about us
The Rich Tapestry of the Bay City Scottish Rite Masonic Center
Nestled in the heart of Bay City lies a historic treasure, an architectural marvel that has silently witnessed pivotal moments and has been a bedrock for numerous community engagements: The Bay City Scottish Rite Masonic Center.
Upon entering, one is immediately taken aback by the ornate woodwork that adorns the building. The hand-carved intricacies, all dating back to the 1920s, speak volumes of the meticulous craftsmanship of an era gone by. Particularly eye-catching are the pomegranates that embellish the top, providing a perfect frame for countless photographs, especially during weddings and special events.
Adjacent to these artistic wonders, the center boasts a cathedral-like auditorium, grand in its stature. With a seating capacity for over 600 people, it’s an epitome of grandeur. The auditorium provides not just a stage, but a canvas, with backdrops to tailor any desired setting.
At the heart of the building’s historical significance is its unique dumbwaiter system, so special that it once drew a specialist from Canada. Hidden from the casual observer, this unique mechanism lies above, seamlessly supporting the building’s eighty-five unique backdrops.
These oil-on-canvas masterpieces, hand-painted in 1924 in Chicago, range from serene lake scenes to vibrant depictions of Arabian Nights and the Renaissance.
These aren’t merely decorations but a window into different eras and themes, offering a transformative experience for anyone fortunate enough to be present.
Climb to the fifth floor, and you’d be walking through a time capsule. The walls are adorned with photographs chronicling classes from as early as 1887. Among these is a poignant snapshot capturing the aftermath of a fire that razed the neighboring building, immortalizing the moment before its reconstruction.
This masonic center is more than just a building; it’s a theater of history and culture. Scottish Rite, known for conferring its degrees through theater and drama, brings alive characters from bygone eras. The makeup room houses authentic Koken barber chairs from the 1920s and serves as a hive of activity where brothers, untrained yet passionate, take on the role of makeup artists. Using wigs, beards, face paints, and more, they breathe life into characters, ensuring authenticity down to the smallest detail.
The Bay City Scottish Rite Masonic Center isn’t merely a building; it’s an embodiment of history, a repository of art, and above all, a testament to the indomitable spirit of the community it serves. Every nook and corner tells a tale, and every artifact is a whisper from the past, making it not just a hidden gem but a shining beacon of Bay City’s rich heritage.
Note: The Center is not currently booking events while under renovation.
Event Hosting
Timeless Elegance: Perfect for Weddings and Special Events
In the heart of Bay City, the Scottish Rite Masonic Center offers a breathtaking backdrop for weddings and events.
contact us
Visit Us
614 Center Avenue, Bay City, MI 48708
Email Us
secretary@baycityscottishrite.org
our mission
The Mission Of The Valley of Michigan
The mission of the Valley of Bay City is to inspire our members by emphasizing our Core Values:
Reverence for God, Devotion to Country, Integrity, Justice, Toleration, and Service. Ensure that activities are convenient. Provide enjoyable programs and fraternal fellowship.
