The DC Traveler

The George Washington Masonic National Memorial and masonic lodge on Shuter’s Hill in Alexandria, Virginia was completed in 1932 as a memorial to George Washington, who was also a Freemason.

The Masons or Freemasons origin and history is a bit cloudy as is the entire organization.  Today, it’s a private fraternal organization with guarded secrets and rituals, that date back as far as perhaps King Solomon.

They describe themselves as followers of a spiritual (God) force to  improve morally and spiritually, by associating with other idealistic men of similar minds.  It’s neither a religion nor a substitute for one, but a way in which to live one’s life by following a moral law, defending truth and conducting philanthropic activities (among other things).

According to its website:

“Freemasonry is the oldest and largest world wide fraternity dedicated to the Brotherhood of Man under the Fatherhood of a Supreme Being. Although of a religious nature, Freemasonry is not a religion. It urges its members, however, to be faithful and devoted to their own religious beliefs.”

George Washington Masonic National Memorial is open to the public for tours. The first floor contains several rooms - the Shrine Rooms dedicated to the organization that has established hospitals and burn centers for children - the Shriners.

Additionally an Assembly Hall and Dining Room complete the first floor.  Around the building, murals depict scenes from the life of George Washington.  

One highlight is The Replica Lodge Room, similar to one Washington would have have used when he was a Master of the Lodge in Alexandria. The room also holds Washington relics, including his leather library chair, bedchamber clock stopped at the exact time of his death, his Masonic apron and a silver trowel, both used by Washington when the cornerstone was laid for the Capitol Building in 1793.

You can also get a great view from the 9th story observatory.

George Washington Masonic National Memorial
101 Callahan Drive at Duke and King Streets
Alexandria, Virginia 22301 (map it)

 Dates and Times - Daily 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Guided tours provide access to areas other then the mezzanine level, but not all areas are open to the public.  Tours at 9:30, 10:30, 11:30 a.m., 1:00 and 2:00 and  3:00 p.m., excluding major holidays. 

Tickets - Admission and tours are free.

Nearest Metro Subway Station - King Street, Green, Blue and Yellow lines, then a 3-block walk

Parking - Free parking is available.

Images - interior and observation deck photos courtesy of George Washington Masonic National Memorial, all others from personal collection.

Images - Interiors - The George Washington Masonic National Memorial , exteriors - personal collection

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