Tripoli Shrine Temple facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Tripoli Temple
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Tripoli Shrine Temple
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 Location in Wisconsin
Location in the United States
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| Location | 3000 W. Wisconsin Ave., Milwaukee, Wisconsin |
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| Area | 3.5 acres (1.4 ha) |
| Built | 1926 |
| Architect | Clas, Shepard & Clas |
| MPS | West Side Area MRA |
| NRHP reference No. | 86000142 |
| Added to NRHP | January 16, 1986 |
The Tripoli Shrine Temple is a special building in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It was built between 1926 and 1928. This unique building looks a bit like the famous Taj Mahal in India. It has a mix of Moorish and Indian styles.
The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This means it is an important historical site. Even though it's called a "temple," it is not a religious building. It is a meeting place for a group called the Shriners.
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Discovering the Tripoli Shrine Temple
The Tripoli Shrine Temple is known for its amazing looks. It stands out in the Concordia neighborhood. This building is a great example of unique architecture.
What Are the Shriners?
The Shriners are a group that started in 1885. They are part of a larger group called the Masons. The Masons are a fraternal order, which means they are like a brotherhood. They focus on friendship, charity, and good citizenship.
The Shriners often raise money for children's hospitals. They help kids who need medical care. The Tripoli Shrine was the first Shriner group in Wisconsin.
Building a Unique Landmark
The Tripoli Temple was designed by architects Alfred Clas and Shepard. They used a style called Moorish Revival. This style was very popular for buildings like movie theaters and synagogues.
Construction of the temple took over two years. It cost a lot of money back then, about $616,999.61. The building officially opened on May 14, 1928. At one time, it was home to 13,000 Shriners in the area.
Amazing Architecture and Design
The design of the Tripoli Temple is truly special. It was inspired by the Taj Mahal in India. You can see this in its grand domes and detailed decorations.
The main dome on top is 30 feet wide. It has beautiful tiles. Two smaller domes sit next to it. At the entrance, you can see sculptures of two kneeling camels. Inside, the building has colorful ceramic tiles. These tiles show detailed flower patterns. There is also fancy plaster work.
