The Dayton Masonic Center has launched the Centennial Cornerstone Campaign, a three-year, $20 million initiative to preserve the historic building and secure its future as a vibrant community hub. The campaign begins with an online virtual fundraising auction running through November 19th, marking the start of efforts to ensure the building remains a cornerstone of Dayton for generations to come. Constructed in 1926, the Dayton Masonic Center has hosted countless civic, cultural, and fraternal events throughout its nearly century-long history. Located in the Grafton Hill historic district, the commanding structure stands on the bank of the Great Miami River with stunning views of downtown Dayton.
The 265-foot by 190-foot building features construction materials including Bedford stone, Vermont marble, Alabama limestone, and Tennessee marble, showcasing its architectural significance. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986, the facility contains a 1,700-seat auditorium, a 600-seat banquet hall, Masonic lodges, and the Dayton Dyslexia Center. The fundraising campaign aims to celebrate this architectural masterpiece's legacy while investing in critical renovations, establishing a sustainable endowment, and developing new programs that will maintain the Center's vital role in Dayton's cultural fabric.
Doug Sorrell, a 33rd Degree Mason and Past Potentate of Antioch Shrine, expressed his commitment to the initiative, stating, "I am proud to be a part of this initiative to ensure the future of this historic and iconic home of the fraternity I have loved for decades. The Dayton Masonic Center is more than a building. It's where memories are made and service begins." The campaign's financial structure includes establishing a $20 million endowment that is projected to generate approximately $1 million annually for operations and improvements.
This sustainable funding model will ensure the Dayton Masonic Center remains an active, accessible venue for civic events, cultural celebrations, and community programs. Supporters can participate in the current fundraising efforts through the virtual auction available at https://www.daytonmasoniccenter.com/fundraising-auction. The preservation initiative represents a significant investment in maintaining Dayton's architectural heritage while ensuring the continued use of the facility for community gatherings and cultural events. The campaign's success will determine the building's ability to serve Dayton residents for another century, preserving both its physical structure and its role as a gathering place that fosters community bonding and civic pride.
