by Alex Lundberg, Greg Kowalski

The largest Masonic temple in the world, Detroit's Masonic temple is a monumental structure with a rich and colorful history, befitting one of the most historic organizations in the world. Encompassing more than 1,000 rooms and more than a million square feet, the temple has served Masons since 1926 and provides a venue for many leading entertainers and theater productions. Its lodges, chapels, and ballrooms are masterpieces of architecture rich with the symbolism of Freemasonry, evident even in the smallest details. The temple stands as an artistic work of architecture and as the physical embodiment of the history, traditions, and symbolism of Freemasonry. What are the secrets of the craft? Just look; they are carved into the walls, inlaid in the marble floors, and depicted in woodcuts on every floor.

Alex Lundberg is an award-winning journalist who has worked in the metro Detroit area since 1992. The great-grandson and grandson of Freemasons, he was entered, passed, and raised as a member of Detroit Lodge No. 2, Free and Accepted Masons, in 2002. He lives in Detroit. Greg Kowalski is a journalist and local historian. He is the author of two books on the city of Hamtramck and coauthor of one on art deco in Detroit. He lives in Hamtramck.