[
293]
Improved order of Red men
On May 24, 1887, there assembled a number of citizens of this city for the purpose of forming an association, or what is now called a Tribe, of Red Men, under authority and by consent of the Great Council of the
Improved Order of Red Men of this Reservation (Commonwealth of
Massachusetts), and to further the principles of freedom, friendship, and charity in this vicinity.
The gathering was effected by one who was a leading society man, and who took a great deal of interest in the organization.
On the 14th day of June of the same year a charter was procured, and the formation of the tribe was completed with a membership of over 100 men, and later the name of
Massachusetts Tribe, No. 44, was adopted, and the first council fire of the tribe was kindled.
From June 9, 1887, to the present date the tribe has met regularly every second and fourth Tuesday of the month, and with attention to the benefits of the order has succeeded in placing upon its list of members some of the best citizens of the city.
The order itself is one of the oldest known, founded on principles which are truly American, and having among its signs, grips, and passwords everything pertaining to the aborigines of
America.
The terms applied to the months of the year, as well as those applied to its finances, all speak of the red man of the forest, and a study into its mysteries will demonstrate the rude yet perfectly intelligible manner in which he chronicled all affairs.
Freedom is one of the cardinal principles, and friendship is strongly exemplified in all its phases, while true charity is depicted in every act of its members, by extending the helping hand to the distressed.
Ponema Tribe meets the second and fourth Mondays in each month.
