Travel:

Trenton, NJ (USA)
American Revolution

War Memorial, Old Masonic Lodge

by Russ Lockwood


Old Masonic Lodge

Built in 1793, this was the meeting place of Trenton's first lodge. In 1867, the Masons moved to larger quarters and the city purchased the building, later selling it back to the Masons in 1914.

The Trenton Convention and Visitors Center operates out of the first floor. A collection of pamphlets on area attractions, plus an excellent map ("Transit Guide for Trenton, NJ" by NJ Transit -- ignore the title, it has an excellent street plan). The original meeting room has been restored on the second floor.

The Lodge is across the street from the Old Barracks Museum and is recommended to start your trip here to gather the maps and other literature.

War Memorial

Across the street from the Old Masonic Lodge and within a block of the Old Barracks Museum, the War Memorial is currently closed for major renovation, due for completion in mid to late 1998.

Built in the 1930s as a community center, its ornate interior and stage is home to the Trenton Symphony, among other civic groups. It also boasts a 1926 organ on rising pedastal, used not only for concerts, but for recreating the silent movie era, when the organ provided the music for silent films.

Directions Etc.

The Willow Street exit off Rte 29 brings you directly into Trenton by the War Memorial, Old Barracks Museum, and Old Masonic Lodge.

Parking is available at not charge on weekends behind the barracks museum in the state lot, or in the lot across from the War Memorial. During the week, parking is very much restricted. Pay lots are available behind the State Museum, across the street from the Amtrak/NJ Transit train station (although that is a bit of a walk--about 9 blocks from the Old Barracks Museum). Other lots are in Trenton. The Trent House has a limited number of spaces (6 or 7) available for its visitors.

More Trenton


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