Masonic Lodges

Contrary to popular belief, Freemasons meet as a Lodge, and not in a lodge. (This is similar to the distinction made by Christians who meet as a church, with the church building associated with the meeting of the faithful.)

The operative lodges constructed a lodge building adjacent to the work site where the masons could meet for instruction and social contact. Normally, this was on the southern side of the site (in Europe, the side with the sun warming the stones during the day.) The social part of the building was on the southern side, hence the social gathering of the lodge is still called the South.

Early speculative lodges met in taverns and other convenient public meeting places, and employed a Tyler to guard the door from both malicious and simply curious people.

Lodge buildings have for many years been known as a temple. In many countries this term has now been replaced by Masonic Center or Freemasons Hall. (See also reference to the Shriners and their Temples. Until 2003-4, the Oscars were held at the Shriners temple/auditorium in Hollywood / Los Angeles.)