Dayton Masonic Center Launches $20 Million Centennial Campaign to Preserve Historic Landmark

The Dayton Masonic Center has launched the Centennial Cornerstone Campaign, a three-year, $20 million initiative designed to preserve the historic building and ensure its continued role as a vibrant community gathering place. This comprehensive preservation effort begins with an online virtual fundraising auction running through November 19th, marking the initial phase of a campaign that aims to secure the building's future for generations to come.

Constructed in 1926, the Dayton Masonic Center has served as a cornerstone of Dayton's civic and cultural life for nearly a century. Located in the Grafton Hill historic district along the banks of the Great Miami River, the building offers stunning views of downtown Dayton while showcasing architectural significance through its use of premium materials including Bedford stone, Vermont marble, Alabama limestone, and Tennessee marble. The 265-foot by 190-foot structure was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986, recognizing its historical and architectural importance.

The facility houses multiple community spaces including a 1,700-seat auditorium, a 600-seat banquet hall, Masonic lodges, and the Dayton Dyslexia Center. The fundraising campaign represents a strategic investment in both preserving this architectural masterpiece and enhancing its community functionality. The initiative focuses on three primary objectives: completing critical renovations to maintain the building's structural integrity, establishing a sustainable endowment for long-term financial stability, and developing new programs that will strengthen the Center's role in Dayton's cultural landscape.

Doug Sorrell, a 33rd Degree Mason and Past Potentate of Antioch Shrine, emphasized the campaign's significance, stating, "I am proud to be a part of this initiative to ensure the future of this historic and iconic home of the fraternity I have loved for decades. The Dayton Masonic Center is more than a building. It's where memories are made and service begins." This sentiment reflects the broader community value of preserving spaces that foster civic engagement and cultural connection.

The campaign's financial structure includes establishing a $20 million endowment projected to generate approximately $1 million annually for operations and improvements. This sustainable funding model will ensure the Dayton Masonic Center remains an accessible venue for civic events, cultural celebrations, and community programs while maintaining its architectural heritage. Supporters can participate in current fundraising efforts through the virtual auction available at https://www.daytonmasoniccenter.com/fundraising-auction.

The preservation initiative represents a significant investment in maintaining Dayton's architectural heritage while ensuring the continued use of the facility for community gatherings and cultural events. The campaign's success will determine the building's ability to serve Dayton residents for another century, preserving both its physical structure and its role as a gathering place that fosters community bonding and civic pride. This charitable effort demonstrates how strategic preservation campaigns can maintain historic landmarks while adapting them for contemporary community needs.