1889 HISTORY OF LINCOLN NEBRASKA

CHAPTER XIX

SECRET ORDERS -- THE FIRST LODGE ORGANIZED IN LINCOLN -- HISTORICAL SKETCH OF ALL THE PRINCIPAL ORDERS NOW IN THE CITY -- OTHER SOCIETIES DESERVING MENTION

(277) The characteristic of plan to plant his hearthstone and religious institutions as soon as possible upon settling in a new country, manifests itself almost equally in reference to his social and benevolent institutions. Hence we find that almost as soon as the early residents of Lincoln had established their homes, secret orders were founded, the first one to set its altars in the city being the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. The history of Odd Fellowship in Lincoln commences almost at the time of the founding of the city, the first lodge being organized on the 21st of April, 1868.

Two of the State Commissioners appointed to locate the capital -- Gov. David Butler and Secretary of State Thomas Kennard -- were members of the order in good standing. Their duties, however, in giving the initial impetus to a new State, and laying the foundation of its capital, occupied their time to such an extent that the organization of the first subordinate lodge was left mainly to other men and members.

The lodge first organized was Capital Lodge No. 11, and its charter was committed to the hands of W. H. Stubblefield, Max Rich, Samuel McClay, L. A. Ouyett, and Samuel Leland. At the organization Max Rich was installed as N. G.; Samuel McClay, V. G.; Samuel Leland, Secretary; and L. A. Ouyett, Treasurer. W. H. Stubblefield was appointed District Deputy Grand Master.

The lodge was instituted by the Hon. George H. Burgert, of Nebraska City, who was at that time Grand Master.

Three members were received into membership at that time, viz., L. Lavender, by deposit of card, and S. B. Pound and Seth Robinson by initiation.

The lodge was instituted in the limited second story of a frame building standing on the ground now known as No. 123 South Tenth (278) street, the first floor being occupied as a drug store kept by Mr. Tingley.

On the 18th day of October, 1870, the Grand Lodge; I. O. O. F., of Nebraska, held its thirteenth annual session in Lincoln, using the Senate Chamber of the old capitol building.

At that session, upon the petition of Bros. M. Rich, S. McClay, John Lamb, R. A. Bain, Charles Hasbrouck, M. G. Bohanan; and Sisters S. E. Lamb, R. Oppenheimer, P. E. Helman, A. Bain, and L. E. Bax, a dispensation was given to organize a lodge of the degree of the Daughters of Rebekah, to be known as Charity Lodge No. 2.

On the evening of the 19th the lodge was duly instituted by Grand Master John Hamlin, supported by the officers and members of the Grand Lodge. After adjournment a recepuon and banquet was given the Grand Lodge and the members of No. 2, by Governor David Butler and his wife, at which many ladies and gentlemen of Lincoln were present. In memory of this occasion, and as an appreciation of its lasting fitness, the lodge has ever, with eminent success, kept up the social feature inaugurated on that evening.

ln 1871, among the members of Capital Lodge and those of other lodges adjourning at Lincoln, a number were found who desired an organization in which they could work in the higher or encampment degrees of Odd fellowship. Accordingly, on the 7th day of April of that year, a charter was granted by the Grand Lodge of the United States, giving authority to organize a subordinate Encampment in Lincoln, to be known and hailed as Saline Encampment No. 4. On the 12th day of May the encampment was instituted by District Deputy Grand Sire St. John Goodrich, of Omaha.

The officers were Samuel M. Clay, C. P.; W. P. Ensey, H. P.; J. C. Ford, S. W.; M. G. Bohanan, J. W.; Charles Purcell, Scribe, and Isaac Oppenheimer, Treasurer.

On the first day of July, 1872, the Grand Encampment of the Patriarchal Branch I. O. O. F. of Nebraska, was instituted, in the hall of Capital Lodge, the hall being then located in the third story of No. 1023 O street. The Grand Encampment was composed of the Past Chief Patriarchs of the then five Subordinate Encampments in the State. It was instituted by St. John Goodrich, the District Deputy Grand Sire.

(279) The grand officers were D. A. Cline, of No. 1, Grand Patriarch; John Hamlin, No. 1, Grand High Priest; W. L. Wells, No. 3, Grand Senior Warden; John Evans, No. 2, Grand Scribe; D. H. Wheeler, No. :3, Grand Treasurer; H. A. Wakefield, of No. 5, Grand Junior Warden; and St. John Goodrich, of No. 2, Grand Representative to the Grand Lodge of the United States.

In 1873 the order had progressed so far that it was deemed expedient to organize another lodge. Accordingly about the 1st of May fifteen members, belonging to as many different lodges in different parts of the county, united in a petition to the Grand Lodge of Nebraska for a new subordinate. The petition was granted, and on the 5th day of June, 1873, the lodge was instituted by D. D. Grand Sire St. John Goodrich, to be known as Lancaster Lodge No. 39.

The first officers were J. H. Wheeler, N. G.; J. C. Ford, V. G.; O. M. Druse, Secretary; and M. K. Fleming, Treasurer.

J. H. Harley was the first initiate. The lodge has succeeded according to expectations.

The next lodge, Germania No. 67, was instituted for the benefit of those who could best work in their native German vernacular. The lodge was instituted with ten charter members, on the 11th of December, 1877, by Hon. H. W. Parker, of Beatrice, who was Grand Master of the order at that time. The first officers were: George Webber, N. G.; G. Rasgarshik, V. G.; Aug. Droste, Secretary; and G. R. Wolf, Treasurer. Seven parties were initiated. The advantages it brought, and its success in more closely fraternizing a large number of the German element in Lincoln, demonstrated that the judgment that gave existence to the new lodge was well founded. It has, perhaps, dispensed as large a benefice, both material and attentive, as any lodge in the city.

March 29, 1881, a charter was granted for what is known among Odd Fellows as a degree lodge. On the evening of the same day it was instituted by Grand Secretary D. A. Cline, acting under a special commission. It was known as Magic Degree Lodge No. 2. It existed but a short time.

On the 14th of February, 1885, Ford Uniformed Degree Camp No. 2 was instituted by Isaac Oppenheimer, Grand Patriarch. The members procured an expensive uniform and acquired great proficiency in the peculiar drills of the order, which are of a military (280) character. James Tyler was elected captain. This organization continued and prospered until March, 1887, when it was merged into an organization of more enlarged purpose and of much grander proportions, known as the Patriarchs Militant, I. O. O. F. The style of the uniform was materially changed. From that time Ford Uniformed Degree Camp No. 2 was, and still is, known as Canton Ford No. 2 P. M. Chevalier James Tyler again took the office of captain.

As Lincoln grew in size and importance as a city, so did the Independent Order of Odd Fellows as one of its benevolent and fraternal institutions, until a new lodge was deemed to be necessary. Accordingly, on the 22d day of January, 1886, Grand Master Arthur Gibson, of Fremont, placed the charter for Lincoln Lodge No. 138 in the hands of the following members: J. E. Douglas, L. C. Dunn, Charles J. Heffley, C. D. Hyatt, O. P. Dinges, E. T. Roberts, D. F. Dinges, A. H. Hutton, John Hill, S. M. Hartzell, S. W. Long, T. F. Lasch, J. D. Hurd, and W. D. Fowler, and organized them into a lodge. It prospered as all the lodges have up to this date.

In an organization where the beneficial feature distinguishes it particularly, each lodge must make it a chief object not only to have money in its treasury, but a reserve in the shape of real estate or in some productive form, so as to make good all its promises and pledges to members in their day of need. With such an object in view, numerous schemes were proposed and debated from time to time by the lodges. It was granted that something was needed which would at the same time afford accommodations as a lodge room and as a source of revenue. Until the spring of 1881 but little was accomplished. On the 3d day of May, 1881, articles of incorporation were adopted, executed, and filed, which brought into existence "The Odd Fellows' Hall Association, of Lincoln, Neb.," with a capital stock of $20,000. The stock was soon taken. On the 1st day of June the first regular meeting of the stockholders was held for the purpose of forming a permanent organization. At this meeting D. A. Cline was elected President; Charles T. Boggs, Secretary; W. W. Holmes, Treasurer, and a board of directors composed of nine stockholders, to hold their office for three years.

Land was secured on the northeast corner of L and Eleventh streets, and by the summer of 1882 a fine-appearing and substantial brick edifice, four stories in height, with two business rooms, was (281) completed, when the different Odd Fellow organizations then in the city found themselves housed with all the comforts and conveniences necessary.

The scheme proved a success, and placed the two lodges participating in the ownership, Nos. 11 and 39, on a solid financial basis.

In the year 1868 Pythianism first obtained a foothold on Nebraska soil, through the efforts of Captain George Crager,who, coming direct from the birthplace of the order, planted its good seed with vigor and earnestness. August 28, 1871, John Q. Goss, the Grand Chancellor, assisted by P. G. C. George Crager, G. K. of R. and S.; E. E. French, G. M. A.; T. J. Lane, and Knight Henry Lauer, visited Lincoln and instituted Lincoln Lodge No. 8, K. of P., the first lodge in this city and the only one instituted that year in the State.

The lodge flourished in number, and finances, and the members, were the most honored citizens of the then small but flourishing capital city. In 1873 the lodge succumbed to financial reverses and other causes, and surrendered its charter in November of that year.

In December a few of the old Knights strong in the spirit, with others, petitioned for a new charter. This was granted December 3, 1873, by Judge J. W. Carter, Grand Chancellor, and the first meeting for institution was held in the attic of the old opera house. The first officers were: C. C., A. Meyer; V. C., G. R. Harris; K. of R. and S., D. Kalor; M. of Ex., F. E. Smith; M. of F., M. J. Percival; P., P. H. Cooper. The lodge has met with various reverses and successes. It moved from place to place until finally it settled in the old Masonic Hall, corner of Tenth and O streets, which is now completely fitted up with lodge room, banquet room, kitchen, etc., for lodge purposes. It has been honored by the Grand Lodge in the selection of six of its members to the office of Grand Chancellor, and with eighteen subordinate offices. Its present membership is 186, and it possesses property valued at $3,800. Its present officers are: P. C., H. M. Shaeffer; C. C., T. M. Cooke; V. C., S. A Warner; P., H. C. Fredericks; K. of R. and S., Banks Stewart; M. F., J. W. Percival; M. of Ex., M. Hooker; M. A., Wm. Chichester; I. G., J. J. Young; O. G., C. A. Risings.

In the year 1884 some of the young blood of No. 16 conceived the idea that another lodge of Knights of Pythias would be of benefit to (282) the order in this city. A petition to the Grand Chancellor resulted in a dispensation, and Apollo Lodge No. 36 sprang into existence, on August 18, 1884. The lodge flourished from the start, and as a result of its work and influence, the growth of both Nos. 16 and 36 was large, nearly doubling in membership in one year. Its representatives have taken high rank in the councils of the Grand Lodge, and are placed upon the most important committees. It has been honored in the choice of Richard O'Neill as Grand Chancellor, now the sitting Past Grand. It has a membership at present of eighty-three, eleven Past Chancellors, and one P. G. C. Its finances are in good condition. The present officers are: P. C., Walter Keens; C. C., Ed P. Keefer; V. C., F. B. Harris; K. of R. and S., T. D. Scudder; M. of F., J. North; M. of Ex., H. W. Kelley; M. of A., J. J. McClellan; I. G., Winnie Scott; O. G. Wm. P. Gronen; Trustees, J. E. Douglas, T. W. Tait, Phelps Paine.

A. D. Marshall Lodge No. 41 was organized June 18, 1885, by G. C. J. C. McNaughton, with twenty-three members. The lodge was named after the lamented A. D. Marshall, one of the earliest and most enthusiastic Pythian workers of the city, and by good work and careful selection has to-day a membership of 105. The present officers are: P. C., W. H. Berger; C. C., L. T. Gaylord; V. C., Ed. R. Sizer; P., J. C. Davis; M. of Ex., Jno. F. Hayden; M. of F., H. E. Chapel; M. A., A. Katzenstein; K. of R., and S., F. Hornefius; I. G., Wm. Webb; O. G., Chas. Posky. This lodge has already accumulated considerable property.

Capital City Lodge No. 68 was instituted February 9, 1887, during the term of Grand Chancellor John Morrison, as a testimonial to him of the esteem in which he is held by the order in the Capital City of the State, with the large number of 135 petitioners, the largest list ever presented to a Grand Chancellor for approval, and embracing State, county, and city officials, and leading citizens. This lodge has continued its work with such success that to-day it strives with the mother Lodge, No. 16, for supremacy in numbers, in quality of membership, and in wealth; and ranks second only in members in the State, having at this time 183 Knights, five Past Chancellors, and a District Deputy Grand Chancellor, S. J. Dennis. The present officers are: P. C., Prof. F. F. Roose; C. C., C. W. Hoxie; V . C., G. S. Foxworthy; P., Charles Burton; M. of Ex., R. Wackerhagen; M of (283) F., Fred A. Miller; K of R and S., Q. L. Martin; M of A., A. G. Kellum; I. G., W. G. Stanus; O. G., L. D. Van Kleek. Trustees: W. L. Cundiff; R. B. Graham, F. A. Miller. Financially it ranks well with any lodge in the city.

The Uniform Rank, Knights of Pythias, has its headquarters for the State in Lincoln, the first division being organized here in 1879, from members of Lincoln Lodge No. 16. From this start this branch of the order has grown into a brigade of four regiments and thirty-six divisions, with the following officers, who are Lincoln residents:

Brigadier General Commanding Nebraska Brigade Uniform Rank, Knights of Pythias, W. L. Dayton; Col. and Chief of Staff, W. C. Lane; Col. and A. A. G., H. S. Hotchkiss; Col. and Asst. Commissary Gen'l., John B. Wright, Lincoln.

First Regiment Nebraska Brigade Uniform Rank Knights of Pythias, Col. H. F. Downs, Commanding; Lieut. Col., J. E. Douglas; Lieut. and Adjt., John Jenkins; Lieut. and Quartermaster, W. N. Rehlaender; Captain and Chaplain, Rev. E. C. Ralston; Quartermaster Sergeant, Walter Keens.

Lincoln Division No. 1. Uniform Rank Knights, of Pythias, was instituted in 1879, with thirty-two members. The division has been in many contests for honors, and on many occasions has won trophies which now adorn its armory, and at the meeting of the Supreme Lodge of the World, at Toronto, Ontario, in 1886, won the honorable distinction of third prize in competition with divisions from all over
the country. The present membership is seventy-seven. The present officers are: Sir Kt. Capt., A. A. Lasch; Sir Kt. Lieut., J. W. Percival; Sir Kt. Herald, F. A. Miller; Sir Kt. Guard, Nelson Westover; Sir Kt. Sent., F. A. Harris. It has upon detached service Brig. Gen. W. L. Dayton, Chief of Staff; Col. W. C. Lane; Col. and G., H. S. Hotchkiss; Col. John B. Wright, Commissary Genl. Wm. N. Rehlaender, Lieut. and Quartermaster of 1st Regt. Rev. E. C. Ralston, Capt. and Chaplain of the 1st Regt.

A. D. Marshall Division No. 10, was organized September 28, 1886, with twenty-nine members. This Division, by hard work, is steadily coming to the front, and has a record of three prizes, and the Capt., W. H. Berger, winning at Columbus during the Brigade encampment of 1889, an elegant sword as the best commander. The Division is the proud owner of a handsome flag, with emblems of the Uniform (284) Rank worked in silk, and valued at $200, presented to it by its lady friends and admirers. It has a membership of' thirty-nine composed entirely of Knights of Marshall Lodge No. 41. The present officers are:

Sir Kt. Capt., Wm. H. Berger; Sir Kt. Lieut., H. E. Chapel;
Sir Kt. Herald, G. E. Maxwell; Sir Kt. Guard, M. D. Clary; Sir Kt. Sent., H. Yanow; Sir Kt. Treas., J. F. Hayden; Sir Rt. Recorder. G. E. Van Every. Of its members there are on detached service, Ed. R. Sizer, Col. and A. D. C. to Maj. Genl. James R. Carnahan, Comdg. the Uniform Rank Knights Pythias of the world, and also of the same rank on the staff of Gov. John M. Thayer, of the State of Nebraska; H. F. Downs, Col. Commanding 1st Regt. U. R. K. P., Nebraska Brigade; and John Jenkins, Lieut. Adjt. of the 1st Regt.

Apollo Division No. 11 was instituted October 11, 1886, with thirty members. The Division has had a short but brilliant career, seventeen of its members participating in the contest at Toronto in July, 1886. The Division won first prize at Hastings, October 13,1886, in a State contest, two days after institution, and first prize again the following year at Omaha in a contest open to the world. Later on it was presented with a gold medal at Omaha for excellence in drill, and bears the proud honor of being the best drilled Division in the State. The present membership is forty-one. A beautiful flag presented to it by A. E. Hargreaves, is highly valued by its members. There are on detached service, J. E. Douglas, Lieut. Col. 1st Regt. U. R. Neb. Brigade, and Walter Keens, Quartermaster Sergeant. Its membership is entirely from Apollo Lodge No. 36, and Diana Lodge No. 106, Beatrice. The present officers are: Sir Kt. Capt., C. M. Keefer; Sir Kt. Lieut., W. E. Churchill; Sir Kt. Herald, Frank B. Harris; Sir Kt. Guard, T. W. Tait; Sir Kt. Sent., Walter Keens; Sir Kt. Treas., R. O'Neill; Sir Kt. Recorder, J. E. Douglas.

In the year 1888, through the exertions of Brother J. E. Douglas, P. C. of Apollo Lodge No. 36, a Board of Relief was organized for the aid and assistance of sojourning Knights who might be in need. This board is composed of representatives from each lodge, to whom all cases are referred, each lodge contributing, in proportion to its membership, to the fund of the board. The meetings are held on the second Friday of each month, or the board may be convened at any time, if necessary, by the President or upon call of two members. It has (285) already proved a very desirable adjunct to the order in this city. The following are the officers:

     President -- J. E. Douglas. Address, 23 City Block, Eleventh St.
     Vice President -- W. C. Lane, 1034 O street.
     Secretary -- H. E. Chapel, 1115 P street.
     Treasurer -- Prof. F. F. Roose, Academy of Music.
     Endowment Rank Knights of Pythias, Section 657, was established February, 1888, with twenty-five members, carrying over $50,000 of insurance, and is in successful operation.

     The Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite of the United States, its Territories and Dependencies, Lincoln Consistory No. 54, Chapter of Rose Croix, Council of Princess of Jerusalem, and a Lodge of Perfection, were organized April 23, 1881, with fifty members, by Joseph McGrath, of New Jersey, Grand Inspector General of the Rite as organized A. D. 1807.

The officers of the consistory are: A.G. Hastings, Commander; James Tyler, 1st Lieutenant Commander; A. E. Kennard, 2d Lieutenant Commander; Austin Humphrey, M. of' S. and G. O.; J. H. Peebles, G. C.; M. R. Davey, G. T.; L. D. Woodruff, G. S.

The Chapter of Rose Croix has the following officers: S. G. Owens, P. M.; L. D. Woodruff. S. W.; E. O. Miller, J. W.; J. G. Chapin, Orator; M. R. Davey, Treasurer; J. C. Seacrest, Secretary.

The Council of Princess of Jerusalem is officered as follows: W. R. Carter, G. M.; A. E. Kennard, D. M.; G. H. Peebles, S. W.; M. L. Hunter, J. W.; M. H. Day, Treasurer; A. L. Shrader, Secretary.

The Lodge of Perfection has the following officers: W. S. Bloom, M.; James Tyler, D. G. M.; J. C. Seacrest, S. W.; F. P. Lawrence, J. W.; G. H. Peebles, Orator; J. H. Agers, Secretary; M. R. Davey, Treasurer.

Lincoln Lodge No. 19, York Rite, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, was organized 1868, and has about 160 members.

Lincoln Chapter No.6, Royal Arch Masons, was organized April 28, 1868, and has a membership of 170.

Mount Moriah Commandry No. 40, Knights Templar, was organized in 1871, and has now a membership of 125.

The Ancient Arabic Order of Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, Sesostris Temple, was organized in 1880, and now has a membership of 125.

(286) It is now about twenty-three years since Dr. Stephenson formulated the plans for the organization of the Grand Army of the Republic, an organization which should bind together by ties fraternal those who had survived the dangers of the late war, and which should be charged with the care of those who might need the assistance of a brother's hand in time of distress. The founder of the order has long since gone to rest, and his body sleeps in the beautiful cemetery at Springfield, Ill.; but his work still goes marching on. Not until September 8, 1879, however, was a post of the G. A. R. established in Lincoln. At that time Farragut Post, of thirty-four charter members, was formed, the following being the list:

S. J. Alexander, L. W. Billingsley, R. C. Hazlett, Lyman Wood, A. D. Burr, W. S. Latta, Henry Masterman, W. A. Daggett, D. B. Howard, G. K. Amory, C. H. Gere, A. P. Tarbox, J. E. Philpott, R. O. Philips, Silas Sprague, W. R. Kelley, W. H. Beach, Sam McClay, P. A. Smith, W. J. Cooper, N. Carpenter, Jas. Bolshaw, S. P. Richey, T. B. Dawson, Levi Gable, D. C. Reynolds, E. G. Clements, C. C. Harris, A. Masterman, J. Curry, M. L. Hiltner, J. W. Owens, Thos. Sewall, R. N Wright.

The first officers were: Commander, S. J. Alexander; S. V., L. W. Billingsley; J.V., C. H. Gould; Chap., H. Masterman; Adjt., Geo. K. Amory; Q. M., A. D. Burr; O. D., R. C. Hazlett; O. G., Al. Masterman. The successive Commanders have been: C. H. Gould, J. C. Bonnell, R. C. Hazlett, Guy A. Brown, S. V. Hoagland, Jos. Teeter, Harry S. Hotchkiss, and O. C. Bell.

The post grew rapidly in numbers, at one time reaching over 500 in good standing, and to-day has a membership of 250, with the following officers: Commander, H. C. McArthur; S. V., J. H. Foxworthy; Jr. V., Silas Sprague; Adjt., P. A. Gatchell; Q. M., Martin Howe; Surgeon, J. R. Haggard; Chap., Henry Masterman; O. D., Jos. Teeter; O. G., J. W. Bowen, Sergt, Maj., T. B. Beach; Q. M. Sergt., Wm. M. Gillespie.

This is the largest post in the State, full of energy, whose charity and kindness is being felt by many worthy comrades and by the widows and orphans of fallen comrades. The members of Farragut Post are known by Nebraska comrades for their whole-souled comradeship and efficiency in the work of the order. The meetings of this post are usually attended by between 100 and 150 members.

(287) Appomattox Post No. 214 was organized January 28, 1886, at which time the following officers were duly elected and installed; Lieut. Edgar S. Dudley, P. C.; Hon. H. A. Babcock, S. V. C.; Hon. W. W. W. Jones, J. V. C.; Col. Brad P. Cook, Adjt.; D. R. Lillibridge, Q. M.; Prof. L. E. Hicks, Chip.; J. O. Carter M. D., Surg.; Hon. S. J. Alexander, O. D.; Prof. Geo. B. Lane, O. G.; Hon. C. H. Gere, Serg. Maj.; and Maj. N. G. Franklin, Q. M. Serg. The membership in the post is not large, some forty-five members comprising its entire roster, but it is, perhaps, fully equal, intellectually, to any organization in the State. The regular meetings of the post are held the first Saturday evening in each month.

Art. 4, Sec. 3, of its by-laws, reads as follows: "On the death of a comrade, not over three months in arrears, the sum of one hundred dollars (to be drawn from the relief fund) shall be paid to his widow or legal representative, for funeral expenses. Should there be no legal representative, the post shall take charge of the funeral, the expenses of which shall not exceed one hundred dollars, to he paid from the relief fund." Thus it will be seen that Appomattox Post is a benevolent insurance organization to a certain extent, and no worthy comrade who applies to any of its members for assistance goes away empty-handed.

Its present officers are: D. R. Lillibridge, Post Commander; C. W. Lyman, S. V. C.; John Gillespie, S. V. C.; Brad. P. Cook, Adjt. O. E. Goodell, Q. M.; N. G. Franklin, O. D.; L. J. Alexander, O. G.; J. H. McClay, Q. M. Serg. The post is one of the best in the State, and is in a prosperous and flourishing condition.

The fraternal and benevolent order, the Ancient Order of United Workmen, was started in Lincoln by the organization of Lincoln Lodge No. 9, on the 17th of December, 1885. From this beginning there has been a steady growth, until to-day it has three English and one German lodge, with an aggregate membership of 315, whose protection amounts to the grand sum of $630,000. There have been but three deaths in this membership since its organization four years ago, showing the care in selection of membership.

The present officers of No. 9 are: P. M. W., J. W. McMillan; M. W., Dr. G. H. Simmons; Foreman, Art. Masterman; Overseer, W. J. Conley; Recorder, Wm. Helmer; Financier, F. W. Bartruff; (288) Receiver A. D. Guile; Guide, J. P. Masterman; Watchman, George Fowler; Representatives to Grand Lodge, J. W. McMillan, F. W. Bartruff.

Upchurch Lodge No. 15, A. O. U. W., was named after the founder of the Order, and instituted April 18, 1887. It now has forty-five members, and is increasing in membership. P. Zook is the present Master Workman. Representative to Grand Lodge, F. F. Roose.

Capital City Lodge No. 80, A. O. U. W., was organized May 15, 1886, by E. W. McDonald, Grand Lecturer, with a charter list of about thirty. The membership is energetic and pushing. It has been largely instrumental in building up the order in this city, and through its work the Improvement Association of the A. O. U. W. was formed, resulting in giving the order a hall of its own, nicely furnished, and at a moderate cost. It has to-day 127 members, who have the reputation throughout the State of doing the best-degree work. It has a "team" organized for that purpose, the only one in the State. The present officers are: P. M. W., W. S. Houseworth; M. W., T. J. Berky; Foreman, Wm. Clark; Overseer, Frank Pynchon; Recorder, James Farrell; Financier, W. McClellan; Receiver, John Rivett; Guide, Wm. Brannon; I. G., Charles Deahne; Representatives to Grand Lodge, W. S. Houseworth, Henry Mayer, E. W. McDonald, E. L. Holyoke.

Concordia Lodge No. 151, A. O. U. W., was organized May 17,1888, with twenty-four charter members. It works entirely in the German language, and is composed of our best German citizens. It has a membership at present of forty-seven, and has work ahead. The present officers are: P. M. W., Carl Schmitt; M. W., Louis Vieth; Foreman, P. Andressen; Overseer, A. Kroner; Recorder, Paul Prigel; Financier, R. Heminghaus; Receiver, R. Hahnermann; Guide, Joseph Fraas; I. W., Emil Motz; Representative to Grand Lodge, Carl Schmitt.

Logan Legion No. 8, Select Knights A. O. U. W., was organized in May, 1887. The object of this branch of the A. O. U. W. is additional protection to the amount of $3,000 if desired, and for a representative display of the order.

Improvement Association, A. O. U. W., was formed for the purpose of procuring a hall and furnishing the same for the use of A. O. U. W. lodges. It is composed of members of the order who are stockholders to the amount of $1,500, shares of which are $5. The stock can be increased at any time if desired. The association has furnished (289) an elegant hall over 1114 O street, which is used by the A. O. U. W. and kindred societies. The stock is paying eight per cent, and is bought by the lodges when offered for sale. The officers are: J. T. Rivett, President; J. W. McMillan, Vice President; W. S. House worth, Secretary.

The "Modern Woodmen of America" is a fraternal, beneficiary, secret organization. Its founder is Hon J. C. Root, of Iowa, who organized the first camp in January, 1883, since which time the order has grown with wonderful rapidity. Not until April 27, 1886, was a lodge of Woodmen organized in Lincoln. At that time Capital City Camp No. 190 was instituted with a large charter membership, which has since grown to 225 members. The present officers of this camp are: V. C., W. J. Bryan; W. A., T. P. Converse; Clerk, C. C. Calkins; Banker, S. K. Hale; Escort, C. Van Raden; Assistant Escort, E. H. Whiteside; Sentry, C. J. Olson; Examiner, Dr. J. R. Haggard; Managers, W. A. Manchester, F. F. Roose, D. T. Cook; Delegate, W. J. Bryan.

Antelope Camp No. 916 was instituted April 4, 1889, with one hundred names on its petition. It erected, in East Lincoln, a hall for its own use, which was dedicated the following July. M. W. of A. was the first order to organize a local society in East Lincoln. Its officers are: V. C., I. H. Strawbridge; W. A., M. Ewing; Clerk, F. C. Smith; Banker, A. W. Field; Escort, S. D. Woodley; Watchman F. Risser, Sentry, R. C. Jones; Managers, Dr. Pogue, H. Royer, F. W. Homan.

F. F. Roose Camp No. 969, M. W. of A., organized May 2, 1889, started out under the most favorable circumstances. Among those who enrolled as charter members are many of Lincoln's most prominent citizens. The petition for a charter was signed by 190 persons. While the camp is young, its officers and members have entered into the work with the same spirit characteristic of the whole order -- push, enterprise, enthusiasm, business, and fraternity. The following are its present officers: V. C. A. R. Talbot; W. A., O. C. Bell; Clerk, Chas. G. Burton; Banker, F. S. Kelly; Escort, A. B. Bumstead; Watchman, N. King; Sentry, A. L. Church; Managers, Ed. Young, E. R. Sizer, O. F. Lambertson; Delegate, W. M. Woodward. The camp was named the "F. F. Roose Camp" in honor of F. F. Roose, Head

(291) Adviser, the second highest officer in the Supreme Camp, and an upright and respected citizen of Lincoln.

The entire Woodmen membership in Lincoln is over 500.

Prof. Franklin F. Roose, one of the proprietors of the Lincoln Business College, is one of the most enthusiastic "secret order" men, not only in Nebraska, but in the entire West. He is connected with a number of orders, but his position in the order of Modern Woodmen entitles him to more-than a passing notice in this work. In the summer of 1886 Mr. Roose was elected by Capital City Camp No. 190, Modern Woodmen of America, as delegate to the Head Camp, at Sterling, Ill., which met the following October. At that camp he was elected Head Cleric, and before the session closed was elevated to the place of Head Adviser, the second highest rank in the Supreme Camp. At the Des Moines session of the Head Camp, held in November, 1888, he was elected for another two years' term, his reelection being by acclamation. Prof. Roose was born at Moline, Ill., July 3, 1855. His early education was received in the common schools of Rock Island. During the war he used to visit the rebel prison on Rock Island and trade with the soldiers, also with the Indians confined at Davenport for their depredations and murders in Minnesota.

The father of Mr. Roose was a carpenter, and owned a lath and shingle mill in which was employed a number of men, and it was in this saw-mill that the young man began work, at the age of nine years. He continued at this work for seven years, when he moved with his lather to a farm a few miles from Edgington, Ill. He there worked for five years, or until the spring of 1876. At that time Mr. Roose, being twenty-two years of age, bought a team, wagon, plows, harrows, etc., rented ground at $5 per acre, and began farming on his own account, in order to obtain money to complete his education. One year's work gave him, after selling off all his farming implements, $400, and with this amount he started, in the spring of 1877, for Bloomington, where he entered the Illinois Wesleyan University. Here he remained two years. While attending that school an incident occurred which shows the esteem in which he was held by his fellow students. The last and only money he owned was $25, and one night this, together with two concert tickets which he had procured for himself and the lady who was afterward to be his wife, was stolen. (292) Hearing of this loss, the senior class of the college made up the entire amount and presented it to Mr. Roose, also making good the loss of his tickets.

In the fall of 1879 Mr. Roose engaged as an instructor in Chaddock College Quincey, Ill., at the same time carrying on his private studies. While connected with this institution he was secretary of the faculty, member of the board of trustees, and secretary of it and

of the executive board. In the summer of 1850 Prof. Roose and Miss Elizabeth Morrison, who afterward became his wife, both graduated in the Gem City Business College, and soon after, on September 7, their marriage took place. A week later Prof. Roose took charge of the commercial department of the McKendree University, Lebanon, Ill., which he conducted for two years. At the end of that time Prof. and Mrs. Roose each received the degree of B. S., having completed all the studies of this course.

(293) On June 20,1882, the professor and his wife sailed for South America, where he had engaged to teach in the Cullegio Americano, at Peruambuco, Brazil. He occupied that position six months, and then for six months was secretary to the Hon. Henry L. Atherton, United States Consul at that place. Afterward he was auditor for the Recife and Caxangá Railway Company, which position he retained until January, 1884, when he resigned and returned to North a merica, the intense heat of that tropical country proving disastrous to his health.

In the fall of 1884 Prof. Roose, his health having been restored by a summer's residence on a farm, came to Lincoln and founded the Lincoln Business College and Institute of Penmanship, Short Hand, Type Writing, and Telegraphy. ln 1885 McKendree University gave Prof. Roose and his wife both the degree of M. S., and in 1886 the Iowa Wesleyan University conferred upon them the degree of A. M. pro merito. His work in Lincoln has been remarkably successful, and while a resident of the city he has built up a social and business standing of the very best.

Prof. Roose is a busy man; few minutes can go to waste with him, as will be seen by the immense amount of work which he does daily; and yet he always has time to say a few pleasant words to the friends he meets upon the streets or who call at the pleasant home of Prof. and Mrs. Roose on D street. In addition to the work of his business college, in which enterprise he has associated himself with Prof. D. R. Lillibridge, Prof. Roose has charge of the commercial department of the Nebraska Wesleyan University; is the editor and publisher of the Western Workman, the official organ of the A. U. O. W., and one of the editors of the Lincoln Monthly, an educational journal. In addition to these duties Prof. Roose attends to the duties which necessarily fall upon him as a prominent member of several secret orders, and the secretary of several associations. He is Head Adviser, Modern Woodmen; Past Chancellor Commander of Capital City Lodge No. 68, K. of P.; representative to the K. of P. Grand Lodge of' Nebraska for 1889 and 1890; a member of the Masonic order; member of the Select Knights of America; one of the managers of Capital City Camp No. 190, M. W. A.; member of the Phi Delta Theta, the A. O. U. W., and the Nebraska Press Association; Vice President of the A. O. U. W. Building Association, and was Secretary (294) and Treasurer of the Northern Relief Association, A. O. U. W., for one and one-half years. He is also Vice President of the M. W. A. board of directors for the State Of Illinois, and of the executive council; Past Master Workman and Deputy Grand Master Workman of Upchurch Lodge No. 15, A. O. U. W., and was a member for 1887 and 1889 of the A. O. U. W. Grand Lodge. The foregoing list is sufficient to show that no man in the West is more thoroughly identified with the work of secret orders than is Prof. Roose, and the numerous positions of honor and responsibility to which his fraternal brothers have elevated him shows in what esteem and confidence he is held by them.

A new secret society in which Lincoln is especially interested is the "Order of Delphians," whose Supreme Lodge is located in this city, and the first work of which was done here. This order was instituted in February, 1889, in Lincoln, and is an association designed to promote the interests of mankind by improving the welfare of those engaged in teaching. To this end the teachers are banded together to advance their social relations, provide libraries for their benefit, to promote harmony in the work of the teacher by adapting the instructor to the places he can best fill. In brief; it is intended to keep at the Supreme Lodge, a bureau of information for the benefit of all teachers as well as school boards. Through the subordinate lodges places needing teachers, and teachers seeking situations, together with information concerning the merits of the teachers and circumstances surrounding the places to be filled, are to be supplied to the Supreme Lodge. To this bureau all teachers can apply for employment and boards and directors can come for teachers. In this way it is believed teachers can be located in situations they can best fill, thus promoting the general welfare of all concerned.

Lincoln began with a subordinate lodge of twenty-eight members. The Supreme Secretary, Mr. W. S. Bloom, occupies a suite of rooms on the second floor of the Latta block, at 133-9 South Eleventh street.

The Lincoln Division of the Ancient Order of Hibernians was organized on January 21, 1885, by Brother Richard O'Keeffe, of Omaha, and John Rush.

Patrick Egan was elected County Delegate, but on October 1, 1885, (295) he was called on to explain why he did not comply with the constitution, and approach the sacraments with the Division on September 10th, as had been decided on at the previous meeting, (September 3d.) Mr. Egan explained the reasons why he could not consistently abide by the laws compelling members to approach the sacraments in a body, as he felt that there was too much ostentation in parade. Mr. Egan said he was sorry to say that through circumstances he was constrained to tender his resignation.

Mr. Egan's resignation was accepted on Novernber 8, 1885, and Mr. James Kelly was thereupon elected County Delegate, which office he still holds.

The Division has made good progress since its organization, and now numbers about ninety members. In the fill of 1888 the Division presented a magnificent pulpit to Right Rev. Bishop Bonacum, for the pro-cathedral. The officers at present are: Thomas McShane, President; Frank Sheppard, Vice President; Michael Corcoran, Recording Secretary; Edward M. Maher, Financial Secretary; Thomas McGivern, Treasurer.

Lincoln Lodge No. 35, Independent Order of Good Templars, was organized May 10, 1868. The lodge grew very rapidly, attaining a membership at onetime of 250. Since its organization it has enrolled about 1,500 members.

Lincoln Lodge No. 35 can boast of having sent out into the field some of the best temperance workers of this country, Mr. and Mrs. John B. Finch, John Sobieski, Joe Critchfield, J. G. Wolfenbarger, and Mr. Sibley, being a few among the number.

     The officers of Lincoln Lodge No. 35, for the summer term of 1889 are as follows: C. T., L. A. Willis; V. T., Nellie Hodge; S. J. T., Emma Hedges; Sec'y, G. H. Crandall; A. See'y, Mamie Gulick; F. Sec'y, C. E. Hedges; Treas., Carrie Brown; Chap., Mr. Flucard; M., Mr. Cooper; A. M., Addie Bundy; Guard, Mr. Dill; Sentinel, Sam B. Ijams.

     The Ancient Order of Foresters meets on the first and third Fridays of each month, in the K. of P. Hall, at 1007 O street. The list of officers at the opening of the year were: W. Robertson, J. P. C. R.; E. A. Stephens, C. R.; G. R. Knowles, S. C. R.; F. Cather, F. Sec. (296) G. Leavitt, Rec. Sec.; H. A. Stephens, Treas.; M. Seivers, S. W.; J. Leister, J. W.; R. Scheape, S. B.; D. N. Stephens, J. B.

     The knights of Tabor meet at 1021 O street. The officers for 1889 were: J. Wright, C. M.; J. Williams, V. M.; E. Brown Secretary; J. F. Malone, Treasurer; J. H. Washington, C. O.; A. Johnson, C. G.

     The Knights of Labor first organized in this city in 1881, under assembly Number 2659; but the order lapsed in a short time, and was reorganized in 1885 as Assembly 3774. The organization grew rapidly to about 700 members, but failed to continue. A second reorganization was effected in 1887, out of which grew two locals, one being the Lincoln Assembly No. 2659, which meets over 1023 O street, in the A. O. H. hall, and the other being Stephens Assembly 573, named after the National Master Workman of the order. This assembly meets in Central Labor Union Hall, at 1125 O street. Both assemblies are prosperous, and together now number about 800 members. Of Assembly No. 2659 George W. Black is Master Workman and M. Corcoran Seeretary. Of' 573 J. H. Craddock is Master Workman and S. J. Kent Secretary. It is expected that there will be six locals in the county before the close of the year.

     Lincoln has two principal social clubs, the Union and the Elks. The Union Club was organized May 28, 1879, with the following officers: Edgar S. Dudley, President; Thomas Sewell, Vice President; J. H. Alford, Secretary; George C. Newman, Treasurer; J. H. Fawell, Master of Ceremonies. On the 19th of May, 1888, the club was incorporated under the laws of the State of Nebraska, with a capital stock of $5,000, divided into shares of $25 each. This allows the club a membership of 200, the present membership being 122. The present officers are: E. B. Appelget, President; J. F. Barnhart, Vice President; J. A. Marshall, Secretary; W. W. W. Jones, Treasurer. Board of Directors -- R. A. Perry, C. O. Whedon, R. C. Outcalt, Thomas Sewell, O. W. Webster, and J. H. Harley. The club occupies elegant rooms at the northwest corner of N and Twelfth streets, fitted up in a most complete manner.

The "Elks" Club was organized March 10, 1888, with sixty-five charter members, which have been increased to 105 at the present time. The officers of this organization are: W. J. Houston, E. R.; (298) H. R. Wiley,

E. L. K.; E. B. Slosson, E. L. K.; W. H. Axtater, E. L. K.; A. E. Hargreaves, Treasurer. This club is elegantly quartered in the Shaberg Block, southeast corner of P and Eleventh streets.

Prominent among the associations of the city is the Haydon Art Club, designed to promote a taste for the fine arts.

There are also tennis, lacrosse, and wheel clubs, and supposed to be a press club, but this is not active.

Among social clubs may be mentioned the Harmonie, Pleasant hour, Pleasant Hour Jr., Swedish Social and Literary, and Yorke.

Lincoln is the center of the organization designed to carry the prohibitory amendment at the election of 1890, known as the "Nebraska Non-partisan Prohibitory Amendment League." Mr. C. A. Atkinson is the President of the State League, and Mr. Charles Robbins Secretary. Messrs. Atkinson, John M. Stewart, and C. F. Creighton, are members of the State Executive Committee.

Lincoln is also the residence of Mr. A. G. Wolfenbarger, representing Nebraska in the National organization of the Prohibition party.

Among the most worthy benevolent societies of the city is the Woman's Christian Association, designed to aid women in the work of self-support and protection. Also for the help of the needy. It now maintains a Woman's Home, on Eleventh street, between K and H.

The Willard and Lincoln Branches of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union are active contributors to the Christian charities of the city, the former having done noble work for a couple of years past in the management of the city hospital.

Company D of the First Regiment Nebraska National Guards is the best drilled militia company in the State. Captain, L. H. Cheney; 1st Lieutenant, W. M. Decker; 2d Lieutenant, C. H. Foxworthy The company has forty-nine men.

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