The Historic Shrine has over 90 years of supporting nonprofits and community events such as telethons, dances, concerts, and celebrity guests including Presidential visits! We would like to offer your organization a special opportunity of partnership for your next event!
An apt name for the structure, as its community role and service has increased over the decades! Three years later in , the Masonic Lodge located on East Walnut currently the boutique Hotel Vandivort voted to construct an auditorium to serve as the home of the newly created Abou Ben Adhem Shriners.
The land was purchased from the Frank Herman Saddlery Company and with the help of local carpenters, masons, plumbers, electricians and construction workers the magnificent building was created.
The event was attended by Imperial national leaders of the Shriners, Shriners from 12 states, local and state Masonic lodges, the Knights Templar, Scottish Rite, and most importantly the community of Springfield metro area. The structure represents the dedication of the Shriners to their community and still does today. At its creation, the structure boasted the largest auditorium west of the Mississippi and the second largest stage right behind the New York Metropolitan Opera Theater.
The Saracen, or Moorish, architecture is unique to the area and was the creation of Springfield architects β Heckenlively and Mark. The design includes massive red brick wall, terracotta. The interior is of the same Saracen design in its awe inspiring presence. The auditorium can sit 3, and the lower level event area can hold 1, participants. The building has been host to numerous community events including Circuses, Telethons, War Bond drives, Revivals, and Presidential visits Truman, Roosevelt, and Reagan!
