Buchanan County, Missouri - Chapter 8: Secret and Benevolent Societies in Buchanancounty, 1881

The Different Orders In St. Joseph

Sparta Lodge No. 46, was the first organized in Buchanan County. In the dispensation under which it was originally instituted, it was called Katzeel Lodge. This dispensation was issued May 11, 1841, by the Right Worshipful Joseph Foster, Deputy Grand Master of the State.. The officers named in this instrument were Eli Hubbel, W. M., J. Browning, S. W., and J. A. Anthony, J. W.; R. Duncan was appointed Treasurer, F. Waymire, Secretary, and G. Selsil, Tyler.

St. Joseph Lodge No. 78, was an offshoot of this, the mother lodge of the county. Simeon Kemper, the first Senior Warden, and James Highly, the first Junior Warden of No. 78, being originally members of old Sparta Lodge No. '46.

St. Joseph Lodge, at the period of its organization, was the most northern on the Missouri River, and the most western lodge in the United States, its jurisdiction extending thousands of miles west and northwest.

From 1845 to December, 1859, its meetings were held in the third story of a building in which was the store of Joseph C. Hull, on Main. Street?.

From January, 1859, until June, 1873, this lodge met in the Odd Fellows' and Masonic Hall, a large three story brick building jvhich stood on the corner of Fifth and Felix, fronting on the latter, till January 29, 1879, when it was destroyed by fire. This building cost $35,000- At the time of the fire, it was occupied by the dry goods, house of J. W.. Bailey & Co. In the spring of 1880, Mr. Bailey completed, at a cost of $50,000, the present (1881) elegant structure which occupies the former site of this building.

On the first Saturday in December, 1858, before the hall was entirely completed, a meeting was held in the same and Joseph S. Browne, afterwards Grand Master of Missouri, was then and there raised.

In June, 1873, the lodge moved to the elegant and spacious hall ii> the third story of a building on the northwest corner of Fourth and Charles streets, now (1881), occupied by all the Masonic bodies in the city.

At the twenty-fifth annual communication of the Grand Lodge of Missouri, in October, 1845, a dispensation dated October 16, 1845, and signed by J. W. S. Mitchell, Grand Master, was granted to DeWitt Lodge, U. D., A. F. and A. M., at St. Joseph. The officers were Sinclair K. Miller, W. M., Simeon Kemper, S. W., and. James Highly, J. W. The other dispensation members, were H. S. Creal, J. T. Swartz, John Curd, S. Wildbahn, Posey N. Smith and C. W. Thoroughman. The petition for dispensation was recommended by Savannah Lodge No. 71. During the Masonic year the following additions were made; A. McClintock, Joel Ryan, William M. Carter, Philander Thomas, S. E. Love, Henry Smith, William .H High, Samuel C. Hall, Felix Robidoux and Richard Fulton.

At the 'annual grand communication of 1846, the dispensation was surrendered and a charter granted, all of the original becoming charter members.

By request of the members of DeWitt, the name of the lodge was changed to St. Joseph, and the number, 78, was affixed by the Grand Secretary.

The charter is dated October 14, 1846, and signed by John Ralls, Grand Master, John D: Taylor, D. G. M., E. S. Jluggles, S. G. W., John L. F- Jacoby, J. G. W. and Fred. L. Billon, Grand" Secretary.

The three principal officers under the dispensation were also those in the charter. Of the charter members but one yet remains connected with the lodge, the venerable and highly respected Simeon Kemper. F. W. Smith, also a charter member, still lives in St. Joseph. He has not been an active member of the order for many years. The following brethren have filled the office of Worshipful Master of the lodge during the years annexed to their names, viz. : Sinclair K. Miller, 1845, 1846, 1848, 1849, 1850; Edward Searcy, 1847; Edwin J. Harper, .1851, 1852, 1853, 1854; John Scott, 1855; Henry V. Somerville, 1856, 1857; William R. Penick, 1858, 1859; Paris S. Pfouts, i860, 1861 ; George W. Buell, 1862 ; Joseph S. Browne, 1863, 1866, 1867, 1868 ; Daniel Ransom, 1864; Elias Eppstein, 1865 ; James A. Adams, 1869, Philip Arnholt, 1870; John B. Howard, 1871 ; John Bonham, 1872 ; H. N. Montague, 1873; William S. Elliott, 1874; Henry C. Fox, 1875; George P* Dixon, 1876; N. H. Wilmot, 1877; B. F. Buzard, 1878; George Porter, 1879; Jacob Arnholt, 1880; Christopher A. Hubacher, 1881.

On the 8th February, 1874, the lodge was called upon to mourn the <ieath of James Highly, the first Junior Warden of the lodge. He was buried with Masonic honors. He was an honest, intelligent and enterprising citizen, and a faithful Mason.

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Charity Lodge No. 331, was set to work, under dispensation granted by Wm. D. Muir, Grand Master, and dated March 4, 1870, on Monday evening, March 14, 1870, by Samuel Russell, D. D., G. M., with the following officers : Charles F. Knight, W. M. ; D. P. Wallingford, S. W.; John A. Nicely, J. W.; A. M. Saxton, Treasurer; Charles West, Secretary; James W. Goslee, S. D. ; Lewis Haines, J. D. ; John M. Austin, S. S.; John D. Flint, J. S.; together with the following members: Dudley M. Steele, Charles M. Scott, George M. Teale, James Craig, L. M. Lawson, E. W. Edgar, Daniel Conway, Henry C. Branson, Victor B. Buck, John M. Frazer, Richard E. Turner, John T. Ransom, Samuel Dysart, J. R. Weakley, James A. Matney, John G. Willis, James Bradford, Robert J. Biggerstaff, Robert Gunn and L. M. Dunn. The lodge was duly organized under charter dated October 13, 1870, and signed by Thomas E. Garrett, Grand Master; R. E. Anderson, D. G. M.; Samuel H. Owens, S. G. W. ; John E. Ryland, J. G. W., and George Frank Gouley, Grand Secretary, and set to work November 2d, 1870, by Samuel Russell, D. D. G. M. In addition to the before-mentioned, the following were also charter members, viz : Jacob A. Raynor, James H. Dayton, Thomas Edwards, Fred Scheibe, Jeff. Williams, Wm. L. Craig,

J. E. Martin, Chris. Hotz, Joseph E. Sicely, Wm. Phillips, and Edward Searcy. A published report of that year says : "The lodge honored itself in electing, on the 7th of September, 1870, that faithful worker and veteran in Masonry, Edward Searcy, Esq., as an honorary member." The first officers under the charter were the same as those appointed under the dispensation, with the exception of the Junior Deacon, W. L. Craig having been appointed to that position.

St. Joseph Royal Arch Chapter, No. 14, was set to work by M. E. "Companion James Millar, of Weston, Monday evening, March 12, 1849, tinder dispensation granted by John D. Daggett, D. G. H. P., with the following members: Wm.. M. Rush, High Priest; Edward Searcy, King; Lewis Tracy, Scribe, and Companions David Frank, Geo. W. Brown, J. Raney and Felix Robidoux. The Chapter was organized under charter dated May 23, 1840, by James Millar, May 24, 1849, with the sahie officers and members as under the dispensation. The charter is signed by John D. Daggett, Grand High Priest, James Millar, Deputy G. H. P., and Myers, Grand Secretary.

St. Joseph Council, No. 9, Royal and Select Masters, was instituted by Wm. A, Prall, under dispensation dated March 24, 1871, with the following members: W. R. Penick, Thr. 111. G. M.; Wm. L. Craig, Dap. Thr. 111. G. M.; Jos. S. Browne, P. C. of Work, and companions R. J. S. Wise, Wm. L. Branyan, P. E. Chesnut, Abe. Furst, Chas. F. Knight, John A. Nicely, John M. Austin, James W. Goslee and Philip H, Cohen.

The Council was duly set to work under charter dated October 6, 1871, on the 19th of October, 1871, by Will A. Prall, Grand Master. The charter is signed by Will A. Prall, M. P. Grand Master ; Allen McDowell, Dep. P. G. M.; B. G. Wilkerson, Dep. Thr. 111.; M. L. Cohn, G. P. C. of Work, and Geo. Frank Gouley, Grand Recorder. The officers under the charter were those appointed under dispensation. The charter members included all the members under dispensation, with the following additions : J. B. Atchison, W. W. Brown, Geo. A. Bedee, Benj, Bear, John A. Dolman, Chas. M. Douglas, John D. Flint, Chris. Hotz, T. D. Hastings, John L. Jourdan, Simeon Kemper, Ed. Moreiy, Joseph Milner, Robert H. Maupin, Thos. N. Moorby, D. M. McDonald, Thos. C. Roberts, Wm. B. Smith, Ed. C. Towslee and H. N. Turner. The following companions were elected to the offi,ce of Thrice Ills. Master for the years annexed to their names: Wm. R. Pehick, 1871, 1872; Jos. S. Browne, 1873; Jos. Milner, 1874, 1875 ; Wm. B. McNutt, 1876; John M. Austin, 1877; James R. Hardy, 1878; John A. Dolman, 1879, 1880; W. G. Hall, 1881.

Of Hugh de Payens Commandery, No. 4, Knights Templar, the dispensation members were Washington Jones, E. C. ; Edward Dutton, Gen.; Daniel Vanderslice, C. G. ;-L. M. Lawson, Prelate; M. H. Floyd, S. W. ; E. M. Yates, J. W. ; Silas Woodson, Treasurer ; Lewis F. Weimer. Recorder ; H. F. Herbert, Standard Bearer ; Allen McNew, Sword Bearer; John Williams, Warder and Sir Samuel Russell. The exact date of the dispensation is not readily attainable, but it was but a short previous to the granting of the charter, which was dated October 8, 1867, and signed by George Frank Gouley, R. E. Grand Commander ; Lewis F. Weimer, V. E. D. G. C. ; James F. Aglar, E. G. C. ; Jas. Carr, E. G. C. G.,and A. B. M. Thompson, Recorder. The officers named in the charter were the same as appointed under dispensation.

In addition to the dispensation members the following were also charter members : Geo. William Culver, P. G. Conlisk, William L. Craig, W. N. Ewing, Jas. W. Goslee, Samuel Goslee, Isaac Lower, Richard Mclntyre, John C. Ryan, Claudius A. Rowley, Wm. B. Smith, W. P. Sanders and Henry A. Smith.

The following knights were elected to the office of Eminent Commander for the years annexed to their names, viz : Washington Jones, 1867 ; Samuel Russell, 1868, '69, '70, '71 ; C. A. Rowley, 1872 ; R. J. Wells, 1873, '74; - - - , 1875; George. C. Catlett, 1876. In September, 1876, Hugh de Paynes Commandery surrendered its charter.

Howard Chapter No. 10, Adoptive Rite of Masonry, was organized March 23d, 1874, by D. W. Thompson, Special Deputy, under charter of the same date, signed by Robert Macoy, M. E. Grand Patron, and Robert Morris, Grand Secretary, with John M. Austin, Worthy Patron, Sarah C. Howard, Worthy Matron, and Letitia C. Fox, Associate .Matron. Starting off with a long list of charter members, it has had a continued and prosperous growth. At the regular meeting held December 18, 1874, the following officers were chosen: L. N. Smith, W. P.; Mrs. Dr. J. B. Howard, W. M.; Mrs. General W. R. Penick, A. M.; Mrs. J. R. Hardy, Treasurer ; Mrs. George Rees, Secretary.

St. Joseph Commandery, formerly No. 29, subsequently No. 4, was. organized July 24, 1875, with 26 members, including James N. Burnes^ E. C; W. M. Merritt, Generalisimo ; Joseph Hansen, Captain-General; E. O. Sayle, Treasurer, and D. P. WalHngford, Recorder. The other members were Joseph S. Browne, George A. Bed^e, G. W. Belt, P. G. C.,, L. A. Bariteau, Ira Brown, Thomas J. Burgess, Joseph Milner, John L.. Jordan, D. W. Roderick, John M. Austin, Joseph Truex. A. E. Putnam, Eb. Holbert, R. H. Woodring, R. N. Howell, F. M. Tufts, P. G. C, Johii A. Dolman, J. H. Goodspeed, James W. Atwill, Edward P. Rohrer, and H. C. Hemenway.

The following Knights have been elected to the office of Eminent Commander for the years annexed to their names : Sir James N. Burnes,. 1876; Joseph S. Browne, 1877; Sir James R. Hardy, 1878; Sir William G. Hall, 1879, 1880; Sir George C. Hull, 1881.

It must be borne in mind that the above mentioned is a separate and distinct institution from old St. Joseph Commandery, No. 4, K. T. and K. M., the first of that body of the order organized in St. 'Joseph,>and the fourth chartered in the state. This latter was instituted under a dispensation issued Nov. 9, 1859, by Sir Benjamin Brown French, Grand Master of the Grand Encampment of the United States.

The officers nominated in that instrument were : Sir William R. Penick, Eminent Commander ; Sir George C. Catlett, Generalissimo ; and Sir Wellington A. Cunningham, .Captain-General.

A charter for St. Joseph Commandery, No. 4, was ordered fay the Grand Commandery of Missouri, May 23, i860, to be granted by the Grand Commander upon their compliance with the rules and regulations of the Grand Encampment of the United States.

The Grand Commander, Sir George W. Belt, appointed Sir Wellington A. Cunningham, as his proxy to institute the Commandery and install its officers.

The Commandery continued, under various conditions of fortune, till May 3, 1867, when, by a vote of eight to one, its charter was surrendered to the Grand Commandery of the State.

The other Masonic body, of St. Joseph, which, here, has lost its existence, was Orion Lodge, No. 211, A. F. and A. M. A dispensation authorizing the institution of this lodge, was issued by order of the R. W. Deputy Grand Master, W. R. Penick, June 25, i860. C. A. Rowley was then appointed W. Master. The charter subsequently granted this lodge, was dated May 28, 1861. In May, 1863, this charter was surrendered and the property of the defunct lodge delivered to the Grand Secretary.

Mitchell Royal Arch Chapter No. 89 was organized April 15, 1876' with seventeen members. The officers under the dispensation were John A. Dolman, H. R ; H. N. Turner, King; L. N. Malin, Scribe; G.W. Pooler, C. H. ; N. H. Wilmot, P. S. ; E. O. Sayle, Treasurer, and George Ady, Secretary. It received its charter October 5, 1876. The following companions were elected to the office of High Priest for the years annexed to their names: John A. Dolman, 1877; H. N. Turner, 1878; WilHam M. Dixon, 1879; N. H. Wilmot, 1880; W. A. Lord, 1881.

Saint Joseph Masonic Board of Relief was organized December 2nd' 1867, with the following officers; W. R. Penick, President; Robert Gunn, Vice President ; John Pinger, Treasurer, and Lewis F. Weimer Secretary.

The present (1881) officers of the board are W. R. Penick, President; Robert Gunn, Vice President ; Wm. M. Dixon, Treasurer ; Leander N. Mullen, Secretary, and William S. Elliott, Assistant Secretary.

The Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Masonry, including organizations entirely separate and distinct from those above referred to, had, at one time, a brief existence in St. Joseph. Two bodies of the order were instituted about the same time : The Lodge of Perfection, and the Council of P. of J.

St. Joseph Lodge of Perfection No. i, A. A. S. R., was chartered July 23d, 1867. On the 25 th of that month, the same was organized by the Illustrious Brother A. T. Pierson, Active Thirty-third, and Grand Prior of Southern Jurisdiction, with the following officers : Illustrious Bro. W. R. Penick, T. P. G: M. ; 111. Bro. Joseph S. Browne, S. G. W. ; Harvey Bradley, G. O. ; Horatio N. Turner, G. A. ; Isaac B. Halsey, G. T. ; Wm. D. Rowley, G. S.

Both bodies were in a highly prosperous condition up to the period of the surrender of their charters, on the 13th May, 1868. These surrenders were not in consequence of any lack of harmony within the organi- -zations, but the result of a disagreement between the Active Thirtythird from another state, who had organized the bodies, and the officer holding the same rank in Missouri.

The present (1881) Masonic Hall, on the northwest corner of Fourth and Charles Streets, occupies the third story of an elegant bfick building completed in 1873.

This hall is about 40x60 feet, exclusive of ante-rooms. It was elaborately frescoed and appropriately fitted up by Zeredatha Lodge, at a cost of over three thousand dollars. All the different bodies of the Masonic order in the city hold their sessions there.

Its dedication on Saint John the Baptist's day, June 24, 1873, the Most Worshipful Samuel H. Owens, Grand Master of the State, presiding, was an event in the history of St. Joseph. A large concourse of Masons from the surrounding country were present with their families. The close of the imposing ceremonies was followed by a largely attended picnic at what was then Fowler's Grove, now (1881) the St. Joseph Exposition ground.

King Hill Lodge, No. 376, located about one and one-half miles south of the southern limits of the City of St. Joseph, was granted a dispensation August 4th, 1870, by W. D. Muir, Grand Master of the State. August 6th, two days after, the lodge was set to work by Rt. W. D. P. Wallingford, with the following officers : Laban Pritchard, W. M. ; W. Wash- Brown, S. W. ; C. Day, J. W. ; Thos. A. Brown, Treasurer ; John G. Evans, Secretary; James R. Moore, S. D. ; James Duncan, J. D. ; W. A. T. Brown and Dudley Roach, Stewards ; Josiah Costan was appointed Tyler.

November 5, 1870, this Lodge was set to work under charter of the Grand Lodge : Samuel Russell, Past Deputy District Grand Master ; D. P. Wallingford, D. D. G. Marshal ; C. F. Knight, S. G. W. ; Ed. Button, J. G. W. The following officers were installed under the charter: Laban Pritchard, W. M. ; W. Wash. Brown, S. W. ; C. Day, J. W. ; Thos. A. Brown, Treasurer ; J. G. Evans, Secretary ; Jas. R. Moore, S. D. ; James Duncan, J. D.

The following were elected to the office of Worshipful Master and to the office of Secretary, in the years attached to their several names :

From its first organization this lodge has enjoyed a season of steady progress and uninterrupted prosperity. Its hall, the second story of a country school building, is amply commodious for the requirements of necessary comfort and convenience, while its secluded, though readily accessible situation, peculiarly fits it for the purpose for which it was designed.

Independent Order Of Odd Fellows

One of the oldest, as well as most numerously represented institutions of benevolence in the county is the Odd Fellows' Society, of which order there are several prosperous branches in the city.

The oldest of these is King Hill Lodge No. 19. It was instituted at the residence of Joseph Hull, on the west side of Main Street, between Francis and Jule Streets, on Thursday, October 15, 1846.

The charter members of this lodge were D. B. Welding, Eli Hewitt, S. L. Leonard, Eli Bowman, C. F. Emery, and Dr. J. H. Crane. It continued to meet where it was originally organized, till the building, in 1858, of its splendid hall on Felix Street, which was afterwards destroyed by fire.

The present (1881) membership is 66; Fast Grands, 18. The present officers are: William Roedde, N. G.; Joseph Tullar, V. G.; Joseph Croteau, R. S.; J. F. West, P. S; George E. Acklam, Treasurer.

This is not only the oldest lodge in the city but one of the oldest in the state, and has had a long and varied experience. At times, highly prosperous, with large membership and full treasury, and again heavily in debt, with reduced membership. Amid all its variety of fortune, it has, however, never lost hope, and is now steadily gaining ground. King Hill has suffered from an unusual amount of sickness, and loss of members by death, both of which have drawn heavily on her treasury. She has one member who has received weekly benefits continuously for the past six years. Members of the order who were made in King Hill are found taking an active part in lodges all over the northwest. Past Grand Representative L. F. Minturn, long a prominent citizen of St. Joseph, and now (1881) residing in Amazonia, one of the oldest and best posted Odd Fellows in the state, is a member of this lodge.

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This lodge works in the German language, and has enjoyed a prosperous career till within the past two or three years, during which period its funds have been reduced by an unusual amount of sickness and death in its ranks.

The present (1881) officers, are: Caspar Nold, N. G.; William Krumme, V. G.; Anton J. Foitick, R. S.; G. H. Bandel, P. S.; Fred Wenz, Treasurer.

During the first three years of its existence, it had a great amount of - sickness. The first Noble Grand died, leaving a wife and five small children, to be cared for and educated. This entailed a heavy burden upon the lodge, and it required a hard struggle to escape bankruptcy. Since that time, however, it has steadily advanced, and it now ranks with the best in the state, both as regards amount and quality of work done. The meetings are uniformly well attended. Present membership, 131; cash and investments, $2,100, besides a valuable set of regalia and other appliances for conducting the business and work of the lodge.

St. Joseph Degree Lodge No. 3 I. O. O. F., was instituted March 26r 1881, by Past Grand Master L. T. Minturn, and is composed of King Hill Lodge No. 19, Eclipse Lodge No. 143, and Enterprise Lodge No. 232. The first and present officers are : W. F. Dyer, Degree Master ; Geo. E. Acklam, Deputy Degree Master ; W. A. Jordan, First Assistant Degree Master ; Geo. T. Newcomb, Second Assistant Degree Master;. J. C. Young, Third Assistant Degree Master ; F. W. Haimmann, Fourth Assistant Degree Master ; H. N. Robinson, Secretary - M. F. Myers, Treasurer ; F. C. Wheeler, Past Grand ; W. S. Missemer, Warden ; Jos- Croteau, Conductor; Wm. Roedde, I. G.-; J. F. West, O. G. Membership comprises all scarlet degree members of the three lodges above named. Regular meetings occur on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month.

This is a ladies' lodge, and its doors are open to all scarlet members and their wives or widows, also their daughters and sisters over eighteen years of age and unmarried. Regular meetings, third Saturday in each month, at Odd Fellows' Hall.

Hesperian Encampment, No. 8., I. O. O. F. This encampment is one of the oldest in the state, and has sometimes had very hard work to hold its charter, but is now (1881) in a highly prosperous condition, being composed largely of young and energetic men. At the last report, it ranked second in the state for quantity and quality of work performed. Its present officers are :

St. Joseph Encampment, No. 51, 1. O. O. F., was instituted February 9, 1870, with the following charter members : Sam Hesse, John Finger, Phil. Arnholdt, Ernst Wenz, Fred. Stephan, Henry Blum, Jos. Diedrich, G. M. Hauck, J. B. Harder, John Frank, Henry Schmidt, A. S. Long, Robert Wild, L. Ashlinfield. The first officers of this organization were : Ernst Wenz, C. P.; Sam Hesse, H. P.; Jos. Diedrich, S. W.; A. S. Long,, J. W.; Henry Schmidt, Scribe; Geo. M. Hauck, Treasurer.

This encampment is composed almost entirely of members of Humboldt Lodge, No. 130, and like it, works in the German language. It has generally been very prosperous. The present membership is fortyseven.

Hesperian Division of Uniformed Patriarchs, organized March, 1880, has thirty men in uniform. Its business meetings occur on the first Friday of each month, weekly drill on such nights as may be selected from time to time. The officers of this order are : W. F. Dyer, Chief Captain ; W. S. Missemer, Sub Captain; D. E. Heaton, Junion Captain; Geo. E. Acklam, Secretary and Treasurer.

General Relief Committee of St. Joseph : W. S. Missemer, of Enterprise Lodge, President ; Fred Wenz, of Humboldt Lodge, Vice President ; J. F. West, of King Hill Lodge, Secretary ; F. W. Hammond, of Eclipse Lodge, Treasurer.

Odd Fellows' Hall Association is a joint stock company, composed of King Hill Lodge No. 19, Humboldt Lodge No. 130, Eclipse Lodge No. 143, Enterprise Lodge No. 232, Hesperian Encampment No. 8, and St. Joseph Encampment No. 51. It was organized in the early part of 1881, for the purpose of managing the general property of the order, hall furniture, fixtures, etc. It is divided into ten shares, each lodge owning two shares and each encampment one.

F. C. Wheeler, of Eclipse, is President ; F. Wenz, of St. Joseph Encampment, Vice President ; W. S. Missemer, of Enterprise, Secretary, and R. S. Carpenter, of Hesperian Encampment, Treasurer.

The directors are George Acklam, of King Hill ; Henry Bandel, of Humboldt ; F. C. Wheeler, of Eclipse ; W. S. Missemer, of Enterprise ; R. S. Carpenter, of Hesperian Encampment, and Fred Wenz, of St. Joseph Encampment.

All the different bddies of the order occupied a room in the spacious structure, on the corner of Fifth and Felix Streets, completed in the winter of 1858. Ifwas generally known as Odd Fellows' Hall, though one-half of the third floor was occupied by the different Masonic bodies, who had assisted in completing the structure. This building, at the period of its completion, was the most spacious and elegant in the city, extending 40 feet front by 120 feet deep. The halls of the two orders were lofty, spacious, and, when used for the purposes originally designed, elegantly appointed and equipped. Its original cost was about fortyi thousand dollars.

During the war, as stated in our notice of the Masonic order, it was taken for debt, and became the property of W. R. Penick and J. W. Bailey. It was destroyed by fire about 1879. The site is now occupied by the most elegant business block in the city. This was erected in 1880 by J. W. Bailey and L. Hax.

All the different bodies of the order hold their sessions in what is now termed Odd Fellows' Hall, a spacious and elegant apartment, occupying the third floor of a building on the corner of Fifth and Edmond Streets.

Benevolent Societies The German Benevolent Society

ranks with the oldest established institutions in St. Joseph, its origin dating as far back as 1847. Frederick Smith, one of the founders of the organization, was its first President. Its object, when first instituted, was the extension of aid to German immigrants arriving in St. Joseph, many of whom, in that early day, were unable to express themselves in any but their native language. Organized on the broad basis of human charity, and absolutely non-sectarian in its character, this noble institution has ever since continued to prosper in its unostentatious efforts in behalf of suffering humanity, without interruption. Its present (1881) membership is 155. Henry Duve is President and Henry Voth, Secretary.

The Turn Verein

a gymnastic association among the German citizens of St. Joseph, was organized June 3rd, 1858, with eighteen members, including the Presi: dent, Dr. Stein and Charles Ziph, the Secretary. The membership of the Turn Verein, in 1 881, is one hundred.

Saint Francis Xavier Society

a benevolent institution, was organized in 1865, with 15 members. March 16, 1866, the same was incorportated. The membership of this society in 1881, is 95, including Edward Wagner, President and Henry Voth, Secretary.

The St. Joseph Maennerchor

a German singing society, was instituted May 22, 1868, with 12 members, including the President, Carl Weigel. The present (1881) officers are E. Padberg, President ; Robert Bressem, Vice President ; Franz Hellman, Secretary ; F.. Ferry, Librarian ; Felix B. Canfield, Musical Director. The aggregate meinbership is 100.

The Hibernian Benevolent Society

was organized February, 1867, with 30 members. By the close of the following year, this number rose to 700. John Corby was first President, and Daniel Lysaght, Secretary. The society lost its existence in 1878.

Saint Patrick'S Benevolent Society

was organized in 1871, with about 40 members. Jeremiah Whalen was its first President. In 1875 the society was reorganized, with 60 members, which Joseph Mclnerny was President. He was continously re-elected to this office till the year 1880, when he was succeeded by M. J. McCabe. The present (1881) membership of the society is 125. The elections for officers occur on the second Sunday in January each year. Saint Patrick's Benevolent Society is a branch of the Irish Catholic Benevolent Union of the United States, departments of which exist in every state in the Union.

Knights Of Pythias

Lomia Lodge No. 15, K. P., was instituted December 3, 1871, by Past Grand Chancellor George B. Birch, of Hannibal, with twelve members. The membership of this lodge at one time was largely over 100. In December, 1880, it surrendered its charter. St. Joseph Lodge No. 22, K. P., was instituted May 14, 1872, with eleven members. This organization is now (1881) in a prosperous condition. Its membership is one hundred. In connection with this order there is a very suc- insurance organization known as the "Endowment Rank,'' which pays from $1,000 to $3,000 to the heirs of knights at their death. One two losses in this vicinity have been paid promptly.

The United Ancient Order Of Druids

in St. Joseph, includes two separate organizations. The older of these, "WaJhalla Hain No. 28, was organized August 28, 1872, with fifteen members, including G. Saltzman, Noble Arch, and A. S. Jetter, V. A. There are now (1881) one hundred and three members of this Grove. The principal officers are Charles Schneider, N. A.; John Seyfridt, V. A., and Charles Everhardt, Secretary, This is a German organization.

was organized August 18, 1879, with the following charter members: AS. Yetter, R. E. Morris, Wm. E. Jamieson, Jule Robidoux, A. D. Stauffer, H. W. Stine, Ira C. Putnam, E. Hansen, J. J. Rainalter, C. Hubacher. The first officers elected were A. S. Yetter, N. A. ; C. A. Hubacher, V. A. ; Jule Robidoux, Treasurer ; E. Hansen, Secretary ; Wm. E. Jamieson,. Cond. ; R. E. Morris, I. G. The Grove meets (1881) corner Ninth and Olive, every second Monday.

The Liberal League

a society organized in St. Joseph, with forty-seven members, in the year 1874, has for its object the universal diffusion of menital and political liberty. P. V. Wise, its first presiding officer, has been continuouslyre-elected to that position up to the present time. Thos. Kennedy was the first appointed Secretary. The present (1881), membership is 140.

Greutli Verein

is a Swiss society, organized in St. Joseph in January, 1874, with thirty members. Conrad Tanner, its first President, was re-elected in 1881 ;. Fred. Roth, Secretary.

The Bismark Bund

a German organization, was established in St. Joseph in January, 1873,. with eighty-three members. Its first President was Christ. Mast. An English section Was afterwards added, but this has ceased to exist. The Bund is now known as the Mutual Benefit and Aid Society. H. W.. Kastor is now (1881) President; H. Brunsing, Treasurer; andJoeOppenheimer, Secretary.

The Independent Order Of Foresters

was the first Court organized west of the Mississippi River. Membership in 1 88 1, sixty-two. E. F. Hartzell, the founder of Court America, is now (1881) Secretary of the Supreme Court of the World, which holds its sessions in the City of New York.

was organized in May, 1878, with sixty charter members. F. Schoenlaub was its first Chief Ranger. Membership in i88i,over one hundred. The members of this Court carry from $1,000 to $3,000 insurance. Th^ sick benefit is $3 per week.

Socialistic Labor Party

Section St. Joseph, established May, 1878, with fourteen members, including the following officers : Henry Christ, Agitator, and H. Paar, Secretary. The object of the society is the accomplishment of a more precise, orderly and harmonious arrangement of the social relations of mankind than that which has hitherto prevailed. Its membership includes representatives of every nationality in the city.

The Knights Of Honor

Industrial Lodge No. 2228, K. H., a German organization, was also instituted in May, 1880, a short time after the establishment of Phoenix Lodge. It started with fifteen members. Dr. J. T. Berghoff, Dictator, and D. F. Bombeck, Reporter. Membership in 1881, twenty-nine.

was organized Nov. 12, 1880, with seventeen charter members - eight ladies and nine knights. This, like the above, is also a life insurance society, paying $1000 death benefit. The officers with which this lodge was organized were George S. Holden, Protector ; Mrs. Fanny Stewart, Secretary, and Dr. J. T. Berghoff, Med. Ex.

The Arion

a musical society, was organized May 20, 1880, with twelve members, including John Moeck, Jr., President and J. G. Schneider, Secretary. In 1 88 1, the membership amounted to sixty.

The National Irish Land League, No. I.

was organized at the Christian Brothers' school, in South St, Joseph, January i, 1881, Joseph Mclnery, President and W. W. Davis, editor Catholic Tribune, Secretary. By the following July, the membership was increased to 300.

The Trades And Labor Assembly Of St. Joseph

a society composed of all the Trades Unions in the city, was organized June 7, 1881, with eleven unions, viz : the Typographical, Cigar Makers', Bricklayers', Teamsters', Knights of St. Crispin, Hod Carriers', Brick Yard Men's Union, Coopers', Carpenters', Plasterers' and Barbers'.

The officers first elected were, J. L. Aubrey, President ; R. H. Semple. Recording Secretary ; Professor Johnson (colored) Corresponding Secretary.

Isaac Oppenheimer, A. Hamburger, H. Binswanger, L. Dawziger, I.. Haas, Joseph Straus, Max Juda, Jacob Kurtz, Sol. Juda, Meyer Juda,, Isaac Rosenthal. The officers in 1881 were: Ferd Westheimer, President ; H. Marks, Vice President ; Joe Straus, Treasurer ; Robert Lowenstein, Financial Secretary; Sam. Hess, Recording Secretary; Julius Meyer, I. G. ; Sol, Juda, O. G. The trustees are Abe Furst, Samuel Westheimer, and Moses Frank.

The Sons Of Israel

is another worthy society among the Hebrews. It was instituted in September, 1879, with twenty-four members. B. Newberger, President; H. Ehrlich, Treasurer ; S. Binswanger, Secretary. The objects of the society are charity and mutual benefit.

The Phcenix Club

an organization for social enjoyment among the Hebrews of St. Joseph, was instituted in 1867, and included in its membership some of the most respected of that people. It has twice since then been organized. At its second organization, in 1880, Isadore Weil was elected President ; H. Ehrlich, Secretary, and Abe Furst, Treasurer.

The Unconditional Union Club

was organized in St. Joseph, August ist, 1863 ; W. R. Penick, President, and James T. Beach, Secretary. Over one hundred diiferent clubs were at one time connected with this institution, which afterwards merged into a similar organization in St. Louis.

The following were the officers and members of the executive committee of the Unconditional Union Club of Missouri : W. R. Penick, President ; James T. Beach, Secretary; George Lyon, Treasurer ; William Loving, Louis Hax, W. M. Albin, William Fowler, James Hunter, David Pinger.

Tootles Opera House St. Joseph Medical Society

the oldest organization of that character in the city, was instituted about the year 1849. O- B. Knode, M. D., was its first President. Doctors Crane, Howard, Catlett, and, indeed, all the best of the early established physicians of the city were members of this association. The society at one time published a highly popular medical journal, which lost its existence during the stormy days of the civil war, and has never since been revived. The organization, however, still (1881) continues to exist in a prosperous condition. Dr. Jacob Geiger is President.

The Surgical And Pathological Society

was organized June 17, 1875. W- I- Heddens, M. D., of St. Joseph, was its first President, and W. H. Bryant, M. D., of Savannah, its first Vice President ; Jacob Geiger, M. D., Secretary. It then included twentysix members from eleven different towns and cities. Its present membership (1881) is seventy-one. C. W. Spicer, M. D., of Fillmore, Andrew County, is President, and D. I. Christopher, M. D., of St. Joseph, Secretary. The society meets quarterly in St. Joseph.

Scottish Societies

There were, at one time, in the city of St. Joseph, two societiaie among her Scottish citizens, known respectively as the St. Andrews and the Caledonian Societies. The former has lost its existence.

The Caledonian

was instituted for benevolent and charitable purposes, in the fall of 1859, by a few leading Scotchmen resident in the city, prominent among whom were Alexander McGregor and John Burnside. Of the original founders many have died and others moved away from the city. Their first grand entertainment was held January 25, i860. All good Scotchmen and descendants of Scotchmen, of reputable character, were eligible to membership.

Temperance Organizations Red Ribbon Reform Club

an institution which was organized December 16, 1877, by J. C. Bontecou, a temperance revivalist, who achieved considerable distinction in the discharge of his self-imposed duties. After the organization of the club, rooms were secured under Tootle's Opera House, and, with a membership that speedily rose to 1,200, the work was fairly inaugurated. The club occupied these rooms till May 24th of the following year, when the upper portion of a building on the corner of Second and Francis Streets was rented and fitted for the use of the organization

These quarters, centrally located and easy of access, were admirably -adapted to the purpose designed. On the first floor occupied by the club, were two spacious rooms, used, respectively, as a reading room and amusement room. In the former were found all the leading newspapers of the country, and, also, a well-selected library. In the amusement room v}ere all the popular games, with the exception of cards. Every advantage of rational recreation was thus offered the members, while the strictest decorum was at all times enforced.

The entire upper portion of the building was used as a hall for the meetings of the club and the various entertainments which were given from time to time. This was provided with a spacious stage and all the accessories of a miniature theatre, including diop-curtain, foot-lights, scenery, etc. The seating capacity of this hall was over 500.

A very liberal policy was pursued by the management of the club, and refined amusements were from time to time presented for the entertainment of the members. Largely attended religious meetings were held every Sunday evening, at which, at different times during the year, the pastors of the several churches in the city officiated. Lecturers of distinction from other cities also occasionally addressed the club. Inj the winter season regular dancing parties were given, as well as dramatic and rhusical entertainments for the benefit of the club treasury.

The first officers of the club were : Mordecai Oliver, President ; C. B. Wilkinson, First Vice President ; Thomas F. Ryan, Second Vice President ; William H. Wood, Third Vice President ; James C. Cozine, Secretary; E. A. Smith, Financial Secetary; T. Van Natta, Treasurer ; J. A. Winsch, First Marshal ; R. A. Craig, Second Marshal ; T. Huyler, Sergeant-at-arms.

Home Of The Friendless

The motives which could lead to the establishment of a place of rest and protection for the destitute and helpless among women, as well as of the legion of unfortunate little waifs of fortune drifted out on life's stormy sea, without friend or guardian, are among the most ennobling that belong to human nature. Hence, no institution of unselfish benevolence ever awakened a livelier interest in the minds of the people of St. Joseph, and of the county generally, than has the Home of the Friendless.

On the 8th of October, 1874, four ladies of the city, Mrs. Austill, Mrs. Rock, Mrs. Jeff, Williams and Mrs . Charles Thompson, made their first attempt in an enterprise jvhich has since been clothed with such signal and generally unlooked for success.

They first rented, for the purpose of accommodating the home, a building, the property of Milton Tootle, on Antoine, between Main and Levee Streets, and now (1881) used as a hospital. This they opened on the date above mentioned, with three inmates, one woman and two small children.

ful of earnestly humane women, inaugurated under circumstances the reverse of encouraging, and which, in a very few subsequent years, was to develop results in which every friend to the cause of broad and unselfish charity in the city and county was to feel a just pride and a lively and permanent interest.

The institution, from its earliest incipiency, was established on the broad basis of human charity. Jew or Gentile, Catholic or Protestant, were, and are alike subjects of the ministering care of those devoted messengers of mercy, who recognize in the unfortunate and the afflicted, the cry of human suffering.

Since the establishment of the society, in 1874, the necessities of over eight hundred women and children have been relieved by this society. The watchful care of its members is not expected to cease with the provision of homes for the children, many of whom, after such provision, have been moved to other and more eligible guardianship through the aid and influence of ladies of the Home. From its organization in 1874, good homes have been provided, generally in the country, for over one hundred destitute children from the city.

While the temporary and immediate necessities of every applicant are promptly relieved, only those from the state are permanently cared for. The inmates of the home are usually aged women and children.

After the first establishment of the institution, it was subject to several removals at different times, the society being, for many years, unable to own a building.

In the summer of 1880, George T. Hoagland offered to donate to the society, for a Home for the Friendless, an elegant two-story brick residence with ten acres of ground, at Saxton, on the Hannibal and St. Joseph Railroad, six miles east of St. Joseph. This munificent gift the ladies were compelled to decline, in view of the distance of its location from the city.

This liberality on the part of Mr. Hoagland, however, seemed to prompt a kindred spirit in the minds of others. R. H. Jordan, Major Condon and Colonel John Tyler labored indefatigably as a committee for the purpose of soliciting funds for the purchasing of a Home for the unfortunate. Their efforts were ultimately crowned with complete success, and with the amount realized, $3,500, was purchased the splendid place on the corner of Main and Pouline Streets, formerly the property and residence of Armstrong Beattie, in his life-time the leading banker of St. Joseph. The building is an old-fashioned but comfortable brick residence. It stands in a half block of well-improved ground, laid out in terraces, communicating with each other by means of stone steps. It is well shaded with ornamental trees, and is in every respect attractive in appearance. The $3,500 paid for this property was the original cost of the stone wall b>- which it is surrounded.

Now, at this day, comes the above-mentioned matter coming on for hearing, and it appearing that the petition herein, together with the articles of association thereto attached, have been on file in the clerk's office of this court for more than three days since said petition and articles were presented to the court, the same having been presented on the iith day of May, 1881, as appears by the official endorsement thereof on the back of said petition, and it further appearing that said articles of agreement and the purposes of the association come properly within the province of Article 10, Chapter 21, of the Revised Statutes of Missouri for 1879, and are not inconsistent with the constitution or laws of the United States or State of Missouri, it is ordered and decreed by the court that said Rufus H. Jordan, Frank C. Condon and Adam N. Schuster, President, Secretary and Treasurer respectively of said association, and their associates and successors, be and are hereby incorporated, under the name of the "Home of the Friendless Aid Society," and that they have and possess the rights, privileges and powers set out in said articles of association.

I, Samuel D. Cowan, Clerk of the Circuit Court in and for the county and state aforesaid, do certify that the above and foregoing is a full, true and complete decree of court, made as aforesaid, in the above entitled cause, as the same appears of record, and on file in my office.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said court at office in the City of St. Joseph, this 23d day of May, 1 88 1.

In the articles of association it is provided that the name and style of the corporation shall be the Home of the Friendless Aid Society, and shall be located in the city of St- Joseph, Buchanan County, Missouri.

The object and purpose of the corporation shall be to act as trustee, under section 911, of the Revised Statutes, in carrying out the benevolent purposes of the Ladies' Union Benevolent Association, heretofore incorporated, under the laws of Missouri, relating to charitable and benevolent associations, the pr9perty to be owned by those contributing to its present purchase or future improvement, and is to be conveyed by deed to this corporation for the use and purposes aforesaid. Should the said Ladies' Union Benevolent Association, at any time hereafter, abandon its purposes and franchises, the object and purposes of this shall be deemed to have fully accomplished, and the same shall be dissolved, and the proceeds of said property shall be divided among the persons who have contributed thereto, their heirs or assigns, as their interest shall then appear.

It is provided in section 4, that the officers of the corporation shall consist of a President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer and Board of Trustees.

In section 14, it is provided that the following named persons shall constitute the Board of Trustees until the next annual election : R. H. Jordan, J. C. Evans, M. A. Reed, H. K. Judd, F. C. Condon, A. N. Schuster and J. H. Robison.

The officers of the Home have always been elected yearly. Those first chosen were Mrs. John Donovan, President ; Mrs. George Connell, Vice President ; Mrs. A. N. Schuster, Treasurer ; Mrs. Jeff WilHams, Recording Secretary and Mrs. John Townsend, Corresponding Secretary. Mrs. Donavan remained in the same office for three consecutive years after the first election.

Of the original twelve directors but three now (1881) remain on the board. These are Mrs. John Dolman, Mrs. Michau, and Mrs. George C. Hull. The present officers of the Home are : Mrs. John A. Dolman, now serving her fourth year as President ; Mrs. Dr. Ellingwood, First Vice President ; Mrs. Geo. B. Hoagland, Second Vice Fresident ; Mrs. R. H. Jordan, Third Vice President ; Mrs. M. C. Condon, Treasurer ; Mrs. W. A. Lord, Recording Secretary ; Mrs. Wm. Moore, Corresponding Secretary. These, with eleven others, compose the board of directors.

Heretofore, the expenses of the Home have been kept up by private subscriptions and the proceeds of a bazaar held once a year. From the liberality heretofore manifested, the managers-and others interested in the success of the Home have been led to hope that the laborious necessity of keeping up these annual bazaars will be obviated by some substantial aid, either from the state or from some other source.

The National Temperance Relief Union

of St. Joseph, is the outgrowth of several benevolent and mutual benefit associations. Its original charter is dated 1878. Present (1881) officers: J. A. Millan, President ; J. M. Street, Vice President and Business Manager ; John Donavan, Treasurer ; F. H. Lewis, Secretary. Membership, 7,500. Indemnity certificates in force, 1,100.