(Taken from Allen County Historical calender Feb 1995. - drawn by Kelly Smith)
This Masonic Temple was located on the right in the first block off the square on East Main Street. It was completed in 1929. It was valued at $7,500.00. It was equipped with every convenience, including a kitchen with facilities for serving banquets. The Temple was also used as a meeting place by Scottsville Chapter No. 171, R.A.M., Chapter No. 60 Order of the Eastern Star and Assembly No. 5, Order for Rainbow for Girls. Miss Sallie Edmonds wrote a historical account of early Scottsivlle in 1928. Her history was sealed in a jar and placed in the cornerstone on the second floor of the New Masonic Temple and was to remain there for 100 years. On January 11, 1984, fire completely destroyed the two story building. After a diligent search the history was found along with other items. After the fire they purchased land on Highway 31-E-By-Pass and erected a new Masonic Temple at a total cost of approximately $123,00.00. The exact location of the first Masonic Hall is unknown, but some recall that at one time it was located on the Northwest side of the Public Square and later moved to the Northeast side. In 1901 fire destroyed the building and all records of the lodge. Graham Lodge No. 208 was granted their charter in August, 1850. Post office history states that in the late 20's the Post Office moved from what is now J. and W. Home Center to a new location on the ground floor of the Masonic Temple. It remained there until 1959. At the time of the fire, Annie 'Tiques and Fancies owned by Sherri Dunn occupied the former post office. Also occupying that spot at one time was Patterson's which sold ladies clothing and shoes. Livesay Jewelry Store was also destroyed by the fire. some of the other occupants of this spot were: L.O. Meador Jewelry and Appliances, and The Grand Cafe. (History of the Lodge, Courtesy of Jerry Marsh)
This is the Register of Membership for Graham Lodge#208 recovered from the fire of 1984. The Items in the curios pictured above represent what little remains from the original lodge.
The Barlow House, believed to be the first meeting location of Graham Lodge. (Taken from the 1979 Allen County Historical Calendar. Drawn by Roy Shockley.
