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Upon completion in 1894 as an
Oddfellow’s Hall—the building is prominently
situated on a corner of the town square—this structure was deemed “an
ornament to the city and one of the most substantial business blocks.” It
was purchased in 1903 by the Tuscan Lodge #44, an African-American Masonic
Order that made it a community center for more than a century. During the
years of racial segregation, this building hosted musical concerts by Cab
Calloway, Miles Davis, and Duke Ellington.
The ill effects of deferred
maintenance, however, forced the Masons to vacate the property eight years
ago. While the group continues to seek funding for rehabilitation, the
lodge’s condition has grown progressively worse. Meanwhile, the city is
monitoring the property for potential condemnation.
Photo credit: LPCI
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