Masonic Lodge: Metamora Indiana
As is the case in many towns and cities across this great land of ours, the Maonic Lodge occupies a prominent postion in the town not only on a physical plane , but as a spiritual and guiding example as well.
The Masonic Lodge is located on the second floor of the former L. Allison & Son Grocery Store. During the early years of Masonry the custom was to have the Masonic Lodge occupy the second floor of a prominent business in the main business section of the town, such is the case in Metamora. The second story of the Allison Grocery building was purchased in 1888 for $1,500 for the Metamora Lodge #156 Free and Accepted Masons which was organized in June, 1853. This is believed to be the only lodge in Indiana with most of its original cobalt blue window panes still intact.
Located next to Mr. Van Camp's drug store and Lucy Martindale's Confectionary the architectual design of the three buildings was a sort of "old country" fashion .
In todays' world , the town has suffered economically as most small towns have, the canal hasn't been used commerically for many, many years, and the railroad no longer carries produce to the markets in nearby Cincinnati and Indianapolis.
However, due to the historic significance of the area, tourism is flourishing. Train rides on a real steam engine locimotive are available on most week-ends, as well as rides on the Whitewater Canal via the Benjamin Franklin, the only surviving boat from the flourishing days of the Whitewater Canal. With the many activities such as whitewater rafting , enjoying and photographing the fantastic autumn colors as the leaves change color in the fall, the area offers much to the tourist looking for a relaxing and enjoyable weekend, free of the hustle and bustle of modern day life.
Despite all the changes and economic ups and downs to the community and surrounding area, the Masonic Lodge has survived as it has done throughout civilization, being a beacon in a troubled world, a light shining in the darkness, ready and willing to guide anyone who is willing to adhere to the age old time worn principles that have guided men from the beginning of time.
Now you can follow me on Kindle.
Posted by The Florida Hoosier at 10/3/2011 7:04 AM 
Categories: Indiana
Tags: ancient beliefs boat ride historic places Indiana Masonic Nikon photography scenery tourism travel
Categories: Indiana
Tags: ancient beliefs boat ride historic places Indiana Masonic Nikon photography scenery tourism travel
Comments