House of the Temple | Northwest Washington

The House of the Temple is a Masonic temple located in Northwest Washington, D.C. It serves as the headquarters of the Supreme Council, 33°, Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Southern Jurisdiction, U.S.A.

Visual Characteristics

The structure is a neoclassical building constructed primarily of granite. It features a prominent portico with eight Corinthian columns supporting a pediment. The facade is white, contrasting with the grey granite base. The building stands approximately 100 feet tall and is designed in the style of a Greek temple, specifically referencing the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus.

Location & Access Logistics

The House of the Temple is situated at 1733 Sixteenth Street NW, Washington, D.C. It is approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) north of the White House. Public transportation options include Metrobus routes 52, 53, and 54, which stop within a 0.2-mile (0.3 km) radius. Limited street parking is available in the surrounding residential area, but dedicated visitor parking is not provided.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the House of the Temple began in 1911 and was completed in 1915. The architect was John Russell Pope. Its original purpose was to serve as the administrative center and ceremonial meeting place for the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry in the Southern Jurisdiction.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can view the exterior architecture and the surrounding grounds. Interior tours are available by appointment only, typically focusing on the history of the Scottish Rite and the building's design. Access to specific rooms, such as the Grand Hall and the Library, is restricted to members or those on scheduled tours.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available for visitors during scheduled tours. Limited shaded areas are present on the grounds. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available in the vicinity. No food vendors are located on-site; dining options are available in nearby commercial districts.

Best Time to Visit

For exterior photography, morning light provides optimal illumination on the eastern facade. The best months for visiting are April through October, offering milder weather for exploring the exterior. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

The House of the Temple is rumored to contain a hidden chamber, though this has never been officially confirmed. It is also known for housing a significant collection of Masonic artifacts and historical documents.

Nearby Landmarks

• National Geographic Society (0.3km Southwest)
• Phillips Collection (0.4km West)
• Embassy Row (0.6km Northwest)
• Walter Reed Army Medical Center (historic site) (1.2km North)
• National Museum of American History (2.0km South)