The Fraternal Temple

In 1905 three fraternal organizations, the Woodmen of the World Lodge, the Independent Organization of Odd Fellows, and the Masons built this structure by selling shares in the Fraternal Temple Company for $10.00 per share.  This building was erected at an expense of $8,000.00 and did not incur debt when it was built.  The temple has four levels in the rear of the building with two levels in the forefront.  A large upstairs meeting room has hosted many meetings, events, and dances. 

The Fraternal Temple, date unknown, courtesy of the Juliaetta-Kendrick Heritage Foundation.

Traditionally the lower floor was used as a business space.  The first business located in the building was the Beehive, a grocery store owned by Hayslip and Nomian.  In 1909 Rowland’s Furniture & Undertaking shared the space with a roller skating rink operated by Fred Situs.  Morgan Grocery, Rider’s Grocery, Higley’s Grocery, and Kendrick Table Supply all have been building tenants.  The mezzanine level, which initially served as an apartment, has been the home of the Hill & Valley Garden Club for the last 50 years.

The Fraternal Temple, date unknown, courtesy of the Juliaetta-Kendrick Heritage Foundation.

When the Masonic Lodge disbanded in 1980, the building was turned over to Kendrick Grange #413.  The lower area is now rented out for community/family events.  The Juliaetta– Kendrick Heritage Foundation has combined renovation efforts with the present tenants.  Upon completion of the renovation the Juliaetta– Kendrick Heritage Foundation will call the second floor area home.  This space will provide a museum gallery, meeting space, a historical research facility, and archival cataloging and storage area.

References:

Juliaetta-Kendrick Heritage Foundation

Julin, Suzanne. United States Department of the Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Inventory Nomination Form. Missoula, MT, September 30, 2011.

Otness, Lillian W. A Great Good Country: A guide to Historic Moscow and Latah County, Idaho. (Moscow: Latah County Historic Society, 1983), 153.

The Fraternal Temple, date unknown, courtesy of the Juliaetta-Kendrick Heritage Foundation.