The Masonic Temple Detroit, the largest facility of its kind in the world, will host a centennial celebration of its cornerstone laying on Saturday, Sept. 24.
The event will occur 100 years to the day of the dedication ceremony, which drew some 200,000 people, including local and national dignitaries. The upcoming Sept. 24 celebration includes a rededication ceremony open to the public at 5 p.m., followed by a red-carpet gala (tickets required) within the temple’s newly restored Fountain Ballroom, which will be unveiled that night.
“The Masonic Temple Detroit is an architectural marvel and national treasure that deserves mention among the country’s most storied structures,” says Steve Genther, general manager of the Masonic Temple. “We are delighted to recall its significance on the 100th anniversary of its founding and reintroduce the Masonic Temple back into the conversation as a Detroit landmark and stunning event space, unparalleled in size and design magnificence.”
The event on Sept. 24 will include current Masons dressed in their tuxedos and tops hats, commandry wearing their formal uniform with feather chapeaus as they did in 1922 — plus the display of George Washington’s trowel that was used to set the original cornerstone, as well as the White House.
Within its 1,037 rooms, the Masonic Temple has two theaters, two ballrooms, a drill hall, a gymnasium, and multiple conference spaces. The 16-story building was designed by George D. Mason.
The Fountain Ballroom’s recent renovation by Detroit-based Maddalena Design includes a restored private entrance tunnel and foyer. The original color scheme has returned, with historically accurate crystal chandeliers.
The Fountain Ballroom, with a capacity of 2,000 guests, once held one of the original auto shows in Detroit. In the 1950’s, the fountain itself was hidden within a wall. It was recently rediscovered and is in the process of restoration, in partnership with Maddalena Design and Pewabic Pottery.
The Masonic Temple’s Crystal Ballroom, named after the 15-foot chandeliers, can hold 300 people for a seated event. Hosting up to three weddings per weekend, the Crystal Ballroom has proven to be a popular wedding destination, with bookings nearly two years in advance.
As the Masonic Temple looks forward to the next 100 years of living history in Detroit, the public is welcome to attend the outdoor rededication ceremony at 5 p.m. on Sept. 24 near Cass Park at 500 Temple.
The red-carpet gala is from 6 p.m. to midnight, and will feature music by The Next Generation Funk Brothers, Ralph Armstrong Trio, and DJ Rock’em. Tickets start at $100 and include dinner, an open bar, music, and dancing throughout the evening, as well as valet.
Tickets and more information available here.
