Masonic Library & Museum of Pennsylvania New Logo Reveal
As we embrace a new year and a fresh look for the Masonic Library & Museum, housed within the Masonic Temple, learn the meaning behind our new logo and brand identity!
Masonic Library and Museum Rebrand Preview
The new year will bring a new look to our Masonic Charities and all its entities, including the Masonic Library and Museum housed within the Masonic Temple. After an extensive process considering our mission and those we serve, we’re excited to share it with our community in 2025. For now, enjoy this sneak peek!
The Stuff Freemasonry is Made of: Physical Properties of the Old Testament
Although Freemasonry is open to men of any religion, many Masonic symbols are rooted in the biblical Old Testament. Brother Austin Shifrin, PM, Tyrian Lodge No. 644, presented "The Stuff Freemasonry is Made of: Physical Properties of the Old Testament" as part of the Masonic Library and Museum Speaker Series, but the lecture is also available in essay form in his newest book, "Black Ink, Farther Stars." (His first book, "More Light: Collected Masonic Writings 2017 -2021" is available for purchase from our gift shop: https://masonicmuseumgifts.com/3045/more-light/.)
Look up in Ionic Hall and you'll get a glimpse of heaven - that's what the intricately detailed ceiling was designed to represent. Watch to learn more about its features and the design elements chosen by decorative painter and Freemason Brother George Herzog.
Memorial Day Message 2024
Hear from the Masonic Temple's executive director this Memorial Day weekend as he shares a message about the holiday's meaning and purpose.
Masons have always been involved in major historical events, including the American abolitionist movement. Learn more with this clip from our March Speaker Series lecture, "Freemasonry and the Underground Railroad."
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sl5E_gfgVJQ
Indirect Stone Sculpture (from "Real Stone Masonry" Speaker Series)
Professional sculptor (and past "Embodying Masonic Values" art competition category winner) Morgan Dummitt discussed the crafts of stone masonry and sculpting for a Masonic Library & Museum of Pennsylvania Speaker Series lecture in February. Learn about indirect stone sculpting techniques in this clip, then watch the full talk at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qDeaxl10-60.
Masonic Temple building tour: 90-second edition! Stop by in person for the other 3,510 seconds missing from this tour.
Celebrating the 200th anniversary of the Marquis de Lafayette's U.S. tour with some pieces from the banquet at the Masonic Hall on Chestnut St. Approximately 300 guests attended and the Marine Corps band played at the festivities!
Opening the Washington apron case for photos ... very carefully! The apron remains under glass throughout.
Freemasonry in Cuba Speaker Series Lecture (Nov. 2023)
The last Speaker Series presentation of 2023 explored the history of Masonic activity in Cuba. Watch it here!
August Speaker Series on the Harry C. Trexler Masonic Library, Allentown, PA
Brother Kristopher Yoder, the director and curator of the Harry C. Trexler Masonic Library and a member of Greenleaf Lodge No. 561 at the Allentown Masonic Temple, shared some of the notable texts and artifacts from their collection, which is second only to the Masonic Library & Museum's in size, with attendees at our August Speaker Series lecture. Watch it below!