Perhaps, like me, you’ve walked past 888 Yonge Street and wondered about the story behind that imposing structure. This is the Masonic Temple. It is a landmark with a history as rich and varied as the city itself.
The Masonic Temple’s story began in 1916. The Grand Lodge of Ancient and Accepted Masons sought a new home. They hired William F Sparling and Co to design a building that reflected their values. Construction started. In 1917, the Grand Master laid the cornerstone. The Grand Lodge marched in procession.
Completed in 1918, the Masonic Temple combined several Masonic lodges. Its Renaissance Revival style stands out. Notice the Indiana limestone at the base. The tapestry brick shaft rises above. A stone cornice and sculpted Masonic symbols add to its unique character.
The main entrance faces Yonge Street. Three round-arched portals lead inside. Doric columns support a recessed staircase. Above, a Palladian-styled balcony overlooks the street. The south facade on Davenport Road provided members-only entrances.
Inside the Masonic Temple, the main floor holds a foyer, lobby, and an auditorium. The auditorium could seat 1200 people. Ornate stage and decorated ceiling beams fill the room. A mezzanine level offered gallery seating. Renting the auditorium for events helped with operating costs.
The upper floors were sectioned into lodge rooms. Some patterned tile floors with Masonic symbols have survived. Visit the Blue Lodge Room on the second floor. Check out the Scottish Rite and Preceptory Room on the third floor. Masonic emblems appear on the hardware and millwork too.
But the Masonic Temple is more than just a meeting place. It’s also a concert hall. In the 1960s, the auditorium transformed into a music venue. First came Club 888. Then in 1968, The Rock Pile opened. It hosted legendary acts. Led Zeppelin, Tina Turner, and Deep Purple all played here. Tickets cost only a few dollars. The Rock Pile closed due to financial problems.
On New Year’s Eve 1969, the venue relaunched as the Masonic Temple. Alice Cooper was the opening act. From 1979 to 1998, it was known as The Concert Hall. Frank Sinatra, The Ramones, and David Bowie graced its stage.
In 1996, the Freemasons sold the building. The new owners planned to demolish it for condos. Fortunately, the city designated it a heritage site. It escaped demolition.
CTV purchased the Masonic Temple in 1999. It became home to their studios. In 2006, MTV Canada made it their headquarters. The Rolling Stones even used the space for rehearsals.
Info-Tech Research Group bought the building in 2013. They renovated it beautifully. Today, The Concert Hall is open for events again. The hall seats 700 guests. It features a raised stage and great acoustics.
Before this location, the Freemasons met at 18-20 Toronto St. That Masonic Hall was built in 1857. It was later demolished in the 1960s. The Masonic Temple stands as a testament to Toronto’s history. It is a place where music, community, and heritage intertwine. The address 888 is considered lucky.