Fraternal Groups | 1920selmira

Men's Fraternal Organizations

In the 1920s, the Freemasons, the Ku Klux Klan, and the American Legion were all popular fraternal organizations that created a sense of fellowship between men with similar beliefs and backgrounds. The Freemasons believe that during lodge meetings all members were equal regardless of their social, economic, or political status. The American Legion helped veterans by connecting unemployed soldiers with potential employers. The membership of the Ku Klux Klan (KKK) skyrocketed in the 1920s because of rising anti-immigrant feelings. In 1925, Elmira hosted the annual Klorero, or gathering of the New York State Klansmen. The event featured activities for all ages, including a battle of the bands and fireworks.

Masonic Apron White aprons are worn as uniforms during Freemason meetings. When a candidate is presented with his apron, he is told that he will have no higher honor in his life than being able to wear it.	American Legion Bulletin, 1923 The bulletins updated members on what was happening at the Post; this one introduced the recently purchased home for disabled veterans.	Elmira Klorero Program, 1925 Elmira hosted the Klorero, the annual gathering of Klansmen in New York, in 1925. The program contains the schedule of events for the convention, including fireworks, a battle of the bands, a Klan wedding, a tour of the region, and the naturalization ceremony.
KKK March on Church St., 1925 Before the Klansmen were permitted to march down Church Street, the city demanded that they remove their masks and show their faces.

Men's Fraternal Organizations

Masonic Apron

White aprons are worn as uniforms during Freemason meetings. When a candidate is presented with his apron, he is told that he will have no higher honor in his life than being able to wear it.

American Legion Bulletin, 1923

The bulletins updated members on what was happening at the Post; this one introduced the recently purchased home for disabled veterans.

Elmira Klorero Program, 1925

Elmira hosted the Klorero, the annual gathering of Klansmen in New York, in 1925. The program contains the schedule of events for the convention, including fireworks, a battle of the bands, a Klan wedding, a tour of the region, and the naturalization ceremony.

KKK March on Church St., 1925

Before the Klansmen were permitted to march down Church Street, the city demanded that they remove their masks and show their faces.