
A dispensation was issued on May 5, 1919 to form a lodge at Sedalia, Colorado. This dispensation was granted by MW Brother Clarence M. Kellogg. The Lodge was known as Sedalia Lodge U.D.
The Lodge held 12 regular communications before the next Grand Lodge session and was congratulated by the Committee on Returns and Work for the neat and careful keeping of records. The Charter was granted October 8, 1919 under the name of Douglas Lodge #153 with 32 charter members. Our first Worshipful Master was Joseph Harrison Cunningham.
Constitution of the Lodge was held October 20, 1919 with
MW Brother Frank L. Bishop officiating. March 30, 1937, Brother LOUIS R. HIGBY purchased the present Lodge building on the corner of 3rd and Wilcox in Castle Rock as a trustee of Douglas Lodge. The building was built in 1904 for the First National Bank of Douglas County which occupied the building for 29 years. During the depression in 1933, the bank closed and the building stood vacant until the Lodge purchase in 1937.
Since that time, the Brothers of Douglas Lodge #153 have been an integral part of the Castle Rock community and throughout all of Douglas County, and across Colorado. As you drive around town, stop by a library, or visit a public park, there’s a good chance that a Brother from Douglas Lodge #153 played a role in that history. One of teh most recognizable names in our community is Brother Phillip S. Miller, whose extensive contributions in the area have led to his name on a number of public amenities. There are countless examples of strong community leaders, remarkable charitable works and simple acts of brotherhood that have helped build the fabric of our community.

The Lodge itself is an assembly of Masons – the people, not the building. But, our Lodge building is a historic one, and is a key fixture in the heart of Castle Rock. Throughout the years we have been able to maintain its historic character while continuing to work on more functional and modern updates to allow it to serve as a hub for Masons, their families, and our community. The Douglas Masonic Temple Association oversees our building and the upkeep and renovations, most of which are led by Brothers who freely give their time to maintain this as a gathering place for fellowship and community. In 2025, we rededicated our dining hall as Higby Hall in honor of this timeless contribution from our brother nearly 100 years ago, that provided a home for continued fellowship.
Below you will find some of our favorite articles written by Brothers to recognize important contributions from our Brothers throughout history. We are proud of the heritage of our communities and our Lodge. Here, we hope to pay homage to a small fraction of those Brothers who have come before us, lighting the way for freemasonry in Douglas County.



