"[1] As early as 1886, settlers in the farming community of Auburn (originally named Slaughter) and the Green and White River valleys gathered to discuss the feasibility of forming a local Masonic lodge.

Lacey, liveryman and hotel owner, and Aaron Neely, valley pioneer, joined the ranks of King Solomon Lodge No.

These circumstances changed considerably in 1900 when the Northern Pacific rerouted its main line over Stampede Pass directly into the city.

The rail yard was greatly expanded to accommodate the servicing of rolling stock, and the breaking and reforming of both local and transcontinental trains.

Prosperity made progressive municipal improvements possible such as the construction of the first city hall, an expanded public water system, a new library, and a high school.

After much discussion, the Lodge made a decision to erect a new temple building to accommodate its own activities, and those of its concordant groups.

Brother Aaron Neely and his wife Sarah donated a new building site on East Main and C Street SE (now Auburn Way S.), free and clear of debt and ready for development.

This event received coverage in the local press, which noted good attendance, with participation by Grand Master Tom Holman of Olympia and music by the Auburn Quartet.

Five hundred years later the style reemerged as architects began to look for new architectural inspiration during the early part of the 19th century.

Often, the formal design is distinguished by a rusticated ground level and quoining at the corners of the main facade.

Windows of a different type are often found on each floor and are commonly highlighted by strongly marked voussoirs, pilasters, spandrel panels or pediments.

Most Italian Renaissance Revival Style buildings have low pitched or flat roofs which are hidden by cornices, short parapet walls or balustrades.

Small scale examples such as depots and dwellings, utilize hip roofs with wide overhanging eaves covered in clay tile, which harkens to the Mediterranean roots of the style.

A 1952-53 set of drawings by architect Percy G. Ball of Tacoma records the modification for a morgue at the south end ground floor and basement levels.

Although no drawings depicting it survive, exterior modifications to the storefronts and windows, dating from this same decade, were likely inspired (and perhaps financed by) the National Bank of Commerce, the new ground floor tenant.

Another set of drawings by architects Don Allison & Associates of Auburn document a 1960 interior remodel of the kitchen and other Lodge spaces on the second floor.