Major Restoration of Prince Hall Masonic Temple in Atlanta Completes with $13 Million Funding

Historic Restoration of the Prince Hall Masonic Temple in Atlanta

The Prince Hall Masonic Temple, an important site located in Atlanta, Georgia, has officially undergone a significant restoration, marking a new chapter in its storied history. Following a celebratory ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 23, 2026, the restoration process, which cost $13 million, has preserved and revitalized a landmark that holds great cultural significance for the African American community.

Originally built in 1937, the Temple has long been a cornerstone for Black enterprise and civic leadership. It played a vital role in the development of the media landscape with WERD, the nation’s first black-owned radio station, and served as the headquarters for the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), where the legendary Martin Luther King Jr. was known to work for many years. The restoration of this location not only honors its past but also aims to rejuvenate its role in the community today.

Financing for this ambitious project came from a variety of sources, including Federal and Georgia Historic Tax Credits and Federal New Markets Tax Credits (NMTCs). Brian Wishneff & Associates acted as the tax credit advisor, expertly structuring the tax strategy required to fund such a complex project. They managed to secure over $7.4 million in tax credit equity proceeds and put together a tax credit bridge loan that successfully aligned multiple stakeholders, including tax credit investors and Community Development Entities, ensuring every financial source was harnessed.

Edward Bowen, the Project Manager representing the Masons, noted that the intricate deal structure necessitated a strategic approach. He stated, “Wishneff developed and implemented a thoughtful approach that accommodated the interests of all parties involved and permitted the use of all funding sources.” This collaborative effort demonstrated the commitment to maintaining the integrity and purpose of the Temple.

Erik Wishneff, CEO of Brian Wishneff & Associates, expressed his enthusiasm about the project, stating, “It was an amazing opportunity to be involved in such an iconic project. While the funding sources for this project were complex, we navigated the requirements of each financial partner to develop an approach that worked for all parties.”

The newly restored building will serve multiple functions within the community. On the first floor, the National Park Service will showcase new exhibits that reinterpret the historic office spaces in conjunction with the SCLC. The second floor is set to house the Center for Civic Innovation, promoting ongoing community engagement and innovation. Meanwhile, the third floor's traditional role as meeting space for the Masons will continue, while also being available for public use, further bridging historical significance with contemporary community needs.

In conclusion, the restoration of the Prince Hall Masonic Temple represents more than just a renovation; it signifies the commitment to preserving a vital part of Atlanta's history. This initiative encapsulates the essence of community collaboration, honoring the past while paving the way for future generations to engage with a significant cultural landmark.