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FREEMASONRY IN THE CITY OF REDLANDS, CALIFORNIA
Redlands Masonic Lodge #300.
Redlands Lodge #300 received its Dispensation March 10, 1890 and was duly constituted on November 17, 1890. Just a few years after the incorporation of the City of Redlands. It would not yet meet in its current home until 1909, when the current building was constructed. For its first 19 years, Redlands Lodge #300 met in several locations in the downtown Redlands area.
The cornerstone for our current location,131 Cajon Street, was laid on June 12, 1909. The Grand Lodge of California convened a special session for this purpose, and Wor. Frank Meserve, was appointed to write the history of the lodge, which was then and there placed in this cornerstone. It was described in the history as "A brick building, 3 stories high and constructed to carry 2 or 3 more stories if necessary." This was, of course, at the standards of the current day .
The building still stands at its original 3 stories, however, the original building was set back from where the current day curb starts. It was not until after the adjacent Fox Theater was built, that the Masonic Temple was extended to where it is now, lining up with the Fox Theater. This allowed for better curb appeal, and the addition of additional office rental space, which is still in use today.
You now find us on Cajon St, by locating the blue awning that dawns our building today. We welcome visitors to our monthly meeting dinner, which is the first Monday of every month. If you want to learn about, are part of the fraternity, or our are just interested in learning more about this historical building, please stop by for a visit.
Tags: Annual BBQ, California Freemasons, division 8, freemasonry, masons, Redlands Lodge 300