The first step in the erection of a Lodge Building for Roxborough Lodge No. 135, F. & A. M. in Manayunk, was taken on July 13, 1859 when a motion was presented for the appointment of a committee to consider the propriety of building a hall. 3 sites were selected, a lot owned by James Bramble situated on the corner of Green Lane and Norristown Railroad priced at $3.00 a foot; a lot owned by James Bramble situated on Main Street near Green Lane priced at $4.25 per foot and last, a lot owned by Joseph Ripka on Main Street opposite Kempton’s mill, having a front of 45 feet and 100 feet deep priced at $4.50 per foot.

On October 12, 1859, the committee, with no further recommendations, chose the latter lot on Main Street for the erection of a hall, the first floor to be used as a market house, the second floor as a general lecture or meeting room, and the third as two separate lodge rooms.