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Washington, D.C., District of Columbia / History

Prince Hall Masonic Temple

A stunning Indiana limestone landmark on U Street, this 1929 temple serves as a monument to African American advocacy and the historic legacy of Prince Hall Freemasonry in the District of Columbia.

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Prince Hall Masonic Temple
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What is the Prince Hall Masonic Temple known for?

The Prince Hall Masonic Temple is a historic site associated with one of the nation's earliest Prince Hall lodges, founded in 1825 by enslaved and free Black men. It is also listed in the National Register of Historic Places and designated as a Category III Historic Landmark in the District of Columbia.

When was the Prince Hall Masonic Temple built?

Construction began in 1922 and the six-story rectangular building, designed by prominent Black architect Albert I. Cassell, was completed in 1929 at a cost of $500,000.

What are the hours of the Prince Hall Masonic Temple?

The site lists weekday hours as Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Can I rent the space at the Prince Hall Masonic Temple?

Yes, the temple is marketed as the Prince Hall Center for the Performing Arts and is available for rental for events such as weddings, business meetings, civic gatherings, benefit concerts, music recitals, and fitness classes. The center seats 500 patrons and includes a full-service kitchen and upscale bar.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Standing at 1000 U Street, NW, the Prince Hall Masonic Temple is a commanding six-story rectangular building. The structure is faced with Indiana limestone, reflecting a dignified architectural presence in the heart of the city. It was designed by Albert I. Cassell, a prominent Black architect, and was completed in 1929 at a total cost of $500,000. The building's construction began in 1922 through the efforts of entrepreneur Jesse Mitchell, who worked closely with Cassell to bring the vision to life. This site is deeply tied to the history of Prince Hall Freemasonry, which was founded by Prince Hall on September 29, 1784, as a branch of North American Freemasonry specifically for African Americans. In Washington, D.C., the movement took root early, with the creation of Social Lodge No. 1 in 1825 by both enslaved and free Black men. By 1848, the Grand Lodge of Prince Hall Freemasonry was established in the city. This long history of community leadership led the Joint Committee on Landmarks of the National Capital to designate the temple as a Category III Historic Landmark in the District of Columbia Inventory of Historic Sites. Today, the building has evolved into the Prince Hall Center for the Performing Arts. While maintaining its historic significance, the renovated center now accommodates 500 patrons and features an upscale bar and a full-service kitchen. It serves as a versatile venue for music recitals, benefit concerts, and civic gatherings, continuing its legacy as a beacon of progress.

Visitor tips

  • Visit during weekday hours, Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., for potential access.
  • Look up at the Indiana limestone facade to appreciate Albert Cassell's architectural detailing.
  • Check for scheduled benefit concerts or music recitals if you wish to experience the interior performing arts center.

Nearby context

Located on the iconic U Street corridor, the temple stands as a pillar of the neighborhood's rich African American heritage and its history as a center for Black business and culture.

Sources

Evidence and links