List of North American ethnic and religious fraternal orders

Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.

Below is an annotated list of North American ethnic and religious fraternal orders;

Ethnic

African American

American Indian

  • Alaska Native Brotherhood
  • Commissioner of Indian Affairs and other public officials could become honorary members, without vote. The Brotherhood advocated giving Indians the right to vote and granting them citizenship, the placement of Indian children in public school, more Indians working at the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and Indian representation in Congress. The national convention in Washington would elect 20 national chiefs, a Great Sachem, Chief Historian and Great Chaplain.[24] The Brotherhood collapsed in 1913.[25]
  • Daughters of Sacajawea - Organized in the 1920s, possibly as the New York City chapter of the Teepee Order of America. Both groups were founded by Red Fox Francis St. James, which created difficulties, as he was intolerant of Catholics and blacks, so Catholic Indians and those that had black ancestry opposed his groups. In 1926 a Princess Chinquilla, a Cheyenne woman, was the "Great Sacajawea" of the group and worked with St. James to create an Indian cultural center in New York, but the project fell through.[26]
  • Loyal Order of Tecumseh - Founded by Arthur C. Parker as a society within the Society of American Indians to provide a common ground for those with greater and lesser degrees of Indian blood. Members of the group held no voting privileges, so they could not effect the outcome of the parent group. The Order evolved into other fraternal groups during the 1920s.[27]
  • Blackfoot Indian. Open to Indians and non-Indians from the US, Canada and Latin America, it excluded blacks and European immigrants. Originally similar to the Boy Scouts of America in appealing to youth and "focusing on Indian activities and ceremonies that were romantic in nature." It was a Pan-Indian group, but not as successful as the Society of American Indians, though there was some membership overlap. It advocated for Native American citizenship and questioned the efficacy of the Bureau of Indian Affairs.[28]

English

  • St. George included a "language of words, signs and grips" that the member learned upon initiation which could identify him to other members of the order. The Orders emblem was St. George conquering the dragon. The system of sick benefits varied by lodge and the inclination of members. There was also a funeral benefit for members and their wives and a benevolent fund for brethren and "any worthy Englishman in distress". Some lodges also provided physicians and medicine for sick members. There was also a female auxiliary, the Daughters of St. George, but it was not officially recognized by the Supreme Lodge.[29] In 1923 the Order was accused of promoting pro-British propaganda in textbooks used in New York by a representative of Mayor John Francis Hylan.[30]
  • Sons of England Benevolent Society - Fraternal order for Canadians of English descent.

French

  • Franco-Americans. Activities include hospital volunteer work, comforting the bereaved, visiting shut-ins and work in Catholic Action. The Saint-Jean-Baptiste Educational Foundation provides scholarships; the group also helps fund the Catholic Communications Foundation whose mission was to spread understanding of the Catholic faith and doctrine in the mass media. Headquarters was Woonsocket. The motto is "In Union there is strength". Lodges called local councils, and the national convention is "National Congress". There was a ritual for initiation and the installation of officers. 62,000 members in 1968, 47,000 in January 1979.[31] Merged with Catholic Family Life in 1991.[32]
  • St. John the Baptist. The organization offered beneficiary and social membership; the former consisted of adult and infant divisions, the infants becoming adult members when they turn 18. There was also honorary membership bestowed on those who had made unusual services to the Catholic faith, social or economic science, the arts, education, to French culture generally, or to any other ideal of the association. 1967 membership 30,424; 1979 membership 26,000. Absorbed Foresters Franco Americains in 1939.[33] The ACA went into rehabilitation in 2008 and later was liquidated. Most of its insurance policies were assumed by the Royal Arcanum.[34]

German

  • Hermannstadt, a school for orphans, now has its own orphan fund. Sent $22,000 in 1970–1971 to Romania for flood relief. 9,871 members in 1967, 8,629 members in 1976[35] 8,892 members in 1989. Membership had stabilized around 10,000 for decades.[36]
  • medieval Germany. First known lodge in the United States founded in Baltimore in 1865. Subsequent lodges were formed in Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia in 1866 and 1867 respectively. By the late 1890s the Order was said to have members in almost every state of the Union. State divisions were called Grad Lodges, and the national organization was controlled by a Supreme Lodge of the United States that met "one the first hour of every leap year." Lodge rooms were called Smithies, the presiding officer was titled Sun, his second in command the moon and other official had names based on the planets and other bodies in the firmament. The order worked nine degrees, six lower, called the Free Smiths, and three higher degrees - Grand Marshal, Grand Master and Cavalier - which were open to members who had been in the Order longer and were entitled to wear colored sashes and swords. The motto of the order was Truth, Fidelity and Security. The order also paid sick and death benefits.[38] Correspondence sent to Baltimore in May 1923 by Arthur Preuss went unanswered.[39]
  • Bavarian National Association of North America - Founded 1884, incorporated in New York. In 1923 the Association had c.3,500 members in 56 lodges; membership "not strictly limited to", natives of Bavaria and their descendants. "Supreme Office" at 749 Broadway, Buffalo, New York.[40] Merged with Unity Life and Accident Insurance Association in 1934.[41]
  • GUG Germania - Gegenseite Unterstutzungsgeselshaft Germania, founded in 1888 and incorporated the same year in Wisconsin, in which state they confined their operations. Their mission, in their words "for the purpose of mutual aid in cases of sickness, accident and death of its members or their families". In 1923 it had 8,000 members in 60 subordinate societies; that year it had a capital of over $500,000, with a further $100,000 in sick benefit funds held by local societies. All policy decisions determined by a "Central Society" made up of the officers, founders and representatives of the subordinate lodges. A central society meets as stated intervals to elect officers to administer the group and make needed changes. Membership open to men 18–50, of good moral character who have passed medical exams, regardless of religious or political creeds. Germania stated that it "is not a secret society. No pass-words or grips feature its work. In fact, any man is welcome to join its meetings.";[42]
  • German Order of Harugari
  • Greater Beneficial Union of Pittsburgh - Incorporated April 14, 1892 in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, as the Deutscher Unter-stuetzungs-Bund, within a month had 243 members in 6 districts. Began periodical, Union Reporter, the next year, now known as GBU Reporter. Rituals includes candidate signing an application and the president of the local lodge giving an address about the privileges of membership and how one should enter the lodge.[43] Union claimed to be non-sectarian and had no secrets; open to all "well-meaning persons"; non-members accompanied by members allowed at meeting.[44] Locals are "Districts"; national convention meets quadrennially; headquarters in Pittsburgh; in 1979 had $120,000,000 in insurance; also sponsored outings, baseball games etc.[43] While originally for German men and women, by 1979 the Union was open to men and women of all ethnic backgrounds. In 1923 the Union had 54,000 members, in 1965 50,000, in 1979 37,000.[43][45]
  • Improved Order, Knights of Pythias
  • Independent Order of Red Men
  • North American Swiss Alliance - Founded July 14, 1865, as the Grütli Bund der Vereinigten Staaten von Nord Amerika in Cincinnati. Became Nordamerikanishcher Schweizerbund in July 1911. National convention meets quadrennially, locals are called branches or lodges. Open to Swiss, Swiss descendants or spouses of Swiss.[46] Membership 2,000 in 1965, 4,000 in 1978 and 3,350 in 1994, about 10 to 15% are social, uninsured members.[47] Periodical originally called Gruetlianer changed to Der Schweizer in 1911. Headquarters in Cleveland in 1979, but it was an "organization on wheels" moving to a number of places every few years in the late 19th century[48]
  • Schwarzer Ritter, Deutscher Orden - Claimed great antiquity, though in 1899 it was said to have been present in the United States for about 30 years. Active in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and the District of Columbia.[49]
  • Sons of Hermann
  • United League of America
  • Workmen’s Circle in 2004.[50] Among its activities were providing scholarships, donating to charities, operating a convalescent home, summer camp, and home for the aged. It also offers "usual line of fraternal insurance and benevolencies for its members"[53] Had 384 lodges and 53,139 benefit members in 1923,[55] 53,000 in 1965,[56] 35,000 on December 31, 1978[53] and 15,000 in 1995.[56]

Greek

Hispanic

  • Alianza Hispano-Americana - Founded January 14, 1894, in Tucson, Arizona. The Supreme Lodge was incorporated under the laws of Arizona in October 1902. The first Supreme President was M. G. Samaniego, whose term lasted a year. He was succeeded by Samuel Brown, who continued in office until at least August 1918. The original death benefit was a levy assessment on all members in the event of the death of a single member. In 1907 the benefit scheme was changed to a reserve fund system. A table of rates was adopted in 1910 and women were allowed in 1913. Headquarters were at the AHA Building in Tucson, under the care of a Supreme Secretary. The Alienza was run by Supreme Executive Council which included the Supreme Secretary, as well as a Medical Director, Counselor and Treasurer. The "field men" were under the control of a General Organizer based in El Paso. In 1918 it was reportedly the largest Spanish American organization in the country.[57] In 1923 it had 109 branches, 5,189 members and operated in Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, California, Colorado and Nevada.[58]

Hungarian

Irish

  • Ancient Order of Hibernians
  • Knights of Equity
  • St. Patrick's Alliance of America - Founded in 1868 by members of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick and other groups, mostly Irish Catholic. However, the Alliance's ritual emphasized freedom of religion and denounced bigotry from any source. Other elements were borrowed from the Foresters and other like groups. The Alliance's emblem was a disc showing the tree of life and the letters S. P. A. of A. The Alliance provided sick and death benefits and benefits for the loss of a wife. Membership open to all regardless of political or religious belief as long as one was of Irish descent. There were a reported 50,000 members concentrated in "New England, Middle, Pacific Coast and some other States". The National Secretary was based in Newark, New Jersey[63]

Italian

Jewish

  • Ahavas Israel - Founded in New York in 1890. Paid sick and death benefits for members and their wives. Emblem was a pair of clasped hands. Founders included Masons, Oddfellows, members of the Sons of Benjamin and the Independent Order of B'rith Abraham.[65]
  • Hebrew letters with the Roman numeral XIII below and the letter G above.[65]
  • American Israel Friendship League it distributed books and periodicals to over 2,000 university libraries, sponsored seminars and discussion groups.[68] Absorbed B'rith Abraham in 1981.[69]
  • 6th Avenue, sharing office space with the Workmens Circle.[78] National convention meets triennially. The Order is led by a "Grand Master", and the other "grand lodge" officers have "grand" prefix. Has secret ritual, initiation ceremony, passwords. Motto "Friendship, Love Truth". Offers members "usual life insurance" benefits; also a Free Sons credit union which gives members low interest loans. The Order sponsors a scholarship program for Jewish students who show high proficiency in Hebrew, sponsors blood banks, bond drives for United Jewish Appeal, distributes toys for handicapped kids, homes for seniors, convalescent homes and "summer camps for elderly citizens and for needy children". There is also a Free Sons Athletic Association which sponsors youth baseball, softball, basketball, bowling, ping pong, golf and track and field.[75]
  • All Seeing Eye above three pillars with the tablets of the ten commandments between them.[65]
  • Independent Order of B'rith Abraham - Founded in 1887 as a split from Order of Brith Abraham, whose leadership they felt was incompetent.[79] Some sources give the name as the Improved Order of B'rith Abraham. Admitted women and was smoothly run. Added social membership option to what was already essentially an insurance society in 1924.[80] Had a peak membership of 206,000 in 1917.[81] In 1923 it had 585 lodges and a benefit membership of 142,812.[67] Had 58,000 immediately before World War II. Changed name to simply B'rith Abraham in 1968. Merged with B'nai Zion in 1981.[80] Headquarters in 1923 at 37 Seventh Street New York City.[70] New York was still the headquarters in 1979.[81] The Order's stated objectives in 1969 were to "foster fraternity in the context of Jewish ideals, tradition and welfare", provide fraternal benefits to its members, and support programs for underprivileged children and seniors. It also promoted Zionism.[81]
  • Independent Order of American Israelites - Founded 1894 in New York City by a group of men, some or all of whom had been members of the Independent Order, Free Sons of Israel, and the Sons of Benjamin. Order paid $1,000 death benefit for male members and $500 for female members. Sick benefits were administered by the subordinate lodges. In 1899 it was limited to the United States and had 3,000 men and 2,500 women members. The orders seal was a spread eagle with shield holding an American flag and the words "Liberty, Equality, Fraternity" emblazoned on it.[65]
  • Independent Order of B'nai B'rith
  • Independent Order of B'rith Sholom - Founded in 1905 to assist Jewish immigrants to the US. As Jewish immigration increased, it became more of a human rights organization.[82] Membership open to Jews and gentiles over 16. Female auxiliary named B'rith Sholom Women.[83] Had 52,596 members in 1917.[84] Had 20,000 members in 1979.[85] 6,000 members in 1988.[82] Headquarters in 1917 was at 510-512 5th Street, Philadelphia.[86] Headquarters still at Philadelphia in 1979, when the order had 130 lodges and three statewide organizations. They had a secret ritual, but it was only used by a few lodges. Offers scholarships. Did not have an insurance fund, per se, but offered death and burial benefits and financial aid when members are in need; also taught English language and Americanization. The group saved 50 children aged 5 to 14 during the Holocaust; these were housed at a Camp Sholom. Operates a retirement home in Philadelphia that housed 500.[85] Sponsors Albert Einstein College of Medicine at Yeshiva University and a recuperation center for Israeli soldiers in Haifa.[82] Contributed a 65-acre (26 ha) tract of land for Eagleville Sanatorium.[85]
  • Independent Order of Sons of Abraham - Founded in 1892 by a group of Jewish men who were already members of the Masons, Sons of Benjamin and the Order of B'rith Abraham. Membership in 1899 almost exclusively in New York and Brooklyn, numbered about 2,400 divided equally between men and women.[87]
  • Metropolitan Life Insurance Company.[89]
  • Independent Western Star Order - Founded in 1894. "Eastern Division" headquartered at 40 Rivington Street. Had 21,000 members in 1918, with 2000 members in 24 lodges in New York City. Offered accident, death and burial insurance[89] May or may not be related to an order of the same name operating out of Chicago.[90]
  • Co-operative Wholesale Society" consisting of the "Finnish, Lithuanian, and Italian Co-operative of New England" had its offices and warehouse in this building as well.[91]
  • Jewish Progressive Order - Headquartered in Philadelphia. Supported the Palestine Restoration Fund by a "shekel tax" of 25 cents per member.[92]
  • Jewish National Workers Alliance
  • Reform Jews. Female lodges, consisting of the female relatives of members of the order, could be formed with the sanction of the Grand Lodge and could elect one of the Past Presidents of the male lodges as their officers. In 1899 there were 11,000 regular members and 1,000 members of the female lodges. 8,000 regular members and three fifths of the 160 lodges were located in New York City.[93] In 1923 it had 198 lodges, 15,152 benefit members and 195 social members.[74] It had 8,000 members when it became defunct in 1927.[80] Headquarters in 1923 located at 266-268 Grand Street New York City.[77] The ceremony of the order was calculated to inculcate the values of harmony, wisdom and justice. The orders emblem was an "interlaced triangle" with a representation of Abraham about to sacrifice Jacob. the order offered sickness and death insurance, assuring its members would be buried in accordance with Jewish law and become good American citizens.[93]
  • Order of United Hebrew Brothers - Founded in 1915. in 1917 was reported to have 1,800 members and 12 lodges in New York City. Orders stated objectives included promoting social intercourse, discussions of subjects relating to their community and acting upon them. Provided free burials, helped members in distress and encouraging enrollment in the Postal Life Insurance Company.[94]
  • United Order of True Sisters [Wikidata] - Founded by Henrietta Bruckman, wife of a prominent New York doctor, with 12 other ladies to provide assistance to Hebrew housewives. Had 5,991 members in 21 lodges in 1918.[94] Had 12,000 members in 1995. Headquarters in New York. National structure called "Grand Lodge". Has degrees, secret ritual regalia, etc. Originally German speaking, first English lodge organized in 1892, by 1918 German language "essentially discontinued in all lodges". Although originally a benevolent society for sick and widows, by the late 1970s had become primarily a philanthropic group, particularly with cancer related causes. The United Order True Sister Inc, Cancer Service created in 1947, contributes $300,000 a year to hospitals and research centers sponsors two post doctoral fellowships at Frederick Research Cancer Center in Frederick, Maryland. In 1966 opened an outpatient clinic in NYC. The cancer service has no salaried employees; also contributes to specialized care hospitals in 13 and Israel.[95]
  • Workmen's Circle

Lithuanian

  • Association of Lithuanian Workers - Founded in 1930.[96] In 1972 the Association had 100 locals. By 1979 this had dropped to 80. In 1965 the ALW had 4,555; this dropped to 1,000 in 8 states in 1979.[97] In 1994 it had 1,800 members.[96] Headquarters in Ozone Park, Queens. National convention meets biennially. Women's groups called "sororities", which carried out the group's charity work. Conducts "fraternal social and cultural activities" including three scholarships per year for its members.[98]
  • Lithuanian Alliance of America - The idea for forming this society first came up in the Lietuwiszka Gazieta of New York on August 16, 1879. The constituting convention was held in Plymouth, Pennsylvania, on November 22, 1886, from Polish and Lithuanian parish societies. Originally meant to be a joint Polish-Lithuanian society, but after "heated discussion" the convention decided that American Lithuanians were "badly in need of de-Polonized churches". In the early 1900s there was tension between the lay and the clergy leading to the split of the Lithuanian Socialist Federation. Communist sympathizers within the group apparently revolted in 1920, and there was a warning against Communist infiltration in 1925; "progressives" also apparent disrupted many lodges and brought litigation in the 1930s. Headquartered in New York. National convention meets biennially.[99] Had 12,492 members in 303 lodges and 425 in the Juvenile Department in 1923.[100] 22,332 members in 332 lodges throughout 24 states.[101] Had 270 lodges in 1972 and 209 lodges in 1979 with 6,563 members.[99] Had 5,000 in 1994.[96] Open to people of Lithuanian descent; sponsors Lithuanian cultural programs, gives aid to widows, and orphans, relief for victims of natural disasters, and awards scholarships.[99] On July 1, 2012, the insurance aspects of the organization passed to the Croatian Fraternal Union. A Special Convention convened on September 22, 2012, authorized the leadership to reconstitute the LAA as a not-for-profit cultural group.[101]
  • Lithuanian Catholic Alliance - Founded 1886 as the Lithuanian Roman Catholic Alliance of America, adopted current name in 1975.[96][102] Headquarters in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. National convention meets triennially. There were 163 lodges in 1972 and 147 in 1977. 1965 membership was 7,000, which declined to 4,000 in 1979. In 1994 there were 3,069 members, despite membership being opened to non-Catholics. Sponsors Lithuanian cultural activities, cookbooks, films and radio programs; also sponsors scholarships for members, supports Community Chest, blood donor clinics, Catholic youth programs, youth camps, and Catholic Social Services.[102]

Portuguese

Scandinavian

Danish

  • Danish Brotherhood in America
  • Danish Sisterhood - Founded December 15, 1883, in Negaunee, Michigan, by Mrs. Christine Hemmingsen. A supreme lodge was formed in 1887, and all the officers were women by 1910. Membership was open to women of Danish descent or married to a man of Danish descent. Admission is by black ball, with one blackball enough to disqualify; there is always a second ballot; if there is another blackball a selected secret committee is appointed to determine cause. Had a secret ritual, and no uninitiated person may attend secret meetings of the lodge. Locals called "lodges"; regional groups called "Districts". National convention meets quadrennially. Supreme Lodge headquarters is in Chicago. Provides funeral benefits of up to $1,000, no more than two beneficiaries can be designated, in special circumstances other benefits can be applied for. Membership in 1922, 8,000, 1934, 7,000, and 1979, 4,500.[112][113]

Norwegian

Swedish

Scottish

  • Daughters of Scotland - Incorporated in Ohio on October 3, 1899. Membership open only to those of Scottish blood. Ritual had signs, oaths and prayers.[118] Grand Lodge dissolved in the early 1970s, though some local groups continued to meet afterwards.[119]
  • Order of Scottish Clans
  • Alzheimer's disease organizations. Lost a third of its membership over the 1980s.[120]

Western Slavs

Polish

  • Alliance of Poles in America - Founded on September 22, 1895, in Ohio as Alliance of Poles. Added "of America" in 1914. Headquarters in Cleveland. Locals called "Groups", regional groups "Circles", and the national structure "Central Body", which meets quadrennially. Membership open to both sexes from the start. Now open to anyone 15–65, of good moral character, physically and mentally healthy, Polish or Lithuanian by birth or consanguinity. Has no ritual, but it does have an oath. Had 16,000 in the late 1960s, 20,000 in 72 locals in 1979.[122] Had 20,000 members in 1994.[36]
  • Federal Life Insurance of America - Founded in 1911 as a pressure group with the US Catholic church for Polish interests. Its original name was the Federation of Polish Catholic Laymen. The insurance aspect was added in 1913, and the name changed to the Federation of Poles in America. Became Federal Life Insurance of America in 1924.[123] Local groups are called "Lodges"; in 1979 there were 28 lodges in 7 states. The national convention meets quadrennially. Poles or people of Polish descent eligible. A women's division was added in 1940. There were 5,000 members in 1960, and 5,543 in 1979.[124] There were 4,476 in 1994.[123] Sent food and clothing to Poland and Polish refugees during World War II; aided the Ochronka Orphanage in Poland since the war; also supports International Folk Fair in Milwaukee.[125]
  • St. John Cantius, holds Masses and organized a pilgrimage to the National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa in Doylestown, Pennsylvania.[126]
  • Polish Falcons of America
  • Polish National Alliance of Brooklyn - Founded in 1903. Despite name it had members and was licensed to sell insurance in Connecticut, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey and New York.[127] Absorbed Polish American Workmens Aid Fund in 1960.[128] Had 21,413 in 1965, approximately 12,000 in 1979 and 11,135 in 1995.[128][129] Had 155 lodges in 1972, 87 in 1978. Offers Masses to its members, yearly grants to the Catholic Foundation and theological seminaries.[129]
  • Polish National Alliance
  • Polish National Union (Sponjnia - Founded in February 1908 in the parish hall of St. Stanislaus Cathedral, in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Received charter by the end of the year. Women's lodges authorized in 1909.[130][131] Had difficulty retaining membership because it was actuarially unsound. Adopted the American Experience table at its sixth convention in Buffalo, New York, in September 1920, but it wasn't until 1923 that it was actuarially sound.[132] Headquarters in Scranton. Local groups called "branches", regional groups called "Districts". National convention meets quadrennially. 20,000 members in 1930, 32,142 in 247 branches in the mid-1960s, 31,649 in 210 branches in 1979.[133] 30,000 members in 1994.[130] No ritual or secrecy, but there is a pledge. Open to both sexes 16 and up. 1979 constitution didn't say anything about Polish ancestry. Purchased Sponjnia Farm in 1929 in Waymart, Pennsylvania, and developed it into a home for aged and sick members. Began Warsaw Village in Thornhurst Township, Pennsylvania, in 1948 as summer vacation area. Helped fund Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Help near Zarki, Poland. Their first constitution declared "Religious, political and social convictions may not hinder admission", but has nevertheless been tied to the Polish National Catholic Church.[133][134]
  • Polish Roman Catholic Union of America
  • Polish Union of America - Founded in 1890.[130] 10,000 members in 1979.[135] 9,000 in 1994.[130] Active in anti-defamation campaigns, provides scholarships, contributes to churches, charities and educational foundations; also sponsors radio broadcast.[136] Maintains library, museum, speakers bureau, ethnic awareness programs, and vocational placement services. Also runs White Eagle Young Adults Club.[130]
  • Polish Women's Alliance of America
  • Sons of Poland
  • Red Cross, White Cross, Emergency Aid and Polish War Mothers. Local units called "Branches", regional structures called "Districts", and there are also youth "Juvenile Circles". National convention meets quadrennially, at which point a "convention Queen" is crowned to reign for four years. "Supreme Executive Body" runs organization between conventions. In 1979 membership was open to people of Polish origin or their spouses. 1979 membership. Motto ""Unity, Stability, and Prosperity". Strong connections with Catholic Church. Grants "partial scholarships" and educational loans to Americans of Polish descent.[137]

Czech

Slovak

  • First Catholic Slovak Ladies Association - Founded January 1, 1892, at St. Ladislaus Church in Cleveland as the First Catholic Slovak Ladies Union. Adopted the current name in the late 1960s. Absorbed a number of smaller fraternals over the years, including the Cleveland Slovak Union in 1945, the Slovak Catholic Cadets Union, the Catholic Slovak Benefit Organization of Cleveland, and the Catholic Slovak Brotherhood from Braddock, Pennsylvania.[153] In 1969 it absorbed the Catholic Slovak Union, which had 1,500 members.[154] Had 102,000 members in 1965, 95,000 in 1979 and 87,000 in 1994[155] Headquarters in Beachwood, Ohio. Locals called "Branches", present in 12 states and two Canadian provinces. National convention meets quadrennially. Gives aids to convents, monasteries, a theological seminary in Rome, a "priest scholarship" underwritten by the Cleveland diocese. Awards $10,000 in nursing and college scholarships annually; maintains home for the aged in Beachwood. Organizes biannual youth conferences for people 16-20 which emphasizes the fraternal benefit system. Those who have been with the group 25 years receive a pin, 50 years a cash reward.[156]
  • First Catholic Slovak Union of the United States of America and Canada - Slovak name Prva Katolicka Slovenska Jednota[155] Originally organized as the St. Joseph Society for Slovak Catholics in Cleveland, May 5, 1889. On April 9, 1890, they voted to form a union of all Slovak Catholic societies in the US. A union convention took place in Cleveland on September 4, 1890, united seven Slovak Catholic societies. Original membership requirements: faithful Catholic who lives his faith, sends children to Catholic school, supports the parish and parochial school, never ridicules the church's ceremonies and never writes anything against the Church or the clergy. 1979 membership requirements: male or female of Slovak birth or descent, or married to same; sound in body and mind, of exemplary habits, good moral character, practical Catholic of the Latin or Byzantine Rite, resident in the US or Canada, approved by a recognized Catholic priest and obeys the law of the church and his country. Those in "unlawful wedlock" were ineligible. Had 105,000 members in 1969.[157] 105,000 members in the early 1980s, 80,000 in 1993.[155] Lodges called "Branches", each attached to a "Slovak Catholic" parish. There were 600 branches in the US and Canada in 1979. Regional structures called districts. National assembly is called "Supreme Convention" which meets triennially. Board of directors administers the Union between conventions. Headquarters in Cleveland. Sponsors scholarships, summer camps, bowling, golfing, etc. Also sends relief for natural disaster relief.[158]
  • Ladies Pennsylvania Slovak Catholic Union - Founded in 1898, chartered in 1900 in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Originally known as the Women's Pennsylvania Slovak Roman and Greek Catholic Union.[159] Headquartered in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Had 16,000 members in 1965 and in 1978.[160] 14,600 in 1994[161] Licensed to sell insurance in eight states outside of Pennsylvania; supports Slovak Seminary in Rome, and the Slovak Catholic Federation.[160]
  • theological school in Budapest for promoting Pan-Slavism. He came to the United States in the 1880s and enrolled in an American seminary, but left after a year to become a newspaper editor. His group was opposed by pro-Hungarian Slovaks, particularly clergy who had been trained in Hungarian seminaries. Some priests even refused absolution for members of the group. It encountered opposition from clergy from other denominations as well. Headquarters in Pittsburgh. Locals are called "subordinate assemblies", regional groups are district assemblies, and the national structure is the "Supreme Assembly", which meets every four years. Late 1960s membership 35,000, 1979 membership 21,000,[162] 18,000 in 1994.[163] Has a ritual. Slogan: "One for all and all for one". Membership open to Christians of Slovak or Slavic birth or ancestors and their non-Slav friends of sound health and good moral character. Sponsors scholarships, spelling bees, Christmas parties, softball, baseball and dart ball games, dinners, dances, bazaars.[164] Maintains Slovak Hall of Fame, advocated a free Slovakia during the Cold War.[163]
  • Calvinist Presbyterians. Affiliated with the church. Published a number of pamphlets and a hymnal in Slovak. Membership open to Protestants of good health and good moral character 16–60; juvenile department for those under 16. 1,350 members in 1979. Locals called "Subordinate Assemblies"; national "Supreme Assembly" meets quadrennially, board of directors runs things in between those. Headquarters in Philadelphia.[165]
  • International Eucharistic Congress; gives out 20 scholarships of $500 per year.[168]
  • Sokol U.S.A. - A Sokol movement, apparently popular among people of Czech and Slovak descent in the mid-19th century. The earliest antecedent of this particular organization was apparently a lodge founded in 1896, full name Slovak Gymnastic Union Sokol of the United States of America. Sponsors gymnastic events called Slets, insurance benefits, dances and calisthenics, scholarships and "camps and halls" in several states. 23,000 members in 1979, 12,000 in 1995. Absorbed the Slovak Evangelical Society and the Tatran Slovak Union in 1944.[169]
  • United Lutheran Society - Traces its origins to the Slovak Evangelical Union founded in 1893 in Freeland, Pennsylvania. In 1906 the Evangelical Slovak Women's Union was founded. These merged in 1962 creating the ULS. In 1979 the society had 11,000 members in 11 states and Canada. Headquarters in Ligonier, Pennsylvania.[170]
  • Zivena Beneficial Society - Founded in 1891. Headquartered in Ligonier, Pennsylvania, since at least the late 1970s, but in the early 1920s headquartered in Braddock, Pennsylvania.[171][172] Had 5,611 at the end of 1918.[173] 7,277 members in 1927, 4,357 in 1965, 2,500 in 1977. National convention met quadrennially. Licensed to sell insurance in Illinois, New York, Ohio and Pennsylvania. Sponsored scholarships, gave aid to aged and handicapped members, donated to civic and charitable groups.[174] Merged into Croatian Fraternal Union in 1995.[175]

Carpatho-Rusyn (Ruthenian)

  • Greek Catholic Union of the USA
  • Greek Catholicism, foster Ruthenian nationalism, organize Greek Catholic schools and help sick or disabled members and the families of deceased members. Headquarters in McKeesport, Pennsylvania. Local groups are "subordinate lodges". National convention, which meets quadrennially, is the "Supreme Governing Body". Membership open to any member of the Greek or Latin rite of the Catholic church. 4,900 in 190 lodges in 1968. 4,400 in 142 lodges in 1979.[105] 3,875 members in 1995.[176] No ritual, but there is an oath; saved some churches from going on sheriffs' auctions, "came to the defense of some falsely maligned" Greek Catholic clergy in the 1930s.[105]

South Slavic

Slovene

Croatian

  • Croatian Catholic Union of the United States of America and Canada - Founded in 1921.[179] Headquarters in Hobart, Indiana. Convention meets quadrennially. In 1978 membership was described as being open to Croats and their spouses who are Latin or Greek rite Catholics.[180] In 1997 it was described as open to all Latin or Greek rite Catholics in the United States and Canada.[179] In 1965 the union had 13,772.[179] In 1978 the Union had 119 local units in 16 states and Canada with about 13,500 in 1978. In 1988 it was reported to have 13,000.[179] The union provides assistance to Catholic church, theology students, scholarships and disaster relief.[179] In addition, the union performs "works of mercy" extended to members who are ill or hospitalized, and arranges sporting events.[181] Merged with the Croatian Fraternal Union in 2006.[175]
  • Croatian Fraternal Union

Serbian

  • First Serbian Benevolent Society - The First Serbian Benevolent Society of San Francisco is the oldest Serbian organization in America. Founded in 1880, the FSBS was originally called the Serbian-Montenegrin Literary and Benevolent Society.[182][183] It was organized to promote social and intellectual interchange, and establish a system of general philanthropy and benevolence for Serbian immigrant laborers toiling far from their homeland. The eight founding members were Antonije Vukasovich, Jovan Jovovich, Jovan Pavkovich, Krsto Gopcevich, Rade Begovich and Vladimir Jovovich, all from Boka Kotorska, George S. Martinovich from Montenegro, and Mikhail Rashkovich from Vojvodina.[182] The Society, which has recently celebrated its 135th anniversary, is headquartered in Colma, CA where it maintains a Serbian Cultural Center and Museum along with a Serbian Cemetery and the Chapel of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.[184]
  • Serbian American organizations in 1929.[185] Headquarters in Pittsburgh. Membership open to people of Serb or Slav descent 16–60.[186] Those under 16 can join "Junior Order". In 1979 it had 20,000 members, and "membership groups" existed in 10 states and Canada.[187] In 1995 it had 15,200 members.[186] Sponsors social gatherings, cultural events, sports programs, finances church buildings and meeting halls.[188]

Macedonian

Eastern Slavs

Russian

Ukrainian

  • Providence Association of Ukrainian Catholics in America - Founded in 1912.[197] Headquartered in Philadelphia where the annual convention always meets. Membership open to "any Ukrainian, either Ukrainian Catholic or of another Christian denomination, who is not hostile to the Ukrainian Catholic Church, is morally stable, mentally and physically sound, honest, practicing his/her Christian faith, of good character, and fully abiding by these Bylaws...[a] Ukrainian, or a person of Ukrainian descent, or of another ethnic affiliation related to a person of Ukrainian origin, in good health, not exceeding 70 years of age, is also eligible for membership."[198] In 1979 had 210 lodges in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.[199] Had the same number of lodges in 2015.[200] Had 11,000 members at the beginning of the 1930s, 8,000 in 1942, 16,994 in 1965, 18,000 in 1979,[199] 17,927 in 1994.[197] Members are admonished to send their children to parochial schools in accordance with the law of the church. One of the group's original objectives was to create low-interest loans for religious institutions, particularly parochial schools.[201]
  • drug addicts. Had 24,134 members in 1965,[203] 20,000 members in 1995.[202] Headquarters in Scranton, Pennsylvania, where the UFA was founded. National convention held quadrennially. Locals either called lodges or "local assemblies", Schmidt uses the terms inter-changeably.[204] Later apparently called branches.[205] There was a ritualistic initiation; besides its insurance benefits, it has helped out in natural disaster and war relief; supported the Ivan Franko Scholarship Foundation.[204] Merged with Providence Association of Ukrainian Catholics in America in 2009.[205]
  • Ukrainian National Aid Association - Founded in 1914, more political than the UNA.[202] Headquartered in Pittsburgh. National convention held quadrennially. Locals called lodges, of which there were 170 in 1979. Primarily active in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois and Canada. 6,928 members in 1965, 8,000 in 1978,[206] 8,710 members in 1995.[202] Merged into the Providence Association of Ukrainian Catholics in America in 2001.[207]
  • Ukrainian National Association

Religious

  • Baptist Life Association - Founded in 1884 as the German Baptist Life Association. Adopted current name in 1934.[208] Had 1,158 members in 1911; at the time it readjusted its inadequate rate system. By 1921 this had grown to 2,639.[209] In 1965 it had 12,335 members, in 1979 about 13,000 in 49 branches in 26 states.[210] Had 12,705 members in 1994.[208] Headquarters in Buffalo, New York. National convention meets quadrennially. Motto "Honoring God while serving Mankind". Offers scholarships ranging from $800 – $2,000. A "Branch match" program where the branch is given $100 for a parish project and the parish matches it. Home Bible studies prepared by Moody Bible Institute, summer family camping and Bible conferences, art and photo contests, etc.[211]
  • Anabaptist denominations in 1984.[213] Today Everence, while remaining the stewardship agency of the Mennonite Church USA, offers its "products and services ... to everyone who is interested in practicing stewardship that aligns with our founding values."[214] In 1979 locals were called "Branches" and were usually affiliated with congregations of the Mennonite General Conference. Each branch must meet at least 12 times a year. The highest authority was the "Biennial Conference". There were also district conferences. February 1979 membership 4,984 in 12 states. Sponsored seminars on church leadership, family life training, estate planning, financial counseling, youth leadership, and family communications. Programs include helping local families with emergency needs, aiding local church projects;[212]
  • Orange Institution - The Grand Orange Lodge of British America, more commonly known as the Grand Orange Lodge of Canada or simply Orange Order in Canada, is a Protestant fraternal organization established in Toronto in 1830.

Catholic

  • American Order of United Catholics - Founded in January 1896 in New York City by Catholics who wished to counter the influence of the American Protective Association. It was "expected of the founders" that they would demand candidates for office who disapproved of the APA or other organizations which sought to discriminate against Catholics. A Supreme Council was organized on March 7, 1896, and the Order was organized "upon the usual secret society lines". They issued a circular that proclaimed that the Church did not oppose secret societies, except those which were oathbound.[215]
  • St. Paul, Minnesota. Local groups are called "subordinate Councils", of which there were 240 in 1979. Annual convention called the "Grand Council". Has ritual for initiation, installation of officers and other purposes. Open to Roman Catholics 16-65 who are not a member of a secret society condemned by the Church. Sponsors matching grants program for Catholic elementary schools and religious education programs. Also a College Tuition Scholarship Program which has helped 800 CAA members receive degrees. Also sponsors banquets, family outings, dances and youth activities; now Catholic United Financial.[216]
  • Catholic Benevolent Legion
  • Catholic Daughters of the Americas
  • Archbishop of Milwaukee, as the Family Protective Association. Incorporated in March 1869. Claims to be the oldest Catholic fraternal order, the first to adopt the legal reserve system, first to insure women and children, and first to provide Masses for living and deceased members. Changed name to Catholic Family Life Insurance in 1949.[32] Had 37,000 members in 1967, 47,000 in 54 branches in 1979,[217] 45,000 in 78 branches in 2010.[32] Open to all members of the Catholic faith who were over 18. Headquarters in Milwaukee. Locals called Branches, of which there were 54 in 1979. National convention is the "Supreme Governing Body", which meets every four years. Sponsors home and foreign missions, invests and makes loans to the building of churches and Catholic schools, hospitals (apparently not loans), a "respect for life" campaign against abortion, and also includes concern for aged and handicapped. Supports a number of charities such as "Catholic Rural Life" movement for family farms, Cancer Fund, Heart Fund, Red Cross, Community Chest. Also sponsors summer camps, social dances, athletic events, family campouts, picnic and teen parties.[218] Merged with Union Saint-Jean-Baptiste in 1991. Merged with Northern Fraternal Life in 1993. Merged with Catholic Knights on April 1, 2010, into Catholic Financial Life.[32]
  • Catholic Fraternal League - Originally incorporated in Massachusetts on June 19, 1889, as the International Fraternal Alliance. Reorganized in 1893-5 when the Massachusetts legislature was considering closing fraternal benefit orders. A trustee was appointed to wind up the affairs of the order, and the endowment rank was permanently closed. However, a new benefit scheme was created and the order reformed as the Union Fraternal League, another "International Fraternal Alliance" having been found in another state.[219] Became the Catholic Fraternal League in 1916. Arthur Preuss noted that this was the only time he had found that a secular order had become a religious one.[220] In 1899 it had about 2,000 members in "Ontario and Quebec, in most of New England and Middle, Northwestern and Pacific states." Local groups called "subordinate assemblies"[21]
  • Catholic Knights of America
  • Catholic Knights and Ladies of America
  • Catholic Knights and Ladies of Illinois - Founded in 1884 in Carlyle, Illinois, as the Catholic Knights of Illinois. Always admitted men and women, ages 18–50. Had 2,000 members in 1899.[221] Had 8,500 members in 1965, 13,000 in 1978. Headquarters in Belleville, Illinois. 45 units in Illinois, the only state in which it is licensed to sell insurance. "Supreme legislative body" meets quadrennially.[222] Original purpose to "offer cheap life insurance without the danger of going into associations or orders forbidden by our Holy Mother Church."[221] Active in promoting Fraternal Week; a Mass is offered every month for the local members; contributes to Catholic Communication Foundation; "Teens Encounter Christ" retreat for high school youth.[223]
  • Catholic Knights of Ohio - Founded September 20, 1891, in Hamilton, Ohio, by 27 men who paid a $1 initiation fee. On March 20, 1892, the group had 1,018 members who had paid the $1 during a special six-month offer. Adapted the reserve fund early; in 1894 put the reserve fund into the hands of a 5-member commission. It had previously been run by local branches. Began offering juvenile insurance for those under 18. Admitted women to full membership in 1920, first female branch set up at St. Vitus's Church, Cleveland. 18,000 members in 1979. Headquarters in Lakewood, Ohio. In 1979 had 50 local branches in Ohio and Kentucky, each attached to a Catholic parish. Supreme convention is a "State Council".[224] Open only to Catholics over 16.[225] Works two degrees, one the initiatory degree, the other a ritualistic secondary degree, designed to motivate further commitment. Motto "Morality, Manliness, and Manners". Supports Catholic schools system, education of Catholic priests, fifty-year golden rosaries and Catholic Communication Foundation; scholarships for Catholic schools, etc. Local branches, aid and visit the disabled, sick and bereaved; also sponsors bowling and baseball.[224]
  • Catholic Central Verein of America. Adopted graded assessment plan in 1904, adopted an actuarially sound method in 1915.[226]
  • St. Paul, Minnesota, by Fr. John Rynda for Czech Catholics.[225] In 1965 there were 19,000 members, 18,000 in 1979.[227] Had 15,000 members.[225] Headquarters in St. Paul, Minnesota. National convention meets quadrennially. In 1978 there were 124 locals and 12 state groups.[227] Absorbed the Western Bohemian Catholic Union in 1930 and the Daughters of Columbus in 1937. Sponsors Boy and Girl Scout troops, Red Cross, various parish functions, church retreats, visits the sick and assists the needy, sponsors masses; supports students studying theology and Catholic educational activities.[227] Merged into the First Catholic Slovak Ladies Association in 2004.[228]
  • Knights of Columbus
  • Knights of Peter Claver - Founded in 1909 by members of Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Mobile, Alabama, as a Black Catholic fraternal order, as Blacks were barred from the Knights of Columbus due to their race. Among the founders were The Rev. John H. Dorsey (the second Black Catholic priest ordained in the US), a number of White priests, and three Black parishioners.
  • Knights of St. John - Founded in 1879. Membership open to "practical Catholic gentlemen" ages 16–55. Social membership available was also available, even to those over 55. In 1978 there were 7,144 members. The international structure is called the "Supreme Commandery", regional structures "Grand Commanderies", and local units called "Commanderies". There were 172 Commanderies in 1978 including 27 in "West Africa", 5 in Togo and 8 in Trinidad and Tobago. The order has a secret ritual but dropped password in April 1977 because it was time-consuming and had "no appreciable organizational value". The group appears in uniforms for Catholic ceremonies such as first communions and Masses, confirmations. The order has sports program that sponsors golf and bowling. There is also a death benefit.[229]
  • Loyal Christian Benefit Association - Founded on April 6, 1890, as Ladies' Catholic Benevolent Association, originally for Catholic women. In 1927 any offspring from birth to 16 were eligible for fraternal insurance. In 1960 admitted Catholic husbands, brothers and nephews. By 1979 open to Christians of good moral character and in good health. In 1967 had 85,000 members, had 51,369 in December 1978,[231] 46,000 members in 1994.[232] Headquarters in Titusville, Pennsylvania. Locals are Branches, national structure is called the "National Council". Some ritual involved in the initiation, and "Marshalls also are utilized on the national and local organizational levels." Has given millions to Catholic churches, hospitals, orphan asylums, schools, colleges, foreign missions, religious orders, and the aged. Began national project of providing for the deaf in 1945. In 1978 "studied legislation affecting the family's well being". Gave funds to the Catholic Communications Foundation, and monitored TV for family programming. Had an orphans program for children of deceased members. On the local level it visits the sick, comforts the bereaved, aids seniors and assists the blind and exceptional children.[233]
  • Presbyterian church, other buildings were built contiguous to these properties. The entire city block was supposedly taken up with the structure. Originally just provided aid to widows and orphans of its members on the assessment plan, now on an actuarially sound system. Distributes food to needy families at Christmas, sponsors "Keep Christ in Christmas" campaign. Gives aid to "Catholic Communications" which produces TV and radio programs explaining the Catholic faith to Catholics and non-Catholics alike; annual pilgrimages to shrines; prayer card distributions; conducts picnics, bus trips, socials etc.[236]

Lutheran

Other

References

  1. ^ Sacred Heart Review New Series. Vol. 54 #14 p.221[permanent dead link]
  2. ^ Fortnightly Review Vol. XXII #21 November 1, 1913 p.660
  3. ^ Preuss, Arthur, A Dictionary of Secret and other Societies. St. Louis: B. Herder Book Co. 1924 p.93
  4. OCLC 3796387
    , p. 131
  5. ^ Preuss p.93
  6. ^ Stevens p.131
  7. ^ What to See and how to See it: Hand Book and Guide, Containing Valuable Information about Portland and Vicinity: Together with an Account of the Lewis and Clark Expedition Multnomah Print. Company, under auspices of Portland Chamber of Commerce, 1905 p.115
  8. ^ Theda Skocpol et al. What a Mighty Power We Can be: African American Fraternal Groups and the Struggle for Racial Equality Princeton University Press, 2006 p.336 no.76
  9. ^ Stevens p.235
  10. ^ Preuss p.93 cites cyclopedia 2nd ed. p.235; La France antimaçonique Vol. XXVII #28 p.329 July 10, 1913
  11. ^ Alan Axelrod, International Encyclopedia of Secret Societies and Fraternal Orders. New York; Facts on File, inc 1997 p.100
  12. ^ . William Washington Browne.
  13. ^ Axelrod p.17
  14. ^ Hollie, Donna Tyler. "Grand Fountain of the United Order of True Reformers". Encyclopedia Virginia. Retrieved 2023-03-16.
  15. ^ Williams, Michael Paul (February 16, 1999). "William Washington Browne". Richmond Times Dispatch.
  16. ^ Schmidt, Alvin J. Fraternal Organizations. Westport, CT; Greenwood Press 1980 p.333
  17. ^ Stevens pp.402-3
  18. ^ Stevens p.141
  19. ^ Fraternal Monitor Vol. XXXII #8 March 1922 p.18
  20. ^ Preuss p.192
  21. ^ a b Stevens p.192
  22. ^ Stevens pp.288-9
  23. ^ Preuss p.465 does not give any sources
  24. ^ Crum, Steven. "Almost Invisible: The Brotherhood of North American Indians (1911) and the League of North American Indians (1935)". Wíčazo Ša Review, Vol. 21, No. 1 (Spring, 2006), p.44
  25. ^ Crum p.48
  26. ^ Todd Leahy and Raymond Wilson, Historical Dictionary of Native American Movements. Lanham, Md.: Scarecrow p.46
  27. ^ Leahy and Wilson p.100
  28. ^ Leahy and Wilson p.161
  29. ^ Stevens, Albert Clark, 1854-, The Cyclopædia of Fraternities: A Compilation of Existing Authentic Information and the Results of Original Investigation as to More than Six Hundred Secret Societies in the United States. (New York: Hamilton Printing and Publishing Company), 1899, p.279
  30. ^ Preuss pp.380-1
  31. ^ Schmidt pp.338-9 cites the group's constitution, newspaper L'Union, and a mimeographed history "A Beautiful Dream Comes True".
  32. ^ a b c d History
  33. ^ Schmidt pp.46-7 cites the group's constitution, by-laws and French language newspaper Le Canado-Americain, and a mimeographed history "A Beautiful Dream Comes True".
  34. ^ "1 Liquidation of ACA Assurance Updated Information for ACA Assurance Policyholders/Members/Creditors /Retirees October 25, 2012" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 2015-01-10. Retrieved 2014-12-23.
  35. ^ Schmidt pp.29-31 cites Saxon Year Book 1902-1977 - published in 1977 for the 75th anniversary, as well as Saxon News Volksblatt the group's periodical.
  36. ^ a b Axelrod p.7
  37. ^ Ancient Order of Freesmiths homepage
  38. ^ Stevens pp.6-8
  39. ^ Preuss p.43
  40. ^ Preuss p.57 cites letter from Grand Secretary Charles H. North dated May 28, 1923; Statistics, Fraternal Societies 1923 pp.19 sq.; Constitution and bye-laws, We must secure 5,000 new members (publications of the BNANA)
  41. ^ Axelrod p.30
  42. ^ Preuss pp.167-8 cites Statistics, Fraternal Societies 1923 pp.71 sq.; Why You should carry a policy with the GUG Germania
  43. ^ a b c Schmidt pp.149-50
  44. ^ Preuss p.150 cites propaganda literature distributed by the GBU, Fraternal Monitor Vol. XXXIII #10 May 1923 p. 9; Statistics, Fraternal Societies 1923 p.66.
  45. ^ Preuss p.150
  46. ^ Schmidt p.240 cites group's periodical The Swiss American and 1965 jubilee book.
  47. ^ Axelrod p.184
  48. ^ Schmidt p.240
  49. ^ Stevens p.175
  50. ^ a b STATE OF NEW YORK INSURANCE DEPARTMENT REPORT ON EXAMINATION OF THE WORKMEN'S BENEFIT FUND OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA p.4
  51. ^ Schmidt pp.358-9 cites group's constitution and periodical, Solidarity.
  52. ^ Preuss p.490 cites Statistics, Fraternal Societies 1923 pp.189 sq.
  53. ^ a b c d Schmidt pp.358-9
  54. ^ Workmen's Benefit Fund homepage
  55. ^ Preuss p.490
  56. ^ a b Axelrod p.265
  57. ^ Fraternal Monitor August 1918 Vol. XXIX #1
  58. ^ Preuss p.8-9 cites Statistics, Fraternal Societies 1923 p. 8; Fraternal Monitor August 1918 Vol. XXIX #1.
  59. ^ Schmidt pp.34-5
  60. ^ a b Axelrod p.263
  61. ^ Preuss p.472 cites Fraternal Monitor Vol. XXXIII #8 p.12 March 1923.
  62. ^ Schmidt p.348
  63. ^ Stevens p.217
  64. ^ Schiavo, Giovanni. The Italians in Chicago: A Study in Americanization, Chicago, Ill., Italian American Publishing Co., 1928 p.59
  65. ^ a b c d Stevens p.206
  66. ^ Schmidt pp.54-5 cites February 1977 issue of group's periodical B'nai Zion voice.
  67. ^ a b Preuss pp.169-70 cites Statistics, Fraternal Societies 1923 ed.
  68. ^ a b Schmidt pp.54-5
  69. ^ a b Axelrod p.35
  70. ^ a b Preuss pp.169-70
  71. ^ "Bnai Zion National Officers 2014". Archived from the original on 2014-12-16. Retrieved 2015-01-07.
  72. ^ a b Stevens pp.208-9
  73. ^ Schmidt pp.140-1 cites group's periodical The Reporter.
  74. ^ a b Preuss p.169 cites Statistics, Fraternal Societies 1923 ed.
  75. ^ a b Schmidt pp.140-1
  76. ^ Axelrod p.98
  77. ^ a b Preuss p.169
  78. ^ Free Son of Israel Reporter On Line Archived 2014-10-23 at the Wayback Machine WINTER EDITION 2014 Vol. 13, No. 1 Grand Master's Message
  79. ^ Schmidt pp.55-6 cites Beacon, group's periodical.
  80. ^ a b c Axelrod p.36
  81. ^ a b c Schmidt pp.55-6
  82. ^ a b c Axelrod pp.36-7
  83. ^ Schmidt pp.56-7 cites periodical Brith Sholom News and an irregularly published Community Relations Digest.
  84. ^ Preuss p.170 cites Jewish Communal Register of New York City 1917-1918 ed.
  85. ^ a b c Schmidt pp.56-7
  86. ^ Preuss p.170
  87. ^ a b c Stevens p.210
  88. ^ Jewish Community of New York City; Margoshes, Samuel, 1887-1968 Jewish Communal Register of New York City 1917-1918 ed. p.956 New York: Kehillah of New York City
  89. ^ a b Jewish Communal Register of New York City 1917-1918 ed. p.956
  90. ^ Preuss p.194
  91. ^ Preuss pp.194-5 cites Statistics, Fraternal Societies 1923 ed. pp.81 sq; Fraternal Monitor Vol. XXXI #9 April 1921 pp. 26 sq.
  92. ^ Preuss p.206 cites Fraternal Monitor August 1918 Vol. XXIX #1 p. 14
  93. ^ a b Stevens pp.209-10
  94. ^ a b Jewish Communal Register of New York City 1917-1918 ed. p.984
  95. ^ Schmidt pp.333-4 Schmidt cites proceedings, order's periodical, and pamphlets.
  96. ^ a b c d Axelrod p.163
  97. ^ Schmidt p.205 cites the groups proceedings, periodical and constitution.
  98. ^ Schmidt p.205
  99. ^ a b c Schmidt pp.204-5
  100. ^ Preuss p.252
  101. ^ a b History
  102. ^ a b Schmidt pp.204-5 cites group's periodical and constitution.
  103. ^ a b Axelrod p.165
  104. ^ Schmidt pp.344-5 cites 1968 centennial pamphlet, and group's periodical The Luso-American
  105. ^ a b c Schmidt pp.344-5
  106. ^ Schmidt pp.318-9 cites constitution and laws as well as the ritual.
  107. ^ Axelrod pp.228-9
  108. ^ "Scandinavian American Fraternity" in Christian Cynosure Vol. LIV #1 May 1921 pp.6-8
  109. ^ Preuss p.423
  110. ^ Sandy VanDoren Register of the Records of the SCANDINAVIAN FRATERNITY OF AMERICA 1909-1992
  111. ^ Axelrod p.221
  112. ^ Schmidt pp.81-2 cites Constitution and bylaws, which contained a short history, as well as Danish sisterhood news, the group's periodical.
  113. ^ Official website
  114. ^ Schmidt p.329
  115. ^ a b About Us: Milestones in the History of the Independent Order of Svithiod (1880-2000)
  116. ^ Preuss p.193 cites Statistics, Fraternal Societies 1923 pp.79 sq; Fraternal Monitor Vol. XXX #1 p.15 Aug 1919
  117. ^ Axelrod p.233
  118. ^ Schmidt p.88
  119. ^ Daughters of Scotland, Blue Bell Lodge #1 records, 1952-1980.
  120. ^ a b Axelrod p.231
  121. ^ Schmidt p.327 cites a 45 rpm record, the group's constitution, brochures, pamphlets and quarterly The Scotian.
  122. ^ Schmidt pp.28-9 cites constitution and bylaws, periodical The Alliance.
  123. ^ a b Axelrod p.85
  124. ^ Schmidt pp.111-2 cites A brief history of the Federation Life Insurance of American 1913-1976 and group's periodical The Voice.
  125. ^ Schmidt pp.111-2
  126. ^ Schmidt pp.265-6 cites constitution, by-laws, Pal-Am Journal, the group's periodical, and the 50th and 75th jubilee histories.
  127. ^ Schmidt p.268 cites Statistics, Fraternal Societies and Polish-American Journal, the group's periodical.
  128. ^ a b Axelrod p.198
  129. ^ a b Schmidt p.268
  130. ^ a b c d e Axelrod p.199
  131. ^ Schmidt pp.270-1 cites pamphlet Sponjnia: Past and Present, periodical Straz/The guard.
  132. ^ Preuss pp.
  133. ^ a b Schmidt pp.270-1
  134. ^ "Working together to touch lives". Archived from the original on 2015-01-10. Retrieved 2015-01-04.
  135. ^ Schmidt p.271 cites brochures, pamphlet and the group's periodical, PUA Parade.
  136. ^ Schmidt p.271
  137. ^ Schmidt pp.337-8 cites convention manuals, pamphlets and brochures, particularly the 14th Quardrennial Convention proceedings of 1977, which had a brief history of the group.
  138. ^ Our History
  139. ^ Schmidt p.70 cites 1977 Statistics, Fraternal Benefit Societies
  140. ^ a b About K.J.Z.T.
  141. ^ Schmidt p.70
  142. ^ "Our History". Archived from the original on 2015-02-05. Retrieved 2015-01-04.
  143. ^ a b c d e f Axelrod p.59
  144. ^ Constitution and Bylaws of the CSA Fraternal Life as adopted at the XXXIX Quadrennial Convention August 10, 2010, Lisle, Illinois[permanent dead link]
  145. ^ Schmidt pp.78-9 cites A story of growth, constitution, CSA Journal.
  146. ^ "A Proud History". Archived from the original on 2015-01-05. Retrieved 2015-01-05.
  147. ^ Schmidt p.77 cites group's periodical.
  148. ^ Schmidt pp.312-3 cites constitution and by-laws, the group's paper, Vestnik and pamphlets and brochures obtained from the group.
  149. ^ "SPJST is . . . Fraternal". Archived from the original on 2008-08-19. Retrieved 2015-01-05.
  150. ^ a b c Schmidt pp.312-3
  151. ^ "Administration". Archived from the original on 2015-01-15. Retrieved 2015-01-05.
  152. ^ a b Axelrod p.227
  153. ^ History of FCSLA: 1892 to Present
  154. ^ Schmidt p.113 cites constitution and group's periodical, Fraternally Yours.
  155. ^ a b c Axelrod p.87
  156. ^ Schmidt p.113
  157. ^ Schmidt pp.113-5 cites 1977 by-laws, Jednota Annual, and group's periodical.
  158. ^ Schmidt pp.113-5
  159. ^ A Brief History of Our Society
  160. ^ a b Schmidt p.202
  161. ^ Axelrod p.161
  162. ^ Schmidt pp.232-3 cites brochures from the group as well as their periodical The National News/Narodne Noviny.
  163. ^ a b Axelrod p.180
  164. ^ Schmidt pp.232-3
  165. ^ Schmidt p.275 cites the constitution, brochures and pamphlets of the group, as well as their periodical, Calvin.
  166. ^ a b c Axelrod p.228
  167. ^ Schmidt pp.313-4 cites mimeographed history, periodicals Katolicky Sokol, Children's Friend.
  168. ^ Schmidt pp.313-4
  169. ^ Axelrod p.229
  170. ^ Schmidt p.343
  171. ^ Schmidt p.363 cites 1977 Statistics, Fraternal Societies.
  172. ^ Preuss p.501 Fraternal Monitor February 1, 1919 Vol.XXIX #7 p.10-1
  173. ^ Preuss p.501
  174. ^ Schmidt p.363
  175. ^ a b c "About CFU History". Archived from the original on 2015-01-05. Retrieved 2015-01-03.
  176. ^ a b Axelrod p.249
  177. ^ Schmidt pp.344-5 cites constitution, by-laws, the group's periodical Prosvita Album, and The United Societies of the U.S.A.; A Historical Album.
  178. ^ a b c Schmidt p.313
  179. ^ a b c d e Axelrod p.57
  180. ^ Schmidt pp.75-6 cites group's periodical.
  181. ^ Schmidt pp.75-6
  182. ^ a b "First Serbian Benevolent Society". First Serbian Benevolent Society. First Serbian Benevolent Society. Retrieved 8 September 2016.
  183. .
  184. ^ "Map of the Cultural Center, Cemetery and Chapel".
  185. ^ History of the Serb National Federation Archived 2015-03-05 at the Wayback Machine
  186. ^ a b Axelrod p.234
  187. ^ Schmidt p.307 cites pamphlet and brochures issued by the society, as well as its periodical.
  188. ^ Schmidt p.307
  189. ^ a b c d Axelrod p.217
  190. ^ Schmidt pp.300-1 cites brochures and pamphlets as well as group's periodical The Truth.
  191. ^ Schmidt pp.300-1
  192. ^ Schmidt p.301
  193. ^ Schmidt p.301 cites groups periodical Svit, Light.
  194. ^ Schmidt pp.302 cites constitution, publicity brochures and the society's newsletter.
  195. ^ Axelrod p.218
  196. ^ Schmidt pp.302
  197. ^ a b Axelrod p.202
  198. ^ Bylaws of the Providence Association of Ukrainian Catholics in America, as approved by the General Assembly April 11 and 12, 2008 Archived 2015-06-10 at the Wayback Machine, p.2
  199. ^ a b Schmidt p.283 cites Jubilee book: 1912-1972 pp.93-110 and group's newspaper, America.
  200. ^ Official website Archived 2013-12-30 at the Wayback Machine
  201. ^ Schmidt p.283
  202. ^ a b c d Axelrod p.245
  203. ^ Schmidt pp.336-7 cites Life Insurance in the Ukrainian Workingmen's Association: its need and significance, constitution and bylaws, group's quarterly Forum and weekly Narodna Volya.
  204. ^ a b Schmidt pp.336-7
  205. ^ a b The Providence Association announces a merger with The Ukrainian Fraternal Association. Archived 2015-04-02 at the Wayback Machine
  206. ^ Schmidt pp.334-5 cites brochures and constitution, periodical Ukrainian National Word.
  207. ^ Ukrainian National Aid Association of America
  208. ^ a b Axelrod p.29
  209. ^ Preuss pp.149-50 cites Fraternal Monitor Vol. XXXI #10 p.20 May 1921; Vol. XXXIII #12 p.16 July 1923.
  210. ^ Schmidt pp.48-9 cites groups periodical Baptist Life Association News
  211. ^ Schmidt pp.48-9
  212. ^ a b Schmidt pp.216-7
  213. ^ a b Our timeline MMA and Mennonite Financial to Everence
  214. ^ Who we serve
  215. ^ Stevens pp.292-3
  216. ^ Schmidt pp.62-3 cites brochures and pamphlets, constitution, and the group's periodical, Catholic Aid News.
  217. ^ Schmidt pp.64-5 cites The Family Friend, the group's periodical.
  218. ^ Schmidt pp.64-5
  219. ^ Stevens pp.191-2
  220. ^ Preuss p.462 cites encyclopedia, Catholic Fraternal League Official Bulletin June 1, 1923, letter from Supreme President John Merril dated August 6, 1923, and propaganda leaflet.
  221. ^ a b Stevens pp.214-5
  222. ^ Schmidt p.XX cites Statistics, Fraternal Benefits.
  223. ^ Schmidt p.XX
  224. ^ a b Schmidt pp.67-8
  225. ^ a b c Axelrod p.47
  226. ^ Schmidt pp.68-70 cites brochures, group's periodical Knight of St. George.
  227. ^ a b c Schmidt p.71
  228. ^ CATHOLIC WORKMAN: An Inventory of Its Records at the Minnesota Historical Society
  229. ^ Schmidt p.187 cites groups quarterly Knight of St. John
  230. ^ Schmidt p.188 cites brochures and data from head office.
  231. ^ Schmidt pp.206-7 cites constitution, bylaws, and the group's periodical, Fraternal Leader.
  232. ^ Axelrod p.164
  233. ^ Schmidt pp.206-7
  234. ^ Schmidt pp.347-8 adds that it was founded on October 16, 1977.
  235. ^ Axelrod p.262
  236. ^ Schmidt pp.347-8
  237. ^ Schmidt p.74

See also