La Salle Lodge 47

Odd Fellows and Rebekah Lodges of Matagorda County

La Salle Lodge 47, I. O. O. F.
Matagorda, Texas

The first lodge of Odd Fellows [in the United States] was organized in Baltimore, Maryland, on April 19, 1819, by Thomas Weldey who had belonged to the organization when he lived England. In February , 1825, he helped institute the Grand Lodge of the United States.

Lone Star Lodge No. 1 was instituted in the Republic of Texas, at Houston, on July 25, 1838.

Matagorda Lodge No. 47 IOOF was organized in the town of Matagorda on November 30, 1854.

In 1903, as members transferred from the La Salle Lodge No. 47 into the Bay City Lodge No. 81, the records indicated T. M. Ramey was initiated into La Salle Lodge on February 13, 1904; Ed Wadsworth, June 10, 1871; George Austin, April 4, 1880; and S. S. Moore, April 4, 1896.

[This article also contained the information in the article below.]

Mary B. Ingram

Historic Matagorda County, Volume 1, p. 451

La Salle Lodge 47, I. O. O. F.
Chartered November, 1854
Matagorda, Texas

Through the courtesy of Mr. William Walker, active member of the Bay City chapter of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, three age-worn, tattered record books of La Salle Lodge, No. 47, I. O. O. F. lie before us. They are 87 years old. They deserve to be tattered.

One of the volumes is a record of the initiation into La Salle lodge of its various members. A second volume is the minutes of the meetings from Nov. 30, 1854 to 1859, after which the handwriting becomes practically illegible and the latest recordings may be 1869--it is impossible to tell.

We quote from the minutes of the first meeting herein recorded:

The petitioners for charter were called together by Brother W. H. Johnson, acting deputy grandmaster, whereupon all being present the lodge was duly organized and the following brothers elected and installed into their respective offices to serve the ensuing term:

J. C. Perry, N. G.

S. G. Powell, V. G.

J. W. Granger, Sec.

E. B. Condry, Treas.

Bro. W. H. Austin was appointed warden by the N. G.

The business of the lodge being completed it was then resolved into a degree lodge and the five degrees duly conferred on Brother Powell and the Blue, Green and Scarlet degrees on Brother W. H. Austin.

By Resolution this lodge was called La Salle Lodge No. 47 and will be hailed and known by the above title. It was further resolved that the constitution and by-laws of Indianola lodge was adopted for resent use. It was further resolved that the regular meeting nights will be on Tuesday.

The third volume is the treasurer's book. It appears to have been through both fire and flood. Familiar names are jotted on its first pages--William Austin, E. B. Condry, August Duffy, Dr. F. K. Fisher, Galen Hodges, Charles H. Ives, James Selkirk and others. At length, as of December, 1854, entries are more comprehensive and extend more or less completely, it is surmised, to the last, entry, that of Irvin Rugeley, August, 1975.

Then silence.

Matagorda County Tribune, August 23, 1945

Members of LaSalle Lodge 47 I. O. O. F.

The following names are from membership records of LaSalle Lodge, 1890-1911, which are housed at the Matagorda County Museum. Members with no additional information joined before this book began. They signed as the member recommending the prospective member or as a member of the investigating committee.

MEMBER	PETITION DATE	AGE	OCCUPATION	INITIATION DATE
Austin, George
Bell, Frank E.	1905-01-05	21	Boatman
Berg, J. H.
Braman, William C.
Burkhart, Chas. W.	1902-08-23	30	Stockman
Burkhart, Geo.	1905-06-09	31	Clerk
Burkhart, Harry	1904-04-09	35	Barber	1904-04-16
Calhoun, E. L.	1908-03-02	29	Farmer	1908-03-14
Cookenboo, Henry
Cookenboo, Walter S.	1904-03-26	22	Druggist	1904-04-02
Culver, G. B.
Culver, John A.	1890-06-28	33	Carpenter	1890-07-19
Duffy, Amos E.	1911-04-08	24	Merchant	1911-04-15
Eidlebach, Chas. P.	1901-06-23	34	Boatman	1900-06-30
Foote, Stephen A.	1901-03-11	31	Physician	1901-03-30
Gilmore [Gillmore], C. M.	1909-08-14	25	Farming	1909-08-21
Gober, J. M.	1895-09-14	36	Physician	1895-09-14
Gottchalk, Gus	1904-02-06	47	Rice Farmer	1904-02-13
Hawkins, James B.	1902-12-13	22	Merchant	1902-12-20
Hill, Stephen D.	1893-01-21	42		1893-02-20
Kilbride, Ed	1903-07-16	32	Stockman
Lawson, E. L.	1907-03-23	41	Stockman	1907-03-30
McNabb, A. W.	1908-03-13	28	Book Keeper	1908-03-21
McNabb, W. E.	1907-08-24	32	County Official	1907-09-07
Meriwether, G. B.	1903-12-23	32	Civil Engineer
Moberly, O. R.	1911-03-11	28	Carpenter	1911-03-18
Moore, Clay M. D.	1907-04-27	33	Physician	1907-05-04
Moore, S. S.	1896-03-28	24	Merchant	1896-03-30
Nolte, Charles	1903-04-18	55	Carpenter
Phillips, Ed	1903-06-01	22	Stockman
Phillips, John B.
Phillips, Robert W.	1900-07-25	30	Boatman	1900-08-04
Phillips, William J., Jr.	1900-07-27	22	Stock Raiser	1900-08-04
Phillips, William J., Sr.
Robbins, F[red]. McC.	1905-04-15	34	Stockman
Robbins, Fred S.	1904-12-22	46	Stock Raiser	1904-12-31
Rugeley, Frank L.	1901-03-23	46	Clerk	1901-03-30
Ryman, B. A.	1903-02-12	42	Stockraiser
Sargent, Geo. T.	1893-01-07	25	Stockman	1893-01-09
Scott. E. E.	1903-12-10	36	Physician
Selkirk, James H.
Serrill, H. H.
Smith, J. M.	1907-05-15	45	Stockman	1907-05-18
Stapp, Howard	1901-03-06	29	Boatman	1901-03-23
Sterne, Goodwin
Sterne, W. C.	1907-03-16	42	Fish Dealer	1907-03-23
Stewart, A. C.	1896-03-28	22	Merchant	1896-03-30
Stewart, Greenberry	1902-10-18	30	Stockman
Stewart, W. S.
Wadsworth, A. H.	1908-04-28	21	Druggist	1908-05-16
Walker, A. J.	1900-12-01	33	Farmer-Hawkinsville	1900-12-08
Walker, H. M.	1905-10-28	38	Merchant	1905-10-04?
Wilkins, C. P.	1906-02-24	32	Druggust	1906-__-__
Williams, W. E.	1908-08-01	38	Boatman	1908-08-28

Bay City I. O. O. F. Lodge No. 81
Bay City, Texas

1965 located at 1717 Ave C phone CI 5-8000

Bay City IOOF Lodge No. 81 was organized in January, 1903, and the charter was filed April 23, 1903. The charter members were: George Austin, G. B. Culver, A. C. Stewart, S. A. Foote, S. S. Moore, Ed. Wadsworth, William E. Austin, J. H. Selkirk and J. L. Ladd. All were former members of the old Matagorda Lodge No. 47 except for J. L. Ladd.

On January 28, 1903, the following were initiated into the lodge: Amos Lee, J. M. Sims, R. C. Biggs, J. B. Caverley, A. S. Collins, T. W. Bundick, A. R. Benge and E. T. Higgins.

The Bay City Lodge absorbed Palacios Lodge No. 745 on December 12, 1933, and Matagorda Lodge No. 47 on February 14, 1937.

During the first 30 years, some 300 members had signed the register.

The IOOF is a sponsor for the World Eye Bank and Visual Research at Johns Hopkins, the United Nations Pilgrimage for Youth, and the Kidney Foundation.

George Helmecke, 1937

Historic Matagorda County, Volume I, page 458

Members of Bay City Lodge 81 I. O. O. F.

The following names are from membership records of Bay City Lodge 81, 1903-1918, which are housed at the Matagorda County Museum.

NAME	AGE	OCCUPATION	ADMITTED	RESIDENCE ADDITIONAL NOTES
Austin, George	46	County Clerk	1903-01-28	Bay City
Austin, William E.	48	Attorney	1903-01-28	Bay City
Baker, Sam J.	37	Nurseryman	1910-06-30	Bay City
Bashaw, C. W.	45	Mechanic	1918-02-24	Bay City
Bates, T. L.	49	Farmer	1912-12-20	Bay City
Beach, A. T.			1912-01-19	Bay City
Bess, Arnold P.	28	Oil Driller	1916-09-07	Clemville
Brooks, T. C. Dr.	40	Physician	1914-12-28	Bay City
Broughton, W. H.	43	Farmer	1918-02-21	Bay City
Buff, B. E.	40	Farmer	1917-11-15	Magnet
Bundick, J. E.	24	Farmer	1903-05-15	Markham
Cabiniss, C. V.	45	Farmer	1916-04-20	Markham
Carr, Bert	46		1918-01-03
Carr, Jas. F.		Meth. Pastor	1913-11-24	Bay City
Carr, S. Lee	35	Farmer	1918-05-02	Bay City
Carr, Theron F.	76	Farmer	1917-01-17
Carter, Jas. F.	41	Tax Asser	1918-05-02	Bay City
Castle, Geo, M.		Carpenter	1914-01-26
Churchill, Jas. Albert	24	Sec Foreman	1918-04-__	Lane City
Collins, A. S.	31		1903-01-28	Bay City
Daughters, C. S.	46	Merchant	1916-06-15	Clemville
Daughters, Harley L.	21	Oil Well Driller	1914-03-30	Clemville, Tex
Davant, W. E.	29	Lawyer	1916-04-20	Bay City
Davison, A. L.	40	Farmer	1917-03-15	Bay City
De St Aubin, C. L.	38	Agt. Wells Fargo	1917-05-31	Bay City
Dienst, Theodore	31	Electrician	1914-06-08
Foote, S. A. Dr.	39	Physician	1909-04-02	Bay City
Forstner, Joseph	30	Salesman	1916-03-09	Bay City
Frizzell, L. T.	40	Teacher	1909-06-04	Bay City
Fullingim, G. W.		Farmer	1911-02-03	Bay City
Furber, W. A.	43	Banker	1915-03-09	Markham
Gaines, John W.	39	Attorney	1903-05-08	Bay City
Gillett?, W. J.	24	Bookkeeper	1912-11-21	Clemville
Gillette, S. J.	29	Merchant	1914-12-28	Bay City
Gillmore, L. P.				(Listed in the index, but not in the ledger)
Glick, E. O.		Day Laborer	1914-03-09	Bay City Transferred to Pasadena Lodge No. 324, Pasadena, Cal. June 6, 1918
Gottschalk, J. C.	23	Butcher	1917-02-22	Bay City
Grantham, Felix	38	Black Smith	1905-12-11	Bay City
Hamill, C. G.		Oil Well Driller	1913-11-15
Harper, Filmore	36	Farmer	1917-06-14	Bay City
Harper, V. T.	36	Farmer	1914-07-20	Bay City
Harris, G. F.				(Listed in the index, but not in the ledger)
Hatchett, O. E.	39	Carpenter	1903-09-07	Bay City
Hawkins, Frank		Mang. Prtg. Co.	1913-11-24
Hawkins, G. A..			1915-03-15
Hawkins, J. E.				(Listed in the index, but not in the ledger)
Hayes, T. H.	24	Oil Well Driller	1914-04-06	Clemville, Tx Crowley, La
Head, J. E.	40	Farmer	1911-06-19	Bay City
Helmecke, George	25	Tinner	1909-06-11	Bay City
Hicks, W. A.	39		1914-09-14	~~Clemville~~, Tx Humble
Hodge, O. J. Jr.	37	Merchant	1917-03-01	Pledger, Tex.
Hopfinger, John	30		1917-07-26
Horn, Ray	21		1918-03-28
Hudson, James F.	30	Merchant	1906-03-25	Markham
Huebotter, W. A.	38		1909-06-04	Bay City
Jackson, A. L.		Contractor	1913-03-31	Bay City
James, J. W.	25	Electrician	1918-02-17	Bay City
Jenkins?, W. L.	47	Carpenter	1918-12-19	Big Hill, Tex
Johnson, George D.	40	Carpenter	1914-11-30	Bay City
Jones, R. E.	34	Contractor	1913-10-18	Bay City
Kirkman, J. H.	43	Statinary Eng.	1913-04-14
Kiser, R. O.	32	Lumberman	1916-03-03	Bay City
Klein, Max G.	29	Merchant	1903-05-08	Bay City Died 1917-04-07
Kleska, R. A.	39	Deputy Tax Collector	1914-12-28	Bay City
Korn, Oskar	26	Merchant	1907-04-29	Bay City
Krebs, Karl G.		Farmer	1915-06-07	Midfield, Tex
Landrum, Mack	24	Mechanic	1914-07-23	Bay City
Lee, Amos	37		1903-01-28	Bay City
LeMay, H. R.	47	Truck Gardening	1915-05-03	Bay City
LeTulle, J. J.	47	Farmer	1918-06-06	Bay City
Lewis, Richard R.	23	Attorney	1908-03-16	Bay City
Lewis, Thos. H.	42	Lawyer	1918-01-03	Bay City
Livengood, B. L.		Homeopathic Phy	1914-05-01	Bay City
Lowe, J. M.	36	Farmer	1913-04-07	Bay City
Lowe, U. B.	29	Farmer	1913-04-07	Bay City
Lowe, W. T.	30	Plumber	1914-11-23	Bay City
Lucas, J. N.	40	Farmer	1918-12-12	Bay City
Lusinger, J. H.	36	Farmer	1914-12-28	Bay City
Manning, W. G.			1915-01-25	Sinton, Tex. Box 22
Matthews, William A.	39	Merchant	1915-09-06	Caney, Tex
Maxwell, A. L.	25	Oil Well Driller	1914-04-06	Clemville
McDaniel, C. C.	31	Printer	1916-01-13	Bay City
McIntosh, Geo.	33	Oil Field Worker	1917-06-14	Clemville, Tex.
McKelvey, Edward A.	22	Clerk	1914-10-26	Bay City
McNabb, W. E.	34	W. O. W. Dep’ty	1913-10-20
Middlebrook, Otto			1913-01-25
Miller, James E.		Plumber	1911-06-09	Bay City
Miller, T. J.	27	Machinist	1914-04-06	Clemville, Tx
Milner, Harris	25	Farmer	1914-11-23	Bay City
Milner, Joe	22	Clerk	1914-10-26	Bay City
Mol, M.	43	Farmer	1916-11-02	Bay City
Montgomery, Otis	23	Laborer	1916-03-16	Clemville
Moore, J. D.				(Listed in the index, but not in the ledger)
Moore, S. S.	31	Farmer	1903-01-28	Bay City
Pack, W. F.	35	Teacher	1916-01-06	Markham, Tex.
Pierce, Jas. W.	26	Bookkeeper	1914-07-20	Bay City
Pile, J. H.	45	Farmer	1909-05-21	~~Bay City~~ Holdenville, Okla.
Pile, M. T.	33		1909-06-18	Bay City
Pile, W. E.	53	Farmer	1907-12-16	Bay City
Porter, A. P.	25	Oil Salesman	1916-05-04	Bay City
Porter, Vance C.	25	Electrician	1914-07-20
Potter, C. G.		Jeweler	1915-03-22	Bay City
Powell, Fred F.			1918-04-30
Ramey, T. M.	29	Barber	1903-02-20	Bay City
Reed, George W.	23	Salesman	1915-11-04	Bay City
Reese, C. J.	35	Oil Well Worker	1918-01-10	Clemville
Rodgers, F. C.	26		1910-03-25	Bay City
Rumley, W. V.	29	Section 4 man	1916-04-20	Markham
Ryberg, A. W.	51	Rig Builder	1918-10-03	Clemville
Savage, Ed. L.	39	Engineer	1908-06-29	Bay City
Savage, Green. G.	30	Oil well Worker	1916-12-28	Clemville, Tex.
Scofiled, Z. E.	36		1905-08-28	~~Bay City~~ Houston
Scott, E. E. Dr.				(Listed in the index, but not in the ledger)
Scott, R. E.	35	Supt. Public School	1914-06-24	Bay City
Selkirk, J. H.	56	Dept. Assessor	1903-01-28	Bay City
Sexton, Manly	33	Stockman	1907-12-02	Bay City
Sims, J. M.	48	Sheriff	1903-01-28	Bay City Died 1915-10-03
Sisk, C. L. J.	51	Merchant	1903-12-07	Bay City
Smith, Robert E.	21	Oil Well Worker	1914-07-13	Clemville
Smithey, W. D.	30	Towerman	1915-08-02	Bay City
Sternberger, M.	60	Merchant	1903-02-20	Bay City Died 1912-12-23
Stockton, J. T.	33		1908-03-16	~~Bay City~~ Austin, Tex.
Tabb, J. D.	25	Farmer	1910-04-29	Wadsworth
Taylor, S. S.	31	Merchant	1916-03-20	Bay City
Tew, Charles	37	Drummer	1911-01-27	Bay City
Thebedoux, D.	24	Oil Well Driller	1916-03-16	Clemville
Thompson, T. M.	37	Farmer	1910-04-01	Bay City
Thompson, Wells Judge	67	District Judge	1910-04-01	Bay City
Vestal, W. F.		Farmer	1915-03-29	Wadsworth, Tex.
Walker, William	53	Merchant	1905-10-23	Bay City
Warner, W. J.	52	Agent GC & SF	1915-08-23	Bay City
Watkins, J. M.	25	Farmer	1909-07-30
Watkins, Sam	44	Farmer	1917-04-12	El Maton Date of First Degree
White, John W.	45		1910-03-11	Bay City
White, W. A.	28	Engineer	1914-10-05	Clemville, Tx
Williamson, D. D.	23	Printer	1917-02-22	Bay City
Winkler, O F.	42	Barber	1914-05-10	Markham, Tex.

Palacios I. O. O. F. Lodge No. 754
Palacios, Texas

PALACIOS, Texas, December 3--Amos Lee, J. H. Selkirk, J. H. Pile, A. S. Collins, Dr. A. S. Foote and William Walker of Bay City and J. F. Hudson of Markham conferred the degrees of Oddfellowship upon seventeen candidates and help get the new lodge established here. The work was well executed and an elegant supper was served the members at midnight. The lodge was established here about ten days ago, and it has every promise of being a successful lodge.

Houston Post, December 4, 1909

Members of Palacios Lodge No. 754 I. O. O. F.

The following names are from membership records of Palacios Lodge No. 754, 1909-1932, which are housed at the Matagorda County Museum. There are a few entries that predate November 30, 1909 which appear to be members who joined another lodge and transferred to the Palacios lodge.

Adams, John H.	43	Farmer	1928-02-21	Palacios
Aldrich, C. L.	37	Merchant	1910-03-22	Palacios
Allen, E. R.	41	Boatman	1928-01-31	Palacios
Anderseen, H.	33	Contractor	1927-11-29	Palacios
Anderson, F. C.	55	Mechanic	1932-09-02	Palacios
Bachen, Carl M	24	Laborer	1910-01-04	Palacios
Bacon, A. J.	23	Stockman	1923-01-18	Palacios
Banks?, J. P.	39	Carpenter	1910-03-22	Palacios
Barber, Oliver L.	41	Painter	1927-07-05	Palacios
Barnard, E. M.	34	Plasterer	1913-08-05	Palacios
Barnett, Guy	33		1927-11-08	Palacios
Barnett, J. F.	30	Banker	1913-11-11	Palacios
Bateman, O. L.	25	School Teacher		Palacios
Beard, John	45	Farmer	1927-10-18	Palacios
Bingaman, B. A.	24	Locomotive Fireman	1914-10-18	Palacios
Bingham, C. P.	25	Gas Station Agent	1928-04-10	Palacios
Blair, J. L.	47	Contractor	1910-04-05	Palacios
Boyd, H. C.	58	Optometrist & Jewelry		Palacios
Boyd, H. C.	45	Jeweler		Palacios
Boyd, W. D.	41	Laborer	1927-10-04	Palacios
Boyett, W. N.	33	Section Foreman?	1920-08-31	Palacios
Brousard, Albert	30	Light House Keeper	1914-10-27	Palacios
Brown, Ed	49		1910-03-29	Died Oct. 28, 1910 Alton, Ill
Bruce, Max	21	Laborer	1923-03-01	Palacios
Bruse, L.	44	Plumber		Palacios
Buffaloe, S. B.	35	Farmer	1929-12-06	Palacios
Burton, Arnold	34	Feed Dealer	1927-03-15	Palacios
Burton, Gilbert	34	Laborer	1928-02-07	Palacios
Campbell, John R.	30	Ministry	1928-09-11	Palacios
Cline, W. L.	25	Farmer	1927-03-22	Collegeport
Clinkscales, Lucien H.	21	Farming	1922-04-18	Palacios
Coffin, R. E.	32	Teaching	1923-05-10	Palacios
Cope, J. H.	46	Real Estate	1910-12-06	Palacios
Copeland, C. W.			1914-08-18	Transferred to Knox City, Tx
Cox, J. A.	21	Stenographer	1910-01-25	Palacios
Cox, L. B.	27	Carpenter	1909-11-30	Palacios
Crain, J. H.	36	Mechanic	1910-02-22	Palacios
Curtis, G. W.	42	Farmer	1922-08-24	Palacios
Danials, Edward S.	39	Boatman	1910-01-18	Palacios Seadrift, Tex
Davis, A. B.	44	Storekeeper	1917-09-14	Palacios Houston
Davis, Gordon	34	Merchant	1918-04-09	Palacios
Deutsch, J. L. Jr.	22	Clerk	1928-02-14	Palacios
Deutsch, J. L. Sr.	58	Oyster Merchant	1928-03-27	Palacios
Doss, G. W.	28	Water Works Sup.	1909-11-30	Palacios
Dunbar, J. H.	22	Carpenter	1910-03-22	Palacios Refugio, Texas
Duncan, B. P.	65	Merchant	1931-03-24	Palacios
Elder, James A.	50	Veterinarian	1918-03-12	Palacios
Eldridge, T. S.	43	Dentist	1914-03-03	Palacios
Elliott, E. B. E.	42	Dairyman	1913-11-11	Palacios
Ellis, J. P.	36	Contractor?	1928-02-28	Palacios
Ellis, W. L.	56	Carpenter	1928-06-06	Palacios
Emonds, Chas. F.	39	Contractor & Builder	1910-01-18	Palacios
Evans, W. H.	24	Clerk	1915-10-19	Palacios
Farris, C. D.
Ford, E. L.	31	Plumber	1912-06-24	Palacios
Franz, P. F.	39	Real Estate	1910-10-25	Palacios
Franz, Sam	43	Barber	1910-01-04	Palacios
Freeman, Virgial A.	24	Merchant	1909-11-30	Palacios
Freeman, W. S.	45	Merchant	1910-02-08	Palacios
Frey, John		Hotel Prop.	1910-01-04	Palacios
Frick, T. D.
Glaros, Manuel	40	Ice Manufacturer	1926-05-20	Palacios
Glosup, J. A.	33	Painter & Paper Hanger	1911-01-24	Palacios
Gordy, L. E.		Carpenter		Palacios
Gray, W. C.	41	Lawyer	1918-04-02	Palacios
Green, J. N.	40	Farmer	1910-01-11	Palacios
Grimes, James W.	40	Farmer	1910-10-25	Palacios
Grogan, R. A.	24	Machinist	1912-01-02	Palacios
Hackey, G. G.	34/39	Well Driller	1927-10-11	Palacios
Hagler, J. A.	21	Student	1925-06-25	Collegeport
Hale, Thomas P.	21	Student	1925-06-25	Collegeport
Harris, Earnest	21	Mechanic	1928-04-10	Palacios
Heartt?, C. W.	51	S. Light House Keeper	1913-01-24	Palacios
Henry, B. F.	47	Farmer	1909-11-30	Palacios
Herman, Joseph P.	41	Farmer	1913-10-21	Palacios
Hobbs, John M.	35	Mechanic	1910-01-11	Palacios
Hoffman, Drew	50	Mechanic		Palacios
Houghton, Julius Hazel	58	Truck Grower	1910-12-27	Palacios
Houston, F. H.	52	Farmer	1922-08-24	Palacios
Huddleston, J. M.	33	Teamster	1911-97-11	Palacios
Huddleston, J. M.	50	Running Engineer		Boling
Hudson, Z. B.	31	Carpenter	1909-11-30	Palacios
Huffman, J. H.	43	Oil Dealer	1928-09-11	Palacios
Hughes, G. H.	23	Farmer	1910-08-09	Palacios
Ifland, C. F.	53	Merchant	1918-05-14	Palacios
James, William A.	33	Laborer	1929-04-17	Palacios
Jensen, Ellis	36	Gen. Mechanic	1928-03-20	Palacios
Josserand, S.	49	Farmer	1910-04-26	Palacios
Julian, R. E. L.	37	Farmer	1913-08-26	Palacios
Kirkpatrick, R. M.	26	Bricklayer	1909-11-30	Palacios
Kress, John A., Jr.	29	Real Estate	1909-11-30	Palacios
Lane, F. R.	35	Mechanic	1928-03-06	Palacios
LeCompte, J. M.	31	Farmer	1918-04-23	Palacios
LeCompte, O. P.	37	Carpenter	1915-11-02	Palacios
Legg, E. R.		Drayman	1927-10-18	Palacios
Legg, R. K.	37	Engine Watchman	1923-06-03	Collegeport
Love, J. M.			1911-05-23	Palacios
Mangum, O. B.	38	Salesman	1926-03-18	Palacios
Mapes, J. C.	52	Farmer	1909-11-30	Palacios Ava, Ill.
Mapes, P. P.	22	Farmer	1909-11-30	Palacios
Maples, Floyd M.	29	Laborer	1927-09-06	Palacios
Margerum, L. G.	28	Carpenter	1928-04-24	Palacios
Margerum, Robert W.	31	Oil & Gas Dealer	1928-04-10	Palacios
Martin, Warren E.	22	Clerk	1914-12-14	Palacios
McCoy, J. J.	28	Laborer	1915-01-12	Palacios
McDonald, S. J.	35	Carpenter	1911-04-11
McGlothlin, R. J.	23	Mechanic	1928-03-27	Palacios
McLanahan, S. B.	34	Farmer	1911-09-19	Palacios
McNeil, T. G.	28/38	Exp. Messenger	1925-02-25	Collegeport
Melberg, V. E.	29	Merchant	1910-03-29	Palacios
Milam, C. W.	51	Electrician		Palacios
Miller, J. T. H.	52	Preacher	1910-01-18	Palacios
Miller, R. J.	22	Carpenter	1913-01-21	Palacios
Milton, J. H.	26	Restaurant Man.	1913-07-15	Palacios
Moffit, Arthur	28	Farmer	1928-02-28	Palacios
Moore, C. H.	27	Well Driller	1909-11-30	Palacios
Moore, Clay	36	Physician	1910-10-04	Palacios
Moore, W. A.	22	Clerk	1910-02-22	Palacios
Morris, Chas.	44		1910-04-19
Moyors, W. L.	27	Meat Cutter	1927-11-08	Palacios
Munson, J. C.	37	Drayman		Palacios
Musgrave, Thos. J.	21	Clerk	1910-02-08	Palacios
Nelson, Axel	46	Carpenter	1910-01-25	Palacios
Nelson, M. R.	21	Carpenter	1910-06-07	Palacios
Nester, C. W.	46	Druggist	1921-12-29	Palacios
Nester, J. M.	67	Farmer		Palacios
Oneal, R. H.	33	Merchant	1910-07-12	Palacios
Ottaway, C. L.	32	Farmer	1915-01-05	Palacios
Parker, J. L.	47	Merchant	1914-03-10	Palacios
Parker, T. H.	35	Farmer	1918-10-01	Collegeport
Parks, Clyde	42	Photographer	1913-07-29	Palacios
Paulk, D. D.		Drayman	1927-10-18	Palacios
Perry, Guy F.	27	Real Estate	1909-11-30	Palacios
Perry, James C.	27	Real Estate Dealer	1911-03-07	Palacios
Perry, John F.	32		1910-02-15	Palacios
Pfeiffer, William B.	21	Plasterer	1910-05-10	Palacios Died 1910
Pierce, J. B.	21	Banker	1914-08-09	Transferred to Harrison Lodge No. 208, Harrison, Ark.
Pitts, O. W.	31	Barber	1906-03-__ 1910-01-11	Palacios Transferred May 7, 1912
Powell, Ernest	21	Tailor	1910-06-07	Palacios
Powell, F. F.	33	Well Driller	1910-07-12	Palacios
Powell, M. H.	25	Tailor	1910-06-14	Palacios
Presslar, N. P.	56	Barber	1928-03-20	Palacios
Pridgen, J. H. Jr.	26	Druggist	1910-04-05	Palacios
Prunty, J. O.	40	Section Foreman	1921-02-08	Midfield
Rae, William B.	52	Hotel Keeper	1913-03-31	Palacios
Ralston, F. H.	41	Farmer	1906-04-06	Palacios
Reddock, E. B.	34	Clerk	1916-05-16
Reid, F. G.	32	Painter	1914-02-17	Midfield, Tex
Rice, J. J.	26	Minister	1912-01-06	Palacios
Richmond, Joe	32	Laborer		Palacios
Rittenhouse, D. D.	42		1911-__-__
Rittenhouse, O. A.	22	Carpenter	1909-11-30	Palacios
Rittenhouse, W. B.	21	Undertaker	1913-12-30	Palacios
Robinson, J. E.	40	Barber	1913-08-12	Palacios
Rogers, J. W.	19	Clerk	1928-02-07	Palacios
Rubottom?, J. U.	57	Laborer		Palacios
Ruthven, D.	48	Merchant	1918-02-05	Palacios
Sadler, Sherman	37	Farmer	1928-10-30	Palacios
Salsbury, Guy A.	44		1918-12-03	Palacios
Sanders, H. M.	32	Farmer	1911-07-11	Palacios
Schroeder, T. S.	26	Merchant	1909-11-30	Palacios
Sexton, Manly	39	Farmer	1913-04-22	Palacios
Shamble, Clifford	24	Filling Station	1928-02-14	Palacios
Shuman, H. L. B.	33	Teaching		Palacios
Shuman, Leroy	21	Livery man	1909-12-28	Palacios
Shuman, Roy	34	Oil Field Worker		Damon, Tx
Singer, John A.	52	Laborer	1928-02-14	Palacios
Sisson, F. A.	44	Merchant	1913-04-01	Palacios
Smith, A. G.	22	Barber	1928-05-15	Palacios
Snodgrass, W. W.	27	Mechanic	1910-05-14	Palacios
Spidle, J. T.	34	Bricklayer	1910-04-26	Palacios
Stallard, F. E,	33	Farmer	1928-06-06	Palacios
Stephens, J. C.	27	Liveryman	1914-03-10	Palacios
Stewart, J. W.		Merchant	1909-__-__	Palacios
Stump, F. G.	23	Printer	1910-04-05	Palacios
Swinford, G. F.	48	Farmer	1910-04-26	Palacios
Tate, D. N.	34	Conf. Business	1929-07-02	Palacios
Tatum, A. J.			1916-03-14	Palacios
Teller, Cecial M.	18	Clerk	1928-04-10	Palacios
Teller, Charles M.	52	Lighthouse Keeper	1925-02-05	Palacios
Tipps, J. R.	46	Farmer	1918-01-08	Palacios
Tompkins, W. P.	22	Liveryman	1913-11-11	Cisco, Tx
Tucker, W. C.	35	Laborer	1921-02-08	Palacios
Tuld?, Grover	23	Clerk	1910-03-22	Palacios
Underwood, V. C.	21	Well Driller	1910-06-07	Palacios
Walter, M. O.	24`	Clerk	1913-01-14	Palacios
Watkins, D.	48	Carpenter	1921-07-28	Palacios
Webb, Henry Mack	22	Merchant	1910-01-04	Palacios
Weeden?, C. C.			1922-09-21	Palacios
Whitney, W. A.	65	Mechanic		Palacios
Wickham, A. E.	55?	Plumber		Palacios
Williams, Russell	21		1910-10-04
Wolf, J. C.	39	Farmer	1911-07-11	Palacios
Wolfe, J. H.			1920-07-12	Palacios
Wright, R. M.		Barber	1927-10-25	Palacios
Wyche, George G.	21	Student	1911-10-31	Palacios Nashville, Tenn
Wyche, Regan	24	Student	1911-12-26	Palacios
Wyley, Ernest	48	Blacksmith	1921-12-29	Palacios Aztec, New Mex Box 212

The Mid-Coast Odd Fellows Association of Texas Minutes

Bay City, Texas, July 12^th, 1915

Mass meeting of Bay City and Palacios Lodges held on July 12^th, 1915, for the purpose of organizing an Odd Fellows Association.

Sam J. Baker was elected Temporary Chairman and George Austin was elected temporary Secretary.

Motion made and seconded that this Organization be made permanent, and carried.

Motion made and seconded that this Organization proceed to elect officers, consisting of President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer and Chaplain, motion carried.

Motion made and seconded that a Vice-President be elected from each Lodge, and carried.

The following Officers were then duly elected: - Viz -
Brother W. B. Rae – President, Palacios
Brother W. R. Williams – Vice-Pres, Palacios
Brother Sam J. Baker – Vice-Pres, Bay City
Brother, Jas. W. Pierce – Secretary, Bay City
Brother R. A. Kleska, Treasurer, Bay City
Brother Boyd – Chaplain, Bay City

Motion made and seconded that the chair appoint a committee to three members from each lodge to draft By-Laws and Constitution. The following members were appointed: H. R. LeMay, Sam J. Baker, and Theo. Dienst, from Bay City Lodge and Robinson Perry, and Sisson from Palacios Lodge.

Motion made and seconded that this Organization be named Gulf Coast Association, and motion lost. Amended motion and seconded that chair appoint a committee of two from each Lodge to select a name for this Organization, and motion carried. The following were appointed, Brother Pierce and Porter from Bay City Lodge and Brothers Boyd and Sisson from Palacios Lodge. The Committee recommended that the Association be named “The Mid-Coast Odd Fellows Association of Texas” and said name was then adopted.

Motion made and seconded that President after receiving the report of the committee on By-Laws appoint Palacios as the next place of meeting, and carried.

The President then appointed Pierce, McKelvey, Robinson, Perry and Austin, as a committee on Ways & Means, after which the meeting stood adjourned until the President called another meeting.

(The original copy of these minutes was signed by George Austin as Secretary Pro Tem.)

Palacios, Texas, August 3^rd, 1915

The Mid-Coast Odd Fellows Association of Texas met in special session President W. B. Rae, presiding. Roll of Officers called and Treasurer R. A. Kleska noted as absent.

Minutes of meeting held July 12^th, 1915 at Bay City, Texas, read and approved.

Committee on By-Laws reported and motion made by Sam J. Baker and seconded by W. R. Williams that the report of the committee be accepted and the committee discharged. Motion carried.

Motion made and seconded that a finance committee be elected from Bay City Lodge, amended to read that a finance committee be elected and the motion was lost.

Motion made and seconded that we elect a finance committee of one member from each lodge in this Association and motion carried. Nominations being in order for finance committee, Brother Sisson was nominated from Palacios Lodge and Brother Winkler was nominated from Bay City Lodge, it was then moved and seconded that nominations be closed and motion carried.

Motion made and seconded that the two nominees be elected by acclamation, motion carried, and they were duly elected by acclamation.

Finance Committee reported that they would pass the hat to obtain the necessary funds to purchase stationery and stamps which for the present until further arrangements could be made. Motion made and seconded that the report be accepted. Motion carried. Hat was passed and the sum of $7.10 was obtained.

Motion made and seconded that we adjourn, the next meeting being subject to the call of the President, motion carried.

Jas. W. Pierce, secretary

Matagorda, Texas, November 27, 1915

The Mid-Coast Odd Fellows Association of Texas met in special session, President. W. B. Rae, presiding. Roll of Officers was called and the following officers noted as absent. Vice-President, W. R. Williams; Treasurer, R. A. Kleska and Chaplain Boyd.

Minutes of Preceeding meeting held at Palacios, Texas, on August 3^rd, read and approved.

Motion made and seconded that Bay City Lodge #81 extend an invitation to Matagorda Lodge #47 to attend some future meeting of our Lodge, motion amended to read that the next meeting of the Association be held at Bay City, Amendment seconded, and motion as amended carried.

Motion made and seconded that Matagorda Lodge fix the date of the meeting to be held next at Bay City. Motion Carried.

Motion made and seconded that we adjourn. Carried.

Jas. W. Pierce, secretary

Bay City, Texas, January 13, 1916

The Mid-Coast Odd Fellows Association of Texas met in special session, Vice-President Sam J. Baker, presiding.

Roll of Officers called, and the following noted as absent:--President, W. B. Rae; Vice-President, W. R. Williams and Chaplain Boyd.

Minutes of meeting held November 27^th, 1915, at Matagorda read and approved.

Representatives of Matagorda Lodge being present, stated that it was the intention of Matagorda Lodge to become a member of the association.

Nominations for Vice-President from Matagorda Lodge being in order, Brother W. S. Stuart was nominated. Motion made and seconded that nomination for Vice-President from Matagorda Lodge be closed, and brother Stuart be elected by acclamation. Motion carried, and brother Stuart was declared duly elected.

Nominations being in order for a member of the finance committee from Matagorda Lodge, Brother A. C. Stuart and Brother A. W. McNabb were nominated. Motion made and seconded that nominations be closed. Carried.

Ballot being taken it was found that Brother McNabb had received 16 votes and brother Stuart had received 1 vote, thereupon Brother McNabb was declared duly elected as a member of the finance committee from Matagorda Lodge.

Several Brothers made excellent talks after which the Association adjourned to meet again at Bay City on Thursday evening, February 17^th, 1916, and the brothers present then repaired to the Alcove where a substantial luncheon was thoroughly enjoyed.

Jas. W. Pierce, Secretary

Palacios, Texas, March 13, 1916

The Mid-Coast Odd Fellows Association met in special Session and was called to order by President W. B. Rae.

Roll of officers was called and the following were noted as absent: Vice-President, W. R. Williams; Vice-President, Sam J. Baker; Vice-President, W. S. Stuart; and Treasurer, R. A. Kleska.

Minutes of meeting held at Bay City, Texas, on January 13, 1916 were read and approved.

Election of officers being in order, nomination for a President were declared in order and brother Pierce of Bay City and brother Culver of Matagorda were nominated. The nomination of brother Pierce was withdrawn and a motion made and seconded that nominations be closed and brother Culver be elected by acclamation. Motion Carried, and brother Culver was declared duly and constitutionally elected President of the Association.

Nomination for one Vice-President from each lodge in the Association being next in order, Brother Sisson was nominated for Vice-President from Palacios, and brother W. F. Pack as Vice-President from Bay City. Motion was made and seconded that nominations be closed and the brother elected by acclamation. Motion carried, and they were declared duly and constitutionally elected as Vice-Presidents of the Association.

Nominations being then in order for Secretary, brother Pierce was nominated for re-election. Motion made and seconded that nomination be closed and brother Pierce be elected by acclamation. Motion carried, and brother Pierce was declared duly and constitutionally elected.

Nominations being then in order for Treasurer, Brother J. C. Perry was nominated and motion made and seconded that nominations be closed and brother Perry be elected by acclamation. Motion carried, and brother Perry was declared duly and constitutionally elected.

Nominations for Chaplain being next in order, brother Robertson was nominated and motion made and seconded that nominations be closed. Motion carried, and brother Robertson was declared duly and constitutionally elected.

Nominations for door-keeper being next in order, brother Glick was nominated and motion made and seconded that nominations be closed and brother Glick elected by acclamation. Motion carried, and brother Glick was declared duly constitutionally elected.

Nominations for finance committee to be composed of one member from each lodge being next in order, Brother Parks of Palacios was nominated and Brother Dienst from Bay City were nominated. Motion made and seconded that nominations be close and the brothers elected by acclamation. Motion carried, and brothers Parks and Dienst were declared duly and constitutionally elected as members of the finance committee.

Motion made and seconded that President-elect be authorized to call the next meeting of the Association on the date and at the place of his own choosing, with the restriction, however, that same is to be called within three (3) months from date. Motion carried.

Motion made and seconded that a committee of five be appointed to construct an order of business to be used by this Association. Motion carried, and President appointed brothers Pierce, Tatum, Skinner, Glick and Pack.

Motion made and seconded that a program Committee be appointed from each lodge represented in this Association to be composed of the Vice-President as Chairman and two members of his selection, their duty being to provide program for the Association when same meeting in their city.

Matagorda Lodge not being represented at this meeting, it was the sense of the Association that Matagorda Lodge be notified to elect a Vice-President, member of the finance committee, and a Program Committee as provided above and the record of such election be added to these minutes before next meeting.

There being no further business to come before the Association the meeting adjourned to meet again no later than 90 days from date, said meeting date and place being left for selection to the President -Elect.

Jas. W. Pierce, Secretary

Appendix to Minutes of March 13, 1917.

In accordance with the provisions of these minutes Matagorda Lodge reported the election of W. S. Stewart to the office of Vice-President and F. L. Rugeley as a member of the finance committee.

Jas. W. Pierce, Secretary

Matagorda, Texas, June 13, 1917

The Mid-Coast Odd Fellows Assn met in Regular Session with President G. B. Culver presiding.

Role of Officers called and Vice-Pres. F. A. Sissons noted as absent.

The minutes of the preceeding meeting held at Palacios on March 13^th, 1917, were read and approved.

The Committee appointed to draft an order of Business reported the report being adopted and the Committee discharged

Tthe following Resolution was presented by Past President W. B. Rae.

“Whereas, this Association is striving to build up the local lodges of this District, and whereas, in order to accomplish something that will be of some material benefit, be it therefore, Resolved: That on the death of any brother in good standing who is a member of this district that we each subscribe the sum of Five ($5.00) Dollars to the remaining heirs, this to be a voluntary subscription.”

After discussion and amendment was offered changing the amount from Five Dollars to Two and one-half Dollars. The amendment was lost for the want of a second, and after a somewhat thorough discussion the resolution was tabled until next meeting.

Bay City Lodge # 81 presented the following Resolution:

“Resolved: that the Mid-Coast Odd Fellows Association create a Committee whose duty it shall be to devise ways and means for the holding of a Semi-Annual Picnic of Odd Fellows and their Families and Matagorda County, said committee having repaired to name the place and date of first Picnic.”

Resolution was amended creating a Committee of two from each Lodge and making the President of the Association Chairman of the Committee. The Resolution as amended carried in the President appointed Brothers J. M. Sutherland and J. M. Williams from Matagorda Lodge and A. J. Tatum and F. A Sisson from Palacios Lodge and Theo Dienst and R. A Kleska from Bay City Lodge.

An exhaustive discussion as to the best method of financing this organization was entered into, and while no definite action was taken on this proposition, it seemed to be the sense of the majority that ample finances could be secured by taking up a collection at each meeting. A collection was then taken up and $4.07 was the amount received.

Motion was offered at the next meeting be held at Bay City, the date being left with Bay City Lodge, Motion..

No further business appearing the meeting was declared adjourned to meet again at Bay City no later than 90 days from date.

Jas. W. Pierce, Secretary

Bay City, Texas, September 10, 1917

The Mid-Coast Odd Fellows Association met in regular session with President G. B. Culver presiding.

Minutes of preceding meeting were read and approved.

Role of officers called and the following noted as absent.

Vice-Pres. F. A. Sisson
V. P. W. S. Stewart
Treasurer J. C. Perry
Chaplain J. E. Robertson

The following Resolution was presented by Bay City Lodge #81, and was unanimously adopted.

WHEREAS: The by-laws of this Association provide no equitable means for the selection of delegates from the Subordinate Lodges to the meetings of this Association, be it therefore

RESOLVED, that section 3 of Article 1, of our by-laws be, and hereby is, I amended to read:- Each Lodge represented in this association shall select its delegates on the basis of one delegate for each 10 members or majority fraction thereof.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Motion made and seconded that the resolution tabled from last meeting night be tabled indefinitely. Carried.

Brother W. H. Walker, Grand Secretary of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, of Texas, being president was introduced by President G B. Culver, after which he made an extensive talk covering all branches of Odd Fellowship.

It was moved and seconded that the next meeting place be designated as Palacios, with Palacios Lodge reserving the right to name the day and date on which said meeting shall be held; provided however, that said meeting be called within ninety days from this date. Carried.

There being no further business the Association was adjourned to meet again in Palacios on the day and date as specified by Palacios Lodge.

Jas. W. Pierce, Secretary.

Palacios, Texas, November 13th, 1917

The Mid-Coast Odd Fellows Association met in regular session with Pres. G. B. Culver, presiding.

Minutes of the preceding meeting read and approved.

Role of Officers called of the following noted as absent.

Secretary Jas. W. Pierce
Treasurer J. C. Perry
Chaplain J. E. Robertson

The Secretary being absent, the Chair appointed Bro. Sisson, secretary pro tem.

Bro. Jas. W. Pierce, having moved out of the District, it was moved and sec that the Association go into the Election of a secretary. Mo- carried.

R. O. Kiser, was elected to fill out the unexpired term of Bro. Pierce.

The following resolution was presented by Bay City Lodge, and was unanimously adopted.

Where our Country has been forced into a terrible War with a foreign land, and many of our members and sons of members have been called to the colors, and who will need all of the moral and financial support that we as citizens and Odd Fellows are able to give, and Whereas, The Grand Lodge Officers are trying to conserve all the resources in their power in order that they might help the cause by extending financial aid to the soldiers in the Camps and trenches, therefore be it,

Resolved:

That we use our best efforts to get the Three Lodges and Matagorda County to send one Representative to the Grand Lodge and that we pay that representative mileage and per diem which is to be prorated between the Three Lodges in the County according to the numbers of members of each Lodge.

The Representative to make a written report to each Lodge as soon as possible after his return from Waco.

General discussion on mode method of selecting a representative, Mo- and sec that each Lodge elect representatives and the Three representatives elect-select a representative among themselves to represent the district of the next session of the Grand Lodge, Mo Carried.

General discussion:

The President called on Bro. Dienst, to explain to the Association the plan of organizing a Canton at Bay City, Bro. Dienst, explain this matter in detail, both in reference to the Camp at Matagorda in organizing the Cantons at Bay City.

Bro. Ray Skinner, Daughters and Hays, made good and interesting talks along the line of promotion and the benefit of Odd Fellowship. Mo and sec that the next Session of the association meet with Matagorda Lodge the day and date to be named by that body not later than 90 days from this date. Mo Carried. Collection $2.26 . Bal in the Hand of the Treasurer last report $6.50 making total of $8.76.

Mo to adjourn. Mo carried.

The Palacios Bros. having prepared an elegant supper, all Present repaired to the Tables and enjoyed a feast of Oysters, Pies, Cakes and other good Things to eat.

Signed R. O. Kiser Secretary.
Mid Coast IOOF Assn.

Palacios Odd Fellows Visit Bay City Lodge

In commemoration of the 110th anniversary of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows of America, the Bay City Lodge No. 81 gave an entertainment and chicken supper on Tuesday night, April 23, to which members of the lodges of adjoining towns were invited. Odd Fellows from Palacios in attendance were L. Bruce, W. L. Ellis, F. R. Lane, D. D. Paulk, G. G. Hockey, A. E. Wickham, S. H. Baldree, Fred Anderson, J. C. Munson, Robert Church and L. G. Margerum, and Mrs. L. Bruce and Mrs. Gladys Grissett represented the Palacios Rebekahs. All report an excellent time.

Palacios Beacon, April 25, 1929

Canton No. 29 of the Ladies' Auxiliary of Oddfellows

I. O. O. F. Auxiliary Has Ice Cream Social

Canton No. 29 or the Ladies' Auxiliary of Oddfellows met Wednesday night at the local lodge for an ice cream social and supper.

Cake and ice cream were sold to those present, including many out-of-towners from Freeport, Liverpoole, Brazoria, and Velasco.

The evening's entertainment included the showing of a motion picture entitled "The Womanless Wedding," and a series of 42 games.

Matagorda County Tribune, August 23, 1956

Bay City Rebekah Lodge No. 79

Columbia Rebekah Lodge was instituted in the town of Matagorda January 10, 1918, with twelve charter members. The charter members were Mr. and Mrs. W. F. Pack, Mr. and Mrs. William P. Davis, Mr. and Mrs. T. M. Thompson, Mrs. Joe Clark, Lottie de St. Aubin, Edwin Savage, T. F. Carr, Hattie Carr, S. Lee Carr and Lela Carr. Only five new members were added that year.

As most of the members were living in Bay City, both the Odd Fellow and Rebekah Lodges were moved to Bay City in 1919. The Columbia Rebekah lodge was renamed the "Bay City Rebekah Lodge." The lodge met above the Oshman's Sporting Goods store in the Boney building. A dark stairway and a semi-lighted hallway led to the lodge room. In 1953 the Odd Fellow Lodge purchased a building on Avenue F from a Mr. Blankenship and converted it into a lodge hall. The officers of the Rebekah Lodge consist of the noble grand, presiding officer, vice grand, secretary, financial secretary, and treasurer. There are also 14 appointed auxiliary officers.

The lodge is a non-profit fraternal organization, and any monies (less the expense of maintaining the hall) derived from fund-raising projects go for charity. The Rebekah Lodge donated annually to the World Eye Bank where the organization has sponsored a chair at the John Hopkins Hospital for Research; to the education fund from which children can borrow money for college; a home in Ennis, Texas for aged members, and a home in Corsicana for children.

The Bay City Lodge donated chair scales to the dialysis unit at the Matagorda General Hospital. There were many other civic projects in which the members were involved.

Each year the local lodges sponsored one or more high school students on a United Nation's Tour. The students observed a day's operation of the United Nations and visited many historic sites such as Niagara Falls, Canada; New York Harbor; and the Statue of Liberty. Before being selected, the youths wrote essays on "Why I would like to go to the United Nations."

On the first Sunday of each May, the Rebekahs were sponsored by the Sovereign Grand Lodge, and the head officer of each unit placed a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington Cemetery.

Bay City Rebekah Lodge No. 79 continued to grow, and in 1986 it had 90 members who believe in the motto "Work for a Better World" and who practiced "Friendship, Love and Truth." Membership is open to anyone who is 18 years of age, of good moral character, believes in a Supreme Being, and is loyal to our country.

Historic Matagorda County, Volume 1, pp. 464-465, 1986

Mrs. Nell Kennedy Elected Noble Grand

The Bay City Rebekah Lodge No. 79 met Thursday night with Noble Grand Tina Keith presiding.

Sisters Connoly and Reba Brown were reported ill. Mrs. Mary Horn will enter a Houston hospital Wednesday for an operation on her hip.

Mrs. Nell Kennedy was elected Noble Grand and Mrs. Julia Lowe, Vice Grand for the coming term.

After a brief business meeting the Lodge adjourned to honor the Past Noble Grand with a square dance and 42 party.

Cake and punch were served to Past N. G.'s, Lorene Reese, Eugene Laird, Orene Davis, Bethel Bryant, Peggy Frisbie, Mary Keller, Lillie Lowe and 25 members.

The hostesses for this occasion were Lillie Lowe, Nell Kennedy, Jane Beuford, Irma Grimes and Lucy Jones.

Matagorda County Tribune, June 7, 1956

Rebekah Members Recognize Anniver.

Mrs. Tina Keith, N. G., presided over the regular meeting of the Bay City Rebekah Lodge No. 79 Thursday evening.

Mrs. Ruth Graham's daughters, Jan and Gene were reported ill. Mrs. Mary Horn, confined in a Houston hospital, after a hip operation, is progressing well. Mrs. Bertha Bruce is in Bayview hospital at Palacios after suffering a heart attack. Mr. George Pruett's friends will be happy to hear he is doing well following an operation at Matagorda General Hospital. Mr. Randal Webb's mother was reported in serious condition. We all pray for a speedy recovery for our members and all people sick or in distress.

Mrs. Bethel Bryant was presented a gift of four plates to her crystal as our appreciation of her excellent work as Lodge Deputy. Mr. James Cheatham, Lodge Sweetheart, was honored with gifts for Father's Day.

The meeting closed with a special prayer by Brother C. B. Jeanes.

The thirty-sixth anniversary of the Bay City Rebekah Lodge was recognized with an enjoyable program. Mrs. Nell Kennedy presided over the program, giving the anniversary address. Mrs. Keith pinned a pink carnation on each Past Noble Grand as they were introduced by Mrs. Jessie Legg. P. N. G's. present were, Claudia Lucas, Minta Bess, Bethel Bryant, Orene Davis, Peggy Frisbie, Leona Jeanes, Mary Keller. Lillie Lowe and Ella Theller. Each of the above officers gave a short talk on happenings during their term. Several songs were sung and the program closed with a prayer by Mrs. Elsie Reid.

Refreshments of cake and soft drinks over lime sherbet were served to 53 members and two guests, Mr. and Mrs. W. M. Smith of Freeport Rebekah Lodge.

Matagorda County Tribune, June 21, 1956

IOOF, Rebekahs Spaghetti Supper

The annual Odd Fellows and Rebekah chicken and spaghetti supper will be held in the auditorium of the Service Center at 5:30 p. m. Tuesday, February 17.

Mrs. C. M. Laird of Wadsworth will prepare the meal.

"When Mrs. Laird cooks chicken and spaghetti everybody knows," commented C. B. Jeanes.

Tickets may be obtained from any Odd Fellow or at the door. Proceeds will be devoted to the buildings fund.

George Pruett is noble grand of the Odd Fellows while Mrs. Lucy Jones is noble grand of the Rebekahs.

Matagorda County Tribune, February 12, 1959

Gladys Denn Named Noble Grand Local Rebekah Lodge

The following officers and supporters were installed for a six months period, at the meeting of the Rebekah Lodge Thursday the direction of Hazel Barber, night at the I. O. O. F. Hall, under district deputy president of Angleton: Noble Grand, Gladys Denn; supporters, Lois Webb and Edith Hearn, Vice Grand, Lala Kenner; Artie Mae Baker and Ada Bridges; Past Noble Grand, Lucy Jones; Eunice Bittner, Bertha Tillman.

Chaplain, Jane Burford; Mattie Conroy and Rhoda King;

Officers elected yearly: Secretary, Elsie Reid; treasurer, Alma Crow; financial secretary, Tina Kieth; Conductor, Pat Cheatham; Musician, Jessie Mae Ponder; Warden, Helen Strunk; Outside Guardian, Letha McKelvy; Inside Guardian, Pauline Eidlebach; Flag Bearers: United States Flag, Mae Uher; Texas, Nell Kennedy; Rebekah, Rose Pruett.

The installing staff were as follows: Deputies: Marshall, Guardian, Lois Webb; Outside Tina Kieth; Chaplain, Mary Keller; Inside Guardian, Lois Webb; Outside Guardian, Julia Lowe.

Following the installation, a business meeting was held at which time the semi-annual minutes were read and approved, auditing reports were read and approved.

During the fellowship hour, refreshments were served to the group which included a number of members and visitors from Freeport and Angleton

Daily Tribune, July 17, 1959

Copyright 2007 - Present by Carol Sue Gibbs All rights reserved
Created Apr. 22, 2007	Updated Aug. 9, 2013

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