Excelsior Lodge of Industry Masonic Temple
21-25 Electra Street WILLIAMSTOWN, Hobsons Bay City
Electra Street Heritage Precinct
Statement of Significance
The Excelsior Lodge of Industry Masonic Temple, comprising the Hall designed by CJ Polain and constructed by RT Leak in 1890 and the 1932 addition designed by John W Parry and constructed by JH Whitham, at 21-25 Electra Street, Williamstown.
How is it Significant?The Excelsior Lodge of Industry Masonic Temple at 21-25 Electra Street, Williamstown is of local historic, social and aesthetic significance to the City of Hobsons Bay.
Why is it Significant?Historically and socially, it is significant for its strong associations with the early development of Masonic associations as the oldest known purpose built Masonic temple in the city. As a large architect designed building on a prominent site close to the Mechanics Institute the complex provides a powerful illustration of the importance of Masonic associations in the development of the Williamstown community during the nineteenth century and early twentieth century. The 1932 addition demonstrates the significant increase in membership of the Masonic societies in the period prior to World War 2. (AHC criteria A4 and G1)
Aesthetically, the 1890-91 building is significant as a superior example of a Masonic Temple, with notable design detail that expresses its Masonic role and demonstrates the importance of Masonic Societies in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. It relates to the nearby Mechanics Institute building and makes a significant contribution to the historic character of Electra Street as part of the important grouping of public buildings in this area. (AHC criteria E1 and F1)
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FORMER MORGUE
Victorian Heritage Register H1512 -
WILLIAMSTOWN PRIMARY SCHOOL
Victorian Heritage Register H1639
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RESIDENCE
Victorian Heritage Register H0487
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