As per all my travels, when I venture out of my comfy surroundings in Austin, I immediately seek out any Masonic places of interest. As I am currently in Indianapolis, Indiana, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to visit the renowned Scottish Rite Cathedral. Having either visited or attended stated meetings in at least half a dozen Scottish Rite Temples around the country, I can honestly say that this particular building was beyond anything I have ever beheld.
A lot of information can be found about the building itself on the official website. However, it isn’t until you are actually inside this enormous, full city block sized building that you can even begin to appreciate all the treasure and history which is contained within - and I was fortunate enough to have a private tour by one of my fellow SR Brothers.
The Cathedral is the largest Masonic building, and considered by many as the finest example of Neo-Gothic architecture, in the United States. The main tower features a 54-bell carillon and rises 212 feet above Indianapolis. It also has a floating ballroom. Other features are patterned ceilings, ornate carved woodwork, and artistic stained-glass windows. The auditorium has 1200 seats, and has been called a beautiful testimony to craftsmanship. It also has a large pipe organ.
Public tours are given from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm during the week by same very knowledgeable Rite members. You can also take a virtual tour - but it is no substitute for the real experience.
