HomeMy WebLinkAbout1992-02-04-HC-min.pdf LEXINGTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION
MINUTES
FEBRUARY 4, 1992
Present. Gilman, Hagelstein, Witthoft
Guests: Clark Bryan and Jonathan Doran, Lexington Masonic Assoc.
_ Steve Busby, Framingham State College Alumni Assoc.
Subject: Masonic Temple, Harrington Rd. at Bedford St. , formerly a
state normal school.
1 '
Mr. Busby spoke to request that the above—named building be placed on
the National Register of Historic Places. Due process requires that
the LHC initiate the process by declaring that the building is eligible
for listing.
This building is on the inventory of historic structures in Lexington.
In discussion, Mr. Busby pointed out that it housed the first state
normal school in the nation, now, after several moves, evolved into
Framingham State College. Among the normal school's distinguished
alumni are Mrs. Booker T. Washington and Christa McCauliffe.
It was explained that the building was erected as "Lexington Academy"
in 1822. It opened as an institution of higher learning for teachers
in 1839, in fact on April 19, the anniversary of the Battle of
Lexington. It was paurchased for the Masonic Lodge in 1916. While the
exterior has undergone several extensive alterations the interior, as
seen in the basement, the beams, the attic, and the layout, is
relatively unchanged.
The representatives of the Masonic Association both agreed that they
have no objection to the request.
Motion: Gilman, second, Witthoft. That the Commission recommend to the
Massachusetts Historical Commission that the Masonic Temple be placed
on the national register of historic places. PASSED unanimously.
The meeting adjourned at 8:40 p.m. Next meetings, March 31 and May 5.
Respectfully submitted,
Brucia Witthoft