Construction on the Mendocino Masonic Temple was begun in 1866 and took 7 years to complete. Along with the Presbyterian Church on Main Street, this building is one of Mendocino’ iconic landmarks.

What makes this building instantly recognizable to anyone that has visited Mendocino is the visually arresting statue situated on top of the building’s cupola. Entitled Time and the Maiden, this beautiful sculpture was carved by Mason and local lumber mill employee, Erick Jensen, from a single block of redwood.

In his beach shack on the Big River, Erick labored over this piece in his spare time. The statue depicts Father Time, the Hourglass of Transience, the Weeping Maiden, the Anointment of Her Hair, the Acacia Branch and the Sacred Urn, the Sundered Column and the Book of Light — all symbols within the Masonic Order.

The Savings Bank of Mendocino purchased this building, deeding retention of the meeting hall and kitchen to the Masons, and has preserved and maintained it ever since.