May 7, 2024 – The Masonic Temple in Decatur has been named as one of 2024 Most Endangered Historic Places in Illinois by Landmarks Illinois.
The Art Deco building at 224 W William St. was officially dedicated in February of 1929. At the time, the 68,000 sq. ft. building was built for a total of $750,000. For nearly 100 years, it has hosted cultural events and famous speakers like Eleanor Roosevelt and John F. Kennedy Jr. The building has suffered deterioration due to age and water damage. Owners say the venue does not generate enough income today to pay for proper maintenance, leading to expensive damages.
Designed in 1927 by renowned architects Holabird & Roche, functioned as a community center for the city and greater Central Illinois region throughout the 20th century, hosting cultural events and speakers like Eleanor Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, Jr., and Richard Nixon. Originally built with a 1,000-person ballroom, 1200-seat auditorium, and state-of-the-art kitchen, the Masonic Temple is a stunning example of monumental Art Deco architecture and, at its opening, was praised as a modern work of art by the then-director of the Art Institute.
“This year’s ‘Most Endangered’ sites are not only incredibly important places in their communities, but many are large-scale buildings that sit prominently in highly visible areas near city centers, in historic districts or on state-owned land. Their neglect is seen and felt,” said Bonnie McDonald, President & CEO of Landmarks Illinois. Despite their current condition, these places tell important stories from our past — stories that should not be erased due to insufficient investment or general disregard for our collective histories. Landmarks Illinois stands ready and willing to help our partners find preservation resources and solutions for these threatened places, which are opportunities for sustainable reuse, job creation and providing spaces needed in their communities.”
Other locations making the most endangered list include:
- Sears Administration Building in Chicago
- Libby, McNeill and Libby Building in Blue Island
- Former Collinsville Township High School in Collinsville
- Former Lincoln School in East St. Louis
- Johnson County Courthouse – Vienna
- Portage Theater in Chicago
Since 1995, Landmarks Illinois has asked preservationists, community leaders, and concerned citizens throughout the state to nominate threatened or endangered historic properties for its annual list. Once a property is included on the Most Endangered list, Landmarks Illinois remains committed to its preservation efforts, continuing communication and relationships with local advocates and elected officials to provide resources (including small grants) and connections where possible.
