonic Block?
The Masonic Block is located in the center of Reading, Massachusetts. You can find it at the corner of Main Street and Haven Street. It's a three-story building made of brick. It also has some stone decorations.
How does the building look?
The side of the building facing Main Street has five sections, called "bays." The side facing Haven Street is much longer, with nineteen bays. There's also a special angled section at the corner.
The first floor of the building has shops. These shops have big glass windows and awnings to keep the sun out. The upper floors have many windows, which are divided into different groups. Strong brick columns go all the way up to the roof.
There's a cool pattern of bricks between the second and third floors. The very top of the third floor has a band of light-colored stone. Above this, you can see a row of arches made of brick. These arches make the third-floor windows look like they are set inside curved openings. More decorative brickwork sits just below the roof.
History of the Masonic Block
The Masonic Block was built in 1894. Before it was built, a house stood in its place. That house was carefully taken apart and moved to a new spot.
Who built the Masonic Block?
The building was constructed by the Reading Masonic Temple Corporation. This was a company made up of local business people. At the time, the street next to it was a private lane. Later, it was made wider and named Haven Street. This was done to honor Thomas Haven, who was the first minister of the Third Parish church.
What was inside the building?
For many years, the Masonic Block was home to several businesses. Willis' Drug Store was a tenant, selling medicines and other items. The Reading Chronicle newspaper also had its office there from 1894 to 1932. The local Masonic lodge, which is a club, used the entire third floor for their meetings.
How did the building change over time?
In 1929, the building was made bigger. A new section was added to the north side. This new space was used by a jeweler named Millard F. Charles. Over time, Mr. Charles bought more and more of the company that owned the building. In 1972, the company was even renamed the Millard F. Charles Corporation.
