A Cornerstone, a Dinner, and a Borough in a Hurry
After years of fundraising and delay, Advance Lodge No. 635 laid its Astoria temple cornerstone on November 20, 1915, just fifty-seven days after opening construction bids. Explore the building campaign, the elusive refreshments afterward, and a growing Queens neighborhood that was moving just as fast.
The Advance Masonic Temple in Astoria: A Lodge Building That Endured
Opened in 1916, the Advance Masonic Temple at 21-14 30th Avenue in Astoria remains home to a working lodge. Explore its architecture, opening fair, member-donated fittings, neighborhood gatherings, and continuing role as the home of Advance Service Mizpah Lodge No. 586.
Advance Lodge No. 635 and the Laying of Its Cornerstone
On November 20, 1915, about 800 Masons marched through Astoria as several thousand spectators followed them to the laying of Advance Lodge No. 635’s cornerstone. Follow the procession, the ceremony led by Grand Master George Freifeld, and the stone that remains beside the temple entrance on 30th Avenue.