Masonic Temple

The cornerstone for Bennington’s Masonic Temple, Mt. Anthony Lodge No. 13, was laid on August 16th, 1911 as part of celebrations for Bennington Battle Day and the town’s Sesquicentennial (150th anniversary). The building is built in the Tudor Revival style, a loose interpretation of late Medieval and early Renaissance English architecture. The pointed doorway, overhanging bay window, and combination of brick and cast concrete are all typical of this style. The architects also included Masonic symbols such as the Maltese cross at the front peak, and a trowel, compass, and hammer above the bay window.

This photograph depicts Masons joining Olin Scott’s funeral procession. Scott’s company, Bennington Machine Works, produced machinery used to make gunpowder throughout the country during the Civil War. Scott had donated $20,000 toward the construction of the Masonic Temple. The procession for Scott began at his home on Pleasant Street, and ended at the family plot in Old Bennington. Nearly all of the town’s businesses closed down for the funeral as a sign of respect.