Purpose 

The Oakland Scottish Rite Historical Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that seeks to maintain and preserve the historic architecture and local history of the Oakland Scottish Rite Temple. Additionally, it aims to publicly display and interpret Masonic material culture.  

About 

Since 1883 the Oakland Scottish Rite has been one of the city’s leading organizations. As a popular institution of civic engagement and charitable aims, its membership rosters have included notable local individuals such as Supreme Court Justice and California Governor Earl Warren, Oakland Mayor and California Governor George Pardee, and US Representative and Oakland Tribune publisher Joseph Knowland. Throughout its history, the building has hosted numerous community events, concerts, and an impressive array of important historical figures such as former presidents Nixon, Obama, and Clinton, Senator Robert Kennedy, General Jimmy Doolittle, and many others. 

Designed by California-based architect Carl Werner (1875 – 1943), the Scottish Rite Temple was completed in 1927 and is one of Oakland’s most iconic historical buildings. The pillared structure stands prominently over Lake Merritt, a recognizable landmark on Oakland’s skyline for ninety-five years. Its 1936 Art Deco façade and iron doors are decorated with mysterious and striking Masonic symbols. The temple’s lavish interior rooms, auditorium, and ballroom are distinguished by their ornate Beaux-Arts design. In addition to the building’s exquisite architecture, fascinating history, and membership, it features an impressive public research library and museum. Visitors may experience first-hand the rich local, statewide, and international history of Freemasonry through exhibits and tours. 

Hours  

Monday – Thursday 

10 am – 4 pm 

Although tours and access to our library are free and open to the public, we ask that any requests for such access, or research opportunities and the viewing of rare items, be made by appointment at least seven days in advance.  

Please contact: 

Adam Kendall 

Executive Director 

Email: akendall@scottish-rite.org