Masonic Lodge Opens Doors To Visitors—And Questions

Ask a group of Americans what a Freemason (as in "Masonic Lodge") is, and you're bound to get a bunch of different answers. 

A secret society? A charity? A bunch of guys in funny aprons? 

Now is your chance to find out just what a Mason really is. As part of its 100th anniversary celebration, the Lake Harriet Lodge is opening its doors to non-masons on Wednesday, Oct. 17, at 7 p.m. In cooperation with the Linden Hills History Study Group, the Masons are offering a seminar on the history of Freemasonry in Linden Hills. 

According to the Study Group, the Masonic Lodge at 45th and France may be the oldest surviving institution in the neighborhood, founded in 1913 in the building that now houses Wild Rumpus Books. The seminar will be taught by Dr James Maertens, a Senior Lodge Steward and former education officer who is currently writing a book on the first 100 years of the Lake Harriet Lodge. 

All are welcome, although a $3 donation is suggested for attendees. For more information call 612-926-0646, email contact@lindenhillshistory.info, or visit lindenhillshistory.info.