Historic Liberty Hall, also known as “The Masonic,” was built in 1860 by Miles L. Tracy on the site of the old Jakway Hotel at Main and 9th streets in Honesdale. When the Confederacy fired on Fort Sumter, the public was called to a meeting of “all Union and Constitution-Loving Men, without regard to party, to be held at Liberty Hall,” the first of many rallies to support the Union cause. They established committees to encourage enlistment and raise funds for the support of families left at home. In 1879, in order to force construction of a new courthouse, the county commissioners tore down the old building, and during the construction period, Liberty Hall briefly housed the courts. During its long life, Liberty Hall has housed a roller-skating rink, a bowling alley and today, the Masonic Lodge and ground floor businesses.

From the collection of the Wayne County Historical Society, 810 Main St., Honesdale. The museum and research library are open Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and museum only from 12 noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday.