Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library

Boston Masonic Temple Decorated for Knights Templar Triennial Conclave
1895
Maker not marked
USA: Massachusetts, Boston
photograph on paper mounted on card
Card: 11"h x 9"w; Image: 8-1/8"h x 6-1/4"w
Loaned by the Grand Lodge of Masons in Massachusetts
GL2004.2057

Sepia-tone photograph of Boston's Masonic Temple. The building is decorated for the Knights Templar Triennial Conclave held in Boston in late August 1895. A large Templar cross is attached to the Boylston Street side of the building, with additional Masonic and York Rite symbols inside the arms. The American flag flies from the top of the building (a four-story Gothic style structure). Across the top of the building are words, "Fraternity Fidelity Charity." Bunting is hung along the first story. People and vehicles are visible on the streets. Stamped in purple on the back is "F.L. Temple, / Hingham," probably the photographer or a former owner of this photograph.

As part of the Knights Templar Triennial Conclave celebration in 1895, the Grand Commandery of Massachusetts and Rhode Island decorated the exterior of the Boston Masonic building. Hung with electric lights and Masonic and Knights Templar symbols, the building was a spectacle for all to see and enjoy.