Masonic Temple

I have driven by this building countless times. It is in downtown Des Moines. But until the other day, I had never stepped inside.



The building is the Masonic Temple. It was opened in 1913. At the time, it was one of the most impressive buildings in the city.



Today there is a large theatre for the performing arts in the building. Des Moines has some large, modern venues for plays, the symphony, etc. But there are some locally and regionally produced plays and other events here. I liked the clock above the elevators.



On the top floor is the Grand Ballroom. This room certainly transports you back in time, doesn't it?



Here's a view from the balcony.



They don't make theatre seats like this any more, do they? Notice the REAL wood and the REAL metal. These seats are in the balcony that surround the ballroom.



Here's the skylights above the Grand Ballroom's floor.



Off to the side of the Grand Ballroom is this intimate room. Though a large room it seems small compared to the 4,000 square feet in the ballroom. This room was designated the Recital Room. I could imagine a Steinway concert grand piano at one end and could almost hear the sound of the music.



I always like stained glass windows.



This building was built in the same era as the Titanic. I like modern technology and design - but there is still a magical quality in such buildings.

Thanks for stopping by.