Masonic Temple

The architect, Alex Cullen, was commissioned in 1903 to construct new premises in Cadzow Street, Hamilton for Lodge Hamilton Kilwinning No. 7. The new premises were required due to their existing temple being required to be demolished to allow tramcars to get from Cadzow Street to the tramway traction house in Bourned Street; this demolition at the "Bottom Cross" in Hamilton opened a way through to form Keith Street.

The Masonic Buildings were opened in 1904 and have been classified as a Category B listed building. It is constructed in the Scots Renaissance style with stugged coursers and polished ashlar dressings which create many distinctive features on the exterior of the building.

The interior of the building has changed very little since constructed in 1904 except for the addition of two War Memorial plaques. The original furniture and fittings are still used in the lodge premises and many internal features of Masonic symbolism are in evidence. There are particularly good stained glass features within the building.

The buildings are believed to be one of only two examples of the public commissions of Alex Cullen who later founded the practice of Cullen, Lochhead and Brown, an architectural practice which still practises within Hamilton to the present.

Lodge Hamilton Kilwinning No.7 is the oldest masonic lodge in Lanarkshire and has existed in the town of Hamilton since the late 17th century. The lodge has minutes dating back to 1695 and financial records and artefacts dating back into 1680s.

Disabled access can be difficult as there are two flights of stairs.

On display will be a "set up" Masonic Lodge amd a display of records back to the 17th century.