Masonic Temple -- 1889
This is the second Masonic Temple to occupy this location. After its organization in 1848, Hiram Lodge No. 68 met in the second story of a store building on the east side of the square for several years. The first temple was erected at this location in 1866. Its small auditorium was Anderson's first theater. The building also was used to house Anderson first hospital established during the Civil War as the Ladies Hospital Association. The present temple, once topped by a cupola, was dedicated with elaborate ceremonies in 1889. Its meeting hall served as Anderson's first opera house and civil auditorium. Plays presented by traveling stick companies and other cultural events took place here.
1776 ABC - ARBA 1976
Marker is on East Benson Street west of South McDuffie Street, on the right when traveling east.
Courtesy hmdb.org
