(University of Oregon, 2019-09-18) Seaver, Tara; Buckley, James
This thesis examines the adaptive reuse of Masonic buildings in Portland, Oregon. Buildings constructed by the Freemasons, a fraternal organization, provide a tangible link to uncovering a chapter of social history not thoroughly documented in the state of Oregon, and this paper examines how examples of the reuse of Masonic buildings for new functions can help communities share this history. To better understand the best methods of preserving the history of Freemasonry through reuse of Masonic buildings, this research poses two key questions. First, how have historic Masonic buildings been preserved in Portland, OR. Second, to what extent does this preservation address the compatibility of the new use with the history of these types of buildings? In answering these questions, this thesis will explore the current challenges facing historic Masonic buildings in Oregon and offer recommendations for preserving them in Oregon.
