Masonic Temple
The Masonic Temple in Salem, on the corner of Washington and Lynde Streets, was erected in 1915-1916 at a cost of $250,000. It occupies the site of the former Pickman-Derby mansion, built in 1764.
"A notable Salem landmark, this massive symmetrical five-story brick and artificial limestone edifice in the Colonial Revival style has a slightly projecting front central pavilion in which four fluted Corinthian columns rise from a triple-arch entrance base" according to Tolles in his book.
When first built, it housed retail stores, professional and business offices, and the Masonic lodge rooms and banquet hall.
On Feb. 22, 1982 an arsonist was arrested after starting two fires in one night, one in the Masonic Temple and another at the Armory. The early morning fire, which raged for 36 hours, lead to damage assessed at $250,000 for both structures. The National Guard Armory on Essex St. was destroyed and the Masonic Temple on Washington St. was heavily damaged.
See Also
- Architecture in Salem by Bryant F. Tolles, p. 109
- "State of emergency declared after three fires hit Salem" Salem Evening News, Feb. 22, 1982, p. 1-10
