Since its establishment in 1898, the Fraternal Order of Eagles (F.O.E.) has proudly solidified its position as a globally respected organization dedicated to People Helping People. Over the course of its illustrious history, the F.O.E. has remained committed to uplifting individuals, families, and communities, focusing on the values of compassion, support, and service.
The F.O.E. traces its roots back to a significant event in 1898 when six visionary theatre owners gathered in a bustling Seattle shipyard. Initially, their purpose was to address a musician's strike that had the potential to disrupt the local entertainment industry. However, after successfully resolving the strike, these forward-thinking individuals recognized the need for unity and solidarity beyond their immediate concerns.
Thus, in the spirit of reconciliation, they decided to "bury the hatchet" and establish an organization dedicated to promoting goodwill and positive contributions to society. Thus, "The Order of Good Things" was born. As membership steadily grew, the collective chose the Bald Eagle as its official emblem, symbolizing strength, resilience, and freedom—a reflection of the organization's values.
Driven by its mission to make human life more desirable by lessening its burdens and promoting peace, prosperity, gladness, and hope, the Fraternal Order of Eagles experienced remarkable growth in a relatively short span of time. Within a decade of its inception, the organization had flourished, spreading its wings across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with more than 1,800 Aeries and a membership exceeding 350,000.
The Eagles' early motto, "Skin'em," served as a unifying secret password among members, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie. As the organization evolved, the official motto was changed to "Liberty, Truth, Justice, and Equality," encapsulating the core values that guided its members in their endeavours.
Recognizing the invaluable role of women in the F.O.E. community, the Ladies' Auxiliary was established. For years, women had accompanied male members of the Order to social events, providing unwavering support and contributing to the organization's success. Inspired by their involvement, the Ladies' Auxiliary became an official branch in 1926, further strengthening the F.O.E. with their dedication and passion.
During the 28th annual Grand Aerie Convention in August 1926, the formation of the Ladies' Auxiliary was officially approved, marking a significant milestone. Past Grand Worthy President Lester Loble of Montana served as the instituting deputy, overseeing the initiation of this vital component of the F.O.E. To honor the instrumental role played by Alta Browning Smith in organizing and instituting the Grand Auxiliary, she was appointed as the first Grand Madam President.
At the heart of the Fraternal Order of Eagles lies a deep commitment to giving back to the communities in which its Aeries and Auxiliaries reside. Armed with a strong Grand Aerie and Grand Auxiliary, the organization has reached its full potential in terms of making a positive impact.
Throughout its history, the F.O.E. has implemented various initiatives and programs aimed at improving the lives of individuals and families. Notably, in 1954, the organization distributed nearly 10,000 Ten Commandments plaques, promoting the importance of faith and encouraging citizens to embrace the principles of respect, kindness, and compassion. This endeavour aimed to foster a stronger sense of community, emphasizing the moral foundations that underpin a harmonious society.
Additionally, the Fraternal Order of Eagles has demonstrated its unwavering support for its members and their families through the establishment of the Memorial Foundation. This foundation was specifically designed to provide assistance and aid to the children of members who tragically lost their lives during World War II. By offering financial support and resources, the F.O.E. aimed to alleviate some of the burdens faced by these families during their time of immense grief.
Another significant milestone in the organization's philanthropic journey was the establishment of the Jimmy Durante Children's Fund in 1967. This fund has been instrumental in providing financial aid to institutions dedicated to improving the lives of young individuals through medical research and prevention programs. By investing in the well-being and future of the younger generation, the F.O.E. continues to make a lasting impact in the realms of healthcare and youth development.
The F.O.E. Charity Foundation has continued to evolve and expand, establishing separate funds for various causes as they have gained prominence and relevance. These dedicated funds ensure that brothers and sisters facing illness or adversity can find hope, care, and potential cures. The Fraternal Order of Eagles has consistently remained at the forefront of supporting medical research, pioneering breakthroughs, and championing the cause of better health for all.
One of the organization's proudest accomplishments in the field of healthcare philanthropy came in 1985, when the F.O.E. became the first organization to surpass $1 million in donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. This remarkable achievement solidified the F.O.E.'s commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of children battling serious illnesses and inspired countless others to join the cause.
Moreover, in 2008, the Fraternal Order of Eagles embarked on its most significant fundraising challenge to date, pledging a staggering $25 million to the University of Iowa to establish The Fraternal Order of Eagles Diabetes Research Center. This state-of-the-art facility, which opened in August 2014, stands as a testament to the organization's dedication to finding innovative ways to prevent, treat, and ultimately cure diabetes. With a team of over 100 researchers tirelessly working within the 20,000-square-foot centre, the F.O.E. is actively contributing to the pursuit of a brighter, healthier future for those affected by this prevalent disease.
The Fraternal Order of Eagles continues to embody the spirit of People Helping People, working tirelessly to improve the lives of individuals, families, and communities. Guided by its core values of liberty, truth, justice, and equality, the F.O.E. remains a beacon of hope and support for those in need. By nurturing its rich history and embracing a forward-thinking approach, the organization stands poised to face future challenges and extend its positive influence even further.
With its inception on December 14, 1947, the Wahpeton Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #2749 has remained steadfast in its commitment to serving and enriching the local community for an impressive span of seventy-five years. Throughout its history, the Wahpeton Eagles have left an indelible mark on the community through their selfless contributions and unwavering dedication.
During their previous location, the Eagles Club became synonymous with community service, hosting numerous memorable events such as weddings, fish-fries, charitable gatherings, and social activities. The proceeds generated from these endeavours were wholeheartedly reinvested back into the community, exemplifying the Eagles' commitment to making a positive difference.
Over the course of the last decade alone, the Wahpeton Eagles have donated over $600,000 to various local charitable groups, providing vital support to organizations that strive to uplift and improve the lives of community members in need. This extraordinary level of giving is a testament to the Eagles' profound sense of responsibility and their relentless pursuit of a stronger, more inclusive community.
Recognizing the need for change, the decision was made to transition to a new location. The previous Eagles Club had encountered operational challenges and required significant updates to better serve the community. Embracing this opportunity for growth and improvement, the Wahpeton Eagles eagerly embarked on the journey of revitalizing their presence within the community.
The new location promises a fresh start, boasting a fully renovated building that will serve as a testament to the Eagles' commitment to excellence. Alongside the physical transformation, a brand-new management team has been assembled, ready to infuse renewed energy and passion into the club's operations.
The revitalized location will feature a vibrant social room available for rental, providing a welcoming space for community members to come together and celebrate special occasions. Additionally, the club will offer gaming, a variety of beverages, and delicious food, with the proceeds from these offerings earmarked for charitable grants within the local community.
By redirecting the profits from the new location's activities towards charitable grants, the Wahpeton Eagles are poised to create an even greater impact within their community. This innovative approach ensures that every sip, every bite, and every moment spent at the Eagles Club directly contributes to the betterment of the community, enabling the Wahpeton Eagles to continue their legacy of selflessness and generosity for years to come.
The Fraternal Order of Eagles has been a catalyst for positive change, leaving an indelible mark on society through its visionary initiatives and unwavering commitment to service. The F.O.E. has spearheaded numerous groundbreaking endeavours that have shaped our world and empowered countless individuals. Here are just a few of the accomplishments over the year by the F.O.E.
Recognizing the immeasurable importance of mothers, the F.O.E. played a pivotal role in establishing Mother's Day as an official holiday. Their efforts have ensured that mothers are celebrated and honoured worldwide for their tireless love and dedication.
Demonstrating their commitment to advancing medical research, the F.O.E. established the remarkable $25 million Diabetes Research Center, affectionately known as "the bridge to the cure." This cutting-edge facility is dedicated to finding effective treatments and ultimately a cure for diabetes, providing hope for millions of individuals and families affected by this challenging disease.
Recognizing the importance of financial security for all individuals, the F.O.E. served as a driving force behind the establishment of Social Security. Their relentless advocacy ensured that retired and disabled individuals have access to vital financial support, providing a safety net that has transformed countless lives.
The F.O.E. has been at the forefront of fighting age-based job discrimination through their innovative Jobs After 40 program. By empowering individuals over the age of 40 to re-enter the workforce and pursue fulfilling careers, the F.O.E. has shattered barriers and championed equality in employment opportunities.
In a commitment to promoting ethical and moral values, the F.O.E. distributed Ten Commandments monoliths across the United States. These tangible symbols serve as a reminder of the fundamental principles that guide our interactions and contribute to the building of stronger communities.
With a profound dedication to improving lives at the grassroots level, the F.O.E. extends its support to thousands of local charities throughout the United States and Canada. Through financial contributions, volunteerism, and community engagement, the F.O.E. has become a bedrock of support for organizations that address a wide range of social issues and uplift those in need.
The Fraternal Order of Eagles stands as a steadfast guardian of the fundamental values of home, family, and community, which are often overlooked and trampled upon in today's society. As devoted hometown builders, we wholeheartedly support our dedicated police, firefighters, and other selfless protectors and servants. Furthermore, we actively contribute to medical research, channeling our resources towards crucial areas such as diabetes, spinal cord injuries, kidney disease, and Alzheimer's.
At the core of our mission lies the principle of People Helping People. This timeless value has guided The Fraternal Order of Eagles for over a century, shaping our charitable endeavours to assist our members, their families, and fellow Americans impacted by illness, injury, or unforeseen calamities. The Wahpeton Eagles have reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to uphold these organizational values, aiming to lead by example and prioritize service to the community with a spirit of liberty, truth, justice, and equality. By uplifting those in our community who are in need, we strive to enhance the quality of human life and foster a more compassionate society.
