The Salem Marion Masonic Lodge 130 A.F. and A.M on South Broadway was rededicated in ceremonies over the weekend upon the building reaching its 100th birthday.
The Grand Master of Illinois David Lynch of Monee led the rededication. He notes this is only the second lodge building to reach 100 years old as most were wooden structures and either eventually burned or replaced.
Beautiful Lodge Building, but like I said Masonry has been around for hundreds of years and it takes members to keep it going. Its a good fraternal, charitable organization. And it takes a good man and makes him a better man. These guys are great down here.”
Grand Master of Illinois David Lynch, Master Steven Lindsey with a proclamation from Mayor Nic Farley.
Marion Lodge Master Steve Lindsey was also honored during the ceremony with the Master Builders Award for the work he has done in building membership at both the Kinmundy and Marion Lodges in bringing them out of COVID-19.
“100 years ago Masonry was a big part of the community. We are just trying to keep that tradition alive and keep it going through charity and things we can do community-wide.”
Lindsey was also lauded by getting younger people involved in the charity work. He noted the accomplishments would not have been possible without the work of all the lodge members.
The now 100-year-old Masonic Temple at 300 South Broadway in Salem. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
Junior Warden Mike Mills provided a history of the building noting a maximum cost of $30,000 was set, but the accepted bid was for only $25,000. Lodge members at the time pledged money for no interest or at six percent interest to make the building possible.
Salem Mayor Nick Farley presented a Proclamation declaring Saturday as Marion Lodge 130 A.F. and A.M. Day in Salem in recognition of the rededication of the building after 100 years. The proclamation notes the Free Masons are both the oldest and largest fraternal organization.
Masons during Rededication Ceremony. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
Masons march during the Re-dedication Ceremony. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
