fraternal organizations; opera houses and theatre; German immigrants/immigration, sports
Marker Year
1967
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark
Yes
Marker Location
Austin Scottish Rite Theater, SE corner 18th and Lavaca streets
Private Property
No
Marker Condition
In Situ
Marker Size
RTHL medallion and plate
Marker Text
Built 1871-72 as an opera house by Austin Turn Verein, a German social society. Used for gymnastics, feasting and dancing, it was a social center for years. Purchased in 1912 for Ben Hur Shrine Temple and remodeled, blending Southwest and Mission style architecture with Arabic accents. Transferred in 1914 to Scottish Rite bodies of Austin who allow other Masonic groups to meet here. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1967