Welcome to Dayton Masonic Center
A place as rich in history as it is in values
Welcome to the Dayton Masonic Center, a historic "sentinel of tradition and craft" that has served as the heart of Freemasonry in the Miami Valley since 1928. Built through the collective sweat and dedication of 450 Masonic Brethren, this iconic landmark stands as a "solid memorial" to our craft, housing five Masonic Lodges, the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Valley of Dayton, and several other branches of Freemasonry. Our mission transcends the stone and marble of our 250-room temple; we are a fraternity dedicated to a "Blueprint for Living," where men of good character unite under the principles of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. Whether you are a Brother seeking Masonic education, a good man wanting to become a Brother, or a guest interested in our centuries-old heritage, we invite you to explore a community committed to building better men, stronger families, and a more benevolent Dayton.
Our Blueprint of Life
Freemasonry at the Dayton Masonic Center is guided by the timeless tenets of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. These principles form a "Blueprint for Living," challenging every member to translate their personal convictions into community action.
Our Core Values
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Brotherly Love: We regard all humans as one family, striving to act with respect and understanding toward all, regardless of their background.
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Relief: Charity is a sacred duty. We are committed to assisting those in distress—whether through simple acts of kindness or organized philanthropic efforts—to help them overcome obstacles.
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Truth: We pursue honesty and integrity in all dealings, using knowledge to improve ourselves, our families, and the Greater Dayton community.
Charity & Community Impact
The Dayton Masonic Foundation and the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Valley of Dayton serve as the primary engines for our charitable mission:
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Education & Scholarships: The Scottish Rite provides general scholarships to deserving students across a 14-county area and partners with the Abbot Scholarship Program to support the families of our members.
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Community Support: We actively fund organizations that administer to the poor and needy. Local impacts include donations to many community organizations and hosting the Miami Valley Symphony Orchestra holiday concert for the public.
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Vital Resources: Through the Ohio Masonic Communities Resource Center, we connect Masons and the wider community with essential services, ranging from medical equipment (like walkers and wheelchairs) to assistance with senior care and home modifications.
Valley of Dayton Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite
The Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite is a prominent branch of Freemasonry that expands upon the teachings of the Craft Lodge. It features a series of degrees that provide deeper insights into moral and philosophical lessons, emphasizing personal development and enlightenment. Through its rituals and symbolism, the Scottish Rite fosters a sense of brotherhood among its members while promoting values such as integrity, charity, and respect for others. This Rite is known for its rich history and its commitment to the betterment of society.
CONTACT:
Phone: 937-245-1342
Email: jessica.beirise@aasrdayton.org
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Other Masonic Organizations
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Built as a testament to the endurance of the Masonic craft, the Dayton Masonic Center (originally the Dayton Masonic Temple) has dominated the city’s skyline since its completion in 1928. Its history is a record of fraternal dedication and architectural mastery.
The Vision and Foundation
Masonic Roots: The first Masonic Lodge in Dayton was founded in 1808. By World War I, rapid growth necessitated a permanent home, leading to the purchase of the Stoddard property in what is now the Grafton Hill Historic District.
Fraternal Dedication: In a remarkable display of unity, 357 members raised $1.5 million in just ten days in 1924 to fund construction. Ground was broken on July 20, 1925, and the cornerstone was laid on May 19, 1926.
Craftsmanship: The building was erected by 450 workers, a majority of whom were Masonic Brethren who gave "unstintingly of their time and abilities" to fulfill the vision.
An Architectural Marvel
Grecian Ionic Design: Designed by the Dayton firm Herman & Brown, the structure is an 8-story Classical Revival masterpiece featuring monumental fluted Ionic columns.
Vast Scale: The center encloses five million cubic feet and contains 250 rooms, two auditoriums, and several pipe organs.
Premium Materials: Construction utilized 1,700 tons of steel, 55,000 cubic feet of Bedford stone, and 20 train carloads of marble from Vermont, Alabama, and Tennessee for its interior floors and stairways.
A Legacy of Service
Throughout its century-long tenure, the building has served both the craft and the community during times of need. It was designated a National Register of Historic Places landmark in 1986. Beyond ritual, it has been readied as a temporary hospital during World War II and served as a community fallout shelter during the Cold War.
Our Story
Get in Touch
Contact us for inquiries regarding event bookings, membership information, or to explore the diverse opportunities available for hosting and participating in Masonic events.