Degree of Honor Building

By November 1959, Degree of Honor was recognized as one of the largest fraternal benefit societies in the country, and was still run entirely by women.[1]

Beyond boasting a large, active membership, Degree of Honor’s financial strength was unquestionable: The Association’s surplus was so substantial that the State of Minnesota mandated its reduction.[2]

Edna Dugan, Degree of Honor’s second National President, oversaw the groundbreaking of the Building’s construction at 325 Cedar Street in Saint Paul, Minnesota in the spring of 1960. By August of the next year, The Degree of Honor Building was completed on time and was 98 percent occupied at its grand opening.

The building’s façade, sheathed ten stories high in black and white granite, exemplifies the stark sophistication and modernity that defined mid-century architectural design. Tastefully appointed and paid for in cash, The Degree of Honor Building symbolized more than financial stability: As Saint Paul’s first edifice constructed by a women-led enterprise, it has become a lasting tribute to Degree of Honor’s legacy.

To fund strategic advances, The Association sold The Degree of Honor Building in the 1980s. As part of the sales agreement, however, the building remains named The Degree of Honor Building.

As of 2016, The Degree of Honor Building is in application to be historically designated by the National Park Service, and is undergoing a historic restoration.