Secret Societies in Downtown Portland

Historic Buildings Forming Portland’s Social Scene

Fraternal lodges, also known as secret societies, played an important social role in Portland in the early 20th century. These organizations not only provided an active social outlet in the pre-electronic age, but also offered a financial safety net before government programs fulfilled that need. We’ll view six of these architecturally significant and historic fraternal buildings and have a brief look inside several:

• Masonic Temple (1927) – now Mark Building and the annex to the Portland Art Museum
• Odd Fellows Building (1925) – now Chaucer Court
• Pythian Building (1907)
• Elks Temple (1923) – now Sentinel Hotel
• Neighbors of Woodcraft (1928) – now the Tiffany Center
• Scottish Rite Masonic Center (1902)

Mark Building, Miller Gallery
Portland Art Museum
1219 SW Park Ave
Portland, OR 97205

Up to 3 hours, depending on interior viewing times.

$15.  Cash or check accepted at the start of the tour, or you may pay online.

Easy – This is a downtown walk covering less than 1 mile.

• Streetcar NS Line
• Streetcar A+B Loops
• Bus Lines 6, 15, 38, 45, 51, 55, 58, 68, 92, 96

Parking in the neighborhood is limited. There is good access to the South Park Blocks on public transit.

Tour Location