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Fraternal Orders in Montana
The portrayal of western towns in America’s pop cultural venues always involves clapboard buildings of no more than four stories and independent characters described as rugged individuals. In sharp contrast to those “created” images are the large numbers or civic organizations, fraternal orders, and imposing edifices that reflect more classical forms of architecture. Many fraternal orders were involved in developing more permanent structures in our Montana communities. These organization were benevolent groups involved in charitable work. Some were exclusive groups where membership was by invitation only. Members enjoyed the benefits of being involved in social activities and a sense of belonging with a social standing. This exhibit will show the many fraternal orders active throughout Montana's history, a sampling of some of their members, some of their noteworthy events, and the impressive buildings they constructed.
Note: This digital history exhibit is intended for educational purposes, and is not an endorsement or promotion of fraternal orders by the Montana History Portal or Montana State Library.
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the U.S.A
The Elks were founded in 1868 in New York.
Photo at right: Elks Club, group photo, Missoula, Montana
Photo at right: Elk's Temple, Kalispell Montana, circa 1920
Photo at right: Elks Convention in Butte, Montana, circa 1916
Photo at right: Elks parade, Miles City, Montana, 1908
Photo at right: BPOE (Elks) Band, Lewistown, Montana
Free Masons
Freemasonry traces its roots all the way back to the Middle Ages, taking its name from its founding by stonemasons. The society was present in America prior to the Revolution.
Photo at right: Masonic Temple, Missoula, 1928
Photo at right: Masonic Temple in Virginia City, 1920
Order of the Eastern Star
Order of the Eastern Star was founded in 1850 in Mississippi, and is associated with Masonry.
Lions Clubs International
Lions Club was founded in Indiana in 1916.
Photo at right: Earl Fuller of the Hellgate Lions Club in fundraising outfit
Photo at right: Lion's Club Christmas Tree sale, Missoula, 1950
Independent Order of Odd Fellows
The Odd Fellows, as they call themselves, were founded in 1819 in Baltimore.
The Fraternal Order of Eagles
The Fraternal Order of Eagles was founded in 1898 in Seattle.
Rotary International
The first Rotary Club was founded in 1905 in Chicago.
The Knights of Pythias
Knights of Pythias was founded in 1864 in Washington, D.C.
Created by: Carolyn Grimaldi
Photo Credits:
Billings Public Library
Lewistown Public Library
Montana Historical Society Research Center
Northwest Montana History Museum
University of Montana Mansfield Library
