The Louisville Fortnightly Club met Thursday, March 21 at Lake Tiak O’Khata. It was a beautiful, sunny spring day! Inside, in the VIP room, floral bouquets made striking centerpieces on each table. Everyone was served a delicious refreshment plate, which included chicken salad, cheese straws, and strawberry pretzel dessert. There were fifteen members and two guests present. Hostesses were Mrs. Richard Hunt, Mrs. Alan Hurst, and Mrs. Stanley Hathorn.
Mrs. Hathorn, President, welcomed everyone. Mrs. Alan Hurst led everyone in reciting Psalm 23 and reminded each of us to find comfort in it during tumultuous times. Mrs. Hathorn introduced Mr. Jeremy Cummins who gave a wonderful program on Louisville’s future Boutique Hotel, The Mason.
In 2018, Mr. Cummins received a call from the Masons alerting him they wanted to sell the building. Both Jeremy and Heather were immediately interested in this ninety seven year old building since it had so much history. Previously, there was a hardware store in the basement, a furniture store on ground level, and the Masonic Temple on the top floor. At one point, the post office was housed there before the existing one was built. There were also law offices. Both Jeremy and Heather knew they “wanted to purchase Louisville history” and shortly thereafter began the exciting adventure of converting the Masonic Temple to an upscale hotel.
Trying to maintain as much of the integrity of the building as they could, Jeremy and Heather used the original crystal handles on every door. Wood and ceiling tin have been salvaged and refinished. Everything has been rewired and re-plumbed. There are 7 bedrooms; 5 with king size beds and 2 with Queen size beds. Two of the rooms join. There is a bridal suite, groom’s room, gathering room, event room, and a full commercial kitchen. The hotel will have a French Country theme with beautiful linens and furnishing. A lift chair is available for those who need assistance going upstairs. Both Jeremy and Heather have planned out every minute detail and the fruition of their expertise will be enjoyed by all who have the privilege of visiting the Mason.
Everyone thoroughly enjoyed hearing Mr. Cummins. What a fascinating program venture.
Next Mrs. Hathorn called the club into a business meeting. Members recited the Pledge of Allegiance and Club Collect. The Roll Call, Reading of the Minutes and Treasurer’s Report followed. Lastly, the gorgeous floral arrangements were given as door prizes. The meting was adjourned.
