Matthew Crane honors family legacy of civic involvement and business in Phoenix

The City of Phoenix held a significant meeting on July 2, 2025, to discuss the upcoming rededication ceremony of the Phoenix Masonic Temple cornerstone, scheduled for February 2025. The event aims to honor the historical contributions of the Lures family, particularly George H.N. Lures, a founding member of the Masonic Temple and a prominent figure in Phoenix's early development.

Matthew Crane, the great-great-grandson of George H.N. Lures, addressed attendees, sharing insights into his family's legacy and their impact on the community. He highlighted the journey of his great-great-grandparents, who immigrated from Northern Germany in the late 1860s. Crane recounted their struggles and achievements, including establishing a wheelwright business that evolved into the Hotel Lures, which operated for nearly a century.

Crane emphasized the importance of civic engagement, noting that his ancestor was instrumental in forming the Phoenix Volunteer Fire Department and served on the city council during its early years. He also mentioned Lures' role in shaping the educational landscape of Phoenix, advocating for the separation of school districts to reduce public corruption.

The meeting underscored the significance of the rededication ceremony as a celebration of local history and the enduring legacy of families like the Lures, who played a vital role in the growth of Phoenix. The event is expected to draw attention to the contributions of early settlers and their influence on the city's development.