In April of 1864, the New York State Legislature officially recognized the Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Home as the body that would be vested with the title of the real estate of the Fraternity. They were empowered to build and maintain a Masonic Hall in New York City and use any funds generated to support the Masonic Home in Utica.

The Masonic Home was built in Utica because of its central location in the State of New York. The first residents moved in on May 1, 1893 and within 30 years, expanded to include a building for 360 adults, a hospital, several dormitories for the children and a 200-acre working farm that supplied all food stuffs for those who lived on campus, as well as products that could be sold to generate additional revenue.

In the 1920’s, the property at Round Lake was purchased to afford the children and residents of the home an opportunity to get out of the city in the summer, and enjoy the Adirondacks. Round Lake is located about 40 minutes north of the Utica Campus, and is currently the home of the Camp Turk Summer program for children ages 8 to 16.

The DeWint House, George Washington’s Headquarters Historic Site in Tappan New York, was purchased by the Masons in the early 1930’s when the location was in danger of being razed. The renovation of the property was funded, and today hundreds of visitors can enjoy the place where General George Washington stayed on several occasions between 1780 and 1783. (dewinthouse.com)

Today, The Masonic Care Community offers unparalled healthcare options to all. The Camp Turk program at Round Lake in Northern Oneida County welcomes children ages 8 to 16 to enjoy fun filled weeks at summer camp in the Adirondacks, the DeWint House is open all year; hosting thousands of visitors to the George Washington Historic Site, and the Masonic Hall in New York City continues to be a distinct facility that welcomes Masons and non-Masons alike.