Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum

Apr 16, 2025 | Masonic Travel

BROTHERHOOD

Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum

Honoring those who were killed, those who survived and those changed forever.

Hello again Craftsmen Online followers, Brothers, and friends!

Did you know that the Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum is in a historic Masonic building? I did not! As the unofficial traveling man of Craftsmen Online, I stumbled on yet another Masonic site. I travel for work, for Shriner fundraisers, and for fun all over the world and somehow, I almost always bump into a Brother or Masonic site. This was yet another case of trying to learn more about the history of Oklahoma City and finding myself in an amazing masonic building.

I was in town for a Shriner fundraiser and had a free day to explore the city. The security guard at the museum entrance asked me where I was from and when I told him I was a Shriner in town for a fundraiser, he said I needed to go to the front of the building and read the cornerstone plaque. It clearly stated that the building (Masonic Temple & Shrine Auditorium) was erected in 1922 by the Masonic Temple building Association of Oklahoma City. The cornerstone was laid by the AF&AM Most Worshipful Grand Master Leslie H Swan.

Inside, the building has been completely transformed into a very moving exhibit. There is a memorial of the Oklahoma City Bombing, which took place on the morning of April 19, 1995. At 9:02 am, the bomb Timothy McVeigh built inside of a rented Ryder truck exploded in front of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in downtown Oklahoma City. Dozens of cars were incinerated and more than 300 nearby buildings were damaged or destroyed. The human toll was still more devastating: 168 souls lost, including 19 children, with several hundred more injured.

2025 marks the 30th anniversary of “the day of darkness” which the museum is honoring with the year of Light.

And at times it is hard not to be overwhelmed by the raw emotions of that terrible day. When you explore the museum, it is, in my opinion, virtually impossible to not get choked up from memories of that day in history. The Masonic building only suffered minor damage to the back of the building from the explosion and due to its proximity to the Federal building made it the perfect building to honor those that lost their lives on that faithful day.

Most of my Masonic interactions and Masonic discoveries are light, educational, and up lifting. This one hit much differently, however, I feel that the Brothers that were responsible for constructing this building are happy to know the Masonic Temple & Shrine Auditorium is going to be a part of American history forever. I recommend you make sure this is on your list of must-see museums in the US. We all need to never forget this tragic event so we can help make sure something like this does not happen again.

Travel well and often.

RW Anthony Prizzia
Past Master of Adonai Lodge #718, Highland, New York
Bro. Prizzia is also a proud member of:
Cyprus Shrine, Oriental Shrine, and Ulster County Shrine Club
Valley of Albany A.A.S.R
Poughkeepsie Chapter 172
Poughkeepsie Commandery 43
Royal Order of Scotland

Metropolitan Grand Lodge of London

Apr 4, 2024 | Masonic Travel

BROTHERHOOD

Traveling Man – Metropolitan Grand Lodge of London

The home of Freemasons in London, England

A Masonic Must-See: Metropolitan Grand Lodge of London

Hey there, fellow Brothers and Masonic enthusiasts! RW Anthony Prizzia here, and I’m stoked to share an absolute gem of a Masonic destination – Metropolitan Grand Lodge of London. If you’re into Masonic history and grandeur, Freemasons’ Hall is at 60 Great Queen Street, London, is one for the bucket list.

Photo (left to right): RW Anthony Prizzia and Bro. David Dunn

Awe-Inspiring Architecture and a Treasure Trove of Artifacts

The building itself is a sight to behold. It exudes a sense of history and significance the moment you approach. And it’s not just about the exterior; this is the hub for some 25,000 Brothers in London! Best of all, it houses a collection of rare Masonic artifacts that’s truly mind-blowing.

As soon as you step through the doors, the sheer scale of the entrance hall washes over you. Just remember, security is tight (as it should be), so be prepared for a bag check. Once you’re through, the museum awaits, and most of it is open to the public completely free! Want a closer look at the magnificent Grand Hall? There’s an affordable self-guided tour option with an audio guide to lead the way. Just be mindful – individual Lodge rooms and regalia areas are off-limits. Don’t stray, or you’ll likely get a friendly tap on the shoulder from security.

The library is a bibliophile’s paradise (especially if you’re a Masonic bibliophile!). There are quiet nooks to settle into with some fascinating Masonic literature – just be sure to get help from the librarian. Everywhere you turn, there’s Masonic art and historical pieces from around the world. It’s a true feast for the eyes.

The Coolest Grand Lodge Pub…Ever?

I don’t want to spill all the beans, as I want you to experience the magic firsthand, but let me tell you about the coolest part (in my opinion) – the cafe/pub. I’ve been in Grand Lodges worldwide, and I’ve never seen one with a full-service dining area and a killer selection of drinks! It’s a place for officers, members, and guests to unwind and connect. My daughter and girlfriend felt totally at ease – a big plus in my book.

While enjoying the ambiance, I was lucky enough to meet Brother David Dunn. A true Brother, he took the time to share some fascinating history about the building and insights into English Freemasonry. Did you know most Lodges in England only meet a few times a year? Or that the way the ritual work is done can be quite different? It’s fascinating!

Your Masonic Adventure Awaits

The Metropolitan Grand Lodge of London meets quarterly, and I’m hoping to snag an invite someday. I have a feeling that would be spectacular! My hope is that I’ve convinced you to come and experience this building in person. And don’t forget to grab a bite and a drink in the one-of-a-kind Grand Lodge pub while you’re there!

Let me know if you’ve been or if you plan on going!

Cheers and fraternal love!