Architects Comments

By Carl W. Scott
Architect of the Temple

The appearance of a building is governed by the style adopted and the visible material used. Its structural and mechanical design follows a rather fixed pattern. But, beyond this, the arrangement should be such as to provide convenience for the functions performed within the structure. For instance, the plan for a church would be quite different from the plan for a residence or a school.

The functions carried on in a Masonic Temple are the performance of the various Masonic rituals; and this not being for public information, the building arrangements, parts, and decorations must not be such as to disclose Masonic secrets to those not entitled to know them. Obviously, a building Masonically convenient or with symbols overused could easily convey information to a curious public. On the other hand, if Masonic arrangement and symbolical decoration must be forsaken because of this, then a Masonic Temple becomes just another building and the interest of Masons may be lost.

These considerations se the limitations of what may or may not be incorporated in a design from a disclosure standpoint, and further what should or should not be shown from the standpoint of good taste.

Because our Masonic Temple has much of Masonic significance concealed in its construction and ornamentation, request has been made that some record of these features be preserved in the Archives, that those coming after may be informed, should they be interested. In compliance with that request this record is presented.

Legend tells us that rulers in the past often blinded or put to death their builders upon completion of their work, that they might not disclose the secret wine vault or do a better job for another client. Naturally the author does not look with favor upon such a practice.


Pages: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9