The Rich History of Masonry & Kalispell Lodge 42

In 1892, a group of 17 charter members founded Kalispell Lodge No. 42, marking the beginning of Masonic history in the area. Initially, lodge meetings were held in various locations before construction on the lodge hall began in 1904. However, when the Great Northern Railway relocated its division point to Whitefish, work came to a halt, leaving the project unfinished.

Despite this setback, the town remained optimistic about their future, and the Renaissance Revival-style temple was completed in 1905. Designed by architect George Shanley, the lodge hall sat atop the building, while commercial tenants took up residence on the ground floor, including J.C. Penney’s from 1924 to 1956.

During World War I, a local store called the Century Club operated out of the basement, where a group of women known as “liberty-loving women” worked tirelessly to create essential items for soldiers. These women, including one who had also knitted during the Civil War era, sewed and knit clothing, blankets, and other supplies, raising $2,000 for the Red Cross.

By 1922, Kalispell Lodge No. 42 had grown significantly, with over 400 members taking up residence in the upstairs lodge hall. While some changes have been made to the building over the years, its original Renaissance Revival-style upper story has retained much of its grandeur, featuring stunning arched windows, intricate brickwork, and ornate details made from concrete, rough-cut stone, and more.

Montana’s Masonic history began with the establishment of Idaho City Lodge, which received its charter from the Grand Lodge of Nebraska in 1863. This marked an important milestone in the state’s development as a Masonic community, and on April 23, 1864, Idaho City became the first lodge to raise a Master Mason in Montana.

However, Idaho City Lodge was short-lived, closing later that year. Despite this setback, other lodges began to emerge, including Virginia City, which received its charter from the Grand Lodge of Kansas in 1864. This was followed by two more lodges chartered by the Grand Lodge of Colorado: Montana Lodge in Ennis and Helena Lodge.

These early lodges laid the groundwork for the formation of the Grand Lodge of Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of Montana, which took place on January 26, 1866, when Virginia City Lodge and Helena Lodge met at Virginia City. This marked a significant moment in Montana’s Masonic history, as these two lodges came together to form the first official Grand Lodge in the state.

The establishment of this Grand Lodge paved the way for the growth and development of Masonry in Montana, setting the stage for the many lodges that would follow in its footsteps.

The Grand Lodge of Montana, situated in Helena, has served as the headquarters for the state’s Masonic community since its founding in 1868. The lodge has played a significant role in shaping Montana’s history, with many Masonic lodges being among the first social organizations to form in the state’s early mining camps.

Today, the Grand Lodge serves as a treasure trove of historical artifacts, including some of the most iconic and revered items in Masonic history. One such artifact is Meriwether Lewis’s masonic apron, which has become an enduring symbol of the lodge’s commitment to preserving its rich past. Lewis was known to have treasured his apron, considering it one of his most prized possessions.

The significance of Lewis’s apron lies not only in its historical value but also in its association with the early days of Masonry in Montana. As the first Freemason to traverse the territory that would become the state, Lewis’s travels paved the way for future generations of Masons to establish themselves in the region.

One notable artifact in the Grand Lodge’s collection is O.C. Seltzer’s painting of the first Masonic meeting in Montana, which took place at Mullan Pass on September 23, 1862. The painting depicts three Freemasons camping together in the Rocky Mountains and serves as a poignant reminder of the early days of the lodge.

The Grand Lodge has continued to thrive since its inception, with Freemasons regularly gathering within its walls. From 1868 to present, this stunning Art Deco building has served as a testament to the enduring spirit of Masonry in Montana, housing many treasures that shed light on the state’s fascinating history.