Turn the Page Campaign
Once upon a time, the Library at the Memorial was intended to become the foremost national Masonic research library.
Our Library got off to a strong start in 1931, with an initial donation of 6,000 books from the estate of Rae John Lemert, Grand Historian of Montana. With funding provided by the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, the Library was finally dedicated on February 22, 1952, and named for Louis A. Watres (Past Grand Master of Pennsylvania, 1916-1917 and GWMNMA President, 1918–1937). Occupying a beautiful Art Deco space on the sixth floor, the Library soon became a destination for researchers and a memorable experience for tourists.
In the years since, the Library’s collections have grown, and notably it contains nearly all of the published proceedings of the American Masonic bodies. Unfortunately, while the material in the Library expanded, the space itself fell into disuse. It was subtracted from the daily guided tours and eventually nearly forgotten by the researchers who might otherwise have relied upon it. Significant water damage is now observed on all of its walls, and the sixth floor is in need of major restoration.
That work begins now!
“We’re at a pivotal moment where we can enhance the study of American Freemasonry by creating a specialized research library,” said Matthew Szramoski, the Memorial’s Executive Director. “Our goal is to establish a leading center for Masonic scholarship, focusing on Grand Lodges, American Masonic history, George Washington, and the York Rite.”
The project involves restoring the physical space: repairing damage, updating facilities, laying new carpet, adding more shelves, crafting new display cabinets, and creating a comfortable study area. It also means establishing a standard catalog for our library holdings and our archives. Your support is crucial to make this vision a reality. Help us build a library where the legacy of Freemasonry can be explored and celebrated, ensuring it remains a place of Light and learning for all.
You can support the Turn the Page campaign’s work by making a contribution today. Make a gift of $100 or more to our new Library Restoration efforts and receive a copy of Mark Tabbert’s book, A Deserving Brother: George Washington and Freemasonry as a token of our thanks!
Jurisdictional Sponsorship
Support the preservation of history at the George Washington Masonic National Memorial! With a $10,000 contribution, you can sponsor the preservation of a Masonic Jurisdiction’s book collection in our library and digital archives. Your generosity ensures these treasures are protected for future generations. Contact us to make a lasting impact today! To discuss the options, please contact Director of Development Tim Strawn at tstrawn@gwmemorial.org.
