05/31/2025
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The Mooringsport Masonic Lodge first and foremost must be viewed within its proper historical context -- the discovery and development of the Caddo oil field in the early years of the 20th century. Almost overnight the tiny hamlet of Mooringsport was transformed into a rough-and-tumble bustling oil boomtown. The first successful oil well in the Caddo field was drilled in 1906, and between 1908 and 1918 production increased eleven-fold to 11,144,000 barrels. Although production began a slow decline after this peak, the local economy continued to rely heavily on oil into the post-World War II era.
Mooringsport was located in the thick of the Caddo field, which included wells on and around Caddo Lake. Old photos show that derricks were even located amidst residences in Mooringsport. Obviously, the boom meant a considerable influx of population and wealth. In 1910 Mooringsport was incorporated, and in 1916 the Masonic Lodge was built near the town’s downtown commercial district.
In a larger context, it should be noted that this transition from erecting cheaper wooden-framed buildings to "modern" two-story brick facility is a recognizable chapter in the history of northwest Louisiana. As prosperity and population increased, solely due to the oil boom growth, having a professionally designed and built building of this grandeur in 1916 conveys a major leap forward for this small community when compared to “modern” construction that was taking place in larger neighboring former port towns such as Shreveport and Jefferson, Texas.
The Mooringsport Masonic Lodge is a two story brick social facility that was built in 1916 for the local Brotherhood of Freemasons and Order of the Eastern Star. The Greek Revival styled building stands on the edge of what was once the commercial/business district of the small community of Mooringsport, located on the south shore of Caddo Lake. Despite few alterations such as replaced front and rear entrance doors, the lodge retains essentially most of its historic appearance to convey its significance as a milestone in local religious and social advancement.
In addition, starting in 1873, "Order of the Eastern Star" was the largest fraternal organization where both women and men could participate together with this building housing the local OES chapter, which included educating and preparing women for "coming of age" matron leadership roles in the state. For 1916, this should be regarded as a pioneering effort for women's equality in Louisiana history.
The building was designed by nationally renowned architect Edward F. Neild, Sr. from Shreveport who was later hired by President Truman to oversee the restoration of the White House. He also designed the Truman Presidential Library and Museum in Independence, MO. During his long career, he designed many surviving significant structures with many being listed on the National Register of Historic Places as significant buildings for their architecture.
