TITLE: Recognizing the Texas Grand Lodge of the Order of the Sons of Hermann on the occasion of its 125th anniversary.

SUMMARY: Recognizing the Texas Grand Lodge of the Order of the Sons of Hermann on the occasion of its 125th anniversary.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Texas Grand Lodge of the Order of the Sons of Hermann is marking a significant milestone in its history with the celebration of its 125th anniversary on March 27, 2015; and WHEREAS, Considered to be the oldest fraternal benefit society of its kind in the nation, the Order of the Sons of Hermann traces its origins to New York City, where it was founded in 1840 by a group of men of German descent; with the passing decades, additional lodges were organized around the country in places with substantial German populations, including Harmonia Lodge in San Antonio in 1861; the Texas Grand Lodge was formed in 1890 and at the time was made up of Harmonia Lodge and lodges in Austin, Houston, Temple, Waco, Taylor, La Grange, and Brenham; by 1920, the society's membership in Texas was far greater than that in any other state, and the decision was made to become an autonomous group; and WHEREAS, The order has continued to deliver on its mission to provide members with opportunities for personal enrichment through community service and fraternal activities, and its ranks now include men and women of many ancestries; it offers excellent insurance, annuities, and commercial loans to support the financial security of its members and their families, summer camps and dance classes are available for junior members, and a retirement community for seniors is also sponsored; and WHEREAS, Built on the principles of friendship, love, and loyalty, Texas Grand Lodge has supported and empowered its members, who in turn contribute meaningfully to the society around them, and this historic occasion presents a fitting opportunity to honor the organization; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 84th Legislature, hereby commemorate the 125th anniversary of the Texas Grand Lodge of the Order of the Sons of Hermann and extend to all those associated with the order sincere best wishes for a joyous and memorable anniversary celebration; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this Resolution be prepared for the lodge as an expression of high regard from the Texas Senate. Men ndez President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on April 15, 2015.