Last week, things looked bleak for the world’s largest Masonic Temple. A significant amount of taxes was owed on the property and, according to the Detroit Free Press, it was in danger of falling into foreclosure.
The building, the Detroit Masonic Temple, designed by architect George Mason, has been a part of the Motor City’s history for nearly 100 years. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980 and is described as the largest building of its kind in the world. The stage of the auditorium is the second largest in the United States. But it’s historical significance couldn’t save it: it would take a rock star.
Enter Jack White. Called the 70th greatest guitarist of all time by Rolling Stone, the Detroit native founded the garage rock band The White Stripes in the 1990s. The White Stripes, which disbanded in 2011, was both a commercial and critical success.
White had fond memories of the building since his mother had worked as an usher in the theater. He’s also played at the theater numerous times, including twice last year.
When White found out that the building was facing tax problems, he stepped in. He paid the entire $142,000 tax balance and did so quietly: he initially remained anonymous. However, Detroit Masonic Temple Association President Roger Sobran eventually revealed White’s identity, saying:
Jack’s donation could not have come at a better time and we are eternally grateful to him for it. Jack’s magnanimous generosity and unflinching loyalty to this historic building and his Detroit roots is appreciated beyond words.
The Detroit Masonic Temple Association also indicated that it would rename the temple’s theater the Jack White Theater.
Music lovers everywhere can now rest, knowing that the temple – which has hosted such acts as The Metropolitan Opera, The Rolling Stones, Frank Zappa, and The Who – will keep its doors open. Events are planned for as early as next weekend.
