The Scottish Rite Valley of Peoria, Illinois has sold their building to a California real estate developer according to a news report and the valley’s website.
The landmark which was built in 1925 is on the National Register of Historic Places will be used to create “a “theater district” in Peoria, modeled after Galesburg’s (Illinois) Orpheum.” according to the newspaper report.
For once one of these stories about a Masonic body selling their building has a silver line. According to the article the new owner of the building, Kim Blickenstaff, will allow the Masonic body to continue to meet in the building they have been working in for nearly a century. “I told them they could use it forever,” said Blickenstaff, who is placing the property in a trust. “It won’t be inherited by my children…It’s going to be preserved for the community.” the article says.
The building will also still be available to rent for weddings and other events.
