Lighting Up Burlington' s Masonic Temple Alley Door

Cobblestone Alley in Burlington, Iowa is perhaps as not as famous as its close neighbor Snake Ally located just a half block away. But a stroll down the real cobblestone pavement reveals a few home entrances and this interesting door.

Look a little closer at the door knob and discover a Masonic emblem, positioned a third turn to the right. Turns out this alley is the backside of the local Masonic temple. The building’s front faces east with its northeast corner, the traditional cornerstone location receiving the first rays of light each day. That orientation means this weather beaten door receives the last light of the day. And in between, according to the Masons the walls hold enlightenment.

Burlington's Chained Time Portal

Next to Burlington Iowa's famous Snake Alley on the 600 block of Washington Street is a stone paved alley preserved from another time. This alley like its famous brick neighbor connects a residential street to a portion of the business district. A locked chain strung between two posts at the bottom of the alley limits access unless the key is obtained from the police. The alley is certainly accessible to pedestrians and cyclists who can maneuver around the chain. But cars and horse drawn carriages will encounter more difficult egress unless the chain is removed. When checking out Snake Alley be sure to venture eastward about 200 feet towards the river to discover this protected portal to Burlington's past.