HAMMOND | Its circus and stage productions used to command audiences of thousands, but a much smaller audience gathered Tuesday morning outside the century-old Masonic Temple on Muenich Court.
This time, it was to witness the beginning of its demolition.
The iconic 65,000-square-foot Gothic building that was once the hub of social activity for many Hammond residents met the claw of an excavator, driven by Mayor Thomas McDermott, Jr., clearing the way for the new Hammond Urban Academy.
McDermott said that while the red brick and limestone facade looks well preserved, it masks an interior that is beyond repair.
Tony Rodriguez, head Mason at the Garfield Lodge, said by the time they left the building in 1999, there already was significant water damage, and the ceiling was beginning to collapse in certain areas.
"It's a beautiful building," he said. "The massive cost of maintaining the building became overwhelming."
Garfield Lodge member Mark Schaade said the building was known for its massive auditorium and expansive ballroom, home to some of the city's biggest soirees.
