Formerly The Assembly and Reading Rooms, the Masonic Centre was built in 1863 for the local community. Throughout its eventful history, it has been nearly burnt down, rebuilt, and extended. Residents have included the Artillery Militia, the army and the Admiralty. The building’s military connections are still evident in the coats of arms on the walls of the Main Temple. The building was sold to the Freemasons in 1919.
