Then & Now - The First Trenton Masonic Temple

The first Masonic Temple was erected in 1793 at Front and Willow Streets in Trenton, NJ, and, built by the Trenton Cyrus Lodge No. 5. Much of the history of the Masonic Temples in Trenton is inseparably linked up with the Trenton Cyrus Lodge No. 5.

Minutes of the old Lodge reveal that for some time after organization meetings apparently were held at the homes of the various members, but in 1789 it was felt that the Lodge was growing to such a size that suitable quarters should be obtained for it.

In 1792 a committee composed of Aaron D. Woodruff, Richard Howell, Isaac DeCou and Bernard Hanlon was appointed to report on the expediency of building a hall or Lodge room for use of the organization, together with an estimate of its cost. The committee reported favorably April 2, and another committee was appointed to devise means of raising funds to pay for the new building.

In 1793, Mark Thompson, of Harmony Lodge No. 8, Newton, Sussex County, gave to Trenton Lodge No. 5 a plot of ground in Barrack Street, now known as Willow Street. Mr. Thompson was father-in-law of Mr. Woodruff, first master of Trenton Lodge. In view of this gift, plans were prepared for the proposed building, and Mr. Woodruff, with Messrs. Richard Howell, Stockton, Ewing and DeKlyn, was named as a committee for this purpose. The committee reported plans for a building costing approximately £376, 15s, 10d, or about $1,900.

On August 19, 1793, the committee announced that everything was in readiness for the laying of the cornerstone which occurred at “High Twelve,” August 26.

This Trenton Masonic Temple is now used as a State tourist information center near the state house in Trenton, right next to the “new” 20th century Mason building.

Click HERE to see the 1935 Floor Plan of the Trenton Masonic Temple.

Find out more about the history of Trenton at the Trent Historical Society.