Some of
Buffalo’s most interesting and mysterious buildings were erected by the Free
Masons for their meeting places. We have featured two of them in the
past. This one is in South Buffalo and this one, now Canisius High School, was the
main consistory of the Buffalo order. Anyone who has ever been inside
these wonderful buildings will attest to their dramatic flare. They were
designed as stage sets to Masonic ritual and are often generously decorated
with symbolic motifs and sculpture. Unfortunately most are closed to the
general public.
There is at
least one place you can go to see inside a Masonic Lodge. Yes that would
be in Black Rock. Gothic City Architectural
Salvage, located at 1940 Niagara encompasses 3 or four buildings and an open
air lot. One of those buildings is a former Masonic lodge. The
store sells antiques, collectables, items who’s purpose has been lost to time,
and many salvaged architectural fragments.
One of the
most interesting pieces currently for sale is the old streamlined Streng
Oldsmobile “rocket” sign, which stood for many decades on Main
Street. This vast collection of salvaged history is for sale to the
public. Much of it is housed inside the creaky old Masonic building. The
old stone building stuffed to the gills with the stuff of lost generations adds
up to a wonderful experience of architectural theater. Its a great
weekend destination. Bring some money because you will definitely find
something you want to buy.
Remember Buffalo
Tours has a Black Rock
tour scheduled for Saturday, September 5th. There is a second tour also
scheduled in October. Tours start at 10 AM and cost $10. For more
information contact Buffalo Tours.