Pause here for a moment and let your gaze linger on the Scottish Rite Temple Plaque. This plaque marks a spot rich in history and community spirit. The Scottish Rite Temple, now home to the Austin Scottish Rite Theater, has been an Austin gem since 1871. Austin itself became the capitol of Texas that same year.
Initially, the building served as a German opera house for forty years. The Austin Turn Verein, a German social society, built it in 1871-72 as an opera house. It was a lively social center used for gymnastics, feasting, and dancing. Imagine the sounds of music, laughter, and celebration that once filled this very spot.
In 1912, the Ben Hur Shrine Temple purchased the building. It underwent remodeling, blending Southwest and Mission style architecture with Arabic accents. Just two years later, in 1914, the Scottish Rite bodies of Austin took ownership. They allowed other Masonic groups to meet here. The Masons have treasured this site. They remain watchful tenants of the building.
In 2004, the Masons established a non-profit theater organization. Today, nestled amid the State Capitol, the University of Texas, and Austin’s museum district, the Scottish Rite Theater thrives. The Scottish Rite Theater is dedicated to building community through the arts. It provides quality shows for all ages. It also offers enriching programming for children.
For nearly a century and a half, countless artists and events have graced this venue. Picture operas and circus trapeze acts wowing 19th-century crowds. Today, live world music and multimedia children’s programming delight Austinites.
The Scottish Rite Temple Plaque is not just a marker. It represents a legacy of community, arts, and history. The marker was placed here in 1967. It reminds us of the vibrant stories that have unfolded within these walls. Take a moment to appreciate the Scottish Rite Temple’s enduring contribution to Austin’s cultural landscape.