Back to the present
The former bank on Central Avenue in Florence, Wis. As the town of Florence was laid out in the early 1880s, Hiram Fisher, father of Florence, constructed a bank on Central Avenue Block 22. (Photo provided by Florence County Historical Society)
Since 1937, the former bank building on Central Avenue in Florence, Wis., has been home to Masonic Lodge 222. (Terri Castelaz/Daily News photo)
The former bank on Central Avenue in Florence, Wis. As the town of Florence was laid out in the early 1880s, Hiram Fisher, father of Florence, constructed a bank on Central Avenue Block 22. (Photo provided by Florence County Historical Society)
Since 1937, the former bank building on Central Avenue in Florence, Wis., has been home to Masonic Lodge 222. (Terri Castelaz/Daily News photo)
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This week's "Back to present" photograph is of the former bank on Central Avenue in Florence, Wis.
As the town of Florence was laid out in the early 1880s, Hiram Fisher, father of Florence, constructed a bank on Central Avenue Block 22. E.E. Wilcox served as the first president of the bank, with Fred Evans as teller.
Fisher also started the Masonic Lodge 222 in 1882 with the fraternal brotherhood being chartered in June 1883. Josiah Collins served as the first Worshipful Master.
Upon Fisher's death, his home on Norway Street was given to the Masons as a meeting place.
The home burned in 1937, so the former bank building became the lodge's new home.
Since that time, lodge members have been meeting in the building on Central Avenue.
On Sept. 9, the Masons hosted an open house to celebrate their 140th anniversary. The organization has been active in the community since its beginning.
Two fundraisers -- a Father's Day Breakfast and Hunter's Supper -- along with member donations provides funds for a $1,000 high school scholarship and community outreach.
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The Daily News is bringing back photos of "yesteryears." Each week, an historical photograph from area museums will be posted on The Daily News' Facebook page. Readers will be asked to identify the location, as well as share a memorable experience of the location. "Back to the present" will then be published in the Wednesday edition, including a current photo. Readers can comment on The Daily News' Facebook page, or email tcastelaz@ironmountaindailynews.com with subject "Back to the present."