Standing prominently atop Shooter’s Hill, the George Washington Masonic National Memorial is one of Alexandria’s most recognizable landmarks. This striking neoclassical shrine also serves as a research center, performing arts venue, library, community center and meeting site for Masonic lodge members. Explore exhibits tracing the history of Freemasonry as well as the life of the organization’s most famous member, George Washington. Ride the elevator to the memorial’s ninth-floor observation deck to enjoy wonderful views over the surrounding area.
Constructed in the 1920s, the memorial was modeled after Egypt’s Lighthouse of Alexandria. It was built to honor George Washington, a Freemason who became Worshipful Master of Alexandria Lodge No. 22 in 1788. Step inside the memorial’s main entrance hall, where you’ll see a 17-foot (5-meter) bronze statue depicting Washington as lodge master. Inspect the 46-foot-long (14-meter) murals on either side of the statue, one of which shows Washington laying the U.S. Capitol cornerstone in a Masonic ceremony. The memorial also features beautiful stained-glass windows dedicated to Washington and 16 other prominent Freemasons.
Walk around the memorial’s nine floors and find many other interesting displays and exhibits related to Washington and the history of Freemasonry. Look for the Washington family Bible on the fourth floor. Admire the historic furniture decorating the Replica Lodge Room, which belonged to Alexandria’s first Masonic lodge. Spot a few exhibits dedicated to Shriners, a fraternity based on the Masonic principles.
Don’t miss the exceptional vistas from the memorial’s 333-foot-high (100-meter) tower. Enjoy 360-degree views overlooking the Potomac River, Old Town Alexandria, Mount Vernon, the Maryland shore, northern Virginia and all of Washington, D.C.
The George Washington Masonic National Memorial is open daily, with regular holiday closures. General admission tickets allow access to exhibits on the first and second floors. Pay an additional fee for the guided tours, which include access to the tower exhibits and observation deck. To get here, take the metro to King Station. Discover the fascinating history of Freemasonry at this important memorial.
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